What Are the Essential Tools for DIY?

Starting a DIY project can be daunting, especially for someone who doesn’t have any experience doing one yet. What tools should you get? How much time would you need to spend on the project?

The good news is, you don’t have to spend a lot of time or money to take on any project. Starting with the basic DIY building tools in your toolkit should be enough for any beginner-level project. Then, as your skills and experience in these projects grow and improve, so will your toolkit.

Must-Have Tools in Your DIY Toolkit

There is practically nothing you can’t repair, upgrade, or build with the following basic hand tools.

1. Hammer

Old or new, big or small, a hammer will help you get the job done. You probably have one lying around the house that’s in good condition (hammers are tough like that), so you won’t need to buy another. That is, if it’s the right size. A small hammer is usually enough for handling most projects, but a job sometimes requires a large hammer.

2. Screwdriver Set

You can get a lot done with a basic screwdriver set. Use it to install a light switch, tighten cabinet doors and drawers, and even pop open metal paint can lids. What you usually get in most stores is a 10-unit set. It comes with common-slotted pieces and Phillips-head sizes, including slightly bulky ones for fitting into tight spaces.

3. Tape Measure

This handy tool helps you measure everything, from the thickness of lumber for an outdoor kitchen table to the wall area for a mural. Ideally, you want to keep one in your garage or shed, in your kitchen, and in the toolkit you use for DIY projects. Tape measures come in different types, including a heavy-duty option that would be perfect for your toolbox.

4. Duct Tape

It’s almost impossible to do quick repairs without duct tape, so make sure to have one handy in your toolkit. This super-adhesive bonds to almost anything and comes with a thick-layered, woven backside that’s rip-friendly despite its thickness. Broken pails, torn tarps, and just about any kind of fix won’t stand a chance against it.

5. Flashlight

Plumbing-related DIY projects often subject you to dark settings where it can be tricky to know which to stick where. A rechargeable flashlight or work light should have you covered on this front in more ways than one. Working under that dark sink cabinet or dim basement should no longer be as daunting as it was with a reliable, heavy-duty flashlight. Pick one with at least 25 LEDs to cover the typical mishaps that occur in less-illuminated scenarios.

6. Plier Set

A set of pliers can make home renovation projects a whole lot easier. There are pliers for addressing bent and misshapen items, parts replacement, gripping, and slice wiring. Pliers are designed to handle almost anything, which is why a place for them in your toolbox is a must. As a DIY beginner, you might not even need the entire set. It could be enough to have the four basic ones: needle-nose, slip-joint, side-cutting, and tongue-and-groove.

7. Utility Knife

Good luck getting anything done without this tool. In fact, it’s something you will reach for time and time again as you go about home DIY projects. There will be a lot of things that need opening, sharpening, shaving, and marking. And there’s no better tool for these tasks than the utility knife. Don’t be fooled by cheaper versions, as they’ll likely do more harm than good. Plus, they also end up being costlier since you’d have to replace them more frequently. Investing in a high-quality knife with built-in storage and a rubber-covered handle should lead to a more comfortable and convenient experience.

8. Adjustable Wrench

Depending on your DIY project, you might need to tighten all kinds of swing sets, plumbing fixtures, and appliances. These tasks call for adjustable wrenches, specifically the ones with six- to 10-inch-long handles for twisting and turning all manner of nuts and bolts. Use the longer wrenches for nuts requiring a little more leverage to free. The shorter ones are for working in tight spaces.

9. Hex Keys

If you’re heading the Ikea route, which is a common path for any DIY beginner, you’re going to want to have regular access to hex keys. These handy tools make building Ikea furniture, particularly the frame hardware portions, considerably easier.

Now You’re Ready To Build, Build, Build

Aside from preparing the necessary stuff you need for projects, you should also be mentally and physically ready to take on your chosen venture. Start with simple and easy projects. Then, you can slowly progress to more complex undertakings that require not just a more advanced toolbox but also broader experience and improved skills. Combined with your determination to succeed, these tools should be enough to get you where you need to be in no time.