The first step is space consideration.
Logically, the first locations that come to mind are the basement or garage.
However, consider that most woodworking equipment is metal and not always stainless or coated, so it's important to ensure that the location is dry or can be made dry through the use of a dehumidifier.
Secondly, and just as important is to make sure that there is ample power.
Many of the higher end tools require 220v to operate at peak performance (although most will run on 110).
Many a novice woodworker has been stymied by lack of available power outlets, and overloaded circuits.
Additionally, all outlets should be switched for safety purposes! In many ways, this is the most important step - Next, you have to consider dust collection and ventilation.
Dust collection is important for a number of reasons - personal health, fire hazard, and cleanliness.
Depending on your available space, you can run ductwork, or use a portable dust collector at every workstation.
In addition to that, it's advisable to have a room air filter to remove the more hazardous fine particulate.
Ventilation is also important if you are working with stains and paints to finish your projects, and can actually be accomplished through a well designed dust collection system that extends to the outdoors.
Once you have everything mapped out, you can begin to look at tools.
The cornerstone of any workshop is the table saw.
Investment in a good quality contractor-style or cabinet style table saw is paramount, and will likely be where most of your money is spent up front.
In addition to the table saw, you will want a band saw - which is great for smaller cuts, a drill press, a thickness planer (for even thickness), a jointer (for making a singular flat surface) and some type of bench sander, either a belt or disc variety.
Complementing these bench tools will be a wide selection of hand tools, such as jigsaws, finishing sanders, drills, chisels, etc...
Hand tools are great in that they can be acquired more easily as needed.
Of course the number and breadth of tools you will need largely depends on what you plan on building, and more specialized tools such as lathes and scroll saws could end up rounding out your collection.
Logically, the first locations that come to mind are the basement or garage.
However, consider that most woodworking equipment is metal and not always stainless or coated, so it's important to ensure that the location is dry or can be made dry through the use of a dehumidifier.
Secondly, and just as important is to make sure that there is ample power.
Many of the higher end tools require 220v to operate at peak performance (although most will run on 110).
Many a novice woodworker has been stymied by lack of available power outlets, and overloaded circuits.
Additionally, all outlets should be switched for safety purposes! In many ways, this is the most important step - Next, you have to consider dust collection and ventilation.
Dust collection is important for a number of reasons - personal health, fire hazard, and cleanliness.
Depending on your available space, you can run ductwork, or use a portable dust collector at every workstation.
In addition to that, it's advisable to have a room air filter to remove the more hazardous fine particulate.
Ventilation is also important if you are working with stains and paints to finish your projects, and can actually be accomplished through a well designed dust collection system that extends to the outdoors.
Once you have everything mapped out, you can begin to look at tools.
The cornerstone of any workshop is the table saw.
Investment in a good quality contractor-style or cabinet style table saw is paramount, and will likely be where most of your money is spent up front.
In addition to the table saw, you will want a band saw - which is great for smaller cuts, a drill press, a thickness planer (for even thickness), a jointer (for making a singular flat surface) and some type of bench sander, either a belt or disc variety.
Complementing these bench tools will be a wide selection of hand tools, such as jigsaws, finishing sanders, drills, chisels, etc...
Hand tools are great in that they can be acquired more easily as needed.
Of course the number and breadth of tools you will need largely depends on what you plan on building, and more specialized tools such as lathes and scroll saws could end up rounding out your collection.
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