Last summer I took the plunge and started using a power drill and skillsaw. I wanted to start making simple home projects out of wood. So even though I felt intimidated, I was ready for the challenge. I guess the real push came when Trey bought me a power drill and skillsaw set, so I had no excuses. The first project I made was this table (with a little help from my dad). Power tools seemed so intimidating for some reason. But once I started, I immediately found a groove.
Now, a year later, I’ve made all different kinds of projects. And here at ABM we get to show off projects from other super talented makers like Rachel, Ruby and Josh. I wanted to share some simple beginner’s advice and encouragement for anyone out there, like me, who wants to get into wood projects but feels intimidated.
Just getting started? This may be all you need: 1
My main piece of advice is this: You don’t have to get a saw out of the gate. You don’t need to be some master carpenter to make some really fun and cool projects. There are SO many things you can make with just a drill and a drill bits! And if you need some custom-length boards cut, many home improvement stores (like Lowe’s and Home Depot) will do this for you for a very affordable rate. Here are some of our favorite projects that can be made with just the tools listed above (or less in most cases).
You could build this light up headboard with no other power tools but a drill! If you want a different size frame you can get your boards cut to a custom size. We added the word “Sleepover”, but you could add any word or phrase you like.
Make this A-Frame tent with just a drill a few special bits. You could drape and tie on a big blanket or sheet, or get your sewing machine out and follow along with Ruby to make this adorable cover.
If you’ve been on the fence to trying something new lately, here’s a friendly nudge: GO FOR IT! While it’s possible to spend a fortune on power tools, I’ve been using that $50 power drill pictured above, and it works great for my needs and skill level. I’m so glad I took the plunge and feel so proud of what I’ve made this year and inspired by what others are up to. xo. Emma
55 Comments
I’ve definitely been feeling apprehensive about using power tools….. But, you my lady, have got me totally inspired. I might just have to try a project or two….
I can’t wait until I get my own apartment or house some day! There is so much interiour inspiration everywhere!
I love working with power tools! I took a construction class in high school and a welding class so I could get the skills!
http://run2thewild.blogspot.com/
Ahhhh, the tree swing! I want one, too!
I love power tools! I love them so much my husband usually buys me power tools for Valentine’s day instead of flowers and chocolates. My Ryobi drill is probably one of the favorite things I have in my art room!
Jillian – http://epic-thread.blogspot.com
I agree that drills are easy to use! i’d add sanders to the list too. saws definitely make me more nervous, though I’ve used them more times than I can count 🙂
These are tools I’m in need of and should really get my butt into DIY mode! 🙂 I’ve now made a list of things to get.
Lulu xx
http://luluslittlewonderland.blogspot.com
Oh I just love that tree swing! I love your diy projects really inspire me to try some myself!
http://erstwhilefelicity.blogspot.co.uk/
Love the magazine rack.. It is too good.
xo janika
http://crazysketchbook.blogspot.com/
I love building things on my own!
here in Portland we are lucky to have local Tool Libraries, they are AWESOME! i own a lot of tools, but there are things i’m just not going to buy, like a tile saw. http://northportlandtoollibrary.org/
A few weeks back, my parents asked me what I wanted for my birthday. I told them I wanted a DeWalt set. I’ve missed having all of dad’s tools within reach at a moments notice!
For Christmas two years ago my dad bought me a drill (at my request) and I love it! It makes everything so much easier! Plus, I feel like a total badass using it! 🙂
I love the little tent!
Hopefully i’ll be able to try that out this summer 🙂
http://theeoptimist.blogspot.com
I agree, I love my power tools! I can’t wait for it to warm up so I can do my big DIY projects outside 🙂
Emily
http://www.growingwildginger.com/
tools are fun! The men in my family have always been into woodworking and I enjoy tinkering as well. Thanks for always making so many different areas accessible 🙂
these are awesome ideas; I really love the tent one! 🙂
http://www.roaringmytwenties.com
I am not good with that type of tools, and must confess it’s not something i like it, but i will enjoy learn, because the projects that you did are so pretty, my favorites are the record storage car and the kitchen board
xo
ruzu
Woohoo! I love woodwork. I don’t really have many power tools myself, but I’ve always had access to Dad’s or my partners, which works so well! Me and my partner built a massive dining table in our loungeroom since it was too big to carry in otherwise, and I’ve done some other projects as well. I think I love the hardware store as much as my partner does! 🙂
Absolutely in love with these amazing items you’ve built! We especially love that dining room table! It’s original and beautiful! We are considering building our own dining room table in the near future. Thanks so much for this post. We truly love your blog and have been adamant readers this year. 🙂 Xo, M&K at brewedtogether.com
I am so glad that my art school required us the learn to use everything in the shop… loud tools are still intimidating, but I’m glad I know how to use them. However, I think a little intimidation in power tools is healthy! Now, have y’all found attractive safety glasses?
o goodness me, I’ll need a pink drill soon enough..
grace
http://herumbrella.com
Amazing! Maybe one day I’ll be as brave!
The magazine rack is definitely a favorite of mine. Love the simplicity of it!
http://stainsofpaint.blogspot.com/
Thanks for reminding me of the pallet Garden. I wanted to try this as I read it for the first time but didn’t. Now I have a second chance 🙂
Too many perfect things. I have only some at home. But your creations as work are perfect. Have a nice day.
http://www.fashiondenis.com
I love the A frame tent!
doing fine art at university it was a very practical course so i had the opportunity to get to grips with all sorts of tools. i might not know what they’re called but it’s helped me to use my initiative when making things. it’s always a good idea to compose your own tool box!
Love these projects…
http://www.stylexvenus.com/
one of my favorite memories as a young girl was making stuff with my dad and his power tools– a backyard fort and a loft bed. I especially loved the sander! love seeing how you are promoting women using power tools on ABM! so cool.
I absolutely love the tables you have made and i feel truly inspired to try making my own now!! 🙂
Thank god my husband love to make things so we have a lot of tools I can borrow every now and then 😉 xx
http://www.creativityandchocolate.com
When I moved away then one of my essential things to have with me was a toolbox. 😀 I don’t own my own drill just yet, but I salute all kinds of DIY projects that require some tools. 🙂
That’s so cute !
New post up: http://www.thestilettoholic.com/
Love from Paris
The tent is incredible, I want one! xxx
http://hunterapted.blogspot.co.uk/
You have done a great job. I work as a design technology technician in our local secondary school (high school to you guys). I am the only female wood technician in our local areal. In fact I am the only tech in the whole of the north east of England if not in the Uk. What the teachers have taught me is to invest In the best and keep away fro. Cheap tools as they only break and you will not get value for money. I know people think thal no way and they can get buy. But even so you will end up with a badly made project. But I take my hats off to you
I like some tools, especially the dremel for craft projects 🙂 Cool projects, I like the swing the best!
Love that big dining room table. I have to admit I’m a bit intimidated by power tools, but this post is an encouraging push to go out and conquer my fears.
That kitchen peg board is delightful!
Love this post! I am thinking about getting my first skill saw soon. I have all these ideas of projects I want to do…all I need is a saw (already have a drill)!
Kim
azulhome.com
How inspiring! I got so many ideas right now! Whenever I own a garden for the first time I’ll have to make a tent like that! Thanks for a great post.
i’d be so scared! you are definitely brave, emma. i love every single one of these projects:)
That dining room table is beautiful! I just bought my first simple drill and didn’t even realize all of the fun things I can make with it! Thanks!
Just love Elsie’s dining table ! can’t wait to move into my new house to make it…
http://hidinginheaven.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-one-with-lace.html
Thanks for the encouragement. I’ve been feeling the way you described, but I shouldn’t have to ask my husband to do all this (easy) stuff for me.
Power Tools were so intimidating. I even had a severe fear of Tape Measure after I had 28 stitches from my dad’s industrial tape measure. When I got to the frame shop at Hobby Lobby, I thought I was going to die because I had to use Drills, Saws (at times), glass cutters and a Wizard Mat Cutter…not to mention my nemesis, the Tape Measure.
After about two weeks and a whole lot of band aids later, I wasn’t afraid of glass breaking around me or the fact that I had to use a tape measure. You just need that push and jump right it. My math and measuring skills are better now and I can even add FRACTIONS in my head!
Melinda
I told my hubby that next house we have we need to have a space just for tools.. all of our diy projects end up on the dining room table! love the table you made!
i especially like that rolling bench thing holding the records. I’d love to make one like that. you guy’s have such a great blog! I just did a great DIY on my blog too, check it out!
http://designthrift.blogspot.com/2013/04/diy-threaded-tassel-hoop-earrings.html
Id just like to say that after reading this post it gave me the push I needed, happy to say I just bought a drill! WAY cheaper than I thought and I can now build the things I love for less, and I love them even more!
xx
Yay for ladies & power tools! As a kid, I was always fascinated with my dad’s awesome tool collection; but I wasn’t even allowed to think about going near them…seeing as I’m pretty accident prone. But when I moved out, Dad though it would be a good time to teach me. Talk about empowering! I’m so elated to see this post. Thank you!
You have just such great ideas. Want to have your creativity in my head. By the way, I really love your blog.
i love those ideas!!
wanderingsofalittlesoul.blogspot.de
great advice!
Sarah
http://www.etsy.com/shop/owleyevintage
Thanks for the encouraging words in your post Emma. I’m glad I’m not the only one a little freaked out about power tools as I venture into the DIY space! Love what you’ve done.
http://www.frecklesandfluff.com
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