Woodworking is an increasingly popular hobby, and for many people, a great career. However, I'm sure most woodworkers would agree with the assessment that woodworking is an expensive hobby, and increasingly more so. Tools are expensive, hardware is costly and decent wood stock seems to be increasing in price on a regular basis.
There are ways to combat these rising costs, though. Of course, one could buy used tools (which I seldom recommend), but I think a more appropriate idea is to look for recycled wood stock that can be used to build your projects. There are companies on the internet that specialize in reclaiming and selling recycled wood stock, but I really don't think one would save much money by going that route.
Instead, what I'm referring to is looking for businesses, farms, homes and such that are undergoing some remodeling or demolition. Some of the most beautiful pieces of furniture that I've ever seen were built from recycled longleaf pine that was salvaged from an old barn that was being demolished. With a little bit of planing and sanding, you've got some wood that is possibly better than new (and has a built-in story to boot!)
In Woodworking with Recycled Materials, learn a number of ideas for working with recycled wood stock. Woodworking can be expensive, with a little bit of thought and effort, it doesn't have to be.
(c) 2010 Chris Baylor licensed to About.com, Inc.
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