Workshop Machines

2F62B049-23BB-451D-9DD0-755BA1EAC155.jpg

the craftsman’s work horses

Modern & efficient workshops have some pretty sophisticated machinery to do the hard yards of many projects - as part of building out my new workshop I will be making a significant investment in these machines or upgrading my current mobile versions - the branded entries below are the ones I already have, and the stared entries are on the shopping list!

 
IMG_2696.jpg

Hand Tools

The CRAFTSMAN’s best friend

I love using both vintage & modern hand tools, from a range of globally well known & respected brands, to bespoke tools that I have purchased from artisan makers, or ones I have fashioned by my own hand. I believe hand tools to be the essence & spirit of woodworking & craftsmanship, but these days they tend to be used for finesse & finishing touches

Here are my favourites

Power Tools

Photo 01-04-2019, 17 22 25.jpg

how you get the job done

Although I love hand tools, no modern workshop or builder would be without high quality power tools, that literally get the job done - quickly & precisely. I have spent many years investing in the best tools I can afford, once again using well respected global brands - of course the nature of battery chargers these days means you tend to stick to a few brands

Here are my favourites

 
IMG_2680.JPG

Sharpening, Grinding & Honing

a craftsman’s care for their tools

Never an area anyone should neglect - tool & machine maintenance may not be the the most exciting or feel that productive, but it’s essential. Personally, keeping a sharp edge on my hand tools is something I find satisfying and always worthwhile. Of course, all workshop should have a good grinding wheel or belt linisher if possible to really hone those edges

Here are my favourites

 
 
Photo+19-01-2019%2C+14+38+28.jpg

Jigs, Measuring & Marking Tools

Accuracy, Accuracy, ACCURACY

I use a range of traditional gauges & digital measuring devices to ensure that each cut is spot on (measure twice, cut once), each angle is correct, each item is level & plumb. So often I see these tools under valued & treated poorly, but accuracy is the cornerstone of great workmanship

Here are my favourites

 

Landscaping & Milling

outdoor beasts of burden

I would like to fell & mill my own lumber, but I already harvest & cut my own firewood & kindling for the house & workshop from our woodland. Milling your own timber is very cost effective, and if you have the room to dry & season, then this gives you the opportunity to know the history of where your finished items started life - I also love to refine & maintain our own gardens & growing areas on the smallholding

Here are my favourites, plus a couple on end of the list* for the future!

  • Chainsaw - Husquavana 236 X-TORQ

  • Pole Chainsaw - Oregon PS250 32V Cordless 20cm bar

  • Strimmer - Stihl F5 50C

  • Lawnmower - ATCO Quattro 16 500E

  • Panther PM-42 Chainsaw Mill

  • Large Bandsaw Mill*