A Cheap Way To Get Into Woodworking

Folks who want to begin woodworking often ask what tools they should buy. My go-to answer is "used tools" because it reduces the investment you must make just to see if you want to learn the craft. And if I'm further pressed on what specific used tools to buy, I recommend a Shopsmith Mark 5.

You get a lot of tool for your money. It's a multi-tool that converts to become a table saw, disc sander, drill press, and wood lathe. It's well-built, durable, and accurate. If you're short of space, it stores in an area only a little bigger than a lawn mower. And if you need instruction or advice, there is a marching army of enthusiastic Shopsmith owners online willing to pitch in.

I won't pretend that it's more convenient than individual tools. You have to carefully plan your woodworking projects so you aren't constantly changing tools -- which is a good habit to get into in any event. It's a different way of woodworking, sort of like using an Apple computer is different from using a PC. But both platforms get the job done. And this one is cheaper.




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[WorkshopCompanion]

I’ve always advised my students to start building their shop with used high-end tools for the simple reason that unless the tool has been badly abused you get a lot for your money. Good tools age well; they aren’t designed with planned obsolescence.

And I often recommend looking for a used Shopsmith Mark 5, especially if work space is a problem. The Shopsmith offers four essential tools in a 2’ x 6’ (0.6m x 1.8m) footprint – table saw, disc sander, drill press, and lathe. And they don’t cost a great deal. I’ve seen used Shopmiths advertised for between $150 and $500 US. So for not much money, you get some decent tools that fit in a small space.

Those of you know my history surmise that I have a soft spot for Shopsmith, and I do. I founded Shopsmith’s “Hands On!” magazine and used it to launch a successful career as a woodworking author, eventually writing 50+ books. So my recommendation that newbies buy a used Shopsmith is partly due to good memories.

But it’s also due to experience. While I was writing those books, I tested hundred of tools and found few were more reliable than a Mark 5. I have one in my shop right now that was built in 1964. I’ve updated it with a larger table and a digitally-controlled motor, but the guts of this tool are almost as old as I am and going strong.

I won’t pretend that this convertible multi-tool is as convenient as individual tools. But when you consider the high quality, expanded capability and low cost of a used Shopsmith, most of us can put up with some inconvenience. I’ve also heard time and again from long-time owners that the Shopsmith tool design engenders good woodworking habits. To keep from constantly changing tools, you learn to think through a project and organize the steps to make the procedure as efficient as possible. This sticks with you throughout your woodworking career, even when you move on to individual tools.

Shopsmith is criticized a good deal by some very good woodworkers, and while I respect their opinions, I’ve found most of these folks have little or no experience with the tool. Working on a Shopsmith IS different than working with individual tools, much like working on an Apple computer is different than working on a PC. But both platforms get the job done.

The same is true of recent criticism that the Shopsmith is unsafe because it’s too complex. If you take the time to learn the setup procedures, it’s just as simple as most individual tools. Furthermore, these procedures make you aware of the importance of alignment and adjustment, which can increase safety. Then there’s the fact that Shopsmith has met all US and Canadian safety standards – for 75 years.

Finally, one of the most important reasons I recommend used Shopsmiths to aspiring woodworkers is that this machine has attracted and energized a marching army of enthusiastic owners eager to welcome newbies. My experience has been that woodworkers are, by and large, remarkably helpful people, but this is next level. Shopsmith folks have formed numerous online groups and forums where you can get almost immediate answers to your questions. In these days of cancelled shop classes and waning tool savvy, this is a welcome source of information and education.

[DrunkJarJar]

Anyone that says “wiz-bang” has my trust to the ends of the earth

[seltzinator]

My wife heard me listening to this video and started saying, "No, absolutely not!" over and over. I just kept smiling.

[terrmaso]

I have seen them from $500-$800 in my area. Even if you dedicated it to one use, it is hard to find a lathe that size for under $500. I would grab one if I had room.

[trinsit]

THANK YOU! My son loves the idea. I'm 41. He's 19. And we're getting in this together.

[dakotavanwagner]

Your videos and shorts remind me of the PBS shows I loved so much as a kid in the early 90s. I truly enjoy them all. Keep up the great work!

[xMoobyx]

$300 30min for my house thanks for the tip!!

[JDimock]

I got mine from my Grandpa when he passed. He made so many cool things on it from little trinkets, to beautifully crafted furniture, carpentry projects, and even a scale model old school pick up truck that has moving parts. He inspired me to pick up woodworking as a hobby and I even went to college to study it more. I HIGHLY recommend one of these things, so many good memories and cool projects to be had.

[MyGrowthRings]

My shop has been Shopsmith-centric since 1987 and I have zero regrets. Nice short, Nick.

[drayx]

I had no idea a multi-tool unit like this existed! Thank you very much for the education lesson, I'm going to start looking for a used one in my area soon!

[HydramaticMA]

I purchased a Mark V for $400 from a local farmer I used to do a lot of work for, and so far, it has been a great machine for some of my uses. Although I have plenty of space now from when I originally bought it since back then I couldn't afford to buy a shop full of machines. I find I still like to use it. I did have some prior experience with one of these when I was a teenager working for my father, although it was just the drill press and lathe portion. I have always wanted one for myself.

[homefrontforge]

I helped my dad assembly his new Mark V in his shop in 1981. I am now using it in my shop with a table assembly upgrade in 2024. It still runs great and gets the job done.

[JDSileo]

Now that's the perfect brand. Has the cred of a long standing in the community and they aim to take care of customers for life.

[IamDootsdoot]

I love that the dog is just hanging out. hope they're doing good

[Asian_Dora]

I love companies like this that keep their old stuff relevant.

[SteeleMagnolia]

I started out my woodworking days with only a Skihl saw, later added a jigsaw, then a small tabletop Sear's Craftsman table saw. That Craftsman was so unstable, and along with my abilities to be super creative, I cut the tips off of four fingers, lmao. Im an EMT, so fully prepared to render self aid, as well as throwing humor into mix.

My husband surprised me with an amazing Rigid table saw for Christmas, years ago, and I've come a long way in the safety arena, and have masterfully claimed the art. To this day, I hold my breath when watching someone's videos where safety is thrown to the wolves. Watching your videos is the best!

[EmptyGlass]

My father had one of these and it really can do anything. You can get lots of different attachments e.g. bandsaw, jigsaw, planer etc.

[kevinnickel]

I have the first greenie model. Made in the 50s and still works great.

[Tecnolock]

I had a Shopsmith from the 50s I don’t remember the model and it was great and then in the early 2000s I inherited my grandfathers Mark 5. I have limited space in my workshop and absolutely love the flexibility that this offers. It’s amazing how many attachments are still available aftermarket to just keep expanding the flexibility of this great machine

[robqlder]

Epic. I found one in my Dad's shed a while back. I didn't know they were upgradeable