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    Home

    DIY Basics–Tips & Tools

    Looking for help getting started with DIY and woodworking, but don’t know where to go? I’ve got you, friend! Let’s dive in together.

    When I first started woodworking over a decade ago, I had NO IDEA what I was doing. But that’s how everyone starts something new! So if you feel a little lost, don’t worry.

    We’ve all been there (if we are honest). Over the years, I’ve slowly taught myself…by lots of trial and lots more error.

    And now, I’m determined to share everything I’ve learned WITH YOU so you don’t have to make the same mistakes I did.

    If you’re brand new to DIY and woodworking, here’s where I’d start:

    Getting Started:

    Understanding Wood Sizing
    How to Buy Lumber
    How to Read a Tape Measure
    How to Use a Square
    How to Sand Wood

    Next, let’s talk about tools. When you’re first starting out, you don’t want to buy every tool…just yet!

    You want to buy the ones that will give you the best return on your investment and the most versatile ones that can help you get started.

    Here are the top 5 best tools I recommend getting started with.

    After that, a you may consider adding few handy jigs and accessories to help customize your future builds. Those can be found in my list of must have tools to build cabinets and furniture.

    Now that you have your tools and a basic understanding of lumber, you’re ready to tackle some simple beginner projects.

    I always recommend starting with something small to help you get a feel for your tools and some practice measuring, cutting, and assembling. You can find my list of top beginner projects to start with here.

    When you’re ready for the next step, here are some additional resources to check out as well.

    Choosing Your Materials

    Understanding Wood Sizing
    How to Buy Lumber
    How to Choose the Right Plywood

    Let’s Talk About Tools:

    How to Cut Angles on a Miter Saw
    cutting plywood with a circular saw
    How to Use Plywood Cutting Guides
    How to Use a Pocket Hole Jig
    Which Kreg Jig is the Best?
    What’s the Difference in 16 vs 18 Gauge Nailers
    How to Use a Dowel Jig
    Basic Guide to Routers
    Drill vs Driver vs Impact Wrench

    Check out more tool tips and reviews here!

    Building & Installing Drawers

    Building drawers can seem intimidating, but they’re a common addition to cabinets and furniture. So learning how to build and install drawer boxes will open up a whole new set of projects you can feel confident tackling!

    If you aren’t sure where to start with building drawers, here are some posts to help!

    How to Measure for Drawer Boxes
    How to Build a Drawer Box
    How to Install Drawer Boxes & Slides
    How to Install Drawer Fronts

    Building & Installing Cabinet Doors

    Doors are a common addition to furniture and cabinet projects. Here you’ll learn how to size them, build them, and install them!

    How to Determine Cabinet Door Size
    How to Build Cabinet Doors
    How to Install Cabinet Hinges

    Cabinet & Furniture Basics:

    If you think about cabinets and furniture projects, they’re mostly just assembling boxes together and adding some details like drawers (which are also just more boxes), doors, or shelves. Don’t overthink it.

    Here are some basic building blocks to get you started.

    How to Build Cabinet Boxes
    DIY Storage Desk Plywood Drawers
    How to Build Drawers
    How to Build Cabinet Doors
    10 Tools for Cabinet Building
    How to Install Cabinet Hinges
    How to Add Adjustable Shelves

    Check out more cabinet building posts here!

    Woodworking Tips:

    How to Cover Plywood Edges
    5 Secrets to Professional Looking DIY Projects
    How to Draw ANY Size Circle
    How & Why to Square Board Edges
    How to Cut Crown Molding

    Check out more woodworking tips here!

    Browse by Category:

    Woodworking
    Finishing Tips
    Cabinet Building
    Tools Guides

    I’m always adding more info to here so check back often and be sure to subscribe to the newsletter to be the first to know when new projects and tips are added!

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    Hi! I'm Shara, the designer, maker, and videographer behind Woodshop Diaries. Let's get building, friends :)

    Learn more →

    Woodworking Tips & Guides

    • How to make simple Shaker style cabinet doors!!
      DIY Simple Shaker Cabinet Doors
    • 5 Tools To Get Started Woodworking
    • DIY Kitchen Cabinets–From Only Plywood
    • How to Square Board Edges and Make Your Own 2x2s

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    Tips to Take Your Projects to the Next Level

    --5 Secrets to Professional Looking DIY Furniture

    --How to Properly Paint Wood Furniture

    --How to EASILY Cover Plywood Edges

    --How to Sand Wood

    --10 Must Have Tools for Furniture and Cabinet Building

    Printable Building Plans

    Check out our shop to browse printable PDF building plans!

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