Newbie to Woodworking

[JudeB]

Hi Guys

I'm guessing I'm mainly addressing 'guys' as I don't know any women that do woodwork, so hence I'm here to learn!

I hope I'm posting this in the right place, but if not, perhaps someone will let me know??

Anyway, this is my story:

I'm a 54 year old, disabled woman, who would like to learn woodworking. When I say I'm disabled, I have a severe back condition which is VERY unpredictable, and that means that some days I can get out of bed for an hour or two, and other days I can't, but when I do, I'm keen to learn, and would like to make things like cupboards for my kitchen.

I already have some basic hand tools mainly inherited from my dad, and my darling husband bought me a sliding compound mitre saw for Christmas, but I am interested in getting a router, and don't really have much of a clue about how they work, other than what I've learnt online. So, is there any one out there who can tell me in VERY basic terms, what I need to know, and what tool I should buy as a complete beginner?

Thanks people.

 

[carlb40]

Hey Jude



Don't worry there are a few female wood workers on here, so you are in good company. First thing i would do is have a search for Ron fox - he was a master at routing
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQImTCJbo3c

If you can i would suggest finding a decent tool shop near by, popping in and playing with a few routers. See which one is the most comfortable/ easy for you to use.

 

[captainpk]

A smaller tool, like a dremel may be of interest that can preform multiple task and very easy to handle.

Both the dremel and router are rotary tools.

 

[JudeB]

Thanks for the heads up on those things. I have a Dremel which I only use for sanding, are there others out there? Sorry to sound so thick, but like I said - total newbie!

Off to look up Ron Fox!

 

[nev]

Hi Jude
Welcome
The first question - What is it you want to do with the router?
I ask that not to be obtuse but there are variations of a router and some variants are better than others for doing various jobs.
Do you have any ideas about what you would like to be making in the future? boxes (from tissue to tool), toys, puzzles, jewellery, furniture, houses etc. Give us some clues and maybe we can help guide you in the right direction

 

[JudeB]

Hi again

It's hard to say what I want to make, until I know what the tools can do, a bit of a chicken and egg situation, lol. However, at this stage I'm looking to make some kitchen cupboards, so I guess maybe furniture and boxes are the likely things at this stage.

Look forward to some advice based on that.

Thanks in anticipation

 

[nev]

Trend UK have some good guides for those new to routers and routing...
http://www.trend-uk.com/en/UK/trend/con ... e&id=15862
and others..
http://www.trend-uk.com/en/UK/trend/con ... e&id=18559

but I would suggest that a router may not necessarily be one of the first tools to purchase.
have a quick online read through this book, it may go some way to enlightening you.

http://woodgears.ca/beginner/ gives some good general advice too

 

[gmgmgm]

Youtube is an amazing resource for learning what the tools do, and what tools are really necessary- if you're immobile one day, a few hours watching random people use routers or build cabinets might be really handy.

 

[JudeB]

WOW! Some really useful pointers here. Since posting, I've already followed the links and watched numerous videos on Youtube. I've also ordered the book recommended by Nev - thanks for the heads up on that Nev. I've also been to the library this morning and found some really useful books to read while stuck in bed, so MANY thanks to all of you who have posted responses. I'm really looking forward to learning, and doubtless solving problems with the assistance of the lovely people on here.