How to Make Wood Chips Without a Chipper

When I first wanted to make wood chips without a chipper, I felt a little unsure about how to go about it. Chippers are convenient, but they can be expensive, bulky, or simply unavailable. After exploring a few creative methods, I discovered that making wood chips by hand or with simple tools is not only possible but also practical, especially for smaller projects.

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If you’re preparing mulch for your garden, starting a compost pile, or just looking to repurpose fallen branches, there are plenty of ways to create wood chips without a chipper. Let me walk you through some tried-and-true techniques that work well and won’t break the bank.

Why Make Wood Chips Without a Chipper?

There are several reasons someone might choose to make wood chips without investing in a chipper:

Cost: Chippers can be expensive, and if you only need wood chips occasionally, it might not be worth the investment.

Space: Chippers are bulky and require storage space. For those living in smaller homes or urban areas, this can be a significant drawback.

DIY Approach: Some people enjoy the satisfaction of creating things by hand, even if it takes a bit more effort.

Eco-Friendly: By using what you already have, you can avoid buying new equipment and make better use of resources.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Making wood chips without a chipper requires some basic tools and materials. Here’s what you might need, depending on the method you choose:

• Axe or hatchet
• Machete
• Manual saw (pruning saw or bow saw)
• Hammer and chisel
• Wood splitter
• Sturdy work gloves
• Protective eyewear
• Tree branches, logs, or scrap wood

Having the right tools makes the process much easier and safer, so don’t skip on proper preparation.

Methods to Make Wood Chips Without a Chipper

Here are several effective methods for making wood chips by hand. Each has its pros and cons, so you can choose what works best for your needs and the materials you have on hand.

Using an Axe or Hatchet

One of the simplest ways to make wood chips is by using an axe or a hatchet. This method is great for cutting down larger branches or logs into smaller pieces.

How to Do It:

1. Place the wood on a sturdy chopping block or flat surface.
2. Hold the axe or hatchet firmly and chop the wood into smaller pieces.
3. Adjust your angle to create smaller chips for your specific needs.

Tips:

• Use dry wood for easier chopping.
• Keep the axe sharp for clean cuts.
• Always wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself.

Pros:

• Requires no electricity or fancy equipment.
• Effective for creating rough wood chips.

Cons:

• Time-consuming for larger projects.
• Requires physical effort and skill.

Using a Machete

A machete is another versatile tool for making wood chips. It’s particularly effective for smaller branches and twigs.

How to Do It:

1. Lay the branch or wood on a stable surface.
2. Hold the machete at an angle and strike the wood to slice off small pieces.
3. Repeat until you have a pile of wood chips.

Tips:

• Work on a firm surface like a tree stump or chopping block.
• Maintain a safe distance from others while using the machete.

Pros:

• Quick for smaller branches.
• Relatively inexpensive tool.

Cons:

• Requires consistent effort.
• Not suitable for larger logs.

Using a Manual Saw

If precision is what you’re after, a manual saw can help you create wood chips at a slower, more controlled pace.

How to Do It:

1. Secure the wood in place with clamps or on a stable surface.
2. Use a pruning saw or bow saw to cut the wood into small chunks.
3. Continue until the wood is reduced to the desired size.

Tips:

• Use a fine-toothed saw for smaller chips.
• Keep your saw blade sharp for smooth cutting.

Pros:

• Offers precise control.
• Great for smaller projects.

Cons:

• Labor-intensive.
• Slower compared to other methods.

Hammer and Chisel Method

For detailed work, such as creating chips for art projects or decorative mulch, a hammer and chisel can be a useful combination.

How to Do It:

1. Secure the wood on a flat surface.
2. Position the chisel at an angle and tap it with the hammer to carve off small pieces.
3. Repeat as needed to produce chips.

Tips:

• Start with softwood for easier carving.
• Work slowly and carefully to avoid splitting the wood unevenly.

Pros:

• Great for fine details.
• Requires minimal tools.

Cons:

• Very time-consuming.
• Limited to small amounts of wood.

Splitting Wood with a Log Splitter

If you have access to a manual log splitter, this tool can make the process faster and easier for larger logs.

How to Do It:

1. Place the log into the splitter and apply pressure to split it into smaller sections.
2. Repeat the process, breaking the wood down into chip-sized pieces.

Tips:

• Use a splitter on dry wood for better results.
• Follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines.

Pros:

• Efficient for larger logs.
• Less physical strain compared to chopping by hand.

Cons:

• Requires a splitter, which may not be available to everyone.

Best Practices for Making Wood Chips

To get the best results, keep these practices in mind:

• Use Dry Wood: Dry wood is easier to cut and less likely to clog your tools.
• Work in a Safe Area: Choose a spacious, well-ventilated area free from obstacles.
• Wear Protective Gear: Gloves, goggles, and sturdy shoes can prevent injuries.
• Take Breaks: Making wood chips by hand can be physically demanding, so pace yourself.

Comparing the Methods

Here’s a quick comparison of the methods discussed above:

Method	Ease of Use	Time Required	Best For
Axe or Hatchet	Moderate	Moderate	General-purpose chipping
Machete	Easy	Moderate	Small branches
Manual Saw	Easy	Long	Precise cuts
Hammer and Chisel	Difficult	Very Long	Fine details
Log Splitter	Moderate	Short	Larger logs

Conclusion

Making wood chips without a chipper is a satisfying and budget-friendly way to repurpose branches and logs. While it may take a bit more time and effort, the methods I’ve shared are practical and effective for anyone willing to roll up their sleeves. If you use an axe, machete, saw, or even a chisel, you can create wood chips tailored to your needs.

I’ve personally tried these techniques, and while they might not be as fast as using a chipper, they’re perfect for smaller projects or when a chipper isn’t available. With a little patience and the right tools, you’ll be able to produce high-quality wood chips for your garden, compost, or crafting projects.

FAQs

Can I use green wood for making wood chips?

Yes, but green wood is harder to cut and may not produce consistent chips. Dry wood is generally easier to work with.

Which tool is best for beginners?

A machete or manual saw is great for beginners because they’re easy to use and don’t require much experience.

How long does it take to make wood chips by hand?

It depends on the method and amount of wood. Small projects can take an hour or two, while larger ones may require a full day.

Are homemade wood chips suitable for mulch?

Absolutely! Homemade wood chips are excellent for mulch, but let them dry out before using to prevent mold growth.

Is it safe to make wood chips without protective gear?

No, always wear gloves and goggles to protect yourself from splinters and flying debris.