Are you starting your journey of becoming a DIYer? Listed below are what we believe are the best tools to have as you’re getting started.
At the beginning of 2022, my sister and I took on our first *big* project. We bought a vacation rental property and it needed some renovations! We completed nearly the entire renovation with these beginner tools I’m sharing with you today.
This post is all about the tools to have in your tool box that will truly make your DIY journey a whole lot easier!
1. Hammer
A tool so obvious, but it still needs a mention! A hammer is definitely one of the most used tools I use in the majority of our projects. I’ve shared above a great basic tools set that is perfect for the beginner DIYer.
2. Tape Measure
You’re going to need a measuring tape in times when you least expect it. I use a measuring tape so often that I bought a mini one to put in my purse. I LOVE keeping this little guy in my purse for when I’m out shopping for miscellaneous items. (Click here to purchase the exact one I keep on me at all times!) Believe me… there is nothing worse than buying a piece of furniture, only to find it doesn’t actually fit in the space you intended. Measuring is one of the most important steps to any project, therefore this is definitely one of the best tools to have in your toolbox.
3. Level
Most often, I use a level when hanging prints or frames. However, it can clearly be used for anything that needs leveling.
4. Utility Knife
This basic tool is also often called a “box cutter”, although it does much more than simply open boxes. This knife makes cuts by using a thin, retractable blade and can be used to cut vinyl, cardboard, and many other materials.
5. Stud Finder
Another simple tool, but a handy one at that! I’ve been caught in a couple of situations where I’ve needed a stud finder and didn’t have one. Having to stop in the middle of your project to go to the store to purchase a needed item is tragic. Seriously. Buy this tool immediately and keep it close during any project that involves nailing (or screwing) into the wall.
6. Electric Sander
This is a beginner tool that is truly game changing! Let’s be honest, no one wants to waste their time (or muscles) hand sanding a piece of wood. Hand sanding is in my top ten list of things I hope to never have to do again.
An electric sander is the first tool I bought for myself. Leaving for college, I was gifted a tool box with the essential manual tools. However, since I tend to take on many projects that involve refurbishing wood, I found myself in need of a sander during nearly every project.
Recently, we painted our kitchen cabinets for our vacation rental. Check out our post How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets in 11 Simple Steps to see an example of a beginner DIY project that involves sanding!
I prefer a mouse sander (like the one I linked above) because of the pointed tip. This allows you to get into all those tight, little corners. However, an orbital sander is a great option as well.
7. Drill
A drill is not only one of the best tools to have, it is (in my humble opinion) the top tool you need to add to your collection.
You will very quickly realize that it is an ESSENTIAL tool in nearly every DIY. It’s also a tool that I would say is worth spending a little extra money on. Trust me when I say, we bought our fair share of cheap tools when we started out. A drill being one of them. The DeWalt drill I linked above is on the pricier side and you can find drills for much less. However, I fully believe that a drill is not a tool to pinch pennies on.
A great drill will last you a lifetime.
8. Nail Gun
This is a beginner tool that you won’t use in every project. However, it’s a great tool to have on hand. A nail gun is honestly a tool that just makes life SO much easier.
9. Oscillating multitool
Full transparency, I had no idea this tool even existed when I first started doing DIYs. It wasn’t until we redid the flooring in our vacation rental home that this bad boy came in SO handy. This is one of the best tools to have because of the versatility it offers.
10. Jigsaw
If you’re just starting out on your DIY journey, then perhaps the word “saw” makes your heart race and your palms sweat. Or maybe you’re much more confident than I was starting out. I know for me, this tool was slightly daunting at first. I’ve now realized that it’s a great tool to have around for any basic cuts you might need to make. I promise it is simple and easy to use! A couple practice cuts and you’ll be a pro!
11. Miter Saw
Along with the jigsaw, a miter saw can be quite intimidating in the beginning. If you plan on taking your DIYs to the next level, I suggest investing in this tool. The cuts made with a miter saw are must quicker and cleaner than the basic jigsaw. Once you learn how to work a miter saw, your DIY game will be unstoppable!
Now that you’ve been give the 11 best tools to have in your collection, it’s time to get started on those DIYs! I promise that with these tools listed above, you’ll find that you can conquer nearly any project!
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