A Beginner’s Guide to Picking the Best Tools for DIY Projects

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Discover the must-have basic tools 
• Understand how to choose tools that last  
• Learn how to find the right balance between hand tools and power tools
• Uncover the safety gear you should never skip 

Have you always wanted to DIY your own home renovation projects, but don’t know how to get started? Well, you are not alone; 75% of homeowners attempt some sort of DIY project. If you are new to the magical world of DIY, let me tell you I was in the same place as you a few years ago. 

I wish at that time I had the no-fluff beginner’s DIYers’ tools list that I am going to share with you today. This list includes important things like carpenters axe, tape measures, putty knives, and many more. These basic tools are something that every homeowner and amateur DIYer should have. 

So, with reference to my own experience, I will help you select the best tools for DIY projects.  

Start Small: The Must-Have Basics for Every DIYer

Now, if you are just starting, I suggest you keep it simple. During the COVID-19 time, when I started doing DIY projects, I realized that some essential tools make a solid foundation for any DIY toolkit. As a beginner, you can add them too in your toolkit. Here is the list of those: 

• Hammer: It is very important for driving nails into wood.
• Screwdriver Set: A set of both Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers will be enough for most of your needs. 
• Tape measure: Proper measuring is necessary in almost every DIY project, so invest in a good tape measure.  
• Utility knife: It is perfect for cutting through various types of materials. 
• Carpenter Axe: You can use this for both chopping and shaping wood. (It is good for outdoor projects or woodwork.) 

With the help of these assets, you can complete many projects without feeling overwhelmed. 

Quality vs. Price: How to Choose Tools That Last

I know we love to buy the things that cost us less, but trust me, by buying cheap tools, you are just wasting your money. Why? Because the durability of these tools is not something you can trust, and using them can put your life in danger. 

If you want to buy the ones that will help you for years, do a little research, check reviews, or you can ask for recommendations from family and friends who are into DIY. 

Hand Tools or Power Tools? Finding the Right Balance

Picking between hand tools and power tools was one of the things that put me in a dilemma when I started doing DIY projects. But you don’t have to face this, just count on my words. 

Hand tools are great for beginners, and trust me, they are often easier to control and cheaper to buy. 

If I share my experience with power tools, I would say they can save you time and effort, especially in bigger projects. So if you are planning to do big projects more often, you can go for a few basic power tools like a cordless drill or a jigsaw. 

Safety First: Gear You Should Never Skip

I guess other than crack heads, nobody wants to risk their lives while working on DIY projects. You can have the best tools in the world, but if you are not using them safely, it can significantly increase the risk. Here is a list of safety gear you must have: 

• Safety goggles: They will protect your eyes from dust and debris. (Once, they saved me from a dangerous accident while working with a saw, so make wise choices.) 
• Dust Masks: You can use these masks while sanding or working with materials that create dust. 
• Work gloves: These will not only protect your hands but also give you a good grip. 

Building Your Toolkit Over Time Without Overspending

Once I started doing DIY projects, I found myself wanting more tools. But the temptation to buy everything at once can lead to overspending. Although one of my uncles had a hardware store, he let me have every tool I wanted at a huge discount, but remember, you don’t have that. 

So here are some tips that will help you build a good toolkit over time:

• Start with What You Need 
• Watch for Sales 
• Rent Tools 
• Buy Used Ones 

Don’t get worried after getting this much information, trust me, DIY is easy and fun. You just have to keep a few things in mind, like choosing the right tools, focusing on quality, and maintaining safety. That’s it, now grab your tools and show the magic of DIY!

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