15 Life-Saving Power Tool Safety Tips

The right power tools make it faster, easier and more efficient to complete DIY home improvement projects and other tasks. They also allow homeowners to produce more professional results. These days, there are power tools for nearly every type of home improvement task. Power tools cut, drill, sand, grind and perform many other functions. By investing in a selection of power tools, a homeowner will always have what he needs to get the job done quickly. As effective and efficient as they are, power tools are also extremely dangerous. Every year, thousands of people are seriously injured while using power tools, which is why it's crucial to be aware of the top power tool safety tips.

Types of Power Tools

Power tools fall into two main categories: stationary power tools and portable power tools. The most popular type of stationary power tool is the table saw, which makes it a snap to cut wood and other materials quickly and precisely. As far as portable power tools go, there are dozens of popular options. At the very least, most do-it-yourself types own at least one drill. A few other popular portable power tools include chainsaws, electric sanders, and grinders. Some power tools are electric, and others are powered by gas. Some have cords and some don't. Regardless of which type of power tool is being used, certain safety precautions should be followed. This guide highlights 15 of the most important power tool safety tips.

Top Safety Tips for Power Tools

1. Always Use the Right Tool for the Job

Misusing a power tool is extremely hazardous. It is important to always use the right tool for the job. If the right tool isn't available, it should be purchased. The manufacturer will outline the tasks that a tool is designed to accomplish in the owner's manual. If a person is uncertain about whether a tool is appropriate or not, he should err on the side of caution.

2. Thoroughly Read the Instructions

Many people take their power tools out of the box and start using them immediately. Even if a person has experience with using a particular type of power tool, he should still sit down and read the instructions thoroughly. Some models have different specifications than others. Some are designed to accomplish different things. Furthermore, variations between power tools can result in different risks. For example, different precautions apply when using an electric power tool as opposed to a gas power tool. Similarly, different safety measures need to be taken when using a cordless power tool as opposed to a power tool that has a cord. By reading the instructions, a person will learn everything he needs to know about the power tool and may even pick up a few extra tips.

3. Keep Fingers Away from On/Off Switches

Most power tools are designed so that they don't turn on accidentally. However, people should still take care not to inadvertently press the on/off switch while handling these tools. For example, when transporting a tool from one place to another, a person should make sure that his fingers aren't positioned near the power button. If a safety lock is available, it should be engaged when the tool is not in use.

4. Disconnect Power Tools when Not in Use

For the sake of convenience, some people keep their power tools plugged in at all times. When they need to use them, they don't have to worry about plugging them in again. This may seem logical, but it's actually a recipe for disaster. When not in use, power tools should be disconnected. Power tools should also be unplugged whenever they are serviced or when parts or accessories are being replaced. When it is unplugged, a power tool can't accidentally turn on and cause injuries.

5. Be Careful with Power Cords

In addition to keeping a power tool in great shape, being careful with its power cord enhances everyone's safety. Power tools should never be carried by their cords. People should not swing power tools around by their cords either. Similarly, care should be taken when unplugging a power tool. As tempting as it may be, a power tool's cord should not be yanked roughly in order to unplug it from the wall. The plug should be grasped firmly and pulled carefully out of the outlet.

6. Inspect Power Tools Regularly

When a power tool is damaged, it can be dangerous. If a power tool isn't inspected regularly, dangerous damages can go unnoticed. In the case of a damaged cord, small nicks can be covered with electrical tape. If a deep cut or tear occurs on a cord though, the cord should be replaced. Safety guards should not have any cracks, and they should never be removed. If a safety guard becomes damaged, it should be replaced. Power tools should be inspected prior to every use. Power tools that aren't used regularly should be inspected every few months.

7. Keep Work Areas Neat

Working in a dirty, cluttered environment increases the odds of experiencing a serious injury. For example, sawdust can float in the air and end up in people's eyes. Sawdust particles are extremely dry, and they can actually ignite under certain conditions. When a work area becomes too cluttered, cords can become tangled, which can lead to serious problems. When a work area is messy, flammable liquids may not be stored properly. Power tools should never be used near flammable liquids for safety reasons. In addition to keeping people safer, a clean work area increases productivity and efficiency.

8. Wear the Right Clothes

When using power tools, people should never wear baggy clothing, which can be snagged or become tangled. Similarly, long hair should be tied back so that it doesn't make contact with the power tool. The same is true of jewelry, which often dangles loose from the body. To ensure safety, clothes should cover the whole body. When appropriate, hard hats, dust masks and other protective gear should be used. Work boots or steel-toe boots should be worn as appropriate as well. Heavy, durable gloves will minimize the risk of hand injuries too.

9. Avoid Hearing Loss

Many power tools are extremely loud, and excessive noisiness isn't reserved for cheap power tools either. The potential for hearing loss is very high. It's even worse when power tools are used in enclosed areas, where sounds reverberate off of walls, floors and ceilings. Even if a power tool doesn't seem to be too loud, earplugs should be used. Earplugs are cheap, and they are easy to use. By slipping some in before turning on a power tool, a person can dramatically reduce the risk of hearing loss.

10. Avoid Eye Injuries

Regardless of the type of work that's being performed, the eyes should be protected at all times. Power tools stir up a lot of dust and debris. Tools like drills and chainsaws can cause objects to fly loose. It's not uncommon at all for objects to fly directly into a person's eyes when power tools are being used. For optimal safety, a person should use impact-resistant safety glasses. These heavy-duty glasses will eliminate the risk of foreign objects getting into the eyes, where they can cause serious injuries. Extra pairs should be kept on hand as well.

11. Stay on Solid Footing

Working on ladders and elevated platforms is risky in general. When power tools are thrown into the mix, the danger level rises even higher. If at all possible, it is best to remain on solid ground while using power tools. If it is absolutely necessary to climb a ladder or work on an elevated platform, steps should be taken to ensure that the footing is as secure as possible. Wobbly ladders and platforms increase the risk of injury while using a power tool. Another person should remain on the ground while power tools are being used on ladders or elevated platforms.

12. Store Power Tools Where Children Can't Access Them

Young children are often curious about power tools. Even if young kids are told not to play with power tools, the temptation to do so may be too strong to resist. The best thing to do is to remove temptation altogether by keeping power tools safely locked away when they're not being used. Power tools should never be left out, even if they are going to be used again the very next day.

13. Maintain a Safe Work Environment

Power tools should only be used in areas that have adequate lighting. In dim conditions, it is all too easy to make a wrong move that can cause a serious injury. If an area is dark or dim, lights should be set up as needed. Power tools should never be used in damp or wet conditions. If a rainstorm rolls in during a project, the tools should be packed up until it is over. One of the biggest risks involved in using a power tool is electrocution, which is why these tools need to be kept away from wet, damp conditions at all times.

14. Secure Work Pieces with Clamps

When cutting or drilling a work piece with a power tool, the piece should be secured with a clamp. For example, a piece of wood should be completely secured before it is worked on with a table saw. Similar precautions should be taken when using power belt sanders, nail guns, and miter saws. If a piece is not secured, it could ricochet and cause serious injuries. A blade might not move in the correct way, or a nail gun could misfire. Securing a piece only takes a few seconds more, and it's well worth it.

15. Keep Observers at a Safe Distance

In some cases, people may want to watch the work while it's being performed. For instance, a child may want to watch his parent use a power tool. It's fine to allow people to observe, but they need to stay at a safe distance. Even if they are far away, they should wear goggles and other protective gear to reduce the risk of injuries. Children should be taught that power tools are extremely dangerous, which is why they need to stand a safe distance away.

Finding Power Tools on eBay

At a certain point, most power tools become so old and damaged that they need to be replaced. It's easy to find affordable, high-quality power tools on eBay. The power tools category can be found by first clicking on the Home, Outdoors & Decor category. From there, shoppers should click over to the Home & Garden category. The Tools subcategory can be found on the left, and the Power Tools section is easy to find from there. Replacement tools can be found easily in that section.

Use Power Tools Safely at All Times

While it helps to buy new, undamaged power tools, the safety tips that are outlined above should be kept in mind at all times. Even the most well-designed power tool in the world can cause injuries if it's not used properly. By taking the appropriate steps, a person can safely use power tools and get work done around the house a lot more quickly and efficiently. Protective gear like safety glasses is also available on eBay, and people should stock up on such gear to stay as safe as possible while using power tools.

The Power Drill: A Modern Man’s Guide to Tools

The go-to for many around-the-house projects, the power drill can also do the most damage. We'll make sure you get it right.

The power drill is a screwdriver that’s been bitten by a radioactive spider. You can attach “bits” to it, to match whatever screw you’re working on, and you can also attach “drill bits”, allowing you to drill holes in things.

You are likely to need a power drill for:

• Tedious screwing jobs, such as in construction or assembly
• Drilling holes into a wall or other surface
• Dentistry, but that’s a special kind of drill

How to Use a Power Drill

The main thing you need to know about a power drill is that you can swap out the bits (head ends). Most modern power drills tighten by leverage. Here’s how it works:

1. Loosen (remember righty-tighty, lefty-loosy),
2. Put your bit into the chuck (the three-pronged holder thingy)
3. Tighten. Make sure it’s plenty tight. You can tighten it a bit more by holding the big round part just behind the bit, then squeezing the trigger for a quick sec, but don’t come crying to us if you chafe your soft widdle hands. Many household drills use keyless chucks, meaning you can hand-tighten them, however some drills require the use of a “key” to tighten the chuck. The key is usually stored on the drill top, or in the handle.

The power drill has two other important components. There’s a button, near the trigger, that tells the drill whether to go forward (clockwise) or backward. There’s also (in most drills) a torque setting. When torque is set to its lowest (loosest) setting, it will tighten the screw until it feels a little tension, then start clicking rapidly. When torque is on its highest setting, it will keep tightening the screw until it cams out (see the screwdriver article, if you forgot what this means) or until something bad happens (strips the screw, pokes your eye out, etc.). Usually, you should start with a low to medium torque setting. Then, if you need more, adjust accordingly.

There are different types of drill bits for different types of material. The most common are general-purpose, with a simple head, and can be used for most around-the-house projects. Others include spade or flat bits (for construction framing bolt-holes in wood), masonry (for concrete), brad point bits (for word or dowel work), and bits with a diamond carbide tip (for drilling into porcelain or other tough surfaces).

When drilling a hole for a screw, make sure you are using the right size bit. To do this, hold up your screw with a drill bit in front of it. You should be able to see all of the screw’s threads behind the drill bit. In other words, the drill bit should be the same size as the screw’s body, but smaller than its threads.

If drilling a large hole — especially in metal, or with a precise center point — you may first need to make a smaller “pilot hole” to help guide the drill and protect the material from cracking. Some bits do this for you, but these are specialized tools, and you could probably live a full and happy life without ever seeing one.

In addition to all the pitfalls of using a screwdriver, power tools have more power than hand tools. Being more power-full, they can quickly do more damage to your screws, walls, hands, eyes, etc. Be careful when using them, move slowly, use eye protection. Also, never pretend to fight or shoot your friends with power tools. While such shenanigans are indeed hilarious, the saying “it’s all fun & games until …” applies.

When used as a drill, remember that you can always make the hole bigger, but you can’t ever make it smaller. If you’re not sure which size drill bit to use, better to err on the side of too small.

Also, if making holes in drywall, be sure to use drywall anchors (those little plastic things) . The tiny sharp threads of a screw are just too fine for the rough chalky composition of drywall. The plastic threaders are big and stretchy, and will stay in the drywall much better than a bare screw.

Difference Between Cheap And High Quality Hand Tools

If you own a cheap hand tool set and wondering why quality is such an important feature in hand tools, we explain the difference to you.

If you want to buy a high quality hand tool, be prepared to shell out more. However, they are worth the money, because they are made to last a lifetime. They are a one-time investment.

If you have lot of use for hand tools, it is always better to choose high quality tools. If you are not using hand tools for heavy duty work, you can buy cheap tools. Cheap tools work for certain jobs. You can use them for doing odd jobs around the house. They won’t last long; they won’t stand the test of time or offer the durability you need for industrial or heavy-duty jobs.

Here is a list of differences you’ll notice between cheap and high quality hand tools.

Cheap hand tools are prone to breaking

• If you don’t mind replacing broken tools on a regular basis, then buy cheap hand tools. Technicians who buy cheap tools end up spending a lot replacing them as cheap tools bow or crack under pressure.
• High quality hand tools will last forever with proper care and maintenance. They are worth the investment if you plan to use them often.

The way it feels

• By the very look of the tools you can make out whether they are cheap or expensive hand tools. The handles of hand tools that are cheap are not very comfortable to use. This is a big issue for mechanics who often use these tools for hours at a stretch. If you are not comfortable with the handles, the quality of work itself will get affected. And, your hands will start to hurt.
• Well-made tools will feature ergonomic handles that are designed to reduce strain and prevent injury. Cheap tools, on the other hand, just don’t feel good and you won’t find yourself reaching for them when you have a job to do.

Consistency

• If you are a mechanic, a carpenter or an electrician, reliability is a major concern. You want a hand tool that performs with consistency. Cheap tools can bend or break easily if they’re used heavily or if too much force is applied. You don’t want your work to get affected because of a broken tool. If you’re an electrician, first and foremost you should be concerned about your safety. A cheap tool is not something you can rely on to keep you safe from shocks.
• Well-made tools are produced from the highest quality materials and handcrafted for excellent dependability. They are made to withstand industrial specifications, and you can rely on them. They are not only safe to use, you can do quality work with them, too.

Cost factor

• High-quality tools are, indeed, expensive, so most people are tempted to buy cheap tools. But what you should understand is, if you are using cheap tools, you will have to replace them more often and in the process you will lose a lot of money.
• High quality tools, on the other hand, are a one-time investment. Since they are made of good quality materials you won’t need to replace them every now and then. So by buying well-made tools from a trusted brand you are actually saving a lot of money.

When you work with hand tools as part of your job, always buy tools that are made with good quality materials and from trusted brands. Don’t buy tools according to the price. Instead, make sure they’re made from the best materials.

How to choose the right power tool for home

Unfortunately, owning or living in a property requires a certain level of upkeep and maintenance. Many property owners quickly realise the costs of repairs and will attempt a few small odd jobs themselves.
For larger jobs they will call a licensed trades-person.

For small things that can easily be done around the house, an individual can use their own power tools to help them tackle the task at hand.

Property owners can spend a lot of time in warehouse hardware stores attempting to find the perfect power tool with little success.
Talking to specialist stores like Wilson and Miller can save novice and experienced renovators a lot of time and embarrassment. Wilson and Miller provides countless hours of training to ensure that there is always someone around to assist.

One of the first things an individual must do to ensure they are choosing the right tools is to get educated about what each tool does. Some tools are indispensable for repairing a leaky faucet and other tools may prove useless when handling such a job. If a property owner has a clear understanding of what the tool does and how it can be used they are much more likely to select the right tools that matter.

Secondly, having a clear idea of each brand is also helpful. The quality and durability of a tool will vary from brand to brand. Wilson and Miller is home to large range of brands and can guide customers through the benefits of each.

Thirdly, consider how often the tool may be used. One might be wise to choose a tool which offers a longer warranty over a tool which may not last as long. The difficulty of use for a power tool is a concern to many tradespeople as well as novice users. A tool which is simple to use, has simple instructions will provide satisfaction to the user every time.
When selecting power tools or any hand tool ensure you speak to the specialists at Wilson and Miller who know their tools!

Overview of basic tools.

Every home needs several good power tools, which will enable you to perform any minor (or sometimes not-so-minor) home repair or renovation job.

The Basic Power Drill

The first tool you need is a good quality power drill. The best drills will enable you to drill any surface from wood, to plaster, to concrete and even brick. However, even a basic drill will perform several useful jobs around the house. A lot of people like the versatility of a cordless drill, but corded drills often give better performance and power, and they don’t run out of power when you need it.

The Jigsaw

The jigsaw is another power tool, which can be used by beginners and more experienced people alike. It allows you to cut circular and curved patterns in wood. Some models are more versatile than others. Look for one that allows you to change blades easily and is easy to handle.

An Orbital Sander

An orbital sander is another very handy power tool. You can buy simple sanders that use plain sandpaper, or random orbital sanders which sands in a random motion to reduce sanding marks. Sanders can be used on wood as well as plaster (very handy when you need to patch holes in walls and other surfaces, and need to sand the surface smoothly).

The Circular Saw

Finally, a circular saw is a very useful power tool for the home handyperson. You may need to get a bit of practice with it, but once you’re comfortable it will enable you to perform a number of cutting tasks quickly and easily.

All of these power tools are handy additions to every household. They can be used by beginners and those who are more experienced, and while you may need a little practice it won’t take long before you can use them like a professional.

Taking Care of Tools

My father used his Yankee screwdriver all the time, and I still grab it when I have a lot of straight-slot screws to drive, say, when I’m installing door hinges. One long push on the handle gets me about three nicely controlled turns on the screw. Sure, cordless drivers are faster, but a Yankee screwdriver is easy on the wrist and quiet, never needs recharging, and has a bit that doesn’t slip off or over-drive the screw. These screwdrivers are still being made, thank goodness, so if my dad’s old one ever breaks, I can replace it.

RUST BUSTING:
Given enough time, rust will damage metal permanently. Here are some ways to keep it from forming on your tools and to get rid of it if you’ve got it.

To keep rust at bay: Because dust attracts moisture, store tools in a dry place, such as in a drawer or a toolbox. For extra protection, add a canister of silica gel or strips of vapor corrosion inhibitor, like the ones made by Wilson and Miller. They emit a gas that deposits a protective layer on metal surfaces. In damp basement workshops, keep a dehumidifier running.

When rust gets a foothold: Spray lightly rusted surfaces with a penetrating lubricant like WD-40, then scrub with a heavy-duty Scotch-Brite pad. Stay away from sandpaper; it scratches metal. Wipe off excess lubricant before putting the tool away.

For more heavily rusted metal, try a spray-on, wipe-off, acid-based rust remover like Rust Free. Follow with a rust-inhibitor spray like Boeshield T-9, which leaves a thin, waxy film on the surface. Wipe away any excess immediately.

STORAGE:
If you’re lucky enough to own any of the old wooden boxes that tools used to be packaged in, they make great storage places. The wood helps absorb moisture and shields the tools from humidity.

REPAIRING WOOD HANDLES:
A cracked wood handle is relatively easy to glue back together, especially if you can take it off the tool. I prefer yellow wood glue rather than epoxy. It’s easy to work with and stronger than the wood itself.

For handles cracked all the way through, gently separate the two pieces and clean the mating surfaces with a tooth­brush; don’t sand them. Spread a light coat of glue on both faces and into any fissures with a small brush, then clamp the pieces securely—rubber bands work well on length­wise splits. Wipe up excess glue with a damp rag. The clamp can come off in about an hour.

5 Hand Tool Tips and Tricks for Efficient, Successful Woodwork

Though I have been pursuing hand tool woodwork very seriously for almost three years now, in many ways, I am still very much a beginner. I didn’t grow up around tools and have found that I pick some things up very quickly and easily, whereas other common sense concepts are still completely foreign to me.  Until very recently, I worked at an incredibly slow pace in the woodshop, and not just because I try to skip power tools whenever possible.

To cut down on this time, I sat down and tried to make a list for how I could more efficiently practice woodworking. Here are five hand tool tips and tricks I discovered:

1. Use the right tool for the job

If you read any of my other articles, forgive me for repeating myself, but this is a very important concept, especially when it comes to hand tool woodwork. Yes, at any woodworking store, there is a specific tool, jig or fixture that promises to do every task imaginable, and you could spend a fortune buying them all, but you don’t need 99.99 percent of them. What you do need is an understanding of the necessary tools to furnish your toolkit and an understanding of what each of them does. If you haven’t already, pick up a copy of The Anarchist’s Tool Chest by Christopher Schwarz at Lost Art Press. You won’t be disappointed.

When it comes to buying tools, buy the best you can afford. If you are just getting into hand tool woodwork, I have some great news for you. You can save cash and floorspace in your shop by avoiding all big, heavy machinery and instead investing in some heirloom-quality hand tools. Quality hand tools do have a much higher price tag, but take it from me — if you buy well the first time, you will save a lot of money, trouble and frustration in the long run.

When I was first getting started, my husband used to ask questions like “Why do you need to spend $100 on that handsaw when they have one at the home center that is only $10?” He has since learned to keep those things to himself, after watching me fuss with and agonize over bargain tools that never worked to begin with, only to go and spend more money the second time to get a tool that actually works.

Once you own a few quality tools, there are all kinds of tips and tricks to use them efficiently and successfully. For example, you don’t need to have every single size of chisel ever made. If you have three or four sizes, you can design your joinery around the tools you have. As you lay out your dovetails, make it so the bottom of your pins is the same width as your smallest chisel so you can save time while chopping out the waste. If the bottom of your pins is the same size as your chisel, you can remove all your waste in one quick pare with that chisel. That tip alone cut my dovetailing time in half.  

Sharpening tools

2. Take care of your tools

If you take proper care of your tools, they will always be ready when you need them. There are two very important pieces to this puzzle: keeping your tools sharp and storing them properly.

Using a sharp tool is crucial to success in hand tool woodwork. If your tool is tuned properly, many hand tool woodworking tasks are just as quick, if not quicker than their power tool counterparts. There are all kinds of videos on Youtube about sharpening whatever specific tool you are using. Do note, however, that for every woodworker, there are ten different methods of sharpening. Do a bit of research, pick one, learn it and stick with it. Though many woodworkers have strong opinions in the matter, I believe there isn’t one superior method. The method that you find most enjoyable and easy to learn is the best one for you, because at the end of the day, as long as your tool is sharp, I couldn’t care less how it got that way.

Take notice of how your tool works when properly sharpened and get into a routine that works for you to keep them sharp. A quick hone every now and then is better than an hour-long sharpening session if you wait too long. I try to keep my tools sharp all the time, but every so often I go through all my tools and give them a good sharpening just in case.

Woodworkers also seem to be very opinionated in the area of hand tool storage, but again, pick a method that works from you. Most tools are made of metal, and are prone to rust. The oils in your hands tend to corrode metals over time, and sawdust and shavings trap moisture on your tools. When I’m done using my tools at the end of the day, I like to shoot the dust and shavings off each of the tools I used that day with my air gun attached to my compressor.

Once clear of dust, I wipe each tool I used with a microfiber dust rag soaked in Jojoba oil and put the tool away in my tool chest. This wipedown removes the harmful oils from your hands and replaces it with a protective coating that will keep it safe until it’s next use. There are many oils that will work for this, Jojoba and mineral oils being the most popular among woodworkers. I prefer Jojoba oil because it seems to be better at repelling rather than attracting dust.

If I’ve just restored a tool or know it’s going to be a long time until its next use, I like to wipe down all the components with paste wax or T-9 Boeshield. Every once in a while, I like to take my tools I use less frequently out of the chest and take them apart to make sure there is no secret rust building. Because we have a lot of humidity and some salt our Seattle air, this saves me from some unpleasant discoveries after a long period of disuse.

3. Don’t take shortcuts

This is a lesson I am constantly re-learning. I am very much a product of this “instant” generation. I love living in Seattle because most of my Amazon.com  purchases arrive within a day of the time I order them. And then I get frustrated when I order tools and it takes them several weeks to arrive. I’m impatient and I have no problem admitting that. Hand tool woodwork has taught me to grow so much in this area, and I am continually challenged to be more careful, more thorough, and more patient.

Hand tool woodwork is all about preparation. Your success or failure depends on your thoroughness in planning and proper stock preparation. Materials need to be perfectly square for joinery to work and for finished pieces to come out of the shop as designed. Take those extra few minutes to make a few more strokes with the plane or to clean that last superfluous whisker of material out of your mortise, and you will find that, in the end, you’ve saved yourself all kinds of time because you don’t have to go back and remake the part you were too lazy to get right the first time.

4. Keep your shop clean and organized

I know a few woodworkers who would disagree with me about this, and a few of them tease me about spending more time cleaning my shop and caring for my tools than I spend doing actual woodwork. Sometimes they are right, but I have the advantage of walking into every project with confidence, knowing that each one of my tools is right where it belongs and it is ready for me to pick it up. If you allow your shop to become cluttered, you’ll likely waste time looking for the tool you need, often leading to taking shortcuts and settling for using the wrong tool for the job. If you get in the habit of putting tools away while you work, you’ll also save a lot of time in cleanup at the end of the day.

There is another reason I keep my shop as immaculate as possible: sawdust and shavings left on the floor for weeks and months at a time put your shop at risk for pest infestations and fire. This last year I lost several thousand dollars worth of stock to an infestation by the powderpost beetle. Because my shop is so clean, I noticed tiny sawdust piles under pieces of wood right away and was able to deal with the problem before it became worse. Mice also love to make themselves comfy in wooden bedding. I also love using candles in my shop, and one misplaced match or electrical spark in a pile of shavings could set my whole shop (which is attached to my house) on fire.

5. Measure twice, cut once

As I mentioned before, quality hand tool woodwork is all about preparation. Lack of care when measuring has not been a victimless crime in my shop. The coffee table in my living room is two inches shorter than I planned because I forgot to factor in tenon length when I cut the legs. I made a beautiful top for my teak writing desk, only to realize when I went to mount it on the base that it was six inches too short. The drawers in that desk could have more storage space, but I accidentally made them square instead of rectangular. The serving ladle I was carving for my mom turned into a salt spoon because I forgot to leave extra material to hold the workpiece as I was carving it. I could go on, but this is getting embarrassing.

Math is clearly not one of my strengths, so I’ve found that using a story pole and a series of sliding rulers and gauges set to project-specific lengths and depths works much better for me. Depending on how your mind works, find a system that helps you to be successful and practice it. Don’t forget to double and triple check everything.

15 Life-Saving Power Tool Safety Tips

The right power tools make it faster, easier and more efficient to complete DIY home improvement projects and other tasks. They also allow homeowners to produce more professional results. These days, there are power tools for nearly every type of home improvement task. Power tools cut, drill, sand, grind and perform many other functions. By investing in a selection of power tools, a homeowner will always have what he needs to get the job done quickly. As effective and efficient as they are, power tools are also extremely dangerous. Every year, thousands of people are seriously injured while using power tools, which is why it’s crucial to be aware of the top power tool safety tips.
Types of Power Tools
Power tools fall into two main categories: stationary power tools and portable power tools. The most popular type of stationary power tool is the table saw, which makes it a snap to cut wood and other materials quickly and precisely. As far as portable power tools go, there are dozens of popular options. At the very least, most do-it-yourself types own at least one drill. A few other popular portable power tools include chainsaws, electric sanders, and grinders. Some power tools are electric, and others are powered by gas. Some have cords and some don’t. Regardless of which type of power tool is being used, certain safety precautions should be followed. This guide highlights 15 of the most important power tool safety tips.

Top Safety Tips for Power Tools
1. Always Use the Right Tool for the Job
Misusing a power tool is extremely hazardous. It is important to always use the right tool for the job. If the right tool isn’t available, it should be purchased. The manufacturer will outline the tasks that a tool is designed to accomplish in the owner’s manual. If a person is uncertain about whether a tool is appropriate or not, he should err on the side of caution.

2. Thoroughly Read the Instructions
Many people take their power tools out of the box and start using them immediately. Even if a person has experience with using a particular type of power tool, he should still sit down and read the instructions thoroughly. Some models have different specifications than others. Some are designed to accomplish different things. Furthermore, variations between power tools can result in different risks. For example, different precautions apply when using an electric power tool as opposed to a gas power tool. Similarly, different safety measures need to be taken when using a cordless power tool as opposed to a power tool that has a cord. By reading the instructions, a person will learn everything he needs to know about the power tool and may even pick up a few extra tips.

3. Keep Fingers Away from On/Off Switches
Most power tools are designed so that they don’t turn on accidentally. However, people should still take care not to inadvertently press the on/off switch while handling these tools. For example, when transporting a tool from one place to another, a person should make sure that his fingers aren’t positioned near the power button. If a safety lock is available, it should be engaged when the tool is not in use.

4. Disconnect Power Tools when Not in Use
For the sake of convenience, some people keep their power tools plugged in at all times. When they need to use them, they don’t have to worry about plugging them in again. This may seem logical, but it’s actually a recipe for disaster. When not in use, power tools should be disconnected. Power tools should also be unplugged whenever they are serviced or when parts or accessories are being replaced. When it is unplugged, a power tool can’t accidentally turn on and cause injuries.

5. Be Careful with Power Cords
In addition to keeping a power tool in great shape, being careful with its power cord enhances everyone’s safety. Power tools should never be carried by their cords. People should not swing power tools around by their cords either. Similarly, care should be taken when unplugging a power tool. As tempting as it may be, a power tool’s cord should not be yanked roughly in order to unplug it from the wall. The plug should be grasped firmly and pulled carefully out of the outlet.

6. Inspect Power Tools Regularly
When a power tool is damaged, it can be dangerous. If a power tool isn’t inspected regularly, dangerous damages can go unnoticed. In the case of a damaged cord, small nicks can be covered with electrical tape. If a deep cut or tear occurs on a cord though, the cord should be replaced. Safety guards should not have any cracks, and they should never be removed. If a safety guard becomes damaged, it should be replaced. Power tools should be inspected prior to every use. Power tools that aren’t used regularly should be inspected every few months.

7. Keep Work Areas Neat
Working in a dirty, cluttered environment increases the odds of experiencing a serious injury. For example, sawdust can float in the air and end up in people’s eyes. Sawdust particles are extremely dry, and they can actually ignite under certain conditions. When a work area becomes too cluttered, cords can become tangled, which can lead to serious problems. When a work area is messy, flammable liquids may not be stored properly. Power tools should never be used near flammable liquids for safety reasons. In addition to keeping people safer, a clean work area increases productivity and efficiency.

8. Wear the Right Clothes
When using power tools, people should never wear baggy clothing, which can be snagged or become tangled. Similarly, long hair should be tied back so that it doesn’t make contact with the power tool. The same is true of jewelry, which often dangles loose from the body. To ensure safety, clothes should cover the whole body. When appropriate, hard hats, dust masks and other protective gear should be used. Work boots or steel-toe boots should be worn as appropriate as well. Heavy, durable gloves will minimize the risk of hand injuries too.

9. Avoid Hearing Loss
Many power tools are extremely loud, and excessive noisiness isn’t reserved for cheap power tools either. The potential for hearing loss is very high. It’s even worse when power tools are used in enclosed areas, where sounds reverberate off of walls, floors and ceilings. Even if a power tool doesn’t seem to be too loud, earplugs should be used. Earplugs are cheap, and they are easy to use. By slipping some in before turning on a power tool, a person can dramatically reduce the risk of hearing loss.

10. Avoid Eye Injuries
Regardless of the type of work that’s being performed, the eyes should be protected at all times. Power tools stir up a lot of dust and debris. Tools like drills and chainsaws can cause objects to fly loose. It’s not uncommon at all for objects to fly directly into a person’s eyes when power tools are being used. For optimal safety, a person should use impact-resistant safety glasses. These heavy-duty glasses will eliminate the risk of foreign objects getting into the eyes, where they can cause serious injuries. Extra pairs should be kept on hand as well.

11. Stay on Solid Footing
Working on ladders and elevated platforms is risky in general. When power tools are thrown into the mix, the danger level rises even higher. If at all possible, it is best to remain on solid ground while using power tools. If it is absolutely necessary to climb a ladder or work on an elevated platform, steps should be taken to ensure that the footing is as secure as possible. Wobbly ladders and platforms increase the risk of injury while using a power tool. Another person should remain on the ground while power tools are being used on ladders or elevated platforms.

12. Store Power Tools Where Children Can’t Access Them
Young children are often curious about power tools. Even if young kids are told not to play with power tools, the temptation to do so may be too strong to resist. The best thing to do is to remove temptation altogether by keeping power tools safely locked away when they’re not being used. Power tools should never be left out, even if they are going to be used again the very next day.

13. Maintain a Safe Work Environment
Power tools should only be used in areas that have adequate lighting. In dim conditions, it is all too easy to make a wrong move that can cause a serious injury. If an area is dark or dim, lights should be set up as needed. Power tools should never be used in damp or wet conditions. If a rainstorm rolls in during a project, the tools should be packed up until it is over. One of the biggest risks involved in using a power tool is electrocution, which is why these tools need to be kept away from wet, damp conditions at all times.

14. Secure Work Pieces with Clamps
When cutting or drilling a work piece with a power tool, the piece should be secured with a clamp. For example, a piece of wood should be completely secured before it is worked on with a table saw. Similar precautions should be taken when using power belt sanders, nail guns, and miter saws. If a piece is not secured, it could ricochet and cause serious injuries. A blade might not move in the correct way, or a nail gun could misfire. Securing a piece only takes a few seconds more, and it’s well worth it.

15. Keep Observers at a Safe Distance
In some cases, people may want to watch the work while it’s being performed. For instance, a child may want to watch his parent use a power tool. It’s fine to allow people to observe, but they need to stay at a safe distance. Even if they are far away, they should wear goggles and other protective gear to reduce the risk of injuries. Children should be taught that power tools are extremely dangerous, which is why they need to stand a safe distance away.

Use Power Tools Safely at All Times
While it helps to buy new, undamaged power tools, the safety tips that are outlined above should be kept in mind at all times. Even the most well-designed power tool in the world can cause injuries if it’s not used properly. By taking the appropriate steps, a person can safely use power tools and get work done around the house a lot more quickly and efficiently. Protective gear like safety glasses is also available on Wilson and Miller, and people should stock up on such gear to stay as safe as possible while using power tools.

WHY MAKE YOUR OWN PAINT?

I enjoy making paint. It’s messy and childlike, and can also seem like alchemy. I don’t make it a strict or scientific affair, it’s more a case of going by feel, the kind of approach I expect an experienced baker takes with a batch of cookies or wholesome loaf of bread.

But why would you bother making your own paint?

If your sensitivity lies with the environment then that gives you one reason. Modern paints are basically plastic, so they’re non-renewable, require high amounts of energy for the complex manufacture, and produce lots of bad waste.

Or if you’re conscious of your health and wellbeing, then modern synthetic paints aren’t the best choice here either. This is obvious when you open up the can and the stink hits you like a tonne of bricks, but think of all the painted surfaces around you and consider that synthetic VOCs leach out in to the room even five years after the paint was applied.

So it’s all very green and healthy to knock up your own paint, but is it practical?

Plastic based paints provide a wonderful sealed layer over a surface and dry quickly, so they have the upper hand when it comes to convenience. They can be very durable and wipe clean easily.
But this is also a huge disadvantage, because sealing a surface in this way isn’t usually good for the material below.

This is particularly true when painting wood, which is always wanting to move about, and release and take on moisture.

What this means is that synthetic paints can crack quite quickly when applied on to wood, while natural paints tend to remain somewhat flexible, and can move with it.
Synthetic paints will also trap moisture underneath them which can lead to blistering. Natural paints are microporous, so the wood can continue to breathe as normal.

In the short term the plastic coating will seem like the low maintenance, durable option, but it can actually look bad pretty quickly. When it does you’ll need to hassle yourself with the chore of scraping it all back to fresh wood, before recoating.
Natural paints can look good for decades, and because they can breathe, freshening them up is just a case of wiping down and recoating over the old stuff.  There are many varieties though and some require considerations such as mildew to protect against in certain circumstances. As a whole though they are practical as well as green.

But since you can buy many natural paints, I still haven’t given you a reason to go make them. Perhaps it could be because they are expensive, difficult to buy locally, or don’t offer the colour you’d like. Personally though, I just like alchemy.

I’ve got a lot of paint to be making soon, so I’ll be sharing some recipes with you. For great and quality tools, check this out.

How Important Is It To Have a Versatile Set of Tools?

It is incredible how specialized the tools we use have become. There’s a tool out there that was specifically designed and built for each and every use you can encounter in your daily life. This becomes even more apparent if you’re a handyman, or if you’re working in maintenance. There are special plumbing tools, special electrician’s tools, and special tools for HVAC repair, just to name a few. But for the average Joe, who wants to be able to do some work around the house without trying to become a certified repair or maintenance professional, the incredible number of different tools isn’t only unnecessary, it’s confusing. For most of us, the best thing to have in our toolboxes is simplicity and versatility.

Just think about what you might want to use your tools for in your home. Probably some minor repairs, like fixing a toilet cistern, fixing a leaky faucet, oiling a squeaky door, unclogging a drain or toilet. Also, drilling holes into the wall to mount pictures, TV sets, or even furniture is something that you can do on your own in your home. You can also fix some minor electrical issues, like changing a light switch, if you know a thing or two about how to keep yourself safe while working with electricity.

These aren’t major repairs. For those, most people would likely call a professional, who would show up with a set of tools specialized for their trade. An electrician would show up with the tools for his trade, plumber will show up with the tool he uses, a carpenter would show up with a completely different set of tools than the other two. But you, who want to be a jack-of-all-trades, able to fix a little bit of everything in your home without knowing how to fix the really big things, don’t need a specialized set of tools. You need a versatile set of tools. You need a set of tools that can be packed in a nice and sturdy toolbox, and you need a single toolbox with all the tools you’ll need to do everything you want to do on your own.

Versatile and flexible toolsets, like the Wilson & Miller one, are designed and manufactured with the homeowner in mind. They contain all the tools you’ll need for most of the things you’d be able to do around your house. They are highly mobile so that you can carry everything with you easily to any part of the house where work needs to be done. They are made to have everything you need in one place, so that you know exactly where to look for a tool when in a hurry.

Most importantly, a versatile set of tools is important because it allows you a certain degree of self-sufficiency. Sure, you will have to learn how to use these tools, but the feeling you get when you know you’ll be able to tackle some of the common malfunctions in your home is very much worth the effort.

Better Way to Plane Chair Seats

For many years I’ve used the following trick to plane irregular-shaped objects: Screw a square block to the underside of the piece and then clamp that block in my face vise.

So today I am planing up a seat blank and fetched my little block of wood and two drywall screws. I tossed the block on the underside of the seat blank. The block landed near the front of the seat and I froze for a second.

Usually I screw the block to the dead center of the seat. But I just then realized there’s a better way. Screw the block to the front edge (or back edge) and you can get most of the seat supported by the benchtop.

Chair seats don’t flex much when you plane them. But the extra support is noticeable.

It’s a small detail. But it helps.

If you need some good hand and power tools, check this out.

How to Properly Maintain Your Tools

If you’ve spent time and money assembling your set of tools, it’s only natural you’ll want to keep using them as long as possible. You might also like how your tools looked right out of the box, and you want to keep that look for as long as possible. But esthetic preferences are a subjective matter, and proper functioning is not. There’s no use in having tools if they don’t work well. And for them to work well, they need to be properly maintained.

The way of properly maintaining tools depends mostly on what are they used for. But first thing’s first – the most important thing in tool maintenance is to keep them clean. Usually, a simple rag will suffice to clean any dirt that might be present on a tool. In some cases, when the rag doesn’t suffice, you’ll need to try another method. A dirty shovel, for example, cannot be simply rubbed down. It first needs to be hosed down to remove all the dirt, and then rubbed clean and dry with a rag. If the tools came in contact with glue, which often happens in woodworking, applying a solution that will make it easier to remove the glue would be a better idea than to try to remove it by sheer force, as that might needlessly damage the tool. Keeping tools clean is important, but so is not ruining them in the process.

Once the tools are clean, you should check their condition. For some tools, this isn’t as important, as they are less prone to wear. But some, like knives and chisels, need to be regularly sharpened so that they are able to maintain their performance. So make sure you keep the things that need to be sharp sharpened, and make sure to notice if some of the tools have dented or chipped.

To prevent your tools from rusting, you should use machine oil by applying a very thin layer of it on the metal parts of your tools. You don’t need to get it slippery, just oily enough so that there’s something between the metal and the air. What’s exactly the best brand of machine oil for the purpose is something that’s widely debated, but pretty much any oil that prevents oxidization will do.

At the end, you need to keep your tools properly stored. There are several ways you can store your tools – in a toolbox, on racks, in bins, in tool chests or cabinets, in tool workbenches. Storing your tools on racks is a good way of storing them only if the room where the rack is placed has very low humidity. If that’s not the case, and if you can’t do anything to lower the humidity, than a closed container might be a better option because it’s much easier to control humidity in them. Of course, if the tools you buy come with their own toolbox, like the tools you can get from Wilson & Miller do, you’ll probably want to store them there.

Best Hand Tools Tips & Trick

What are some basic tips when using hand tools? To avoid accidents in the workplace resulting from the incorrect use of hand tools, it is important for workers to understand the proper use of these items. Otherwise, you could get hurt, do a job improperly and generally never accomplish what you wanted with the tools you own. Thus, it is crucial that you understand a proper way to use hand tools and to know some basic tips and tricks on how to properly use them for what they are made for. You must choose the right tools This is a very important concept, when it comes to any job that requires hand tools. At any tool store, there is a specific tool, jig or fixture that promises to do every task imaginable, and you could spend a fortune buying them all, but you don’t need 99.99 percent of them. What you do need is an understanding of the necessary tools to furnish your toolkit and an understanding of what each of them does. When it comes to buying tools, buy the best you can afford. If you are just getting into hand tools, I have some great news for you. You can save cash and floorspace in your garage by avoiding all big, heavy machinery and instead investing in some heirloom-quality hand tools.

Quality hand tools do have a much higher price tag, but take it from me — if you buy well the first time, you will save a lot of money, trouble and frustration in the long run. Once you own a few quality tools, there are all kinds of tips and tricks to use them efficiently and successfully. For example, you don’t need to have every single size of screwdriver or wrench ever made. If you have three or four sizes, you can do most of the tasks in house around the tools you have. Take care of your tools Good tools can be quite an investment, but if you take good care of them, they’ll return the favor. Keeping your tools properly stored, cleaned, and maintained will save you time and money and make your DIY endeavors that much more rewarding. We’re mostly talking about hand tools, power tools, and garden tools in this article, but much of the same advice applies whether your tools of choice are kitchen knives, crafting tools, or whatever else. Store them well, keep them clean and well-maintained, and you won’t be sorry. 3. Store Your Tools Properly You have to work with the space you have. Maybe you hang them on pegboards, maybe you store them in boxes, bags, or chests, or maybe you keep them in drawers or on shelves in your shop. Whatever works for you is best. Toolboxes probably are the best solution for tool storage, offering the primary advantage of portability. While some people opt to store all their tools in toolboxes, for most, the toolbox is a way of carrying around your most-used tools while leaving the bulk safely stored on pegboards, shelves, or drawers. No matter what you’re doing, though, you can build a well-equipped toolbox for every level of DIY needs.

Keep your tools in a dry place. It seems obvious, but garages and basements and other enclosed spaces can have humidity issues, especially if they are not heated or air-conditioned. If you keep your tools in a location like this, especially if you keep them out on shelves or pegboards, consider investing in a dehumidifier to keep the dampness down. They’re not terribly expensive, especially compared to your investment in your tools, and most let you set a humidity level so the dehumidifier turns on only when it needs to. Store power tools in their original cases. Unless you have a climate-controlled workshop, your best bet for storing power tools in the hard plastic cases they usually come with. Not only are they better-protected from humidity, they’re just better-protected in general.

Clean Your Tools After Every Use

Cleaning your tools may be the last thing you want to do after a day of work, but it’s essential for keeping your tools in good shape. And it really only takes a few seconds per tool unless you’ve got something really nasty on your hands. It’s well-worth the time spent doing a little cleaning to save the time spent repairing a tool (or the money spent replacing it) later. Hand tools: You can clean most hand tools by simply wiping them down with a rag. If they’re dirty, don’t be afraid to give them a good wash with soap and water. Just dry them well afterward. Spritz metal with a light coat of WD-40 and wipe with a clean rag (you really just want to leave a light film on them to help keep the rust away). Wipe wooden handles with a rag dampened with a little linseed oil. Power tools: Power tools are a little trickier to clean. First, make sure the tool is unplugged before you clean it. Next, you’ll want to get all the dust off. An air compressor can be really useful for that. Wipe down the surface of the tool and then lubricate any moving parts. Machine oil is a fine choice for this, but you should also check the manual that came with the tool to see if they have better recommendations. While you’re at it, don’t forget that your toolboxes, belts, and bags will need some care as well. Clean out your toolboxes every once in a while by emptying them and wiping them down. If you’ve got leather belts and bags, you’ll want to condition the leather once in a while.

Inspect Your Tools Every Time You Use Them

We’re going to assume you use your tools safely. You wear goggles and gloves when you should and you follow the safety protocols recommended for your power tools. But taking the time to inspect your tools every time you use them is one of the most important things you can do to ensure not only your safety while using them, but the longevity of your tools as well. If a wooden handle is damaged, it is prone to breaking during use, which can cause injury to you or others. If a handle is not spintered too badly, you can probably sand it down just fine. Sand against the grain first if the handle is really rough and then sand with the grain until it’s smooth enough you can run your hand along it without feeling any chips or splinters. Finish off with a coating of linseed oil. However, if the handle is cracked or heavily splintered, you’ll need to replace it. Depending on the level of corrosion or rust, the tool may be unsafe to use.

Try removing the rust yourself or just replacing the tool. Removing rust from tools is actually pretty easy if the damage isn’t too great. If a power tool has anything more than a simple hairline crack on the housing, don’t use it. Unless you have the expertise to repair it, you’ll need to get it repaired by a professional. Taking care of your tools does require a bit of a commitment, but you ask so much of them it seems a small price to pay. Especially when a well-cared-for tool can reward you with so much DIY goodness.