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DIY projects can do wonders in turning a bleak, old apartment into a cozy space that feels like home. One of the best DIY skills when it comes to doing so is carpentry. After all, there’s a unique charm to beautiful wooden furniture that makes you think of warmth and childhood.
However, for novice builders, carpentry can be quite a challenge with its complicated techniques. For that reason, we will share some great tricks from professionals in the field. We believe these can help anyone improve their woodworking skills.
Be Smart With Measurements
A tape measure is an excellent tool for determining where you need to cut wood. Yet, missing even by an inch can be both costly and annoying. What you could do is use a pencil or a piece of tape to mark the cut spot directly on the wood.
Alternatively, try applying masking tape over your measuring tape. That way, you don’t have to remember measurements, but jot them down on the masking.
Save Effort With Nails
The age of technology had an impact even on a skill as natural as carpentry. You no longer have to hand-nail – get a trim gun which creates better, neater, and faster results.
Such tools come in different sizes, but with a little exploration, you could get only one to do most of your work for you.
When it comes to pulling out the nails, sharp nippers are another useful tool to have. Although pliers are the first thing that comes to mind for this task, they sometimes lead to wood damage, so it’s best to avoid them.
Use a Laser Level
When trying to start a project, no matter how small or large, you need a level. The first image that comes to mind is a primitive level with an air bubble. Now, we have an alternative in the form of laser levels, which offer a higher level of precision.
Read best laser level reviews to choose your tool, and you’ll be reaching for it every time you’re building. For example, putting up ceiling-length shelves with laser levels is a piece of cake — no more transferring floor marks to the ceiling.
Moreover, when you are installing a cabinet you built, you need to know how to fit it properly. Laser levels make all these tasks much more precise.
Make Use of Hot Glue
Although carpentry is a rough job most of the time, sometimes, you have to finesse with small pieces. In that case, hot glue is a much better solution than a clamp.
You can mix these two tools, though, to prevent oozing and save yourself the trouble of cleaning. First, clamp the pieces, and then use tape over the area of joining. Then cut along the tape, separate the parts, add glue, and put it back together.
The glue will end up on the tape, which you remove before it dries.
Choose the Right Hammer
A carpenter’s toolbox usually contains multiple hammers, but you don’t need so many for DIY. Most handymen will be okay with a single hammer, as long as they choose the right type.
The type of the claw is essential here – a curved claw is most common, but you would be better off with a straight claw hammer. This type is excellent for everything from chiseling, pulling nails, and even lifting doors. It will be your most excellent companion on every future project.
With these tools and tips, you can avoid the trial and error period
The Bottom Line
With these pieces of advice, you can avoid the trial and error – many past carpenters did the heavy lifting for you. Apply these techniques for building something to be proud of in the future, with more ease.
