If you are into woodworking, the ultimate goal for every project
you undertake is to get it done right the first time around. But in order to achieve
this goal on every project, it requires years of hands-on experience, coupled
with a sincere curiosity in improving your woodworking skills. A good way to
get started on this learning curve is to avoid some of the most common
woodworking mistakes beginners tend to make.

Continue reading to learn some of the most predictable,
beginner woodworking errors, as well as, how to avoid them.

Lack of Preparation

In order to get your woodworking project done right the
first time, you must be equipped with the proper materials, gear, and supplies.
This list of stuff includes protective gear like gloves and goggles, as well
as, all your needed materials and supplies, like tools, products, parts, and
more. Not only does preparation streamline your woodworking project, it ensure
you are fortified to build it right in one go.

Improper Blade

A common error made by novice carpenters and woodworkers is
not using the correctly-sized blade on their circular saw. Although you may
feel the urge to use the same blade for every woodworking application, it is
just not proper practice. Always match the right blade with the type of cuts
you are making. For instance, if you are cutting and framing lumber for a new
construction home, you will use an 18 or 24-tooth blade. For plywood and other
specific types of materials, you might need a 40 or 60-tooth blade. For really
fine cuts, you may go up to a 140-tooth blade.

Incorrect Cuts

When cutting plywood with a circular saw, it is important to
cut it on the correct side to prevent splintering and cracking. The correct
side is the OPPOSITE surface (face down) that will be visible after project
completion. In addition to cutting on the correct side, you want to cut in the
correct direction too. Although your rotor spins its bit in 360 degrees
revolutions, it does matter which way you go. If you are working on a surface,
like a table top, start at the edge of your material and work counterclockwise.
If you are routing the inside of a frame, work in a clockwise direction.

Incorrect Materials

Many beginner woodworkers make the mistake of using
incorrect materials, commonly glue and fasteners. Using the proper wood glue is
important in terms of water and moisture resistance. Be sure to choose the
correct version, either standard, moisture-resistant, or water-proof, for your
project. As for fasteners, many people use the wrong type for the intended
application. For instance, it is not wise to use standard steel screws and
nails for outdoor projects since they are prone to rust and corrosion. Instead,
you would need hot-dipped galvanized or stainless-steel fasteners for long-term
performance.

Incorrect Abrasives

Another common mistake made by rookie woodworkers occurs at the
prepping or finishing phases. Using the proper sandpaper and sanding grit is
vital to a project’s success. Sandpaper comes in various forms, including
aluminum oxide, Silicon carbide, ceramic, garnet, and more. It also comes in
various grits ranging from very fine to very course. Be sure to match the
proper sandpaper and grit to your woodworking applications.

Where to Get Quality Sandpaper

Call Sandpaper America at 1-800-860-7263 for information
about coated abrasives and sanding products! We offer a large online inventory
of high-quality sandpaper and sanding products at the most competitive prices
online! We manufacture our products in-house, so you can trust they are
high-quality and shipped nationally. Call 1-800-860-SAND to place an order,
today.