What Should I Build First? 10 Beginner Woodworking Projects That Don’t Feel Overwhelming
- Lauren Twitchell
- Jul 15
- 5 min read
What Should I Build First?
10 Beginner Woodworking Projects That Don't Feel Overwhelming
You've carved out a little space. It could be a corner of your garage, a nook in the basement, or even a folding table on your back patio.
You've picked up a few tools—maybe a drill, a saw, some sandpaper.
Now comes the question every beginner woodworker asks:
"What should I build first?"
If you're feeling a little overwhelmed, that's completely normal.
There's no shortage of ideas online. A quick scroll through Pinterest or Instagram can give you a flood of inspiration—but also a severe case of decision fatigue. Everyone seems to be building giant farmhouse tables, intricate cutting boards, and furniture that looks like it belongs in a catalog.
But here's the truth:
You don't need to start big. You need to start.
Every confident builder you see today was once where you are—holding a drill for the first time, staring at a stack of wood, unsure where to begin.
So we're here to make your decision easier.
Here are 10 beginner-friendly woodworking projects that are:
Easy to follow (even if you've never used a saw)
Budget-conscious (because who wants to mess up $80 wood?)
Confidence-building (so you're not afraid to keep going)
Actually useful—or giftable! (No more projects that collect dust)
Let's dive in.
1. Scrap Wood Coasters
If you've got a few leftover offcuts from other projects—or even just some short boards from the hardware store—you've got the perfect start for coasters.
Coasters are small, simple, and perfect for experimenting. You can test out stains, try wood burning, or paint on designs.
Why it's great for beginners:
Tiny surface area = less pressure
Teaches cutting, sanding, and gluing
Endless room for creativity
Tools You'll Need:
Hand saw, or miter saw
Sandpaper or palm sander
Wood glue
Optional: paint, wood burner, clear finish
Third Shift Tip:
Make a set of four and bundle them with ribbon as a thoughtful handmade gift!
2. Rustic Wooden Tray
There's something satisfying about building something you'll use. A rustic wooden tray is a simple, versatile project—and it's excellent for learning multiple basic skills in one go.
Use it on your coffee table, breakfast in bed, or as a catch-all on your entryway bench.
What you'll practice:
Making straight cuts
Attaching handles (optional)
Assembling with nails or screws
Adding a finish or stain
Tools You'll Need:
Saw (hand saw, circular saw, or miter saw)
Drill
Clamps (optional, but helpful)
Sander
Pro Tip: Add metal or rope handles for a farmhouse look!
3. Simple Wall Shelf
Floating or bracketed shelves are not only practical—they're one of the easiest builds for new woodworkers. Shelves teach you how to measure, level, and install—without a complex build process.
And let's be honest—who doesn't need more storage?
Why shelves are beginner gold:
Quick to make
Customizable for any room
It helps you practice using a level and drill
Tools You'll Need:
Drill and screws
Measuring tape and level
Saw
Wood (1x6 or 1x8 boards work great)
Style it your way: Stain it rustic, paint it bold, or leave it raw for a Scandinavian feel.
4. Cutting Board
It's a classic woodworking starter project, and for good reason. Cutting boards are practical, gift-worthy, and give you an excuse to explore food-safe finishes.
You can start with a single board and shape the corners—or if you're feeling a bit bold, try gluing a few boards together for a striped effect.
Skills you'll build:
Sanding edges smooth
Sealing wood for kitchen use
Adding finger grooves (if you want to get fancy)
Tools You'll Need:
Jigsaw or circular saw
Sander or sanding block
Food-safe finish (like mineral oil or butcher block conditioner)
Want to personalize it? Try engraving or using a wood-burning tool to add a name or quote.
5. Wooden Quote Sign
This one's for the creatives. If you love blending art with building, a wooden quote sign is the perfect entry project. Think rustic farmhouse signs, playful sayings, or seasonal decor.
Why it's beginner-friendly:
No complicated joinery
Totally customizable
Blends woodworking with design
Tools You'll Need:
Sander
Paintbrushes
Stencil or Cricut (optional, but helpful!)
Saw (to cut your base)
Third Shift Tip: Use reclaimed wood or pallets for a weathered, vintage feel.
6. Tool Organizer or Pegboard
Organization meets function! If your workspace is turning into a tool tornado, this project is both practical and motivating.
Whether it's a simple pegboard or a small box for drills and bits, you'll gain confidence using basic joinery and mounting hardware.
Skills you'll gain:
Drilling into walls or boards
Creating structure from a simple plan
Measuring and layout
Tools You'll Need:
Drill
Saw
Screws or pegboard hardware
Level
Make it yours: Add labels, hooks, or small bins for organizing bits and blades.
7. Boot Jack
It's simple, quick, and surprisingly handy—especially if you live where boots and mud go hand-in-hand. A boot jack helps you remove dirty shoes without bending over.
Why it's a winner:
Functional and giftable
Small footprint, low cost
Fast build time
Tools You'll Need:
Saw
Drill
Sandpaper
Customization ideas: Add a burned-in design or monogram for a personal touch.
8. Picture Frame
Don't let the angles scare you—this project is a great way to learn how mitered corners work. Plus, frames are a thoughtful handmade gift and a stylish addition to your home.
Skills you'll explore:
Cutting 45-degree angles
Clamping and gluing
Sanding and finishing
Tools You'll Need:
Miter saw
Wood glue
Clamps
Sandpaper or sander
Want a modern look? Try a sleek black paint or minimalist natural finish.
9. Birdhouse
Timeless, charming, and beginner-friendly, birdhouses are a fantastic project for learning how to read and follow a plan. Plus, they're a fun one to do with kids or as a weekend build.
Why birdhouses are a great starter:
Introduces working with multiple small pieces
Encourages using fasteners (screws or nails)
It doesn't require perfection
Tools You'll Need:
Drill
Saw
Screws or nails
Exterior-safe finish (optional)
Third Shift Tip: Hang it near a window so you can enjoy the visitors!
10. Step Stool
It's a little more involved—but doable for beginners. A step stool is a fantastic way to practice assembling basic joints and testing strength. Plus, it's endlessly valuable for kitchens, closets, and garages.
Skills you'll build:
Structural thinking
Measuring for stability
Using pocket holes or corner braces
Tools You'll Need:
Saw
Drill
Sander
Screws or wood glue
Bonus: Paint it in a bold color or distress it for farmhouse flair!
Third Shift Tip: Momentum Beats Mastery
Here's something we remind all our beginner builders at Third Shift Crafts:
Don't overthink it.
Pick the project that excites you. The one that makes you say, "I want that in my home," or "My sister would love this."
Even if it looks too simple.
Even if it's not perfect.
Even if it ends up slightly crooked.
The point of a first project isn't perfection—it's completion.
Because finishing something—anything—is what builds momentum. It turns doubt into confidence. And it gives you the courage to say, "Okay… what can I build next?"
Final Thoughts: Your First Project Is the Gateway
Woodworking isn't about mastering every tool on Day 1. It's about learning through doing—one board, one screw, one proud moment at a time.
So whether you're sanding a set of coasters or building a step stool for your kids, know this:
You're not "just" a beginner.
You're a builder. A maker. A doer.
And your first project?
It's just the beginning of what you're capable of.
✨ Want more beginner-friendly project ideas? Check out our full collection on ThirdShiftCrafts.com—where sawdust meets style, and women are building with confidence every day.
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