What's the best inexpensive tool in your woodworking shop? And what's one tool you splurged on that was worth every penny? In Episode 290 of the ShopNotes Podcast, Phil Huber, Logan Wittmer, and John Doyle tackle those questions and plenty more. From favorite woodworking tools and shop upgrades to organizing tool collections and protecting your investment, the conversation takes a few unexpected turns. And, of course, there's a little turbulence along the way. The guys kick things off with listener comments, including more Shopsmith banter, oversized antique tool chests, and thoughts on Woodworking in America. Then it's time to talk tools. John shares why he won't compromise on quality screws or a good router lift, Logan explains his appreciation for a vintage Starrett tape measure, and Phil talks about treating himself to a set of Japanese chisels. Logan also shares how he's using AI to create an inventory of his woodworking tools, complete with estimated values. That leads to a bigger discussion about shop insurance, replacement costs, and an interesting question: If you had to rebuild your woodworking shop from scratch, what would you do differently? In This Episode: Favorite inexpensive woodworking tools and worthwhile splurges The ongoing Shopsmith saga Organizing and upgrading traditional woodworking tool chests Using AI to inventory woodworking tools Shop insurance, tool values, and replacement costs Logan's new table saw outfeed table and workbench Progress on a custom kitchen island with built-in storage Phil's Writing Desk and decorative diamond bead molding Adding casters to a knock-down workbench Router jigs, finger joints, and woodworking club workshops Whether you're building furniture, upgrading your workshop, collecting hand tools, or just enjoy talking woodworking, pull up a chair and join the conversation. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! What's your favorite inexpensive shop tool? What's one tool you're glad you spent extra money on? And if you had to start your woodworking shop over, what would you change? Leave your answers in the comments! MORE FROM WOODSMITH ShopNotes Podcast episodes and show notes:https://www.woodsmith.com/podcasts/ Woodworking plans, projects, tips, and techniques:https://www.woodsmith.com/ Downloadable woodworking plans:https://www.woodsmithplans.com/ Subscribe to the ShopNotes Podcast for weekly woodworking conversations, shop updates, tool discussions, and plenty of laughs with Phil, Logan, and John. Thanks to Titebond for supporting the ShopNotes Podcast!https://www.titebond.com/ #ShopNotesPodcast #Woodworking #Woodsmith #WoodworkingTools #WoodworkingPodcast
