Well, a bit of a different pace for this post. I thought it would be fun to pull my top ten best tools from the workshop and do a little review. I really stood in my garage and pulled my favorite tools that I use on almost every project (I’ll link to some projects I’ve used with the tools too). The perfect set of tools whether you are working on furniture or home DIY projects.
I’m going to link to the following tools in each section, but I also want you to think ahead to all those fabulous Black Friday tool sales coming up… make yourself a list and save up to get some really great deals! A few of these tools are brand specific, but I’m sure there are others that are just as good. None of these tools are sponsored (I wish 😉), this is really just a list of my favorites that we bought with our own money.
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Top 10 Best Tools for the DIYer
1. Center Point Measuring Tape
This may seem like a no brainer, but a good measuring tape (or maybe 3) makes all the difference. I am constantly losing one, so I really do have at least 3. This one though is my favorite because it is a center point measuring tape – that means NO MATH! See the little red numbers along the bottom? This calculates the center point of the top measurement for you. It’s not that dividing a measurement in half is hard, but it’s a little time saver that really makes this the best tool in the measuring tape category. Also, bonus that this one is pink and shiny means I may have less chance to lose it 😜
2. Air Strike Brad Nail Gun
I bought this Air Strike Brad Nailer last year with some birthday money. I’d had my eye on it for a while, and boy is it my very favorite tool. Because there is no attached compressor, it makes it really easy to carry around the house for projects (like the shiplap wall project). It’s easy to use, convenient and makes any project a bit more fun! Best tool I bought last year hands down!
3. Gloves
A good pair of work gloves is an essential thing to have in your workshop! I usually get a splinter before I remember to grab my gloves, but I’m getting better. These make it easy to get your hands working – they fit my smaller hands well, and with reinforced fingers, they do a great job protecting my skin (and occasional manicure).
4. Quarter Pad Sander
I showed you my Rigid Quarter Pad sander in the review video – you can find that brand at Home Depot, this DeWalt version was my second choice. I get asked pretty often if I prefer a quarter pad sander or an orbital. While I’ve never actually owned an orbital, I prefer the quarter pad sander because I like to buy sheets of sandpaper that I cut to size for my sander, and can also use for other things as well. I always look for a good review on dust collection as well as one that will fit on the hose of my shop vac. This greatly reduces the dust in my workshop. Best tool to have around for sure – I use my sander ALL. THE. TIME.
5. e6000 Super Glue
This one is another that’s a bit random, but I use this super glue for household projects a lot! e6000 is a permanent glue that does it’s job well! I used it to make the giant wall clock, and we use it all over the house whenever we need a bit of clear glue. Grab this and keep it handy, you’ll love it!
6. Kreg Screws
You wouldn’t think what kind of screw you use matters that much, but let me tell you – it does! Whenever I’m doing a building project (like my laundry basket dresser or my built-ins) I grab these Kreg Jig Screws. They are self tapping, so much easier to control and use as they grab the wood nice and quick. I always have around the 1 1/4″ and the 2 1/2″ lengths. I find I use those 2 sizes the most. A bit more expensive than traditional drywall screws, but well worth it!
7. Square
A square. I found mine at a yard sale among other old tools, grabbed it for probably less than a dollar, and have used it countless times. I’d recommend a big 2′ one, so it gives you a nice long straight line. I use it when I’m marking wood to cut down with my circular saw. Easy to find, and a tool that I wouldn’t want to be without!
8. Drill Bit Set
My husband got me a drill bit set last year for Christmas, and it has been so incredibly handy! I love having a ton of sizes to choose from all in one place (when I’m organized enough to keep it all in one place that is). There is every kind of drill bit and screw set you may need to use. This is a fantastic way to be prepared no matter what you are fixing, building or making.
9. Jig Saw
Perfect for small cuts, circular or more detailed cutting and so much more. The jig saw is one you just have to have. I think it’s a really easy saw to use, especially if you are afraid of some of the bigger ones. It’s easy to handle and I always think of it like a sewing machine, the blade just cuts up and down as you guide it. This fits in the best tool category for those reasons!
10. Dremel Multi-Max
Last but not least is the Dremel Multi-Max (by the way, these tools have been in no particular order). I can’t remember what project I originally bought it for, but I remember the lady who helped me at Home Depot said, you’ll use this for more than you think you will – and she was absolutely right. These usually go on sale around the end of the year, so keep an eye out and get one while you can – you too will be surprised on all the ways find to use it!
Phew, if you made it through all these words, here’s a video to show you all these tools I just described.
Now, go make your shopping list, and keep an eye out for sales! The best tools for my workshop will be your favorites – I just know it!
Until next time,
Jenni
