Getting Started

[leej49]

Hi,

I'm a new member and don't have much woodworking experience, beside woodshop classes in school about 35 years ago. I switched from the computer field to the restaurant business.  I've been open for about 5 years now  and have now reach the point (financially), where I need to things myself. 

I've decided to go with Festool, because it's my understanding that their tools can be used in small space, are efficient, and safer. I like to be able to do some projects for my restaurant like building outdoor storage sheds, storage benches, menu display board, and portable mobile storage and furniture for catering and outdoor events, and cabinets(later). 

I need recommendations for a good starter set of Festool tools.  I have a TS 55, CT 22, Bosch barrel jig saw, and black and decker corded drill, and Kreg Jig set.  I would appreciate any help you can give.

Thanks,

Lee

 

[Brice Burrell]

Lee, you're off to a go start. The first thing I'd think about getting is a MFT/3 and few Festool clamps then maybe a router. I'm a big fan a cordless drills for driving screws, while I have a couple of Festool drills you don't necessarily need a drill in this price range. Hand sanding is a drag, get yourself a Festool RO sander, if your budget is tight go for the ETS125 or if you've got more money you'll love the ETS150. Good luck and welcome to the forum. 

 

[Martin Johnson]

Welcome to the FOG.  Based on how I use my tools (meaning what tools do I use most often), the MFT/3 and a Rotex would be my next purchases.  I use these with every project.  A router would be next on the list after these 2.

 

[mwhafner]

I think that Brice pretty well nailed it.  

The MFT would be my first recommendation as well, and let your projects dictate your purchases from there.  

You will likely need a router, and the OF1010 and OF1400 are both good choices.

Based on the projects you described, the Domino may also be beneficial.

I would also recommend starting with a Rotex sander.  The RO150 is probably the best sander I have ever used, especially when paired with a ETS150/3.

You will probably want a better drill.  I have a couple of C12s, and they are excellent.  I think that Brice just bought a couple of the new T15+ drills.  

 

[Martin Johnson]

I was going to suggest the drills, but given he has one...he could do more projects with the other tools.  Having said that, it is only a matter of time 

 

[Neill]

Lee,

Welcome to the FOG.  As Brice stated, you are definitely on the right track with the TS55 and CT22.

I am in agreement with  the others regarding a versatile sander such as the Rotex 150 or 125.  I also agree regarding the need for a cordless drill.  I might add though that you get the kit with the 90* and concentric chucks.  I would also recommend the chuck with the adjustable depth stop.  It is invaluable for doing any drywall work or anytime you want to limit the depth you are driving a fastener.

As you find the need,  I would also recommend some of the accessories such as the drill and driver bits, bit holders and countersinks.

The domino would also be a real asset to have but at about $1,100 for the kit and systainer with dominoes and bits, you might not be ready yet for this kind of investment.

As I am sure you have found, it takes lots of green to buy into the green.

Neill

 

[clev1066]

Welcome to the wonderful world of woodworking!

You are off to a pretty good start. The CT and TS are a really good place to start working with sheet goods and milled lumber. With the right blade and technique; you can start building bookcases, built-ins, closet systems, and some basic cabinetry. It really depends on how deep you want to get in and what types of projects you ultimately want to create. I would advise a whole different group of tools to someone wanting to build a library system than I would to someone wanting to build a Queen Anne highboy dresser.

I've only been introduced to Festool since last November, so I'm nowhere near an expert on all the processes one can create with the entire system. However, I do have experience with the TS, MFT, of1000 router, and ETS sanders. My woodworking experience is more traditional: working on site trim, libraries, and cabinetry in new builds; then on to a cabinet shop my first couple of years in college. Therefore, I'm much more familiar with traditional cabinetry tools than with Festool.

A year ago, I would have advised a table saw as a must have. For the way I work, it is still a mainstay for working with hardwoods. Yet with a TS and a good bandsaw, it could be very feasible to not need a table saw at all. A jointer and planer always end up high on my list. I like the ability to dimension my own stock, and I save a bit of money on buying rough. That's about it for the big tools. You can decide if a drill press is necessary. You might want to consider a miter saw as well. 

Hand tools are where you really start to bleed to death. You've got as good of a jigsaw as I've used, and that is a plus. Depending, it could negate the need for a bandsaw. A router is a must; and I advise a good one. There are a few that seem to be a little better than the others though. The Festool routers are very nice; but there are less expensive options. At some point you might even own more than one (or five or six). I have two favorites I like to recommend: if you want a plunge/fix kit = Bosch 1617evs kit; if you just want a plunge = DeWalt DW621. I've used owned both with no complaints. Dust collection on both is decent when connected to the CT; depending on the particular task. Cordless drill are very nice, and there are some real bargains to be had. I've seen some Li-ion Hitachi on good sale both on-line and the local Lowe's. You're gonna want a good Random Orbital Sander (ROS) as well. I've had several: Bosch 1295dvs 5", Ridgid/Metabo 6", and now Festool ETS 150 & 125. I bought the Festool because I wanted to. The Bosch was a good little sander and the Ridgid was excellent. I hear the new Bosch 6" is good and I think Porter Cable has at least one good model. You'll want a nice set of chisels, and then a way to keep them sharp. Don't forget measuring and marking tools!

 

[ForumMFG]

The RO150 is probably the best sander I have ever used, especially when paired with a ETS150/3.

As I am still learning, do you really need to buy the ETS 150/3 if you have the RO 150?  Given his situation or no situation?

 

[Martin Johnson]

The ETS 150 is a sweet sander for sure, but I would probably round out my aresenal first, then go back and start putting on the trim work, so to speak.  I use mine alot, but if it were between not having a router, and having another sander...I would have to go with the router.

 

[mwhafner]

The RO150 is probably the best sander I have ever used, especially when paired with a ETS150/3.

As I am still learning, do you really need to buy the ETS 150/3 if you have the RO 150?  Given his situation or no situation?

Buy the Rotex first.  Hands down the most capable sander I have ever used.  The ETS150/3 is the sander I spend the most hours using, but only because the Rotex does its job so well.

 

[MartinW]

The first things I bought were the TS55, CT33, MTF with clamps, and Rotex.  To this day I find that these 4 tools are at the heart of every project that I do.  Definitely get the MTF and clamps which centralizes everything makes the job so much easier.

Martin.

 

[leej49]

i Guys,

Thanks for the advice.  I appreciate the information.  It will help spending the money to buy this stuff easier.

Things to get now:

1. Workbench - MTF/3 and clamps
2. Sander - RO 150 or ETS/150/3 , depending on budget
3. Router - 1400 or 1010
4. Chisels and sharpening tools
5. Measuring tools

I'll make a trip to the local store to check out which sander and router to get.  I can only afford one.

Near Future purchases

1. Cordless drill
2. bandsaw
3. drill press

Future

1. Domino
2. Joiner
3. Planer

Lee

 

[AlexThePalex]

If you have no cordless drill yet ...... I'd say that's the very first thing you need. It's the most basic and most useful power tool of all.

 

[justinmcf]

hi lee, i agree with brice's advice.
also, if you can only afford one router, i recommend the OF1400, it is a great router, you will not be disappointed.

regards, justin.

 

[Martin Johnson]

Just a quick note on the routers...the OF1010 will handle 1/4" and 8mm bits...the OF1400 allows you to use these plus 1/2" bits...I personally use 1/2" bits for all but the most delicate work....just something to consider. 

The advantage of the Rotex is that it can replace a belt sander in a lot of applications...the ETS will get you there eventually, but it will take a lot more time if you need to hog off a lot of material.  The ETS was designed as is a finish sander with a small stroke for finer sanding...both are good, just depends on what you will be doing...I like the Rotex for it's speed and flexibility....the ETS for its lighter weight and fine finishing.

 

[mwhafner]

4. Chisels and sharpening tools

Lee,

You may want to check out the Narex Chisels from Highland Woodworking.  These are really nice chisels, and an incredible value.  Fine Woodworking reviewed them in a shootout several months ago.

I wouldn't spend a lot of time or money on a sharpening system at first.  Check out the "Scary Sharp" system.  Just glass and sandpaper, but it works pretty well.

I not associated in any way with Narex or Highland, just stumbled across them a couple of years ago.