Beginner Tools – A Top Ten List of My Favorites

Hello and welcome back.  Well, I wouldn’t be a proper blogger without a list of my favorite beginner tools.  I actually have been wanting to write this list for a long time, I get asked about tools a lot.  I wanted to compile a list of the first tools I started using when I started building.  This is not sponsored in any way, and I’m not saying these are the best tools, but these are the ones I used.  They are a little cheaper and good starting tools, and I’ve built everything on this site with them. So, here are my top 10 starter tools I couldn’t live without.

I’ve included the brands and products I actually use.  Some of the links contain updated or newer versions of the tools I have because the version I have is no longer available. This post is not sponsored in any way.  I have included affiliate links, you can read my full disclosure policy HERE.

1. Kreg Pocket Hole Jig

This little baby is amazing. This is litereally one of the very first beginner tools I bought.  If you want to make super strong joints, but don’t yet have the tools or skills to make traditional woodworking joints, this tool is for you.  I have used this so much the past few years.  You basically use your drill with the bit that comes with the system to drill a pocket hole in the board.  The system also comes with another bit to drill the pocket hole screws in.

You can order new drill bits and pocket hole screws to go with it.

2. Black and Decker Mouse Sander

I have to admit, I have a lot of sanders.  I could write a book on sanders.  But, the mouse sander is my favorite.  It works well and the small nose gets into corners well.  It’s super easy to change the sanding pads.

Like I said, I have a plethora of sanders.  I’ll elaborate on that in a later post.

3. RYOBI Cordless Drill

I love this drill.  It’s so easy and super convenient, mainly because it’s cordless. It works well with the Kreg jig system and for most household projects.

I do also have a stronger drill that has been great for more powerful projects.

4. Clamps

Ah, clamps.  Clamps are the best.  If you plan on doing any woodworking or DIY projects, you’ll need a good clamp, or 20.  My favorite clamps are the IRVIN one handed clamps, because of their ease of use.

Sometimes I need a bit stronger clamp, so I have a couple of these Bessy clamps that work well for the big projects.  They are a bit harder to move and set, but they are stronger.

5. Compound Sliding Miter Saw

This is the compound Miter Saw I have and have always used.  It’s a great beginner saw.  I can see how a better saw would be a bit more accurate, but this one actually works really well for the cost.  It does bevel cuts and cuts at an angle.  It’s also “sliding” which allows for making longer cuts.

6. Level

Well, you are just going to need some levels if you are going to do home decor projects.  I have a few different sizes, but if I had to pick the one I used the most, it would be a 48″ one.

7. T-square

The t-square is another tool I use all the time.  I use this for everything from woodworking to crafts and everything in between.

8. Basic Tool Set

I had all these pieces individually when my husband gave me a tool set for Christmas a few years back.  I thought it was weird, since I already had the pieces, but I love that is organized and easy to find the right size bits.  That is, when I put everything back in place ;).

9. Tool Belt

Okay, your’s doesn’t have to be pink…but it can be if you want!  It’s just fun. I like having my stuff on hand and with me as I move around.

 

10. Circular Saw

You’re going to need a circular, or hand saw, if you are going to cut any large pieces of Plywood, drywall or long strips of wood. Just like the miter saw, I’m sure there are more accurate ones, but for a beginner this is agreat one for the price.

So, are you ready to get started woodworking now?  What is your favorite tool?  I hope this beginner tools list helps you with your journey.  Let me know f you have any questions about anything I’ve featured, I’ll do my best to help.

Thanks for stopping by!

My top 10 Favorite Beginner Tools for the DIYer

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