I’m a handy gal that likes to save money while enjoying the satisfaction of doing some of my own home improvements. Sometimes I get asked what a good starter set of tools would be for someone just starting out or the new home-owner. Investing in well-designed tools can save you an arm and a leg, and your first tool kit doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
A good starter kit of tools should include the following:
Screwdriver – Leave the butter knife in the cutlery drawer! Get one good multi-bit screwdriver with at least two sizes of Robertson (square head) bits, a Philips and a flat head.
Hammer – Choose a 13 oz all-purpose claw head hammer. Look for one that has a non-slip rubberized grip handle because it won’t slip in your hand (a big confidence booster).
Tape Measure – You’ll need one for most tasks. A 16ft tape measure is often just right, or if you expect to be working in larger spaces, get a 25-ft tape measure. Great features to look for are a rubber case (won’t make you yelp if it’s sitting in the hot sun during an outside project) and clear metric and imperial measurement markings. Remember: measure twice, cut once!
Utility Knife – This will come in handy for opening all packages, trimming carpet, and more. Look for one with a non-slip, rubber grip so you’ll have better control, and space in the handle for your spare blades.
Needle Nose Pliers – These are the “tongs” of the toolbox, great for holding small nails so you don’t smash your fingers when hammering. They should include a wire cutting feature too.
Torpedo Level Pliers – Great for hanging pictures, but also a must for getting fridge doors to swing shut on their own and washers to stop shimmying across the laundry room floor! Look for one with a magnet along one side so it’ll stick to the appliance.
Drill/Impact Driver – This is the first power tool you should invest in. If you want to install shelving, racks, rods, closet organizers – you’ll need a drill. The new age drill is actually not a drill at all. Impact drill/drivers are the new norm. Instead of using rotational torque, the impact drill uses thousands of tiny impacts to sink and remove hardware, or to drill holes. No more wrist kick-back, and with lithium-ion battery technology, they can be lighter and fit in your hand, allowing you to go longer with greater comfort.
Getting a good starter tool kit together in a handy tool bag will make turning the place you live in, to the place you LOVE an enjoyable adventure.
Karen Donaldson is an independent consultant for Tomboy Tools Canada. A unique and ground breaking business, Tomboy Tools sells high-quality hand and power tools designed with the ergonomic needs of women in mind. Visit www.tomboytools.ca/yayme for more information.
