Do it Yourself Toolbox for Beginners

No matter how advanced your knowledge of home repair is, there are some tools and supplies that you will need to have around. With all of us needing to pinch pennies, one cost that can be very easily trimmed is the repairman. Many of the jobs around your home can be done for a fraction of the cost if you undertake them on your own. There are a few things that you will need to have around before you get started though. One of these is a toolbox. You don't have to have the six foot rollaway with more tools than anyone can even name. A simple box or drawer with the basics is all that you need. Here is a look at the basics.

When it comes to tools, there are just a few that you will need around. One of the first things you will need is a Swiss army knife or a leatherman style tool. These multi-tools will fill a lot of the needs that you will have in a tool. You want to make sure there is a wood saw and a small knife blade. Everything else is just extra in these. The more options that your multi-tool has, the fewer other tools you will need. Another addition to your tool box is a pair of pliers. You will need to keep a pair of needle noise and a regular pair. You will likely use the regular pair more often, but there are a few times when you will need the needle nose. Needle nose usually come with a pair of wire cutters as well. If you ever have to do anything with wire or electricity, you will need a pair of wire cutters as well. If you are gentle, you can use a knife blade, but this technique takes some practice (and some band-aids).

Two more tools to add to your box are a Phillips and a standard (flathead) screwdriver. These can also be found on most multi-tools, but an extra one is a good idea. There are several interchangeable drivers out there that can help you save some room by combining the two types of screwdrivers. You can get several different sized tips by using these as well. The last tool you will need is a hammer. For minor indoor fixes, a ball peen hammer is the best choice. For some fixes, you will need a claw hammer. It is a good idea to have both on hand though. For most wood work, you will want to use the claw hammer.

Now that you have the tools, there are a few other things that you will want. You want some small containers around. Pill boxes work good for this. These boxes will be used for assorted drywall tacks, screws, tacks and small nails. You will need these around for small fixes. In addition to these, you will want to keep some zip ties around. These are good for some little fixes or keeping things in order. You can use them in a whole variety of situations. If you don't have zip ties, you can use some thin twine or ribbon. These are a little harder to use, but can serve the same purpose. You will also want to include some wire connector wing nuts. These are necessary for any bare wiring. These have saved me from several electrical burns.

There are several other items that you may find being added to your box. There are many different things that you can add or find yourself needing. These are just the basics that you will need for just about any project. Almost any minor job can be done with this small toolbox. If you plan on learning how to fix your own problems, this list is a must. Just think of the fun you can have shopping for all of it.