"charlie b"
snip
my original question - does having the tools that make it easy or easier
(or faster) to do
encourage actually incorporating a design idea you see while making the
piece?

No. I have a function in mind, form follows then design. For me each
project I undertake MUST push me to try something new. Sometimes (preferred
even) I decide a new tool is in order. But many time is design it, start
construction then as the process continues, fix the mistakes and or design
flaws, all the time keeping the function in mind.

Dave