Alternate title: 7 Handy Tools for the Handy Gal (or Guy) I like tools. Tools are fun. They help me wreck things, make things, and make things pretty. Plus, I won't lie, I kind of enjoy shattering people's traditional gender roles "what do you mean my husband's tools? MY tools. He gets the kitchen." Boom. Welcome to 2014 ladies and gents!
A full list of tools that I find helpful would be near endless, but I thought it might be helpful to share a few of my favorite handy tools for DIY.
1. Compressor
This one is necessary to accompany the next 2 of my favorite tools so I couldn't leave it out. My compressor collection has raised to 2, a small portable one and a larger one with more power and both have their jobs. If you're just starting into projects and tool collecting, I'd start with a small pancake compressor like this one from Harbor Freight. They're light, portable, and have the power to do most small jobs. A big need for my tools is portability since I don't have a workshop or garage where I can store them. They're either in my basement or at a work site, so something helpful that's easy to move around gets 2 thumbs up from me.
2. Brad nailer/nail gun
Speaking of tools to use with the compressor. This guy is #1. I'm not sure how I ever lived without my nail gun. I think this may be my personal favorite: it's so easy to use- press into surface, pull the trigger. For such an easy tool to use, you can make some mighty projects. My entire built-in corner bookcase was put together with my nail gun and wood glue- and it's strong enough to climb on (although I'd rather you not).
AND even though it's a rock star on large projects, no project is too small. Use it to fix a loose piece of trim or like I did to beef up Millie's house numbers.
3. Critter spray gun
Compressor tool #2! The Critter Sprayer is what I use my larger compressor for. You can use a smaller one, but be prepared for it to run non-stop. This little siphon paint gun does not get enough recognition in DIY land in my opinion.
Not only does it work like a champ when painting furniture, it uses mason jars to hold the paint. Super duper handy for the DIYer. When you're done for the day, you simply put a lid on the mason jar and you have pre-mixed paint just ready for the next coat or next project. The only downfall is that you need to thin the paint like you do with any sprayer. I use a little water and Floetrol and the finish comes out like a dream. Just be careful not to put too much paint on at one time or you might get drips!
4. Locking grip pliers
These aren't nearly as exciting as the previous tools, but I swear I find new uses for locking pliers daily. The most useful task of this tool is removing stripped screws, headless nails, and rusted bolts. I've also found myself using these as a vise to hold something steady, grip something too small for my fingers, and many more uses that I always forget.
5. Foldable platform
Again, not a glamorous player in the land of DIY but it's an unsung hero. My sister gave me a foldable platform for Christmas a few years back and I couldn't be happier! It's most obvious use is in lieu of a step ladder for painting and reaching. It's lesser obvious use is my favorite- portable work bench. When I modified the built-in for Grover the Fliphouse, my platform was indispensable. I would clamp the plywood to it while I cut it and clamp the 2x4s to it while I drilled my pocket holes.
Aside from being a clamp-able surface, it also brings the work surface off of the ground. You are welcome Back.
6. Kreg Jig
I know I've mentioned the Kreg Jig before, but he's pretty awesome and you can see him in action in tool #5's pic above. His skill set is rather limited- drill pocket holes for attaching 2 pieces of wood- but the things you can do with that limited skill set are in fact limitless. He's one of my buddies when I'm building things. Things like my franken-table
and wine rack
7. Miter Saw
Last but certainly not least, a miter saw aka chop saw. This is one of my more recently added tools, but has made my life so much easier! Cutting crown molding? done. Base boards? done. Building furniture or built-ins? done. You need it cut? Miter saw's your man. It's almost embarrassing how long I made due with a hand saw and jig saw. While not a cheap tool, the right miter saw is totally worth it.
So there you have it! I'd love to hear what you'd add to the list and what your favorite tools are!