The Tools Nobody Talks About (But Every Woodworker Ends Up Loving)
- Lauren Twitchell
- Aug 11
- 5 min read
Let’s be real—when most people picture woodworking, they imagine the dramatic tools: the roaring table saw, the mighty drill, the precision of a miter saw slicing through lumber like butter. And hey, those tools are fantastic. They're the rockstars of the shop, the ones you post about on Instagram when they arrive in the mail.
But let’s have a moment of appreciation for the quiet heroes—the tools that never make the highlight reel but end up being your favorite sidekicks. The ones that don’t get the hype, but absolutely earn your loyalty. The ones you didn’t know you needed until they made your build so much easier.
This post is all about those underrated MVPs. If you’re newer to woodworking, consider this your unofficial permission slip to love the little things. And if you’ve been building for a while? You’re probably nodding already.
Here’s a celebration of the tools nobody talks about… but every woodworker ends up loving.
1. Glue Spreaders
Let’s start with something gloriously unglamorous: the humble glue spreader.
If you’ve ever finger-painted wood glue onto a board and called it good, you’re not alone. (Guilty here too.) But the moment you use a proper glue spreader—whether it’s a silicone brush, a roller, or a simple plastic paddle—you wonder how you ever lived without it.
Why it matters:Glue spreaders give you even, controlled coverage. That means stronger joints, less squeeze-out, and way less mess. Plus, silicone ones can be peeled clean after the glue dries. It’s weirdly satisfying.
Builder tip:Keep a cup of water nearby if you’re using non-silicone tools for glue-up. A quick dip and wipe between applications can keep everything clean and easy.
2. Sanding Sponges
Sanding is one of those steps we know we shouldn’t skip… but when you’re on your third coat of stain or trying to finish up before dinner, it’s tempting.
Enter the sanding sponge: flexible, forgiving, and ready to go where sandpaper just doesn’t cooperate.
Why it matters:Sanding sponges are perfect for curved edges, inside corners, and those “I can’t get my hand in there” spots. They give you control without eating into your wood, and they’re reusable to boot.
Builder tip:Look for a multi-pack with different grits (like 80, 120, 220) so you can work your way up to a buttery-smooth finish. You’ll notice a real difference in your final product.
3. Push Sticks & Push Blocks
If you’ve got a table saw or jointer in your shop, push sticks and push blocks aren’t optional—they’re essential. But somehow they never seem to get the same love as other accessories.
Let’s change that.
Why it matters:These tools keep your hands away from sharp blades while giving you control over narrow or awkward pieces. That’s not just smart—it’s safe. And safe woodworkers stick around long enough to build beautiful things.
Builder tip:Don’t wait to buy one. Or better yet, make your own! A DIY push stick is a great beginner project, and you’ll be using it for years.
4. Speed Squares
This one’s technically well-known, but so many beginner builders don’t realize just how many roles it plays. It’s more than just a triangle—it’s a straight-edge, marking tool, angle guide, and layout assistant.
Why it matters:A speed square helps you mark perfect 90° and 45° cuts quickly. It also makes short work of checking if your boards are square, drawing straight lines, and setting blade angles. Think of it as a multi-tool disguised as a triangle.
Builder tip:Keep one near your miter saw, one in your tool bag, and one on your workbench. You’ll use it way more than you think.
5. Painter’s Tape
Yes, painter’s tape. The kind from the hardware store paint aisle. It’s one of the most unexpectedly versatile tools in your shop.
Why it matters:Painter’s tape is great for marking cut lines, preventing splintering on cross-cuts, labeling project pieces, or even holding small glue-ups in place. It peels off cleanly and won’t damage your wood surface.
Builder tip:Try this next time you drill into plywood: put a strip of tape where your bit will exit the board. It helps prevent tear-out and gives you a cleaner hole.
6. Clamps… All the Clamps
Okay, clamps aren’t exactly secret, but here’s the truth: no one has enough. And many beginners underestimate just how helpful they are.
Why it matters:Good clamps = successful glue-ups. They hold pieces together while drying, help align edges, and sometimes even act like extra hands when you’re working solo.
Builder tip:Start with a couple of F-style clamps, bar clamps, and spring clamps. You’ll quickly learn which ones you reach for most—and then you can add more strategically (or accidentally, while walking through the tool aisle).
7. Bench Brushes & Mini Vacuums
These unsung heroes keep your workspace safe and your sanity intact.
Why it matters:Sawdust can build up fast—and make everything harder to see, measure, or glue. A quick sweep or vacuum between steps saves time, prevents mistakes, and helps your finishes go on smooth.
Builder tip:Keep a small handheld vac or bench brush right at your station so you don’t have to dig it out of storage every time.
8. Marking Knife or Mechanical Pencil
A simple pencil is fine. But once you switch to a marking knife or ultra-fine mechanical pencil, you’ll never go back.
Why it matters:Cleaner lines mean more precise cuts. A sharp mark reduces guesswork and helps your blade land exactly where you intended.
Builder tip:If you’re not ready for a marking knife, try a 0.5mm or 0.7mm mechanical pencil. It’s still a game-changer compared to a dull carpenter pencil.
9. Drill Bit Depth Stop Collars
Have you ever drilled too deep into a piece—right through the other side? Yep, same.
Depth stop collars fit on your drill bits and prevent that sad moment. You can set the exact depth you want and drill with confidence.
Why it matters:These tiny, inexpensive accessories make repeat drilling faster and neater—especially for pocket holes, shelf pin holes, or dowel joints.
Builder tip:Mark your most-used bit + collar pairs with a sharpie or label so you don’t have to remeasure every time.
10. Scrap Wood Bin (Yes, Really)
Not exactly a tool in the traditional sense, but ask any woodworker about their scrap pile and they’ll light up.
Why it matters:Scrap wood is where test cuts happen. It’s where new ideas are born. It’s where practice joints are perfected. And sometimes? It becomes your next project.
Builder tip:Sort your scraps by size or type so you can actually use them instead of digging through a chaotic pile. You’ll be surprised how often those offcuts come in handy.
Why These Tools Matter More Than You Think
The truth is, great builds don’t come from great tools alone. They come from using the right tool at the right time—even when that tool is small, simple, or kind of silly-looking.
There’s a quiet confidence that comes from having the right little helper in your hand. The kind that makes your work feel smoother, your build feel safer, and your frustration level stay low.
These aren’t the tools that get the spotlight, but they’re often the ones that help us fall deeper in love with the process. And that’s what Third Shift Crafts is all about—building with intention, joy, and a little bit of sawdust on our sleeves.
What’s Your Unsung Hero?
Now it’s your turn!What’s the tool you swear by that nobody warned you about?
Drop your underrated favorite in the comments below or tag us on social @thirdshiftcrafts with your quiet MVP. Whether it’s a vintage file, a folding ruler, or a trusty coffee cup that never leaves your workbench—we want to hear about it.
Let’s shine some love on the little things that make a big difference. 🛠️💛
Comments