You might be just starting out in DIY, and are wondering what essential tools you will need to get started.
What about when it is time to actually create?
Are you able to turn your idea into a tutorial?
If you answered « no », then you are in the right place.
We will be breaking down 15 tools that we consider to be essential for DIYers. We want to maximize your budget by recommending versatile tools that allow you to do many different things with a small number of tools.
Let’s get started without further delay:
1. Dremel Maker Kit
Dremel’s Maker Kit is a great choice, especially if you don’t have enough tools.
You don’t need half of the items in the kit if you already have them.
The Dremel 200 Rotary Tool is included in the kit. It’s one of the most iconic multi-tools you will remember when you hear Dremel. The Dremel 200 Rotary Tool can be used to sand, cut, and polish a variety materials.
The Dremel 290 engraving tool is also included in the kit. This allows you to personal engrave projects made of wood, metal and even glass.
The VersaTip butane torch is the third major component of the Dremel Maker Kit. It comes with several accessories for wood burning and cutting.
You’ll be able to quickly determine the value of the Maker Kit if you compare the 3 tools included in the kit with their accessories.
Wood projects require you to be able quickly to add paint. This siphon gun is small enough to be used with small mason bottles.
This sprayer is powered by a 3/4 HP tankless compressor. It has only a few adjustment options, making it very simple to set up and use.
3. Circular Saw
A circular saw, as we’ve already mentioned, is a versatile tool that every DIYer should have.
You might prefer something a bit more compact and lightweight, such as the Dremel UltraSaw. This is basically a mini circular saw that can still cut through plywood and pipes. It is also super easy to control and handle.
The UltraSaw is able to do a lot more than a standard circular saw. This includes surface prep and cutting in tight places thanks to its small blade and 7.5 Amp motor.
Is it really necessary to get in-depth about this?
You have problems if you don’t have a tape measure, and you plan to fix or make anything.
The old saying « measure twice, cut once » is wise advice.
You won’t need many tape measures so I recommend buying one that’s long enough and strong enough for you to use when you aren’t able to get help.
5. Niveau
You will eventually have to hang the picture on the wall when you create a picture frame from reclaimed wood.
You’ll be happy when you reach that point, even if you only have one level like the Kapro above.
Bad things can happen when you try to « eyeball » everything that you hang up.
6. Cordless Drill + Bits
Another essential is a drill that comes with a good set of bits. A cordless drill such as the DeWalt is a great choice. It can be taken anywhere you want without needing to run an extension cord.
A drill is a tool that allows you to screw things in place. A drill bit set is just as important. This will allow you to drill holes in your projects before they crack/split.
7. Hammer
This is another one that you should not overthink. We won’t spend too much time discussing what you can do using a solid hammer.
You can do yourself a favor by buying a Stanley Fatmax Xtreme, which has a good balance, a solid grip and sturdy construction, if you don’t have one or are a poor one.
8. Rotary Tool
Our first item was the Dremel Make-A-Mesh Kit, which comes with a Dremel 200 Rotary Tool. You don’t have to purchase an additional rotary instrument if you buy the maker kit.
However, every DIY enthusiast should have a solid rotary tools. The Dremel 4000, shown above, can be used for cutting, sanding and grinding as well as engraving and polishing.
You’ll find that a rotary tool is a great accessory for when you are near the end of a project.
This is why it’s important to mention that you only need to use upholstery in projects like making new chair cushions or updating your dining room chairs.
Even if you don’t plan to tackle projects that involve fabric, it is a good idea to have a staple gun handy.
12. Jigsaw
The jigsaw, an affordable power saw that can make intricate, rounded cuts, is in addition to the small cuts you make with a rotary saw and the rip cuts made with a circular saw.
While circular saws can cut straight lines, jigsaws are better at cutting curves. A basic jigsaw is available for very little money and will work well for most weekend warriors.
As with the 15-in-1 screwdriver mentality, I prefer to start with an adjustable wrench rather than buying an entire set.
It’s easier to use and takes up less space for me. I have also been known to lose some items. It turns out that I often only have the one size wrench I need at any given moment.
This is why I simply go adjustable. I have all the sizes I need to grip, tighten, or do other things when necessary.
A reliable set of pliers can make a big difference in your home’s maintenance and for DIY projects. The needle nose type allows you to reach tight places and grab small items securely. Larger sets allow you to grip, twist, and pull.
Take A Bow
This list should have helped you to create your first DIY toolkit.
It is highly recommended that you start with the multi-purpose and versatile Dremel Maker kit, as it can be used in custom DIY and crafting.
You can borrow from your neighbour if you aren’t afraid to borrow. You’ll have something you can use.
You might not need a more specific item, such as a rotary instrument. It makes sense to have one.
However, I believe that you should make plans to purchase all 15 items on the list if you plan to DIY more often than once or twice per year.
All the best!
