Essential Amazon Tools for Beginner Woodworkers: A Cross Creek Studio Starter Guide
Starting your woodworking journey can feel overwhelming with so many tools to choose from. As someone who’s been there—turning discarded trees into furniture, décor, and art at Cross Creek Studio—I’ve put together a list of essential tools to help beginners get started. All of these can be found on Amazon, and they strike a great balance between performance and affordability..
Chris Parnell, Owner + Maker, Cross Creek Studio, Wynnne, AR
6/15/20252 min read
Starting your woodworking journey can feel overwhelming with so many tools to choose from. As someone who’s been there—turning discarded trees into furniture, décor, and art at Cross Creek Studio—I’ve put together a list of essential tools to help beginners get started. All of these can be found on Amazon, and they strike a great balance between performance and affordability. #commissionsearned
1. DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
Why it’s great: A cordless drill is your best friend in the shop. DeWalt’s 20V kit gives you power, reliability, and the freedom to work anywhere.
Reliable battery life
Two-speed settings for different tasks
Comes with charger and carrying case
Search Amazon: “DeWalt 20V Max Drill Kit”
Why it’s great: Pocket-hole joinery is perfect for beginners who want strong joints without fancy clamps or dowels. Kreg makes it easy to build furniture that lasts.
Adjustable spacers
Works with any drill
Compact and easy to use
3. Irwin Quick-Grip Clamps (6-pack)
Why it’s great: You can’t have too many clamps. These are quick, strong, and essential for glue-ups and keeping your work steady.
One-handed operation
Solid grip for small-to-medium projects
Budget-friendly
Search Amazon: “Irwin Quick-Grip Clamps”
4. Stanley 12-Inch Combination Square
Why it’s great: Accurate measuring and marking are the backbone of woodworking. This tool handles 90° and 45° angles with ease.
Precision etched markings
Built-in level
Durable construction
Search Amazon: “Stanley Combination Square 12 Inch”
5. WEN 6502T Belt and Disc Sander
Why it’s great: Smoothing edges and surfaces is a breeze with this 2-in-1 sander. Great for finishing work and shaping wood.
Sturdy cast iron base
4x36 inch belt + 6 inch disc
Easy to change belts
Search Amazon: “WEN Belt Disc Sander 6502T”
6. Makita 6-1/2" Corded Track Saw
Why it’s great: If you’re not ready to commit to a full table saw, this track saw is a game-changer. It delivers clean, accurate cuts for plywood and hardwood alike.
Precision track system
Portable and space-saving
Smooth plunge cuts
Search Amazon: “Makita Track Saw SP6000J”
Why it’s great: A compact router lets you add decorative edges, grooves, and joinery options without taking up much space.
Lightweight, great control
Variable speed
Ideal for detail work
Search Amazon: “Bosch Colt Router”
8. Digital Caliper for Woodworking
Why it’s great: Precision matters. A good digital caliper helps you measure thickness, spacing, and depth down to the millimeter.
Clear digital readout
Easy to zero out
Affordable and accurate
Search Amazon: “Digital Caliper for Wood”
Final Thoughts:
You don’t need a giant workshop or thousands of dollars to get started.