Looking into becoming handier around the house? The best thing you can invest in is a good set of tools. Whether you want to have these items for a quick fix or if you plan to DIY something incredible, these are the basics that you need to get started. And don’t get intimidated by the variety out there. Once you get used to these beginner tools listed, you can decide whether to upgrade into something bigger and more powerful.
Hammer
“If I had a hammer. . .” The hammer is a basic tool and one you need. Whether hanging up pictures, pulling out nails, building a basic piece of furniture, you just need a basic one with a comfy grip.
Wrenches
Wrenches are perfect for tightening and loosening nuts and bolts. You never realize you need one…until you really need one. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes. There are 25 types of wrenches. But you’re a beginner., so at a minimum get the most basic one – an adjustable wrench.
Screwdrivers
Beginners need two kinds of screwdrivers – a flathead and a Phillips head. These come in a variety of sizes, so you might want to invest in small and larger ones.
Pliers
Like wrenches, pliers are the perfect tool for twisting and tightening objects, but not for nuts and bolts, as they are prone to strip these types of fasteners. Pliers are for turning unusually shaped objects. There are around 10 kinds of pliers, but for beginners, it’s best to start with standard pliers and needle-nosed pliers.
Tape Measure
It sounds obvious, but a nice and strong tape measure is a necessity. Nothing is more distracting than a crooked painting on the wall. You will reach for your tape measure more than you realize.
Utility knife
Utility knives are excellent to have around when opening difficult packages. Make sure to get a safety version, so you can slide the blade away when you are not using the tool.
Cordless drill
Kenny Landy of Kenny and Jay Repairs recommends getting a cordless drill. He said it’s easier than using something with a cord and beginners will appreciate something battery operated or rechargeable.
Handsaw
Landy also recommends a handsaw. This can be useful outside your house when you need to cut an invasive branch or plant.
Nails and screws
And, of course you need a variety of nails and screws for hanging and securing pictures and shelves to your walls.
Landy said that beginners shouldn’t be intimidated by using tools and starting projects.
“Just go to Youtube and it will walk you through anything you want to know for whatever project you are doing,” he said.
