Have the Tools You Need Before You Start
This project doesn't require a ton of tools, but it does require more than a hammer and saw.
For my project, I chose to build with screws.
A drill and three different drill bits was required. My drill was a battery powered portable, but you can use what you feel comfortable with. So...back to the bits. One bit to drill the holes through the parts to be bolted together. A second bit, (a counter sink bit) so that big old bolts would not show, and a third bit to use for 'pilot' holes for the pieces that would screw together.
Next, a wooden or rubber hammer to help tap some of the pieces into place that may be slightly reluctant. Using a metal faced hammer would leave marks on the wood. If you don't have a wooden faced or rubber hammer, use a small piece of wood as a cushion. Place the piece of wood against the wood you wish to tap and tap on it instead. No marks left on your finished pieces.
A saw, either a good cross cut saw or a small skill saw with a fine cross cut blade. I used a hand saw, for all of my finish work, as I like nice smooth edges and sometimes, no matter how good we are, a skill saw will chew the edges just a bit.
Finally, a good socket and wrench set for the bolts and a nice 'new' Phillips blade screwdriver. I say 'new' because the new screwdriver is less likely to leave marks on your screws as you tighten them up.
Finally, a good wood glue. I used it on all of the pieces I was joining together, whether they were bolted or screwed. After all, kids can be rambunctious and the more help I could give my project to withstand an onslaught of jumping playing boys? All the better.
Next up: Thing to consider when you buy your lumber
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