1.      Power tools just allow you to do something faster, not something new. .

• They are not a requirement; they just speed up the process. There are exceptions, but this is generally true
• The main thing here is to not let yourself be limited by tools you don’t have
• Hand tools may not be ideal, but you can accomplish a lot with some patience and a good set of hand tools

2.      The more expensive the tool, the higher the quality, accuracy, and/or capacity.

• Ensure you know which ones you are paying for, and it meets your needs.
• A larger lower quality tool and a smaller higher quality tool can cost the same amount. Make sure you are spending the money where it matters to you
• Bigger is not always better but is almost always more expensive.

3.      A tool you need once is not a tool you need to buy.

• These will take funds away from tools you will get regular use out of and clutter your workspace. Borrow, rent, or pay someone else to do it for you
• Space, time, and money are all limited resources for us makers. A tool you spend money on is one you have to store and make space for. Ensure it actually saves you enough time to make it worth it
• Jointers are one of the main tools that fit this category. A lot of people buy a jointer for one project and never touch it again. If that is you, buy planed lumber or find someone to do it on those rare occasions you need it. This example applies to multiple tools

4.      When it comes to cordless, loyalty is the word.

• Mixing and matching brands reduce efficiency and are not cost or space effectively. Sticking with one brand allows the sharing of batteries and chargers, which reduces how many you need to own. It also allows for buying “tool only” items which are generally less expensive
• Look into the different tool brand offerings. Figure out which brand fits your needs and commit
• In addition to not having to charge and store multiple types of batteries, you will have to carry less with you to your work. When building my closet I needed multiple tools: a drill/driver, nail gun, vacuum, multi-tool, and a reciprocating saw. I took all of those tools and two batteries. I ended up only needing one

5.      Take care of your tools and they will take care of you.

• This sounds cliché, but it is the truth. This means performing periodic maintenance as directed by the manufacturer, storing them properly, and using them as designed
• Familiarize yourself with what your tools need to stay in tip-top shape and keep up with it. Also, keep those items on hand.
• This includes replacing and sharpening blades. A new blade can bring a saw back to life. It will also allow you to get more miles out of your saws

6.      Modify and customize.

• Building stations and improvements that help tools improve can be like getting a whole new tool
• A crosscut sled for your table saw or putting your miter saw into a station can greatly improve tool efficiency
• There are also a ton of jigs with various purposes that can increase your capabilities and output

7.      The most important tool is you!

• It is the absolute truth, and you should protect yourself as such
• This means using the proper PPE. A split-second incident can be life-changing, protect yourself before you wreck yourself
• Safety glasses, gloves, close-toed shoes, and push blocks are a good start
• Lastly, while knowing what to wear is part of it, knowing what not to wear is just as much a part of it. While long-sleeve, loose-fitting clothing and gloves are great while putting in insulation, you would want to avoid those when working with a drill press or other rotating equipment that could suck them in

Hopefully, these 7 rules help to build and maintain your tool collection. Keep in mind that any tool you can enhance to improve production or maintain to extend its life, is one less too you have to replace. Those are dollars that can go toward new tools and projects!

Keep making and stay awesome,

Pete