The Ultimate Toolbox for Touring Set Carpenters: 10 Essential Tools
Whether you're gearing up for your first or fiftieth touring gig as a set carpenter, you know that having the right tools can make all the difference between a smooth-sailing show and a chaotic mess. Every venue and stage present unique challenges and tight timelines, having a well-equipped toolbox is essential. Whether you're building sets for a theatre production, a music concert, or a corporate event, the right tools can streamline your workflow, boost your efficiency, and ensure that your creations are safe and always looking there best.
In no particular order, lets begin.
1. Cordless Drill/Driver: Power in Mobility
Bringing along a cordless drill is a game-changer you won't want to overlook. This versatile tool offers unmatched convenience, allowing you to work efficiently in any corner of the venue without being tethered by cords, or subject to finding power points.
From assembling flats to hanging props and securing stage elements, its usefulness knows no bounds. With quick-change chuck systems and adjustable torque settings, it simplifies tasks and ensures precision. Don't leave home without it—your cordless drill will prove invaluable for on-the-go repairs, quick adjustments, and last-minute setups, making your touring experience smoother and more productive.
Pro tip #1: When buying batteries for your tools, get the more powerful option. Tools such as angle grinders are going to need the extra power.
Pro tip #2: Make sure not to overlook a robust drill bit set, including the larger sizes.
2. Circular Saw: Precision Cuts on the Go
This will be used for all your cutting needs on tour. With its precision and efficiency, allowing you to effortlessly cut through various materials for set and prop creation and maintenance, on the go. Its compact design and portability make it ideal for on-the-fly projects, and when it comes to cutting large pieces of wood or other materials quickly and accurately, a cordless circular saw is indispensable. From shaping stage elements to crafting intricate details, a circular saw is a reliable companion that will enhance your carpentry skills.
3. Imperial and Metric Allen key sets: Traditional Yet Essential
A set of Imperial and Metric Allen keys is going to be a practical addition to your arsenal. These tools ensure you're prepared for any situation, whether assembling stage decks or making repairs to flight cases. With both measurement systems on hand, you won’t be caught short with foreign designs, having the flexibility to work with a variety of fixtures and fittings, making your touring experience smoother and more effective.
Pro tip #1: Bring multiple coffin lock keys. They go missing and you ALWAYS need them.
4. Imperial and Metric Long Neck Ratchet Sets: Always Needed
Investing in an imperial and metric long neck wrench set is a wise move. These tools offer extended reach and leverage, making them ideal for accessing tight spaces and fastening hard-to-reach fixtures. With both Imperial and Metric sizes available, you'll be well-equipped to handle all equipment on the road, ensuring smooth setups and hassle-free performances.
Pro tip #1: There is no replacement for this tool so invest in a good set from the beginning.
5. Staple Gun: Upholding Stability and Efficiency
With this tool, you can take it or leave it. But if you take one tool with you that lets you maintain your drapes, it’s this. This device swiftly secures fabrics, backdrops, and other materials. Not necessarily a professional finish, but your best option so far. Whether you're assembling stage elements or crafting props on the fly, a staple gun will be your go-to companion for streamlining tasks.
Pro tip #1: Bring spare Velcro with you too, because your drapes are going to break.
6. Multi-Tool: Versatility in a Compact Package
Consolidating several functions into one compact device, it does so much and so many things that other tools just don’t do. From cutting and sanding to scraping and grinding, a multi-tool tackles a myriad of tasks with ease, making it an invaluable addition to any set carpenter's arsenal. It’s a Swiss Army knife for set carpentry, allowing you to tackle different tasks with ease and precision. Where space and weight are limited, it’s a compact device to cover all your bases.
Pro tip #1: This tool is when the large batteries you bought earlier, come into play.
7. Consumables: Backbone of Operations
There should always be a consumables box or draw accompanying the tour, but you can’t always rely on it. It's essential to pack not only your tools but also key consumables like gaffe tape, electric tape, and cable ties. These seemingly small items play a monumental role in packing and repairs.
Gaffe tape:
Gaffe tape, with its strong adhesive and residue-free removal, is perfect for securing cables, marking stage positions, and temporarily fixing props. But stop using your teeth to make a cut, even the cheap roles can be torn by hand.
Electric tape:
Electric tape is invaluable for holding wires and repairing equipment. But if you run out, the lighting department will always be packing.
Cable Ties:
Cable ties offer quick and strong holds, and can be cut off in a rush. By having these consumables on hand, you'll be equipped to handle unforeseen challenges with ease, ensuring seamless performances and a professional presentation every time.
8. Clamps: Holding It All Together
Whether it's securing decks that just won’t stop moving or providing stability during glue-ups, clamps are indispensable for maintaining precision and integrity in set construction. The type of clamps you get are up to you. There are a variety of clamp types, including C-clamps, bar clamps, and spring clamps, all with different benefits. Usually, I would recommend a few large C clamps, and lots of medium sized quick clamps. This collection will get you out of a few jams on the road.
9. Protective Gear: Safety First, Always
It's crucial to recognize the significance of safety equipment such as helmets and high visibility jackets for your touring endeavours. Not only do these items safeguard you against potential hazards on the job, but some venues may even refuse entry to individuals without proper safety gear, underscoring the importance of being prepared. By including helmets and high viz jackets in your toolkit, you not only protect yourself but also ensure smooth access to work environments, allowing you to focus on delivering top-notch performances without any safety-related setbacks.
Pro tip #1: This is going to suck but carry your helmet and high viz with your personal items. When you get to the venue for the load in, you might have to start building before you see your toolbox. You don’t want to be caught short.
10. Peli case or Flight Case: Keeping It All Together
Consider using a Peli case or flight case to organize and protect your tools during tours. These rugged cases withstand rough handling and adverse conditions, ensuring your tools stay safe and accessible throughout your journey. Plus, they're flight-friendly, offering flexibility for future travel adventures. Keep your gear secure and ready for action!
The success of a touring set carpenter relies heavily on the tools they carry. By equipping yourself with the right combination of power tools, hand tools, and accessories, your be able to tackle any construction challenge with efficiency, precision, and creativity, ensuring that each performance shines on stage, no matter where the tour takes them.
