The varieties and scope of the tools to be used in manual instruction have been generally described in the introductory chapter, but there are still the important questions of the pattern and quality, as well as the demonstration of the mechanical principles of their construction. Every tool should be quite as large as it is possible for the operator, whether boy or man, to conveniently use, but it is only in the case of large tools, or those requiring great effort, that any modification in size becomes really necessary to suit children.

The tools recommended are accordingly, usually about full size, or the smaller of the ordinary trade sizes used by men, except in the case of saws and planes. The ordinary workman's pattern of these tools is decidedly too large, and special patterns are very advisable, if not quite indispensable. The question of the quality to be obtained can be disposed of in a sentence. The best tools only are advisable, for it is particularly true of tools, that real economy will be found in the best articles.

In describing the individual tools, such as are not necessary have been excluded; and though special circumstances might arise in some cases which would call for the use of other tools, the frequent occurrence of such cases is not contemplated. In the case of some of the very simple and elementary tools, a certain knowledge by the reader has been pre-supposed, which, aided by illustrations and brief description, it is hoped will suffice; but where the more important and complex tools are concerned, the principle of their construction has been entered into at some length, in order that a teacher may be able to rationally explain them to children. Though perhaps apparently simple, the reason for the peculiar construction of particular tools is a matter which is not always properly grasped even by men whose business it is to handle them, and it is important that the teacher should fully understand - and equally important that he should impart - a proper knowledge of the general principles of the construction of such tools.