Before you cut, drill, or assemble, accurate measurements are a must. Mistakes at this stage can lead to poorly fitting or unstable furniture.

• Tape Measure: A reliable, lockable tape measure is indispensable.

• Combination Square: Ensures precise 90° and 45° angles.

• Pencil or Marking Knife: For clear, precise lines that won’t smudge.

• Level: To ensure your furniture sits straight and balanced.

Cutting wood to the right dimensions is at the heart of furniture making. Depending on your space, budget, and skill level, here are your options:

• Hand Saw: Affordable and great for simple, straight cuts.

• Circular Saw: A versatile power tool for straight cuts in larger pieces of wood.

• Jigsaw: Ideal for curved or intricate cuts.

• Miter Saw: For quick, precise angled cuts—perfect for trim work and frame building.

Building furniture involves drilling holes and securing pieces together. These tools will make the job easier:

• Cordless Drill/Driver: A must-have for drilling holes and driving screws.

• Screwdriver Set: Useful for detail work and assembling hardware.

• Clamps: Keep materials steady while cutting, drilling, or gluing.

• Wood Glue: For added strength in joints.

• Nail Gun or Hammer: For securing pieces quickly and efficiently.

To achieve a polished, professional look, proper sanding and finishing are essential.

• Sandpaper: Stock up on various grits (80–220) for rough to fine sanding.

• Orbital Sander: Speeds up the sanding process, especially on large surfaces.

• Paintbrushes and Rollers: For painting or staining your finished piece.

• Polyurethane or Wood Stain: Protects and enhances the beauty of your wood.

As you grow more comfortable with DIY furniture building, consider expanding your toolkit with these specialty items:

• Router: For creating decorative edges, grooves, or intricate designs.

• Kreg Jig: Simplifies pocket hole joinery for sturdy, hidden connections.

• Table Saw: A game-changer for precision and efficiency in larger projects.

• Chisels: For carving and detailed woodworking.

Protecting yourself is just as important as having the right tools. Make safety a priority with:

• Safety Glasses or Goggles: Shield your eyes from dust and debris.

• Ear Protection: Reduce noise exposure from power tools.

• Dust Mask or Respirator: Protect your lungs from fine sawdust.

• Work Gloves: Prevent splinters and protect your hands during heavy lifting.