10 Best Tools for DIY Beginners
/Must-Have Tools to Get Started with DIY - Fall ‘23 ORC Week 3
Do you find yourself hesitating to start a DIY project because you don't know what you're doing? Then this post is for you! Keep reading for the essential tools for beginner DIYers!
You might be surprised to hear that in a lot of ways I still consider myself a beginning DIYer.
In fact, until recently, I had never used a circular saw! I still don’t trust myself to do electrical. And plumbing is, frankly, overwhelming. Regardless, I've DIYed my way through project after project.
Between you and me - I STILL get nervous before every DIY project! But I know by the end of it, I will have learned something new and gained tons of confidence. I want that for you, too.
But first, a little update about week 3 of the One Room Challenge!
What's The One Room Challenge?
The One Room Challenge is a celebration of creativity, inspiration, and original ideas where creators encourage and motivate one another as they transform a room over a period of 8 weeks. I’ll be sharing a new post with my progress each Wednesday until the final reveal on November 15, 2024!
ORC Week 3 Recap
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Full disclosure: this post was supposed to be about laying penny tile (you can find that post here!), but getting the bathroom to a blank slate took longer than anticipated. Anyone who's taken on a home renovation project knows that they often take longer than you think they will.
In last week's post, I shared that I demoed the room - including the time-consuming task of stripping wallpaper.
After that was complete, it was time to run new plumbing and electrical, hang new drywall, mud that drywall, and chip the mortar off the floor in preparation for tile. I was even able to finally remove the old lantern and put up one of the new lights (minus the shades)!
While working through that punch list, I thought a lot about how far I've come with becoming comfortable using a wider variety of tools and taking on more challenging projects. I was inspired to share the best tools for beginner DIYers so you can take on your own projects, too!
What Are The Best Tools For Beginners?
I do want to say that depending on what type of project you’re doing, the tools you need will vary. In my personal experience, these are the tools that I started off using on my projects (and the actual tools I own and use) as I grew my confidence and skills.
Measuring Tape
Starting with the basics.
A tape measure is quite possibly the least intimidating tool there is. And it’s a must! In fact, it’s likely you already have one of these in your home. But if you don’t, this one is a great length (yes, they come in different lengths!) and has the measurements broken out very clearly (not all of them do!).
Screw Driver Set
Another low-key must-have tool is a screwdriver set. Having a set of flatheads and Phillips in various lengths will get you a long way on your DIY journey.
Hammer
Another tool you may already have in your toolbox is a hammer. But if you don’t, this little guy is the perfect addition!
Drill with Bits
While a set of screwdrivers is a must, they’ll only get you so far before you’ll need to invest in a drill. A drill is perfect for introducing you to using power tools.
I prefer a cordless drill whenever possible because of their convenience. And don’t forget to grab a screwdriver bit set to go with it!
Level
Depending on your project, you’ll need a level from time to time. I recommend buying a set of different-sized levels, so you always have the right one for the job (no, you can’t use the tiny level for everything).
While standard levels typically work just fine, sometimes a laser level is better suited for the project at hand. I have and use this Bosch laser level quite a bit for projects where I just don’t have enough hands.
Caulk Gun
Caulk is the MVP of finishing work. But to take advantage of it, you’ll need a caulk gun.
Get one with a built-in nozzle cutter (that little hole near the handle) and boasts that it’s drip-resistant for the least frustrating experience - like this caulk gun by Newborn.
And to go with it, this is my go-to for paintable caulk.
Orbital Sander
Once I started using more and more power tools, I used a palm sander for my sanding projects for a long time. Take it from me: a random orbital sander is a much more versatile electric sander.
While you can buy cordless versions, I’ve always used corded sanders, and it’s rarely an issue. And don’t forget that you’ll want to have a variety of different-grit sanding discs on hand!
Paint Supplies
Okay, okay. I know “paint supplies” encompasses more than just one tool. However, paint can easily make such a big impact I’d be remiss to leave it out. So I’m making an exception. Here’s what you’ll need to take on a basic painting project.
Miter Saw
We’re getting into the big guns now. But there will come a time when your projects will get more advanced, and you’ll need to cut some wood. Personally, I was terrified of the table saw for a long time, so I made do without it and got along just fine with a miter saw. This is the miter saw I use and love.
However, I will say that a table saw can make miter cuts and more with the right kind of jig. I own this Dewalt table saw.
I recommend weighing your options and making an educated decision on which type of saw is right for you when you’re just starting out. And, of course, wear your safety glasses!
Finish Nailer
If you’ve gotten to the point where you’re cutting wood, you'll likely need to nail it back together. That’s where the finish nailer comes into play.
I used a pneumatic nailer for a long time, and it was a huge pain in the butt (it was also super loud because it had to be hooked up to an air compressor). We just got this Metabo cordless finish nailer last summer, and I love it!
Final Thoughts
I get it, that urge to DIY but the hesitation to start because you, well, don’t know WHERE to start. Hopefully, with this list, you’ll feel a little more confident taking the reigns and jumping right in. Don’t forget to save the Pin below to come back to this post later!
