You’re learning the basics of woodworking but what more do you need to know to make your first workbench? Below are the 6 basic skills you need to have learnt and the 12 tools you should have and feel comfortably proficient with using and sharpening. The Paul’s Sellers workbench is not an advanced project but…
Paul first tried out a set of chisels bought from the supermarket chain, Aldi 9 year ago. Paul was so impressed with them he bought enough sets for students to use in his woodworking school. “Aldi Chisels” has become a highly searched term by woodworkers looking for good quality cheap chisels. “They’re just like the…
Paul recommends the 10″ (25cm) with 15-17 PPI. There are many different names on the saw plate but only one chief maker. They usually come in different lengths, but the 10″ is the ideal length. Also, small teeth (anything over 17PPI) is just too small and the cut is nowhere near as effective. It also…
This is known as a ‘curved’ or ‘round’ scraper and is mainly used for refining a bowl shape carved into wood. Draw the centre line down a piece of cardstock, draw a rounded, quadrant shape on one half and cut to shape. Fold down the centre line and follow the rounded edge using a knife…
When buying a dovetail saw you need to ensure that it has good, resharpenable steel and has a strong back. Like tenon saws, these can be brass or steel-backed, the main difference is that the steel-backed saws are lighter. You also want to make sure it has 15 PPI or more (slightly smaller teeth) and…
When buying a coping saw, look for a frame which is lightweight, rigid and strong as this will hold the blade securely and taut. Paul Sellers finds the wooden handles are more comfortable, the handle must be tightly secured to the frame as this will provide a more accurate cut. As the tensile strength of…
Paul Sellers recommends a 12” tenon saw with 14-16 PPI. You can get brass-backed or steel-backed ones, the steel-backed saws are slightly lighter in weight so it is down to personal preference, however Paul says most experienced craftsman ultimately use a brass-backed. 🇬🇧/🇺🇸You can buy these new online for approximately £30-40, we found this Spear…
When choosing a saw, a second hand one can last you years if it has been well looked after, however you should be prepared to sharpen them as they often will arrive dull. Check to see if it has more than 4 teeth missing, severe rust or corrosion avoid purchasing. Spear & Jackson, Garlick, Pax…