Welding Tools for Do-It-Yourselfers and Pros

Whether you’re an avid welder or a beginner, the proper welding tools and other supplies for welding — including welding cables, clamps, plugs and more — will help keep you safe as you get the job done. Start your welding projects by cleaning surfaces with a wire brush. This stiff-bristled brush helps to remove dirt and rust from outdoor equipment to ensure a clean weld.

The right marking tool will help you keep your welds precise. Wraparound rulers are good for measuring and marking on pipes, and radius tools help you to accurately mark curves and circles with soapstone crayons or pencils. You’ll need contact tips, too. Be sure your contact tips are the right size to fit the wire gauge you’re using. And don’t forget to wear welding goggles and other safety gear.

Once your seam is complete and after you let it cool a bit, you’ll need a chipping hammer to remove the slag and leave a clean seam. For more information, check out our introductory welding guide, Welding for Beginners: Tools and Tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What materials do I need for welding?

A: Your needs will depend on the type of metal you’re welding and the type of welder you have. Metal inert gas (MIG) welders are the most common for home use. They work well for fusing stainless steel, aluminum and mild steel. A welding gun melts a wire electrode and fuses it to the base metals, creating a strongly bonded seam.

Q: What does a beginning welder need?

A: A beginning welder should have a welding helmet, welding gloves, a fire-resistant jacket, pliers and a welding gun. Welders also need wire and electrodes, a welding magnet, a metal brush and a sheet metal gauge. Welding nozzle gel minimizes spatter and helps to keep your contact tips clean. Be sure to have proper ventilation when welding.

Q: What tool should I use for marking on metal?

A: You can mark metal with a variety of tools, such as soapstone, permanent markers or metal scribes. Different tools work well in different situations. Soapstone is soft and leaves a white mark that you can wipe away easily. Permanent marker will show up on metal, but the marks are difficult to remove. Scribes leave permanent light scratches and work well with rusty or painted metal.

Gold Welding & Cutting Accessories

VEVOR 2 -Pack Welding curtain

Jackson Safety Welding tool

SVOPES Welding tool

SVOPES Welding tool

SVOPES Welding tool

SVOPES Welding tool

VEVOR 2 -Pack Welding curtain