In this glorious age of how-to videos on YouTube, reality home improvement television, and the expansive, inviting aisles of home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot, it is no wonder that more and more people are trying their own hand at DIY projects. By definition, the term applies to people undertaking projects at home such as decorating, making repairs, and building objects without the aid of a professional.
There are many reasons people have embraced the DIY trend. Not only does it save a lot of money in labor, but you also get the satisfaction of accomplishing a challenge by yourself. This greatly improves self-esteem. In addition, you have the freedom to design any undertaking to your precise specifications, rather than have to listen to others’ opinions. That being said, one of the downsides to DIY projects is knowing which tools to buy. Some are uniquely necessary, but some are multi-purpose and can do several jobs. Some are completely extraneous and a waste of money. Here is a look at a few tools that every do-it-yourselfer should have in their literal toolkit.
In order to have a proper surface to measure, draw, and cut, you need a workbench. This is an absolute must if you expect to take DIY seriously. Some workbenches also double as sawhorses, which is an added bonus, but not all designs fit everybody. There is a broad range of workbenches that must match with your size and budgetary limitations.
Tool organizers are the next item on your list. There should be enough pockets to make everything you need easily accessible, regardless of where you are standing or kneeling. The last thing you want to worry about is not having access to the right tool at the exact moment it is required. Organizers also help keep structure to the many different types of tools you are bound to accumulate, such as tape measures, hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, and drills.
Many beginners are unaware of the benefits of owning an air compressor. Not only can you quickly inflate things like car tires and air mattresses, but you can greatly shorten your overall projects by using it to power machines like air tools and spray painters. Heftier power tools are a whole other conversation, but the bottom-line is that serious woodworking projects will require a power saw and nail gun.