Tool Time! My Must-have tools for DIY & Home Renovation Projects

Over the past several years of doing home renovations we have collected a supply of tools that I find are essential to getting projects done efficiently. This list was developed through need and trial and error. There were several times I hung up pictures lopsided before learning to use a level properly. We also have the benefit of my husband working in trades and having a variety of tools for his profession. Here is my must-have list of DIY tools: 

Essential_DIY_Tool_Kit.pdf

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My Must-have tool list for every DIY project

1. Tape Measure

   • Essential for every phase of a project- planning, preparation, and execution

   • I also have a mini tape measure I keep in my purse for when I am shopping at need to see if a piece of furniture will fit in our home 

2. Stud finder: ideal for hanging furniture, doing a feature wall the uses are endless. They are also quick and easy to use! 

3. Cordless Drill: so many uses! From building furniture to hanging shelves the options are endless. Having no cords makes things simple and easier to use. I recommend having an extra battery pack on hand to switch out when needed. 

   
   

4. Painters Tape: I use this all the time! Not just when painting, but for mapping out projects, deciding where to hang artwork etc. Also use it to hang up seasonal decor as it doesn’t damage walls. Cheap and easy to use. I highly recommend having it on hand. 

   
   

5. A Level: the key to making projects look professional is making it straight. I use a bubble level which works fine for us. 

   
   

6. An exacto/utility knife: always handy to have on hand. Whether its for cutting wallpaper, opening packages, shaving off drywall. It’s always nice to have one available. 

   
   

   

   Me holding my favourite tools- cordless drill and tape measure

Final thoughts: You don’t need to have a top-of-the-line tool kit with brand new equipment. A variety of old and new tools will help you get started. You just need a handful of versatile tools to help you get started. The above tools have helped me and I hope they will be just as helpful for you too! Did I miss your favourite tool? Drop it in the comments- I'm always looking for additions to my must-have tool kit!