Learn everything there is to know about tools and looking after them.

Guidance on the storage, maintenance and repair of tools used in conservation work, and setting up workshops and toolstores.

What to expect

Toolcare subjects

Your toolstore

A well-organized toolstore

Loads of background information about planning a workshop and toolstore, fitting it out and storing tools safely, and how to manage everything.

Replacing handles

Flattening rivet holes

Clear, step-by-step guides to replacing tool hafts and handles on socketed, strapped and tanged tools, as well as hammers and axes.

Sharpening

Sharpening a billhook

Information about sharpening slashers, billhooks, grasshooks, axes, spades, shovels, hoes, mattocks, picks, crowbars, chisels, secateurs, loppers and shears.

Toolcare: a practical handbook – chapters

The original, printed TCV handbook “Toolcare, a practical handbook” contained 55 pages. Every one of these pages is included in these digital versions.

A brief introduction about this handbook.

A look at the ideal toolstore and what requirements it should fit.

A guide to the services you’ll need, the layout of the store, how to store dangerous items and what fire precautions may be needed.

Hoe to safely store all your tools in your toolstore.

Proper administration of your toolstore and workshop area, together with their associated activities, is essential.

How to replace handles on a wide variety of tools.

How to sharpen slashers, billhooks, grasshooks, axes, spades, shovels, hoes, mattocks, picks, crowbars, chisels, secateurs, loppers and shears.

How to repair all the other things in your toolstore – like wheelbarrows and ropes.

Places to get further information.

What is in the handbooks?

Step by step

All the processes in the handbooks are explained in easy to follow language, using step-by-step guides that are ideal for all levels.

Clearly Illustrated

Over 2,000 helpful illustrations accompany the text, adding clarity.

Comprehensive

The handbooks cover all the topics you need to improve your skills and knowledge.

Definitive

Written by conservation experts, the handbooks are highly valued by users across the conservation sector.