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

hand tool on wall
hand tool on wall

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”

2. Kreg Pocket-Hole Jig 320

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

Search Amazon: “Kreg Jig 320”

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”

7. Bosch Colt Palm Router

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.