In this episode of The Woodsmith Shop, the crew builds three essential shop-made tools that are as fun to make as they are useful. Each project is approachable, made from simple materials, and leaves you with a tool you’ll reach for every day.
TWISTED METAL AWL. Logan kicks things off with a classic scratch awl that combines traditional looks with practical function. Using steel bar stock and a propane torch, he shapes and twists the shaft before pairing it with a turned hardwood handle. Add a brass ferrule, and you’ve got a polished tool that’s perfect for layout work, marking lines, and even starting screw holes. It’s a simple project that teaches valuable metalworking and turning skills, while leaving you with a shop-made tool that looks as good as it works.
SCRAPER SHAVES. Phil builds a set of scraper shaves from scrap wood, hardware, and a cabinet scraper. These versatile tools excel at smoothing tricky grain, refining curves, and cleaning up chamfers. The plan includes four designs: a flat-bottomed model, two different radius shaves for curves, and a notched version for chamfers. Each handle is shaped for comfort and control, with an easy-to-adjust blade assembly. Whether you’re shaping a cabriole leg or refining a panel edge, these scraper shaves will quickly become go-to tools in your shop.
MARKING KNIFE. Chris demonstrates how to make precise marking knives using straightforward woodworking and metalworking techniques. The blades are cut from O1 tool steel, then hardened and tempered for long-lasting durability. Handles are customized from your choice of wood and secured with brass rivets for strength and style. These knives produce crisp layout lines that a pencil simply can’t match, making them indispensable for accurate joinery. Along the way, you’ll gain hands-on experience with shaping, heat-treating, and assembling steel tools.
BUILD YOUR OWN SHOP TOOLS. What makes these projects special is how approachable they are. With minimal materials and a little shop time, you can create professional-quality tools that will serve you for years to come. Each one teaches valuable woodworking and metalworking lessons, while giving you a chance to add a personal touch to your toolkit.
