If you love doing handicrafts and general DIY, fixing up your own home or restoring and recycling work and still haven’t taken that definitive step, let us lead the DIY way for you in this post!

We’re sure you realise how important it is to have some tools get off to a good and safe start, but you don’t need to buy yourself a whole super-professional set. The best option if to buy the basic tools that you will use the most for your projects, and gradually expand your tool-kit depending on your requirements.

Tool box with compartments for all the basics

Start off by buying yourself a tool box containing essentials such a set of screwdrivers, some pliers, a hammer, a measuring tape, a spirit-level, nails, tacks and screws of different sizes (especially 5, 6 and 8). We also recommend that you invest in good quality products, as you’ll be using them a lot and the extra expense will be worth it. Oh, and it’s sensible to buy a medium to large tool box with a secure closing system, so that you always have room for more tools and know that they are safely enclosed.

Safety step-ladder

It’s always useful to have a ladder at home for various uses: accessing high points, changing or cleaning lights, organising the top shelves of wardrobes, generally cleaning or painting. However, to be secure you need the right ladder, and the best ones are safety step-ladders that are easily stored in a cupboard. We suggest one of average height with 6 rungs unless you have very high ceilings. They are available in wood, metal or plastic, and you should consider stability and durability over looks and price.

Drill, an all-time essential for any DIY person

This is definitely a basic tool that everyone should have for DIY. They are either cable or battery-operated, with the latter being more practical but it needs charging regularly. Depending on your requirements, it has different use options for either drilling into a hard wall or using it as a screwdriver. When buying one, make sure that it has multiple speeds and is reversible, as you may need this to unscrew something.

If you’ve never used a drill before, which is quite normal, we advise you to start by practising on an inconspicuous wall, ensuring that the drill bit is as straight as possible and holding the handle with a firm grip. So, what happens if you drill and make a hole? If it’s too big, don’t worry – just fill it in with putty and problem solved!

Finally, don’t forget to buy different calibres of drill bits depending on what material you are working on (walls, wood, metal, etc.).

Electric screwdriver, much more useful than you think

An electric screwdriver is also very handy, as not only does it reduce pressure on your hands, but it is also more powerful and actually easier to use than a manual screwdriver. This is an essential tool that is useful in most DIY and also when assembling kit furniture.

There are normally several different heads that adapt to any type of nut and, if you can, buy one with a straight angle to access tricky areas, or even a set of heads to make little holes in wood or plastic. An innovative feature with the latest models is that you can enhance their use with corkscrew or scissor fittings!

Sander, to restore furniture and even more

Although you might initially dismiss the usefulness of a sander, you will eventually understand its benefits and add an electric sander to your DIY kit. Not only does it sand to a fine splinter-free finish, it is also useful to get rid of old paint and varnish, and even out rough or bumpy surfaces etc.

There are various types and sizes of sanders available, but for DIY purposes we recommend a 5-inch random orbital sander. It is easier to handle and you can control it with the palm of your hand. Most models have a vacuum system which is activated on the sander is turned on to pick up any fine particles, which are then stored in a detachable container. However, you should always take the precaution of wearing safety goggles and a mask.

Fretsaw to cut to measure

We use a fretsaw to cut wood, boards, chipboard and even metal, whether it’s to shape it or just cut a board to a specific size. It is basically quite easy to use, with different blades for certain material and a base to guide you as you cut. Fretsaws should be used with a steady and patient hand, it is best to take it slowly and carefully to start with. Don’t forget that these tools can be quite hazardous, so all the appropriate safety precautions should be adhered to.

Some fretsaws even have an integrated air function to get rid of shavings quickly and effectively, while also allowing for continuous clear visibility of the cutting line.

Silicone gun to glue everything

This is something that you will constantly need in DIY projects involving handicrafts, restoration and recycling. It works with bars of silicone (or other products) which are heated and, when you press the trigger, the gun releases a thick liquid which glues practically any surface quickly and easily and also dries fast. Be careful not to burn yourself with the gun, we speak from experience!

Time to get to work!

Once you have all your basic tools, it’s time to get started. There’s a fair chance that things might not always go well at first, but persist and gradually they will. It’s important not to give up and keep trying. And don’t get too hung up about professional and perfect finishes… the pleasure and satisfaction of these projects all come from you working with your own hands, plus you save money!

Finally, we suggest that you start your DIY journey by seeking inspiration by looking around you and getting ideas on the internet. You can also follow us on Instagram and read our regular DIY articles. We hope to see some of your projects very soon!

In our next post: We’ll have some great DIY gift ideas for you to give that special person in your life on Saint Valentine’s Day. Keep an eye out for it!