I’m a simple living fan, but I like to make things and for that I always need/want more tools. How has everyone found compromise between simple living and pursuing hobbies like woodworking?
Going down the woodworking rabbit hole led me to discover Mortise and Tenon magazine, which is focused on using hand tools. One of their main points is that when using a table saw for instance, we have to incorporate all these extra tools to keep us safe from the machine. (Hearing protection, push sticks and other jigs) If you use a hand saw, none of these extras matter and the effective use is completely in your hands.
It does require more skill building but for me that’s the fun part.
Also consider that with a properly adjusted hand plane or card scraper, you can completely replace sand paper. So on one hand you have a device that only needs occasional sharpening but on the other hand you are constantly rebuying supplies.
I can’t make anything, with tools or without tools. But I think if the tools allow you to create something useful, then I don’t see a problem. Gifting someone something that you’ve made with your own hands is an amazing feeling, both for the giver and the receiver. If you want to balance out the amount of tools, make sure that your life is tidy and minimalist in other areas. Just my two cents.
As a woodworker myself, I can sympathise. My personal take is, if it can be done with hand tools but it takes more time, I’m willing to take the extra time. I love hand tools!