easyhometasks

Starter Skills checklist

22 beginner skills and projects, in a sensible order. Tick them off as you go and you'll be able to handle most small jobs around the house.

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Get ready

Safety habits and a small toolkit before the first project.

  • Buy safety glasses and keep them with your tools Guide
  • Check your step ladder is sturdy and rated for you plus tools Guide
  • If your home was built before 1978, test before sanding or scraping paint Guide
  • Put together the starter toolkit

Core skills

Practice on scrap wood or a closet wall first.

  • Measure and mark to the nearest 1/16 inch Guide
  • Draw a level line across a wall Guide
  • Drill a clean pilot hole and drive a screw flush Guide
  • Find and confirm a stud Guide
  • Install a drywall anchor rated for the load Guide

Walls and paint

The projects that change how a room looks most.

  • Patch nail holes so they disappear Guide
  • Patch a doorknob-size hole with a mesh patch Guide
  • Choose a paint finish and test a sample Guide
  • Cut in a clean line along a ceiling Guide
  • Paint a whole room Guide

Around the house

Small jobs you'll never need to call someone for again.

  • Hang a picture or mirror level Guide
  • Mount a floating shelf into studs Guide
  • Install a curtain rod Guide
  • Anchor a tall dresser or bookcase to the wall Guide
  • Fix a squeaky or sticking door Guide
  • Adjust a crooked cabinet door Guide
  • Replace a showerhead Guide
  • Re-caulk a tub or shower Guide