Beginning your DIY Journey: Tools of the Trade

What are your 2024 goals?

If 2024 has found you with big DIY project goals, but you aren’t sure which DIY tools for beginners you will need, you’re in the right place! I am here to walk you through what you need and how to get started on your home DIY projects, so we can all reach our goals this year…TOGETHER!

this Project

DIY Tools for Beginners

Let’s start with the tools! If today was the first day of my DIY journey, there are a few DIY tools for beginners that I would want in my toolbag:

1. Hand tools: I know this might seem like a given, but I only had these on hand because I feel like it comes with the husband. If you are starting from scratch, I recommend purchasing a starter set like this one, which comes with all of the basics at an affordable price. You will notice that it isn’t the “biggest” or the “cheapest,” but it is a quality brand with all of the necessities and none of the random extras you will never use.
2. Circular Saw or Miter Saw: Are you surprised this is number two on my list? Most lists would probably head straight for a drill, but the truth is, the majority of the DIY projects I take on don’t require a drill! If you plan to build furniture or built-ins right away, buy a drill (I highly recommend this one!), but if adding board and batten, picture frame molding, or trimming a window is more your speed, you will need a circular saw or a miter saw. The circular saw will be more budget-friendly, but the miter saw will grow with you as your skills improve!
3. Brad Nailer: When you are getting started in DIY and completing those beginner-friendly projects, there is no tool that you will excitedly use as often as your brad nailer. Having a lightweight, battery-powered option like this one (no compressor needed) is a game changer, and your confidence will soar with each nail!
4. Laser Level: Some people may consider this a luxury item, and while you can get by without one (I did for years), for under $50, it will make almost every project you do easier/straighter and more efficient! I have and love this one.
5. The right paint brushes: It took me 3 years and many, many ruined $14 paint brushes before I came across these angled brushes…and now I will never buy anything else. I buy them in bulk and they cost around $4 each, but even if you just need one, you can find them at most hardware stores for under $7. They glide smoothly, trim perfectly, and the short handle helps to prevent hand cramps.

What’s Next?

Now that you have the tools, it’s time to get started! Let me know in the comments below what project is first up on your 2024 goal list! I will be adding detailed blog posts each week to answer FAQ’s, provide instruction, and share budget-friendly ways I have updated my outdated home. Be sure to sign up for my newsletter as well for notifications, a look behind the scenes, and ways that we can connect to help YOU check off those DIY goals!