Budget Woodshop Setup: The Top 10 Tools Every Beginner DIY Woodworker Needs (Without Going Broke)

By Neal — Founder of Neal’s Build Box

The Dream Starts Here

Every woodworker remembers that first moment — standing in a half-empty garage, staring at a bare workbench, dreaming of sawdust and success.

You want to build. You want to create. You want that smell of fresh-cut pine to mean something.

But here’s the catch: your wallet isn’t ready to drop thousands on fancy tools yet.

Let’s fix that. Here’s how to build your beginner woodshop smart — with 10 affordable, must-have tools that’ll get you cutting, sanding, and creating without wrecking your budget.

1. Cordless Drill/Driver — Your Shop’s MVP

If you can only buy one power tool right now, this is it. A solid cordless drill is the heartbeat of every DIY shop.

Budget Pick: BAUER 20V 6-Tool Combo Kit (~$250) — includes a drill, circular saw, multi-tool, and more.

2. Circular Saw — The Workhorse Cutter

Handles long cuts and sheet breakdowns with ease. Add a straight edge or guide, and this becomes a portable table saw.

Budget Pick: Ryobi 18V ONE+ Circular Saw (~$75) — light, accurate, and easy on the wallet.

3. Random Orbital Sander — The Smooth Operator

Splinters don’t make great souvenirs. A good sander makes your projects shine.

Budget Pick: Dewalt Orbital Sander (~$40) — small price, big performance.

4. Hand Saw — The Silent Worker

When you want to cut quietly and precisely, nothing beats a hand saw.

Budget Pick: Stanley 12-tpi Hand Saw (~$24) — cheap, classic, reliable.

5. Chisel Set — The Detail Doctor

For cleaning joints, trimming edges, or carving — chisels are timeless.

Budget Pick: Amazon Basics 8-Piece Wood Carving Chisel Set with Honing Guide, Sharpening Stone and Storage Case, 1/4″ – 1-1/2″ (~$25)

6. Bench Plane — Flat, True, and Timeless

A #4 bench plane smooths surfaces that sanders can’t.

Budget Pick: Stanley #4 Adjustable Bench Plane (~$25)

7. Clamps — Your Extra Hands

You’ll never have enough clamps. Ever.

Budget Pick: Bessey 4-Piece Bar Clamp Set (~$33)

8. Measuring & Marking Tools — Accuracy Wins

Measure twice, cut once — then check again because, well… we all second-guess.

Budget Pick: Pro Tip: A good square and marking knife make accuracy automatic.