If you are thinking about picking up woodworking as a hobby, one thing is certain: you need the proper equipment to ensure your safety when you are in the studio. The DIY Joint is your source for fun and inspiring woodworking classes in NJ and in today’s post, we’ll review a few pieces of must-have safety equipment that you may want to make sure you have before you start your first project. Let’s get started.
Must-Have Safety Equipment for Woodworking Classes
Essential Safety Equipment
Gloves
Whether you are using hand tools or power tools, you need to make sure your hands are protected at all times. Investing in a good pair of cut resistant gloves can help reduce the likelihood of injuring yourself as you are cutting, sawing, and milling. After all, no one wants their woodworking session to come to a premature end due to an untimely injury.
Ear Protection
Most of the machines and power tools in a woodworking studio put off some serious noise. Now, we don’t have to tell you that prolonged exposure to loud noises can be detrimental to your hearing, but you’d be surprised how many people forget to protect their ears in the shop. While you are shopping for gloves, don’t forget to look for high-quality ear protection as well.
Eye Protection
Like your ears, your eyes are also at risk for injury if you take woodworking classes without taking the proper safety precautions. Flying sawdust and sparks can spell trouble for your eyes, but a good pair of safety lenses can protect them from any mishap. As you shop for glasses, be sure to look for those with shatter-resistant lenses and side screens.
Additional Safety Equipment
Apron
Have you ever noticed the cool aprons that professional woodworkers wear? It seems like they have a pocket for everything! Though it might be surprising, this stylish piece of clothing is worn for more than convenience. Aprons are actually considered a type of personal protective equipment because they keep loose pieces of clothing tucked safely away while you work.
Thumb and Finger Guards
If the idea of carving and whittling interest you more than using saws and power tools to create your masterpieces, then you’ll need something to protect your thumb, fingers, and knuckles from injury. Thumb and finger guards are perfect for the job and a good pair will only set you back a few bucks. You can’t beat that!
Push Sticks and Blocks
Table saws and power saws let you create smooth, even cuts in lumber quickly and easily. Understandably, you want to keep your fingers and hands as far away from the blades as possible when you are working. Most of these saws come with some kind of push stick or block, but if yours didn’t, you can pick them up for a reasonable price online or at most building centers.
Ready to Sign Up for NJ Woodworking Classes?
If you are looking for expert instruction to help you get your feet wet in the fulfilling hobby of woodworking, look no further than The DIY Joint. We offer a creative mix of NJ woodworking classes that are designed to be both educational and inspirational, and we would love to help you make something awesome. Got a question about what type of safety equipment you need for your class? Give us a call — we’re happy to answer any questions you have. We look forward to hearing from you!
