Tools of the trade

Every trade requires a particular assortment of specific tools that enables the artisan to get the job done effectively.

Although the tools needed are generally similar within the same line of work, every craftsman has his/her preference and personal list of loyal tools he could not function without, including a few 'Frankenstein' modified instruments as well as the favored brands of power tools he likes to rely on in his daily work.

After having determined the features we should be looking for in our barrel (see previous post on how to choose your barrel) and having already selected the perfect one we want to work with, let's see now if we have the essential tools required to proceed.

I sneaked into my husband's shop, took a few pics of his 'indispensables' and asked for a list of what is included amongst his essentials:

~ Hammer

~ Chisel

~ Grinder

~ Clamps

~ Jointer

~ Orbital sander and fine grit sandpaper

~ Drill

~ Saws

~ Measuring stick and tape

~ Pencil compass

~ Wood Patch

~ Sprayer

~ Brushes

~ Scriber

~ Wood glue

~ Rugs

~ Stains & finishes

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Not very exciting to my untrained eye, although I have to say... when he pulled that raggedy looking Festool drill away from my incompetent hands, he had in his eyes the same look of disdain that I would probably have myself if I would see him handling a leather Prada bag. I felt strangely unworthy. Perhaps it's safe to say that an artisan is in harmonious symbiosis with his tools the same way a woman is with her designer accessories...?!?

If you are curious to know more about his personal preference and/or experience with specific tools' brands, learn about alternatives and options, please feel free to post your request for recommendations in the comments.

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My future posts will take you for a tour to the amazing world of cooperage and then guide you through the steps necessary to dismantle your wine barrel and prep it up for transformation :)

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