Aside from his skill, the early 19th century carpenter was identified by his tools. A carpenter’s tools were “the subjects of much personal feeling” and the covetous journeymen did everything to avoid excessive borrowing and lending of these valuable instruments. A proper toolkit could cost up to 30 pounds or half a year’s income at mid-century. The ambitious apprentice, upon completing his indentures, would work overtime to acquire his own tools second hand or at auction. Many more hours of his own time would be spent sharpening and caring for the cherished blades. According to Walter Rose, sub-standard tools were the “indications of a careless workman who will never rise in the craft”.
Mysteries of the Carpenter 