Top Ten Tools for Do-It-Yourself Projects

Do-It-Yourself projects are a great way to refresh a space in your home in a weekend. It often doesn't take much to make a big change. In order to complete many home projects, you'll need a small arsenal of tools to help complete big jobs in a small amount of time.

The Top Ten Tools List that I've created includes the tools that I find myself reaching for the most often when working on projects. You may find that the types of projects you like or need to require additional tools, but you can never have too many, so don't worry that you'll never use it again.

The first tool that everyone should have is a hammer. Yes, a simple, standard hammer. You will need one to hang picture frames and artwork, loosen old nails before prepping the walls for painting or if you decide to build something one day.

Next, invest in a good set of screwdrivers. Screwdrivers come in a wide variety of different tips that work for different types of screws. Some sets come with the different attachments built right into the handle, these are very versatile and easy to store.

A level is another "must-have" tool. When you use a level, you ensure that nothing is crooked, nothing looks off and everything is perfect! They work for picture frames, artwork, chair rail, and even curtain rods.

A Putty Knife is another fantastic tool to have on hand. You can use it for scraping, and also spackling and pretty much every home project involves scraping and spackling to some degree. You can also use them to pry open the lids of containers.

You'll find yourself reaching for your all-purpose Utility Blade so often; they're great for cutting and scraping, as well as removing labels. You can store a few of them around your house for getting gum off of surfaces, removing burned food from your flat glass top stove or for cutting strings off of clothing. Always be sure to keep these, and all tools, out of the reach of children.

A measuring tape is a necessity as well. If you're putting a lot of time into a project, you're going to want to be sure it fits! You will also need a measuring tape to determine the size of curtains and pieces of furniture.

A hand held power sander is a great tool to have in your workshop. It's perfect for refinishing furniture and when you build your own designs. Sanders can be sued to remove rust and paint on certain surfaces as well.

A ratchet is another tool that will often come in handy. Many minor repairs require the use of a ratchet, plus they make a really cool noise.

A power drill is another great asset to your toolbox. I couldn't even begin to list the number of projects that would be so much easier if a power drill was involved.

Lastly, each and every Do-It-Yourself Project requires a great deal of patience. Things may not work out exactly as you planned, you may run out of supplies and energy before you finish and being patient and accepting of the fact that working on your home takes time is the key to success. Working on your home should be fun, and sometimes relaxing; if you have the right tools and good amount of patience you'll be able to complete a great deal of projects you're proud of.