Hand Tools
8 guides
Hand Tools vs Power Tools: When Each One Wins
Hand tools vs power tools: a practical guide for beginners on when to reach for each, plus a comparison table and common FAQ.
July 1, 2026
How to Tune Up an Old Hand Plane
A step-by-step guide to tuning up an old hand plane: flatten the sole, sharpen the iron, and adjust for a clean, consistent shaving.
June 30, 2026
The Block Plane: What It's For and How to Use It
Learn how to use a block plane for trimming end grain, chamfering edges, and fitting joints. A practical guide for beginners.
June 26, 2026
How to Use a Hand Plane Without Tearout
Stop tearout ruining your hand-planed surfaces. Learn grain direction, chipbreaker setting, skewing technique, and blade prep for clean results.
June 24, 2026
Setting Up and Using a Marking Gauge
Learn how to use a marking gauge to scribe accurate layout lines in wood, set the fence, and avoid common beginner mistakes.
June 17, 2026
How to Use a Hand Saw for Straight, Clean Cuts
Learn hand saw technique from grip to follow-through: rip vs crosscut geometry, starting the kerf, staying square, and avoiding common beginner mistakes.
June 13, 2026
Choosing Your First Set of Bench Chisels
A practical guide to buying your first bench chisels: sizes, steel types, handle materials, and why four chisels beat a ten-piece set.
June 9, 2026
Sharpening Chisels: A Simple, Repeatable Method
Learn how to sharpen chisels with a clear grit progression, honing guide, and stropping routine you can repeat every time you pick up a chisel.
June 5, 2026