Whether you are a handy and confident Do it Yourselfer or a novice DIYer the first thing you need to do is set yourself up with the basic tools needed for most repairs or a handy project. The worst thing is to start a project and/or a repair and not have the basic needed tools to do the job.

With more complicated and intricate projects, more specialty tools might be required. Also you might find you want to upgrade your tool inventory to some of the more expensive cordless tools that have become more available and cheaper for the non-professional handyman.

One of the things to get on your first shopping expedition for your basic tools is a decent size toolbox. At first some will look too big for your needs, but over time, it will get so full you might need a second one. At that point you might decide to divide your tools into category toolboxes. Just remeber once you add your tools, the toolbox will get heavy. Do not buy one so big, when filled, it will be too heavy to carry. To remedy this, you might want to buy or make a tool carrier. You can place in it the tools and supplies needed for the project and then return to the tool box when done.

Even for the novice handyman, a basic home tool kit is essential to any household or apartment. Here’s what you’ll need.

Screwdrivers:

You need a set of straight and Philips screw drivers. They usually come in 3 main sizes. There are also manual and cordless power combination drivers with exchangeable bits.

Hammers:

There are different types of hammers. For the home handyman a basic claw hammer is the best type for most needs. There are different styles of handles, when shopping, pick up the different types and find the most comfortable type for you.

Cutting Sawing:

1. Utility knife. These come in different styles with segmented snapable blades or types with replacement blades. This is good for opening packages, trimming wood, plastic or rubber material.
2. Scissors.  These are also useful for opening packaging and trimming peel and stick materials. You should get one made of a strong material with a good solid blade.
3. A hack saw (for pipes and metals)
4. A small utility saw for wood

Gripping:

In this category, you should have plies and wrenches. To clarify the difference, (pair of) pliers are used to hold or bend, such as metal or wire. A wrench is to hold and twist, such as turning a nut or bolt and tighten plumbing fixtures.

1. Adjustable wrench (small).
2. Needle nose pliers
3. Slip-joint pliers

Measuring and Leveling:

1. Metal tape measure. 12 feet or longer, with increments marked – 1/8, 3/16 and so on.
2. Level – for these purposes, a small one, a foot or less in length.
3. Metal ruler – for measuring, and as a straight-edge to guide cutting.

Also needed in your basic tool kit is fastening items. A small selection of each is good to have available. The different types and amounts will increase over time. It is also advisable to purchase some type of container to hold and store these items.

1. Selection of screws, bolts, picture hangers, finishing nails.
2. Duct tape – for quick temporary repairs.
3. Electrical tape – for uncomplicated wire maintenance.
4. Sandpaper – Different grits (coarseness) used to smooth rough wood surfaces
5. Emory Paper – Similar to sandpaper uses but used on metal

Advise:

Another piece of advice is not buying the cheapest tools available. These are usually made of cheaper grade metal and will not last. Even though the better quality tools look expensive, in the long run, with the proper care, they can last a lifetime. Stanley and Craftsman are very good quality. Craftsman is a brand by Sears in America and come with a lifetime guarantee.

Also get into the habit to clean your tools when finished and keep them well organized. Leaving tools out can lead to misplacement or loss.

When using tools that get wet, dry them well and wipe with a cloth containing a light utility oil to prevent rusting.