So, you need some power tools? Maybe you have some in your garage that belong to your husband, your significant other or your father. Maybe your mother left them to you and you would really like to know how to use them? Whatever your motivation you've decide it's time to learn. Are you a little afraid of that circular saw, but ready to take on the challenge?

Let me help demystify power tools and encourage you to learn how to use them efficiently and effectively. The two most common and versatile power tools are the power drill and circular saw. Even if you have them, the owner manuals that come with these tools may not be very helpful.

Other questions you may be have:

Do I know someone who could teach me to use power tools?
Which one should I buy and do I need to know how to use it before I buy it?
How much money should I spend on power tools?

If you're like most women you might be able to ask your husband, brother or father but then you think, "Is he really patient enough to teach me or will he say something like "here, just let me do it for you"?

Let's start with the Power Drill; it's not as intimidating as that saw. The Power Drill is nothing more than a hand held motor to which you can attach various tools that can be used to do a huge variety of jobs, from simply drilling a hole to stirring paint, sanding furniture or driving a screw. To put it simply any job that is done using a spinning or turning motion can most likely be done with a power drill. If you can imagine it, someone has probably invented an attachment that will work with your drill. They come in number of varieties but for the majority of household tasks you will want to consider one of the new cordless drills. Anything less than 12V doesn't give you enough power, 18V drills are nice, but they do get quite heavy.

The circular saw may seem more intimidating, but you may be amazed at what you already know about using this type of tool. It certainly doesn't have a mind of its own and is only going to do exactly what you want it to do. By following some simple safety tips you can safely use your saw.

1. ALWAYS wear safety glasses.
2. Be sure all hanging jewelry, long hair and loose clothing are out of the way or removed.
3. Cut on a solid, secure surface.
4. Be sure the blade is spinning at full speed before you make contact with the material.
5. Be sure there is nothing underneath that you could inadvertently cut.
6. Last, but not least, slow down and TAKE YOUR TIME.

You can also find circular saws that are cordless but with these anything under 18V won't be powerful enough. I suggest you look into some of the new cordless power drill and circular saw combination sets that are currently available. Prices range from $120 to $300 with different features and benefits.

If you'd like to learn how to use these tools before you buy them, or try them out, at home, let me help you. At Workshop for Women we offer a special class, just for you, called "What the Guys Never Tell Us - Part 1" where you will have an opportunity to try out these tools yourself, in a safe comfortable environment, with guidance and instruction while experiencing the fun of learning a new skill. You will also find that you really do know more than you give yourself credit for. For our current schedule and a list of all of our available classes visit our website at www.workshopforwomen.com.