How to Build Your Own Basic Toolkit

No need to snag the first inexpensive kit you find. Experts say you can easily curate tools to help you assemble furniture, hang pictures, undertake minor repairs, and more

Home repairs and projects are infinitely easier with the right tools.

By Debbie Wolfe

Moving out on your own, whether it’s into your first apartment or a dorm room, is an exciting time filled with new experiences and responsibilities. I remember my first off-campus apartment during my junior year of college. My roommate and I bought a used sofa that needed a lot of work.

Having grown up in a family of DIYers, I thought it would be an easy project. However, I soon realized I had no tools with me because I hadn’t packed any. It wasn’t even on my mind that I may have to fix something without access to my dad’s tool bench. So I headed to a local big box store and picked up a basic Craftsman toolkit. 

I had that toolkit for many years, and it even made its way to my first home. As my DIY skills (and projects) improved, I eventually upgraded to several Milwaukee sets plus various electric tools. Whether it’s assembling furniture, hanging artwork, or making minor repairs, a basic toolkit is a must-have for any new homeowner, renter, or college student.

Why You Need a Basic Toolkit

Having the right tools can save you time, money, and frustration. Minor tasks such as tightening a loose screw, measuring a space, or assembling furniture become much easier when you are equipped with a basic set of tools. "It’s critical to have a well-organized toolkit early on because it empowers you in so many ways," says Shivani Vyas, interior designer of Studio Vyas. A well-rounded toolkit enables you to take care of your living space, giving you the confidence to handle minor repairs and projects on your own. "It minimizes frustration, stress, and the time wasted searching for, purchasing, or borrowing tools when you need them most," adds Celena Evans, associate broker, Clira Group of Keller Williams Intown Atlanta.

Common Repairs

Most small repairs and maintenance tasks require basic tools and can be done without the need to call a professional. "Having a toolkit essentially gives you the resources to complete DIY projects, personalize your space in creative ways, and problem-solve," says Vyas. Some common repairs you may encounter living on your own include tightening loose screws on cabinets or door handles, furniture assembly, hanging pictures or shelves, and fixing minor plumbing issues, such as leaky faucets or running toilets.

"When personalizing your space, having the right tools ensures you can complete projects efficiently, makes the process smoother, and helps you avoid costly and sometimes irreparable mistakes," says Evans.

Essential Tools for Your Kit 

To ensure you are prepared for common household tasks, here is a list of essential tools every first-time renter or student should have:

Screwdrivers 

If there’s one set of tools that are a must-have above all other hand tools, it’s screwdrivers. Flathead screwdrivers are used to tighten or loosen screws with a straight, linear notch in their head. Phillips-head screwdrivers are designed to fit and turn screws with a cross-shaped indentation. A set that includes both types in multiple sizes will cover most needs. You may even consider getting a multi-bit screwdriver if you are tight on space.

Hammer

A basic claw hammer is perfect for hanging pictures, driving nails, and even minor demolition tasks. Claw hammers, which are more useful than the straight claw version for regular home tasks, feature a curved claw on one end for removing nails—a task that may be necessary if you accidentally drive a nail in the wrong place. 

Shop for a hammer at Amazon or Home Depot.

Measuring Tape

Whether you are hanging curtains or arranging furniture, accurate measurements are essential to successful DIY projects. A 25-foot measuring tape with a locking mechanism is both practical and easy to use.

Shop for a measuring tape at Amazon or Walmart.

Pliers

Pliers are great for gripping, bending, and cutting wires, as well as tightening and loosening nuts and bolts. There are several types, but these three will help you take care of most tasks: 

• Needle-nose pliers (Amazon, Home Depot) are ideal for precision work and reaching tight spaces.
• Slip-joint pliers (Amazon, Home Depot) help grip and turn various objects.
• Vice-grip pliers (Amazon, Home Depot) are perfect for clamping objects securely, freeing up your hands for other tasks.

Adjustable Wrench

Wrenches aren’t necessarily a must for everyone, but they make it easier to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts of various sizes.

Shop for adjustable wrenches at Amazon or Walmart.

Utility Knife

A utility knife is useful for opening boxes, cutting tape, and trimming materials. Opt for a retractable blade model for safety, and make sure to stock up on replacement blades.

Shop for utility knives at Amazon or Lowes.

Level

A level ensures that your pictures, shelves, and other items are perfectly straight. They are available in various sizes, but a small torpedo level is compact and effective, making it easy to store in your toolkit.

Shop for levels at Amazon or Walmart.

Hex Keys (Allen Wrenches)

Many furniture items, especially those requiring assembly, use hex screws. A set of hex keys in various sizes will help you tackle these projects with ease. If you find yourself assembling a lot of furniture in your new space, consider investing in a hexdriver cordless tool. 

Assorted Nails and Screws

Keeping a small assortment of nails, screws, and wall anchors on hand can save you a trip to the hardware store.

Flashlight

An LED flashlight with a long battery life is a practical addition to your toolkit for working in power outages and dimly lit areas.

Tape

Tape is useful for a variety of tasks, from securing materials to marking measurements. Keep duct tape (Amazon, Home Depot) and painter’s tape (Amazon, Home Depot) or masking tape (Amazon, Home Depot) in your kit for different purposes.

Other Useful Tools

While the essentials will cover most tasks, you might also consider adding these tools for more specific projects:

• Safety gear—like latex gloves, safety goggles, and dusk masks—are crucial for preventing injuries from debris, chemicals, or unexpected hazards that can arise during repairs and maintenance tasks.

• A stud finder helps locate studs in the wall, ensuring that heavy items are securely mounted and preventing drywall damage.

• A wet/dry vacuum is a versatile tool for cleaning up both wet and dry messes during projects.

• A stepstool is handy for safely reaching high places. Opt for one with two to three rungs, which should be tall enough to reach most light fixtures and high cabinets.

• Sewing needles and thread may not seem like essential tools for DIYers, but having them will help with hemming curtains, sewing buttons back onto pillows, and other minor alterations.

Storing Your Toolkit

Keeping your tools organized is crucial for ensuring that they’re easy to find and use when needed. A small, portable toolbox with compartments is ideal for apartments or homes. If you have a small space, consider a soft-sided tool bag that can fit into tight spaces or a drawer organizer to keep your tools in place inside a kitchen drawer. 

Budgeting for Your Toolkit

Building a toolkit doesn’t have to be expensive. Start with the basics and gradually add more specialized tools as needed. “For sourcing high-quality tools on a budget, starter kits from reputable brands are a great option,” says Evans. “You don’t need to invest in top-of-the-line tools right away.” She recommends focusing on trusted brands that offer durability and reliability.

If your budget is tight, consider a multitool. “I do love multitools that combine several functions into one,” says Vyas. “Since most apartment renters or college students are tight on space, it’s great to invest in these compact gadgets early on.” As your projects and budgets increase, you can upgrade to specialized DeWalt toolkits or buy higher-quality tools individually. 

With the right tools on hand, you’ll be prepared to tackle a wide range of minor tasks and repairs, giving you greater control over your living space. Start with the essentials, and as you gain confidence in your DIY skills, gradually expand your tool collection. 

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