The beginner's starter toolkit
You don't need a garage full of tools. Ten basics cover most beginner projects; add the rest one project at a time. Prices vary a lot by brand and store; mid-range is fine for home use.
Buy first
Enough for every Level 1 and 2 project. Roughly $150 to $250 in total if you buy mid-range.
- Safety glasses and work gloves
- Every project, every time.
- 25-foot tape measure
- Look for one with clear 1/16-inch marks.
- 24-inch level
- Plus a small torpedo level if you can.
- Cordless drill/driver with bits
- The most useful tool you'll own. 12V is plenty for most home tasks.
- Multi-bit screwdriver
- Phillips and flat in several sizes.
- 16 oz claw hammer
- For picture hooks, nails and tapping hinge pins.
- Utility knife with spare blades
- Change blades often; dull blades slip.
- Stud finder
- One with wire detection is worth the extra few dollars.
- Adjustable wrench and slip-joint pliers
- Showerheads, nuts and bolts.
- Step ladder
- Rated for your weight plus tools.
Add when you need them
Buy these for the project that calls for them.
- Putty knives (2 and 6 inch)
- Patching and scraping.
- Caulk gun
- Get a dripless one.
- Angled paint brush, roller, tray and extension pole
- For your first paint project.
- Sanding sponges
- Fine and medium.
- Assorted drywall anchors and screws
- A mixed kit covers most needs.
- Rubber mallet
- Flat-pack furniture and gentle persuasion.
Rent or borrow
Expensive or rarely used. Many hardware stores rent tools, and some libraries lend them.
- Extension ladder
- For anything beyond a step ladder, consider a pro.
- Wet tile saw
- Tiling projects.
- Carpet cleaner
- Once or twice a year.
- Pressure washer
- Decks and siding; easy to damage surfaces.
Buying tips
- Pick one cordless battery platform and stick with it; batteries are the expensive part.
- A good tape measure, level and drill matter more than anything else here.
- Keep everything in one box or bag so you can find it.
We don't take money from tool brands or stores, and there are no affiliate links on this site.
The First Projects Workbook has this list as a printable checklist.