
Essential Tools for Timber Framing
Basic Toolkit
Timber Framing Essentials
Our Basic Toolkit has been thoughtfully curated for aspiring timber framers and students of our timber framing classes. Each tool in this kit is selected for quality, durability, and usability, giving you everything you need to get started with precision carpentry. Whether you’re marking, measuring, or cutting, this toolkit ensures you work efficiently and safely with professional-grade tools.








Olfa Yellow Utility Knife, 18 mm
Standard marking knife for precise cuts.
Carpenter Pencils & Mechanical Pencils
HB standard and mechanical pencils for accurate layout.
Stanley 24" Steel Carpenter’s Square
Durable, standard square for layout.
Empire 12" Combination Square
Multi-purpose measuring and marking tool.
Stanley 25' Tape Measure, Yellow
High-visibility, accurate measuring tape.
Ryobi Modern Ryoba Japanese Saw
Clean, accurate crosscut and rip cuts.
Sorby 1 1/2" Framing Chisel
High-quality wood chisel for timber framing.
“Wood is Good” Carver’s Mallet, 20 oz
Perfect weight and balance for chiseling.
Tradesman’s Tool Bag, Hultafors
Durable, well-sized tool bag to carry and organize your kit.
Other Recommended Tools
These additional tools are not essential for beginners but can greatly improve efficiency, precision, and enjoyment as you progress in timber framing. Consider adding them to your toolkit as your skills advance.



Shinwa Premium Carpenter’s Stainless Steel Square
Precision stainless steel square for exact layout.
Center-Finding Rule
Quickly find the center of beams.
Low-Angle Block Plane
Ideal for trimming end grain and smoothing joints.
