A Cheap Way To Get Into Woodworking

Folks who want to begin woodworking often ask what tools they should buy. My go-to answer is "used tools" because it reduces the investment you must make just to see if you want to learn the craft. And if I'm further pressed on what specific used tools to buy, I recommend a Shopsmith Mark 5.
You get a lot of tool for your money. It's a multi-tool that converts to become a table saw, disc sander, drill press, and wood lathe. It's well-built, durable, and accurate. If you're short of space, it stores in an area only a little bigger than a lawn mower. And if you need instruction or advice, there is a marching army of enthusiastic Shopsmith owners online willing to pitch in.
I won't pretend that it's more convenient than individual tools. You have to carefully plan your woodworking projects so you aren't constantly changing tools -- which is a good habit to get into in any event. It's a different way of woodworking, sort of like using an Apple computer is different from using a PC. But both platforms get the job done. And this one is cheaper.
If you want to know more about this tool, you can see demonstrations of the Shopsmith at shopsmith.com/ .
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[@WorkshopCompanion]

I’ve always advised my students to start building their shop with used high-end tools for the simple reason that unless the tool has been badly abused you get a lot for your money. Good tools age well; they aren’t designed with planned obsolescence. And I often recommend looking for a used Shopsmith Mark 5, especially if work space is a problem. The Shopsmith offers four essential tools in a 2’ x 6’ (0.6m x 1.8m) footprint - table saw, disc sander, drill press, and lathe. And they don’t cost a great deal. I’ve seen used Shopmiths advertised for between $150 and $500 US. So for not much money, you get some decent tools that fit in a small space. Those of you know my history surmise that I have a soft spot for Shopsmith, and I do. I founded Shopsmith’s “Hands On!” magazine and used it to launch a successful career as a woodworking author, eventually writing 50+ books. So my recommendation that newbies buy a used Shopsmith is partly due to good memories. But it’s also due to experience. While I was writing those books, I tested hundred of tools and found few were more reliable than a Mark 5. I have one in my shop right now that was built in 1964. I’ve updated it with a larger table and a digitally-controlled motor, but the guts of this tool are almost as old as I am and going strong. I won’t pretend that this convertible multi-tool is as convenient as individual tools. But when you consider the high quality, expanded capability and low cost of a used Shopsmith, most of us can put up with some inconvenience. I’ve also heard time and again from long-time owners that the Shopsmith tool design engenders good woodworking habits. To keep from constantly changing tools, you learn to think through a project and organize the steps to make the procedure as efficient as possible. This sticks with you throughout your woodworking career, even when you move on to individual tools. Shopsmith is criticized a good deal by some very good woodworkers, and while I respect their opinions, I’ve found most of these folks have little or no experience with the tool. Working on a Shopsmith IS different than working with individual tools, much like working on an Apple computer is different than working on a PC. But both platforms get the job done. The same is true of recent criticism that the Shopsmith is unsafe because it’s too complex. If you take the time to learn the setup procedures, it’s just as simple as most individual tools. Furthermore, these procedures make you aware of the importance of alignment and adjustment, which can increase safety. Then there’s the fact that Shopsmith has met all US and Canadian safety standards - for 75 years. Finally, one of the most important reasons I recommend used Shopsmiths to aspiring woodworkers is that this machine has attracted and energized a marching army of enthusiastic owners eager to welcome newbies. My experience has been that woodworkers are, by and large, remarkably helpful people, but this is next level. Shopsmith folks have formed numerous online groups and forums where you can get almost immediate answers to your questions. In these days of cancelled shop classes and waning tool savvy, this is a welcome source of information and education. If you want to know more about this tool, you can see demonstrations of the Shopsmith at shopsmith.com/ .

[@BumpyHumpyDumpy]

Man, I wish my woodworking teacher in high school was as good as you. You are doing incredible work!

[@Aaron-nj4ou]

I have regretted buying cheap tools many times. I have never regretted buying a high quality tool. Great videos I have learned a lot from the channel.

[@christophermahon1851]

Many years ago (I feel like a geezer), I worked with an amateur wheelwright who had one. He did incredible things with it. Thanks for the advice and reminder!

[@kevinthomson6324]

Just bought a 30 year old delta contractor saw. It’s the industrial model that comes with the uni-fence what a huge upgrade from my plastic/aluminum Bosch table saw. Was a great deal for $150 and $54 in gas to drive 2 hours away.

[@WorkshopCompanion]

@@kevinthomson6324 Funny, I just did the very same thing in order to get Travis a good saw -- 2 hours, $200. If you've got the space, the old Delta contractor/Unifence combination is a top-of-the-line tool. I've been relying this combo since the Unifence was a new idea, and have only had to replace the bearings after 35 years of constant use!

[@DrunkJarJar]

Anyone that says “wiz-bang” has my trust to the ends of the earth

[@zoro-i8u]

@@theminescrapper 😂😂 "You should give me all your possessions, why? Because it's wiz-bang"

[@adammatis5527]

*Stands up on couch* "OH CAPTAIN MY CAPTAIN!"

[@DefendTheStar]

Anybody seen Johnny Whiz-bang?

[@hobochangba7638]

this is an ad you are a fool

[@benno6981]

Give me your credit card information wiz-bang

[@terrmaso]

I have seen them from $500-$800 in my area. Even if you dedicated it to one use, it is hard to find a lathe that size for under $500. I would grab one if I had room.

[@thegingedingo6608]

Yeah idk where the fuck he seen one listed at 150 but I ain't seeing it

[@terrmaso]

@EatonShitson what exactly does that mean? How small what is? What the hell would I lie for?

[@paulhunter9613]

@@terrmaso he has no idea what he is talking about

[@dogwalker666]

Cheapest is over 2 grand with shipping.

[@terrmaso]

@@dogwalker666 I'm referring to the used ones.

[@seltzinator]

My wife heard me listening to this video and started saying, "No, absolutely not!" over and over. I just kept smiling.

[@ShaneJay-wx7nu]

😂😂😂

[@tarlas83]

don't listen to her. be a man

[@TonksTech]

Just say it will save you money in the long run and after 5 uses it will of payed for it's self if that Dusnt work sate that there will be more free money for what ever she needs 😂

[@Ed70Nova427]

Where is your general location?

[@ElveeKaye]

"But honey, I'll be able to build shelves for your art room" is the statement that would have me instantly saying yes.

[@trinsit]

THANK YOU! My son loves the idea. I'm 41. He's 19. And we're getting in this together.

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Good luck to both of you! Look for a Model 510 or 520 -- the larger table really comes in handy.

[@doinksinthePM]

That's awesome. Hope you both have a wonderful time with your new hobby. Either way you'll be spending good time with your boy so it's a win regardless.

[@whyamisad5740]

awesome dad detected

[@hlomphokhauoe9565]

😮

[@dakotavanwagner5649]

Your videos and shorts remind me of the PBS shows I loved so much as a kid in the early 90s. I truly enjoy them all. Keep up the great work!

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Thanks -- that's the plan.

[@My_Name_Is_Mud.]

​@WorkshopCompanion This is exactly how your videos come across. I'm 27, and your videos are always a joy. Thank you so much for the inspiration. You really are the "Bob Ross" of wood working. All the best!

[@troykinnison4575]

Man that is a spot on comment !!! It's very very PBSish from the 90s !!! That's the first place I ever saw a , MARK 5 ! I remember thinking I want one of those when I grow up!! Everything those guys made using that machine was always perfect, so of course I thought it was a lot to do with the saw. This is before I understood how tv, an movies are made! I didn't understand that editing was a thing. Or that they start an stop the camera !! Lolo

[@dakotavanwagner5649]

@troykinnison4575 I know what you mean. It takes me back every time I watch his videos.

[@edizzyfoshizzy]

I love how you always have the positive energy and helpful advice. Your videos have made me start saving for my own tools to start woodworking . My father was a big woodworker and he died when I was very young. So the longest time I thought about all the sad memories whenever I tried to make something. Your videos help me remember the good times in the basement watching my dad run the table saw.

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Thanks for the kind words...and good luck.

[@drayx777]

I had no idea a multi-tool unit like this existed! Thank you very much for the education lesson, I'm going to start looking for a used one in my area soon!

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Good luck.

[@fredbecker607]

Just looked it up. Started in 1953. I bought mine in 89 and still have it.

[@r.t.hannah9575]

And it’s made in America!

[@JDimock]

I got mine from my Grandpa when he passed. He made so many cool things on it from little trinkets, to beautifully crafted furniture, carpentry projects, and even a scale model old school pick up truck that has moving parts. He inspired me to pick up woodworking as a hobby and I even went to college to study it more. I HIGHLY recommend one of these things, so many good memories and cool projects to be had.

[@AmazingAutist]

Rest in peace to your grandpa. I hope you can keep up the tradition and pass it on to someone that you Mentor later on

[@xMoobyx]

$300 30min for my house thanks for the tip!!

[@gingerfurrdjedi6211]

IT WAS ONLY $300?!? I've always been under the impression that these type of tools are thousands upon thousands even used!! I never looked because I'm new to woodworking and never thought I'd be able to afford something like this!!

[@xMoobyx]

@@gingerfurrdjedi6211 yep just needed some new belts and TLC but it has everything else:)

[@JohnGauntSega32]

@@gingerfurrdjedi6211 In my state I have seen Shopsmiths on Facebook Marketplace with prices from sub-$300 to around $500. I don't know how complete they were, and they require something larger than a compact care to transport.

[@WorkshopCompanion]

@@gingerfurrdjedi6211 Travis and I recently picked up one for $150 -- Travis wants to make a sanding station similar to mine. And if we find anything wrong, the company still offers parts -- even for Shopsmiths built in the 50s! They really are one of the best values on the used tool market.

[@gingerfurrdjedi6211]

@@WorkshopCompanion Thanks for telling me this! I'm looking into them now!!

[@Alex_M_Creations]

What’s even better is the company is still in business (pretty small and restructuring) but they still make replacement parts and are still manufacturing in the US which is awesome.

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Actually, they are the only power tool manufacturer still left in the US.

[@Alex_M_Creations]

@@WorkshopCompanion yep, I had seen Shop Nation’s video about ShopSmith. At some point I might actually get a used ShopSmith because of the versatility.

[@sampel5547]

I'll probably never get into Woodworking, but your videos have always been a joy to come across. Thank you for your contributions, and your passion for woodworking!

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Most welcome.

[@Asian_Dora]

I love companies like this that keep their old stuff relevant.

[@matthewshatto6787]

Honestly it's amazing to hear that their new stuff works "pretty much" as well as the old stuff. It seems that everything i buy today simply wasn't made as well as it used to be. My mother owns two kitchen aid mixers, one very old and one fairly new; the new one doesn't hold up as well. It's really discouraging. So to hear that the new builds aren't noticably less in quality as the older creations is so refreshing

[@WorkshopCompanion]

I hear you. But Shopsmith has adhered to their basic 1950s design, including materials for the most part. There have been a few plastic substitutes -- mostly in the guards -- but for the important parts of the machine, Shopsmith still adheres to a Sherman-tank-manufacturing philosophy. (Actually, it's a Liberty ship manufacturing philosophy; the founders were naval engineers.) This is why they last so long and there are so many old Shopsmiths still working.

[@matthewshatto6787]

@@WorkshopCompanion that is legitimately reassuring and makes me want to invest in something (not least of all because my father was a naval engineer in US naval academy)

[@MyGrowthRings]

My shop has been Shopsmith-centric since 1987 and I have zero regrets. Nice short, Nick.

[@fredbecker607]

About the same time I bought mine. Always planned to expand to more dedicated tools but never got around to it.

[@Joe-nr9xf]

Just found a post on marketplace and they mentioned you're a shopsmith guru right after I watched this short and saw your comment 😂

[@MyGrowthRings]

@@Joe-nr9xf Too funny!

[@DeliMeatTree]

Bet I'll never find it in the UK 😢

[@fuzzythoughts8020]

This is why I love your channel. You give the kind of advice most channels just don't, this is basically a one tool shop that I can get for $800-1500 CAD, thats really incredible.

[@SteeleMagnolia]

I started out my woodworking days with only a Skihl saw, later added a jigsaw, then a small tabletop Sear's Craftsman table saw. That Craftsman was so unstable, and along with my abilities to be super creative, I cut the tips off of four fingers, lmao. Im an EMT, so fully prepared to render self aid, as well as throwing humor into mix. My husband surprised me with an amazing Rigid table saw for Christmas, years ago, and I've come a long way in the safety arena, and have masterfully claimed the art. To this day, I hold my breath when watching someone's videos where safety is thrown to the wolves. Watching your videos is the best!

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Thanks for sharing. My own relationship with my table saw (an ancient Delta) -- indeed, with all my cutting tools -- can be defined in two words: healthy fear.

[@jxk7712]

My wife’s aunt purchased one and promised it to me when the time comes. I foolishly waited, time is a b…. But I’m happy she’s still with us. You’re show is great

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Thanks.

[@IamDootsdoot]

I love that the dog is just hanging out. hope they're doing good

[@bkroberts89]

Sir is like the Bob Ross of wood working

[@allducks5135]

I don't plan to get into wood working, but this guy's awesome

[@incredible5587]

These are great and people will almost give them away. sell cheap is what i mean. i bought one that was a 2003 model but there the same since 1955. guy i got from used it twice to make trinkets to sell at the flea market but never did and never used it again. I got it for 300 dollars and came with a ton of accessories, jig saw, router, sharpening station, quite a few different sander attachments. it also came with a whole tool chest of lathe tools and drill bits and lots of little shop smith parts. What i like about it, you can adjust RPM for the type of wood you are cutting with the table saw so your blade last longer. such a good tool!!!

[@robqlder8928]

Epic. I found one in my Dad's shed a while back. I didn't know they were upgradeable

[@josephrion3514]

This is my third video from this guy and he has to be an educator. He's incredibly comforting in his information delivery. I am going to subscribe.

[@luke6516]

I can vouch for this. I bought a used MkV 15 years ago for $1k and have made dozens of really nice pieces. They are well made, easy to repair and precise. I never bothered to move up to stand alone tools primarily because of space, but also, there was no need. Watch Season 1 of New Yankee Workshop and you'll see Norm's.

[@christopherpardell4418]

My dad sold them as a side hustle in the 50’s and I grew up with his in the garage. He used it until he was 88 and the only part he ever had to replace was the toothed drive belt on the spindle. I couldn’t wait to inherit his so I bought one in 1990. Even though the machine has been around forever, you can still get every part and they fit. It’s also easy to calibrate. Easier and quicker to change saw blades on than any table saw. And angles set on the table and mitre gauge automatically transfer to the disc sander and horizontal borer. It takes up no more space than a bicycle when not being used and comes on retractable casters to move it easily. Yes, you do have to take the time to set it up and break it down… although you can leave the belt sander or bandsaw or disc sander on it and use those pretty well with it up against the wall. But if you don’t have a lot of space, or simply do not use a table saw, or drill press, or belt sander often enough to dedicate floor space to a standalone machine, the shopsmith is likely the best quality and most versatile tool you could buy. It has a lot of available attachments you can also pick up used. I have a belt sander, router, planer, shaper, and bandsaw. I have done things as wild as use it to run a series of horizontal bores that had to be 48” deep, by rigging a support bearing in place of the lathe live center support, and using the combo of the drill Press quill run and the ability to slide the entire headstock the length of the rails… One caveat- if you can, instead of looking for a used mark 5- look for the mark 510 or 520. It has a better table and better fence.

[@WorkshopCompanion]

All good advice.

[@Tecnolock]

I had a Shopsmith from the 50s I don’t remember the model and it was great and then in the early 2000s I inherited my grandfathers Mark 5. I have limited space in my workshop and absolutely love the flexibility that this offers. It’s amazing how many attachments are still available aftermarket to just keep expanding the flexibility of this great machine

[@sandytooks]

10ER. I've had mine for about 40 years.

[@stealthimaster8583]

Wow my childhood from the 70s was just brought back. Watching their 25 min infomercial on PBS with my dad on Sunday afternoon.

[@HydramaticM16A197]

I purchased a Mark V for $400 from a local farmer I used to do a lot of work for, and so far, it has been a great machine for some of my uses. Although I have plenty of space now from when I originally bought it since back then I couldn't afford to buy a shop full of machines. I find I still like to use it. I did have some prior experience with one of these when I was a teenager working for my father, although it was just the drill press and lathe portion. I have always wanted one for myself.

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Thanks for sharing.

[@theguycalledgrom231]

Been recently getting into woodworking and love that you are doing these! The videos are so well made! Also for anyone reading this, research if there are "common shops" (don't know the term in english) near you! Where I live you can pay a small fee each month and they have a lot of tools you could never buy starting out! Also people there are very knowledgeable which is a massive resource!

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Public woodworking shops, open woodworking shops, and makers spaces are common in in America. A woodworker I met recently told be about an open shop in Los Angeles maintained by a woodworking club that serves 1,100 craftsmen! Trouble is, they are more common in densely-populated areas. The further away you are from the big cities, the harder they are to find.

[@jonathanmcdaniel700]

I've been using my old shopsmith 10er for about 3 years. Got it for 50 bucks in rough shape, put a little work into it and got a fine machine, 60 years old and works like new

[@markklein5637]

but they stopped buildings in the late 50's that makes it around 70 yrs old.

[@chanticleer0714]

I *just* bought a used Shopsmith mark 5 for my husband for our anniversary!!! He loves it and is so excited to have so many options available for so much less cost to us, especially since he isn't ever going pro as a woodworker!

[@chanticleer0714]

...aaaaand, I just learned that this EXACT video is why my husband even started wanting a Shopsmith. 😂😂😂

[@WorkshopCompanion]

@@chanticleer0714 Sorry about that. I'm excited for your husband, but let's hope you don't become a "workshop widow." My wife tells her friends that she has to check the shop from time to time just to make sure I still exist.

[@chanticleer0714]

@@WorkshopCompanion 🤣🤣😂😂 I'm ok with being a "workshop widow" at least from time to time. (Especially since he made me a sushi boat with only a table saw and a handheld sander!) The garage isn't heated (yet!) so he will at least come inside from the to time to warm up during the winter so I know he still exists! Plus, I want to learn to use it too, at least a little, for some of my crafts. 😀

[@shopsmith]

Wonderful video! Thank you for sharing your expert knowledge and advice, it's much appreciated! We love to see and hear that our older/2nd hand machines are still out there being put to good use. To everyone just starting their woodworking journey, we can't wait to see what you create!

[@myrixica4222]

Best advert you've ever had.

[@EmptyGlass99]

My father had one of these and it really can do anything. You can get lots of different attachments e.g. bandsaw, jigsaw, planer etc.

[@brennantanner3825]

Wish I would have kept my shop smith for the lathe, turning wasn't on my radar when I started woodworking, but now it's the next adventure!

[@curtismorrison8171]

I am NOT a Woodworker! BUT, this video MAKES me want to GET ME THAT MACHINE!!

[@woodshopnerdery]

Well said. A used Shopsmith was my entry point into power tools. No regrets!

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Thanks, Tom. Wish it had been mine. I started with a portable B&D radial arm and a jointer I fished out of a river after a flood.

[@thomaslgrice]

I got one about 30 years ago from a relative who passed. It's a green one so probably from late 50's-early 60's. I replaced the sheaves, belt and quill to improve the stability and played with it for a couple of years before putting it in storage. I'm 5 years into retirement, the go-go stage, playing drums in concert bands, jazz trios and a western swing band. When I hit the slo-go stage I'll bust it out and have fun, maybe produce a custom line of drum sticks/percussion mallets. When I hit no-go stage, I'll pass it to someone else.

[@dragunov525]

Got one a few years back with the jointer and a band saw attachments. The drill press and lathe feature alone is well worth it. The sander is great too. I love mine, too bad I had to move it to the basement so my wife could park in the garage 🙄😢

[@EdAgers110]

I have the ShopSmith that my father bought in 1976. It still works great. My 45 year old son bought a used one a couple of years ago for $250. It still works great also. Great way to get started inexpensively or if you have limited space (or both!)

[@homefrontforge]

I helped my dad assembly his new Mark V in his shop in 1981. I am now using it in my shop with a table assembly upgrade in 2024. It still runs great and gets the job done.

[@spaceman6215]

The term "Wiz-Bang" is an immediate proof of experience and seal of approval in my book

[@kevinnickel7529]

I have the first greenie model. Made in the 50s and still works great.

[@WorkshopCompanion]

I have a goldie -- made when they moved to Cleveland in the 60s.

[@mrbrown6421]

The best thing about these (I HAD 2) is the constant joy in looking forward to replacing it with separate tools that don't need to be torn down after each cut in prep for the next cut.

[@eborts]

This dude should definitely contract out his time to teach groups of younger people during the summer. He makes money to keep his shop going. They learn valuable skills and life lessons from an amazing human. They contribute back to society. Win win win.

[@CognitiveHeatsink]

This dude IS a teacher 😂

[@stephenstonge7968]

If their new stuff is as durable as their old stuff, they deserve every customer possible

[@John-NeverStopLearning]

I have a Wood Master. This is a Shop Smith clone. The table surfaces are cast iron instead of aluminum. There was a law suit against Wood Master from Shop Smith and Shop Smith won. However ALL the components for the Shop Smith work on Wood Master. I’m have been considering getting rid of mine, but for reasons in other comments. It’s a great lathe, and sanding disk. I don’t need the drill press or the table saw. The horizontal boring is handy once in a while. I just need to find a place to put mine. I’m still in major reorganization from building a new garage a year ago.

[@TheRobotAttack]

Now I know where to start, this thing looks like an amazing tool.

[@ryanriggs9963]

I have one of these machines, it's great

[@jonmcninch]

This is so cool. Your page just popped up in my feed. And as an accountant who stares at spreadsheets for 8-10 hours a day, you explain things very well and make it easy to understand

[@timalban1433]

It might be cheaper but it’s far more dangerous. You have to remember to tighten down all your little hexnuts before running anything. Especially the ones that are on the adapters for the spindle. If you don’t tighten that down your in big trouble. The table tilts for the table saw not the blade. If you are making small pieces they will get thrown back at you. It a matter of time. The lathe attachments for a regular lathe don’t always work since it’s the headstock you move not the tail stock. You need adapters for just about everything you want to put on it. If that’s all you want to use it for that’s probably the best value of the machine. All those upgrades are going to start adding up and the convenience of separate tools becomes very appealing. My shopsmith is either from the 50’s or 60’s. I don’t think it’s ever been oiled or cleaned on the inside. I got it from my grandfather. I love it. But do you research. Get the manual if there is one and read it. This tool is not just plug and play.

[@Redact63Lluks]

Definitely a tool you want to learn about from an old man with less than 10 fingers 😂

[@jamespierson4324]

You will see a number of persons offering opinions as to the safety of a Shopsmith. The Shopsmith mark 5 was designed and first built in the 1950s. The design incorporated a tapered motor shaft that by its very design doesn’t allow the blade, sander disc, chuck etc. to come off the shaft even it the hex nut is not tightened fully. A simple 5 point safety check will that takes moments to complete makes this machine no more dangerous than any other power tools, safer than many. I have used the machine since I was 12, I am now 69. I have never been hurt on it. Like every tool proper setup /alignment and following the owners manual along with a little common sense goes a long way in keeping you safe.

[@timalban1433]

@@jamespierson4324 I agree with you and anyone looking for this tool I think should know the safety concerns regardless. On the tapered motor shaft: That's probably why it didn't fully fall off while I was using the tabe saw one time. I did forget to tighten that hex nut and the arbor moved more than halfway down the shaft.

[@sandytooks]

I did lathe work on my dad's Mk V when I was 13. Then he sold it. Bought a 1953 10ER about 10 years later when I was graduated college. I am 63, so I guess I have been using it for 40 years. @@jamespierson4324

[@jamespierson4324]

Thanks for sharing your experience. That must have been pretty unnerving. The other safeguard preventing the saw blade from coming off the shaft are the center tabs on the standard saw insert. These mechanically restricts the blade from traveling on the shaft any further than the space between the tabs as the designers intended. The Shopsmith may not be for everyone, I fully appreciate that, just I don’t personally feel safety is a reason when the proper guards are in place. @@timalban1433

[@zachlewis9751]

There is someone out there that has done what you want to do and is looking at the end of that hobby and would be more than happy to help someone new to it. Whether it be helping you tune your first guitar, teaching you a simple guilt pattern, or selling or giving away an old tool.

[@TK-zf7sx]

Another way to get started without a big investment in tools is to find your local maker space. The maker movement has work spaces in many locations. They are usually independent operations. And each one has its own areas of focus. It might be wood, electronics, 3D printing, metal working, or something else. But it's worth looking to see if there's one in your area.

[@ulawan5]

Was just about to comment this, yes!! many are nonprofits as well. Almost all of them have people to ask for help, and also safety trainings and classes! $40-80ish per month gets you access to tools, a workspace, knowledge, and even friends!

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Great add-on suggestion, especially for people who live in apartments and can't risk annoying their neighbors with the sounds of power tools. We just sold our old hangar and the person who bought it plans to convert it to a maker space -- I may teach there!

[@bigone4311]

I got fond memories of watching Norm Abrams talk about the Shop Smith on PBS!!

[@JDSileo]

Now that's the perfect brand. Has the cred of a long standing in the community and they aim to take care of customers for life.

[@gawni1612]

This guy is so wholesome! Thanks for keeping the craft alive, dear man.

[@codykinney7590]

This machine just blew my mind! That many tools all in 1 place that's crazy

[@abundantabsurdity7085]

I just love this guy every time I see him.

[@paulbuschman8318]

Just utilized our used shop smith utilizing the table saw, drill press and sander all for one Christmas project. Oh and it was also the perfect platform for a few passes with the router.

[@jedidiahhendricks8572]

Love this man and his wealth of knowledge. Stay blessed Sir!!!

[@Jack_Krauzers]

Your videos somehow give me the nostalgic feeling for some reasons. they remind me to some old instructional tv shows & videos (before social media)

[@m.t-thoughts8919]

wow that is actually a cool machine

[@ThistlesGarden]

My Dad gave me his old shopsmith and it's still my go-to tablesaw.

[@rongilliland1070]

This is easily the most helpful woodworking video that I've seen! Thank you, going to try to find one locally.

[@IcedLance]

I started by building tables, shelves and bookcases for my mom with ~$100 of tools. I found a store selling prepared wood furniture panels and there was a construction store that offered to cut it in smaller rectangular pieces for a few dollars, so I didn't need any big tools, just a cheap drill, jig saw, sander and a box of bolts and fittings and stuff.

[@DumpsterJedi]

I'm pretty sure my dad got one of these from his dad and he may still have it. Amazing and versatile tool.

[@HapyAppleProductions]

YES, it was and is still a mainstay in my shop, its awesome! its a huge start, and I use mine as a lathe and sanding station!

[@gpweaver]

I love my ShopSmith. Although the Table saw is a bit janky, especially if you're short like me. But they're a damned good starting point for someone trying to get into woodworking, and they absolutely will do the job.

[@omegafoxxtrot7248]

My dad had a huge collection of parted out Mark V's to keep his two running ones working. He used them for countertop and cabinet manufacturing for nearly 20 years. I wish I knew half as much about using them as he did because it's hard to sell them in my area and we don't have room to keep them. Regardless, I'm glad someone in our industry remembers them as fondly as I do. Wonderful tools, really. You can work magic with them

[@GentrifiedProductions-w9q]

Bought mine for $550 witb most the attachments. Works as good as new. Love that its Lightweight and on wheels.

[@danw1030]

My dad had a Mark 5 for 50 years, until he passed. Built countless projects with it. Boats furniture, clock cabinets.

[@mawilkinson1957]

This machine has always been on my bucket list, even if I have forgotten it. A truly functional machine.

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Agreed.

[@fancyphantom8103]

I've never seen nor heard of anything like this, but its exactly what I've been looking for.

[@MrBillbarrett32]

Awsome I just donated my shopsmith to the local school. it was my grandfathers and ran like a top!

[@JaCubed1951]

Love your videos, make me smile every time, and really help with my wood working skills. Thank you

[@KirkFickert]

I've got one my Dad bought in the 1970's. I don't use it a lot, but when I need it its there and it works.

[@jisezer]

I restore my tools. I bought a Delta drill press and saw, a Ridgid jointer, a Nova spindle lathe, Shopfox mini lathe and a Nova midi lathe all for about $1000 including parts. The only thing I bought new was my planer. You can build a beautiful shop if you have patience and are willing to learn how to fix them.

[@chrisdaniel1339]

My grampa had a shopsmith and made amazing furniture, wood models, and so much more.

[@daydaymarceaux]

This is the exact tool that I've been looking for and I didn't know what it was called! Thank you so much!

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Most welcome.

[@steveschainost7590]

I bought one almost 50 years ago. It still works just fine though, like you, now it is primarily a dedicated disc sander which I use almost daily.

[@joshuam8146]

We had one of these when I was a kid. Love it.

[@elberg619]

I love this dude!!! I can watch his videos all day!❤

[@zbm-2375]

Shopsmiths are one of those tools that you can pass on to future generations. My great uncle passed his to my grandpa, who passed it to my dad, who passed it to me.

[@davidth.o.g.2229]

I have one sitting in my garage that I traded for 1 day of work. Haven't set it up yet but can't wait to have the time to get a lil shop going

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Great deal -- good luck.

[@SlayedAsian]

Man oh man. I love your channel. It randomly appeared for me - excellent knowledge. Keep it coming sir! Thank you!

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Most welcome.

[@BiggsHobbies]

i gotta get me one of those! I mostly stick to small-scale projects, so a dremel is my go-to (small carvings, tiny wooden trains, etc.), but i gotta bookmark this!

[@johngavin1175]

I was in a wood shop in high school. Of course, we had other things,like plastic extractors,a sheet metal section,a foundry area,and a welding area. But the wood woorking area was the biggest,and had the most equipment. I had the same shop teacher every year in high school,for some reason, he never let anyone use a router,he had to operate it. I heavily regret not getting more into the things we did in class. Maybe one day I will get back into woodworking. Time to win the lotto,ha ha.

[@dimples2270]

You are pretty much my favorite woodworking channel. Your tips have been helping me get started.

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Good to hear; thanks for saying.

[@brandonking277]

This channel is my saviour. Much thanks!

[@drivestowork]

I've lusted after Shopsmith Mark 5 for probably 40 years now! Never have pulled the trigger.

[@Eulemunin]

My father had his father’s mark 3 in the shop. Amazing machine.

[@nintendoborn]

Oh my god this is just gold information

[@ehRalph]

I got one new in the 80s, picked up another one years ago used $250 - shortened the base and counterweighted it for stability in permanent vertical position then built a bigger table as my main drill press with T-tracks and modified fence. The other one is horizontal and used for boring, grinding or wire brush wheels, and small diameter metal turning or as a regular wood lathe. They both get a fair amount of use

[@WorkshopCompanion]

Yep, the used Shopsmiths are great for folks who need a decent drill press, sander, or lathe.

[@hardpack187]

This guy reminds me of the teacher at school that every student loved, even if they were never in his class.

[@ryewhiskeyblues]

My father made his living making custom furniture in our garage when I was growing up. The centerpiece of his shop was a Shopsmith. It eventually was used solely as a tablesaw as he replaced the other functions with purpose-built machines. He was a tall guy, and the Shopsmith was the only tablesaw that put the table high enough for him to use comfortably.

[@Arrow60556]

You are so calming, kind, and intelligent. You reminded me of a real life Mr. Whitaker from adventures in odyssey. That's a very dated reference but still thank you for the content.

[@nathanwahl9224]

I bought a 5 year old used Mark V somewhere around 1979 or so. I still use it on at least a weekly basis for small projects. Since I also have their bandsaw, separate powered belt sander, and joiner, I hardly ever use the table saw function any more. Probably the best purchase I've ever made. I need to upgrade to the three-bearing quill and get a new variable drive belt one of these days.

[@WorkshopCompanion]

That will be difficult since all they sell are two-bearing quills. But those seem to work just fine -- thanks for sharing.

[@EdgyShooter]

Seeing you appear in my feed always makes me genuinely smile

[@mrlegolayer]

My shop teacher recommended that the best thing to get is a table saw, which can do any kind of cutting that you want. Cool video!

[@PootisPenserPow]

I have never heard of this, but it looks amazing for a garage woodworker

[@WorkshopCompanion]

That's exactly who it was designed for.