Saturday, February 18, 2012

Top 10 Tools Every DIY Woman Should Have

Blogs and websites like Pinterest are providing inspiration to seasoned DIYer’s and beginners/dreamers alike. Many women who would like to do some of their own home repairs and home improvements themselves don’t have any tools and don’t know where to start. This article lists ten basic tools that every DIY woman should have in her toolbox so any projects on the to-do list can be tackled.






Adjustable Wrench – this versatile tool is a must have in any toolbox. This wrench is used to provide grip and apply torque (basically force by twisting) to objects like nuts and bolts. The jaw of this tool is adjustable, so it can be used on different sized objects. 











 
Electric Drill – this tool is the biggest investment for the beginner DIY, but the expense is worth it. Electric drills make fast work of drilling holes and can also act as a screwdriver for the more heavy duty jobs around the house.  Unless you need a ton of power, your best bet is to buy a cordless drill which provides a much wider range of mobility. Shop around for this tool and ask your friends who already own an electric drill what their recommendations are, and see if you can take theirs for a test drive.
Hammer– Look for a medium weight hammer that feels heavy in the hand, but that can be swung with relative ease. A hammer can be used for simple projects like hanging a picture, to more complicated ones like nailing in new flooring. 









Hand Saw – If you’re thinking of building yourself a new piece of furniture or have any project involving wood, you need a hand saw. Hand saws come in many different sizes so be sure to shop around and pick out one that feels comfortable in your hand, and you will be able to maintain control over, while still getting the job done.


 






Level – This handy tool ensures that all of your work is straight and even. In a pinch, you can download a free level app for your mobile phone or tablet.


A Laser Level  – Although these can cost a pretty penny, they're even cooler than the mobile level app! Just point the beam. 
 
 




Needle Nose Pliers – Think of this tool as the DIY version of tweezers. These pliers have a long nose which makes them perfect for fine detail work and tight spaces where your fingers or other tools won’t fit. These pliers can cut, grip and bend wires and other materials.





Set of Screwdrivers – Screwdrivers are essential tools for all DIYer’s. There are a number of popular screwdriver types, and unfortunately one size does not fit all. For the most versatility look for a screwdriver set featuring: Phillips screwdrivers, Torx screwdrivers and slotted screwdrivers. If you can find a set that also includes Nut Drivers those are great to have on hand as well.

Slip Joint Pliers – These are perfect everyday pliers that can handle a number of different jobs. They have an adjustable jaw and two sets of “teeth” both fine and coarse, which makes them a versatile tool. Look for a pair with comfortable grips.

Tape Measure – A tape measure is important for taking precise measurements. Remember the golden DIY rule: “Measure Twice, Cut Once.”














Utility Knife – This knife has more uses than for opening boxes. This lightweight, multipurpose tool can cut mark lines, trim wood and plastic and much more.

The tools listed here will get you through just about any DIY project you want to tackle. Good Luck!

My name is Vanessa, and I wrote this guest-post. I hope it inspires your to start tackling some of your DIY repairs.

Photo credits
Level

Laser Level



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