Check out the descriptions below to see which tools are best for different types of projects—so you can confidently choose what you need for your next DIY.
Shop My Faves
Here I share my favorite tools.
Power Tools
If you notice I have multiples of the same tool (like sliding miter saws), it’s because I’m sharing trusted brands at different price points to fit your budget. Click the images to get the link.
Disclaimer: These are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission on purchases made through those links, at no extra cost to you.
Single Bevel Saw
A single bevel compound saw is perfect for making quick, precise cuts on smaller pieces, making it especially useful for crown molding and trim work.
Sliding Miter Saw
Some projects are better suited to the unique features of each saw. For larger framing tasks, a sliding miter saw is ideal, as it can accommodate wider boards and provides greater flexibility for making angled cuts.
Jig-Saw
A jigsaw cuts with an up-and-down allowing for curved or straight cuts. You can use it for projects like cutting shapes for shelves, making holes for electrical outlets, and trimming edges to fit pieces together.
Multi-tool
A multi-tool is great for DIY projects like cutting baseboards by making precise cuts for corners. You can also use it to trim edges, remove old caulk, or reach tight spaces where other tools can’t fit. It simplifies various tasks around the house!
Drill
A power drill is a must-have for any DIY project because it’s versatile and gets the job done quickly. It can easily make holes and drive screws, and you can add attachments for different materials (for instance the kreg jig.). I use mine for almost every project.
Brad Nailer
A brad nailer is a tool that quickly shoots small nails into wood, making it perfect for furniture and trim projects. I use this for almost every project. Trust me, it makes things go faster! I used to use just a hammer and nails, and my hands would hurt.
Orbital Sander
An orbital sander smooths surfaces quickly and effectively. It uses a round sanding pad that moves in circles, making it much easier to eliminate scratches and lines. It’s perfect for getting smooth results with less effort!
Circular Saw
Even with a sliding compound saw and a table saw, a circular saw is super handy. It’s lightweight and great for outdoor projects, and it can cut big sheets of plywood that won’t fit on a table saw. It’s perfect for quick cuts, tight spaces, and making angled cuts on longer pieces. A circular saw adds extra convenience to your toolkit!
Table Saw
You can choose to have the hardware store cut your wood for you, but I’ve found that having a table saw at home is really helpful. It’s perfect for making straight cuts quickly and accurately, which is great for building furniture or cabinets. Often, I need extra pieces for my projects, and having the saw on hand makes my life a lot easier. It saves time and gives me more flexibility to make adjustments as I go!
DIY Must-Haves
Once you have the tools you need, trust me—having these must-haves is crucial. You’ll start a project and quickly get frustrated if you’re missing something essential!
Laser Level
I use mine for everything from picture frame molding to panel boards, shelving, and hanging curtains.
Stud Finder
A stud finder helps you locate wooden or metal studs behind your walls. It shows you where it’s safe to drill or hang items, preventing damage to wires or pipes. Use it when hanging shelves or heavy objects to ensure they’re securely attached and won’t fall.
Brad Nails
A variety pack of brad nails is a must-have for DIYers. I often use 1.5 to 2-inch nails for most projects, but smaller nails are great for quick tasks. With a variety pack, you’ll always have the right size handy, making your work faster and easier!
Safety Glasses
These are essential for protecting your eyes during DIY projects. Look for antifog features to keep your vision clear, and make sure they have a bottom shield to protect against debris that might fly up. With these goggles, you can work confidently and safely!
Extra Clamps
Having extra clamps on hand is essential for any DIY project. They help keep pieces securely in place while you work, ensuring precise alignments and strong bonds. Extra clamps allow you to tackle multiple tasks at once or provide added support for larger projects, making your work easier and more efficient!
Plastic Wood
This heavy-duty wood filler has real wood fibers, so it looks and feels like real wood. You can sand, cut, drill, and paint it, making it super versatile for indoor projects. It holds nails and screws well without splitting, so it’s great for all your DIY needs!
Set Nail Set Punch
A nail set punch is a small tool used to drive the heads of nails below the surface of the wood, so you can fill the holes and create a smooth finish. In simple terms, it helps make your projects look neater by hiding nail heads.
Caulk
Always have caulk on hand to cover up any blemishes in your projects. It’s a quick fix for imperfections and ensures a clean finish—just make sure it’s paintable. My go-to is the Interior Paint and Trim White Paintable Latex Caulk; it works great for achieving a smooth, polished look!