Many basic home projects and updates can be done by a homeowner with these 10+ beginner DIY tools!
When I started this blog, I had just moved into a cookie-cutter, builder-grade foreclosure that needed a lot of personality. The only problem was we didn't have any money to do anything. So I taught myself how to DIY!
I started collecting tools for every birthday and Christmas, and taught myself how to use them so I could decorate my new home with as little money as possible. If you're looking for my top 5 DIY tools, start here!
These are the basic tools I've collected over the years and still use today as I makeover my new home!
When I first started DIY projects, I upgraded a pair of $35 nightstands, made a headboard for our bed frame, and built a dining room table and matching bench. These tools came in really handy when we didn't have the money to buy from a store (or when I couldn't find what I wanted in one).
While I don't build as much furniture these days, I love having these tools within reach whenever I need them! They've come in handy recently when I bought a custom door for my dishwasher and when I put panels on the unfinished back of my desk.
10+ Tools Every Beginner DIYer Needs
I tried to think through all the tools I use most and how often I use them! These are the brands I personally use and love.
1. Drill
The drill and the hammer get the most use in my home. From hanging art to changing light fixtures, painting walls and removing outlet covers, you need a good drill for the most basic projects!
I've had my Ryobi cordless drill for years, and it works like a champ!
2. Hammer
It's obvious, but it has to be included! I'm so thankful my parents gave me a tool set when I left for college. I've never been without one as an adult!
I've shared some great basic tool sets that would be perfect for a college student or a new homeowner! Click or tap the images below to shop a variety of price points. (How cute is the pink set? Or one that includes a drill!)
3. Level
I love having a 24-inch level with a built-in ruler. It makes hanging art and picture frames SO easy! I used a laser level for my board and batten project in my living room, so if you're tackling a larger project that needs a level, a laser level might be your best friend!
4. Screwdriver Set
We use our screwdrivers for everything!
5. Paintbrush Set
Whether you need a simple touch-up or want to paint an entire room, you can't go wrong with a set of Purdy paint brushes. I've been using them since high school (2+ decades!) and they last for years! I don't use anything else.
6. Kreg Jig
I wish I could have put this tool higher on the list, because after the basics of hammers and screwdrivers, this is one I couldn't live without! The Kreg Jig is a great tool for any kind of building project. I've used it to build simple planters and my farmhouse dining table. It's such a great pocket hole tool!
The Kreg Jig 5 is next on my tool wish list. It's a great upgrade if you plan to build a lot of projects!
7. Compound Sliding Miter Saw
This was one of the very first tools I asked for on a birthday or at Christmas. Sure, I had a circular saw and a handsaw, but I wanted something faster and easier! I started with a 10″ non-sliding miter saw, but quickly upgraded to this 12″ sliding compound miter saw. It came in so handy when I built the board and batten in my living room!
8. Clamps
You'll need these for so many projects!
9. Circular Saw
I probably should have listed this before the miter saw, but I love my miter saw so much more than my circular saw. Still, it's nice to have a circular saw for cutting larger boards, like plywood. And when you're ready to upgrade from your circular saw, a table saw is nice to have too!
10. Brad Nailer
I've used this brad nailer so many times over the years, from building frames for my canvas art to the board and batten projects I've tackled!
I have a heavy-duty brad nailer with an air compressor, but I've had my eye on this cordless brad nailer for years, and so many friends have it and love it! It's definitely on my wish list!
11. Electric Sander
If you plan to refinish any furniture or paint cabinets, I love having an electric sander. It's so much easier and faster than sanding by hand!
12. Pliers
13. Putty Knife
These are great for patching any holes in the wall! I love this spackling compound for filling holes, which goes on pink but turns white as it dries. It's easy to tell when it's ready to paint over.
And if you have a ton of nail holes to fill, I can't recommend this little compound and putty knife in one tool enough.
14. Stud Finder
I grab my stud finder any time I'm hanging anything on the walls!
Drill bits come in handy all the time, for drilling into all sorts of things, from art to window treatments to TVs! These will be useful for all kinds of projects!
15. Drill Bit Set
I could go on and on about my favorite beginner tools, but we'd start getting into advanced tool ownership territory if I don't stop now. It's been fun learning to use these tools over the years, and I feel empowered to tackle projects on my own!
I hope you've found this list helpful! Do you think I've left out anything vital, or do you have anything to add? Leave it in the comments below!
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