Woodworking is both personally rewarding and useful — and to get better, you need a lot of practice. If you're making your way into this lumber world for the first time, there are a few tips every beginner should know.

Cincinnati-based building supplies store Huber Lumber Co recommends the following tips for learning a lot and having fun with your new craft:

• Use Quality Materials: Many people assume that when they start a new endeavor, like playing an instrument or learning a craft, they should avoid splurging and instead “test the waters” on inexpensive materials. This is understandable in many situations, but going too far in the other direction can be discouraging. With woodworking, using inferior lumber or tools will frustrate you and make you less motivated to continue. If you're new to woodworking, the friendly staff at Huber Lumber Co would be glad to recommend essential tools and beginner-friendly materials.

• Practice Drilling & Cutting On Scrap: There is a time and a place for scrap materials — and it's called hole drilling. In woodworking and many other fields, accurately drilling and cutting are important skills. You don't want to botch a cut on a nice piece of lumber, so before you work on an important craft, practice on something else — especially if you're using an unfamiliar tool.

• Read Up, Learn, & Observe: In addition to the hands-on aspect of woodworking, it's incredibly important to learn all you can about the subject. That means checking out library books about lumber, trees, and woodworking techniques. You can also learn a ton from experienced woodworkers themselves. If you ask nicely, a woodworker might let you shadow them while they work. They may even be flattered that you asked, but remember if they're on the clock, they probably can't answer too many questions.

Ready to get started? Get your lumber and millwork from Huber Lumber Co in Cincinnati! For more information or to inquire about their inventory, give them a call at (513) 731-4035. You can also send them a message online and connect with them on Facebook and Twitter.