New to forum, new to woodworking.... tips?

Look around the house and see if there is something small you could use- necessity IS the mother of invention.

Starting small/easy is the best confidence builder. Things like step stools, benches, cutting boards and shelves are things that can be made with minimal tools and easy joinery. A search of this site will produce a lot of these type of projects. Also, try to pick something that suits your tool inventory for the first project. Then, as your confidence builds- and you want to try a more complicate idea- you have an excuse to buy a new tool. Remember- every new project- when properly planned- requires the purchase of at least one new tool!

Good Luck and keep us posted on your selection and progress!!!

-- Lew- Time traveler. Purveyor of the Universe's finest custom rolling pins.

Always cut away from yourself.

-- 温故知新

Maybe a couple of sawhorses (eg http://benchnotes.com/Wide%20top%20sawhorse/sawhorses.htm) ? Then maybe throw an old door (recycle center) to have something to work off of instead of the floor.

Welcome aboard!!
It’s a great place to learn and share. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
We’ll, as far as a project it somewhat depends on the tools you have. You can look in the projects section for ideas or as bentlyj suggested look at that post. Lots of easy things to start with and remember don’t expect perfection immediately. Good luck.

-- Bob K. East Northport, NY

Hey Megan, welcome to LumberJocks and welcome to woodworking! I was right in your shoes just a couple years ago, so if you have any specific questions, feel free to contact me.

I would recommend for a first project something that will get you using hand tools. Even if you have power tools, start with hand tools. One power tool podcaster recently said, “Your power tools skills won’t be hurt at all by you using hand tools, but your hand tools skills will suffer when you use power tools.” (or something like that)

So start with a project where you can get used to using a saw, chisels and maybe a hand plane. I think Robert’s suggestion of building some sawhorses is a good one. I, for one, want to build some sawbenches as highlighted by Christopher Schwarz. Here’s a link to the plans.

Above all, post often! You’ll find that there is always an enthusiastic audience here full of guys and gals who are eager to chip in. You’ll get plenty of encouragement, and if you ask for it, critiques as well!

-- Eric at https://adventuresinwoodworking.wordpress.com/

Something like a box would be a great first project as all that is required is a saw, a hammer, some panel pins, woodglue and something to put in it!

Don’t go buying premium wood to start off with either, you will get a lot more satisfaction by creating something from nothing :D

Best of luck in your woodworking endeavors

-- JR.