MRS. FIX-IT

Over the last few years, I have acquired a small collection of tools, and I consider them quite useful to my growing tool collection. As I contemplated what to write about this month, I thought it might be beneficial to some readers to hear about what tools I consider useful in my collection.

The following tools are what I consider useful to the “DIY-er” even if you are just a beginner.

• Power drill One of my first purchases to add to my collection was a battery-charged power drill. I use this for so many different “handy-gal” projects around my home. From hanging something on the wall to building a toy tool bench for my toddler, my handheld drill comes in handy. One thing I don’t have but I would consider to be useful is a replacement battery. My drill seems to run out of power quickly, and having a backup to switch out with would help keep my projects going.

• Drill bits You’ll also need an assortment of drill bits; these will break easily and are not that expensive to replace. They come in all sorts of sizes, and it can be overwhelming trying to decide which ones will work best for you. My drill came with a basic set of bits, which were very useful. There has only been a few times where I needed a larger bit, but I was directed to the proper one after visiting Home Depot and asking a salesperson for help (I’ve even brought in screws to compare to the size of the bit).

• Multi-bit handheld screwdriver For those smaller projects where you might not need as much power as a cordless drill, a multi-bit handheld screwdriver might be what you need.

I’ve used ours countless times for things like assembling the children’s toys or replacing batteries in those toys. Sometimes one project involves different types of screwdrivers, and having one with replaceable heads can save you time and storage space. We keep ours in our “junk drawer” and use it often.

• Jigsaw I found a jigsaw an easy solution to help me make those smaller cuts on plywood. My jigsaw helped make my son’s tool bench, and I used it to cut out a frame for an old rocking chair that was handed down to me. Before I purchased a jigsaw, I took advantage of Home Depot’s offer where they will make a few cuts for you for free. I came with plans in hand and knew exactly where I needed the cuts to be before I arrived and purchased the wood.

• Safety goggles This one doesn’t need much explaining. If you’re using power tools or any tools, you need to protect your face. Don’t risk it.

• Adjustable wrench An adjustable wrench comes in handy just like a multi bit screwdriver. You can adjust the wrench to the size of the nuts and bolts with which you are working.

• A good tool box Once I started acquiring quite a few tools, it was a good idea for me to find something to put them in instead of just laying them on the counter in the garage; although, that worked for a while. My dad actually bought me my first tool box; it’s simple but sturdy and keeps everything in one place. I’m no longer fumbling through the garage trying to find the right tool; I know exactly where to look first!

• Level I have used our level countless times around many different projects around our home. I’ve got a good eye, but sometimes I can’t tell when things are in balance. A level will clear this up right away for you.

• Tape measure This one comes in handy for obvious reasons as well. A simple inexpensive one from your local hardware store will serve its purpose.

• Ladder A ladder will also provide to be an essential item in your tool collection. After using our kitchen chairs for many projects around the home, we decided it was time to invest in a decent ladder.

It’s one of those things you don’t think about needing until you need it but, when you do need one, it comes in so much more handy (and is safer) than a table or chair.

There are a few other tools I have stored in my collection, but these 10 are my top go-to tools out of the bunch. I’m certainly not an expert on handyman (gal) projects around the home, but I’m learning along the way, picking up the needed tools as I go.

It’s important to always remember safety first. If you aren’t sure how to use a tool, ask someone and have fun creating.

Sara Thomas is Mrs. Fix-it.

She is originally from Louisiana and is a mother of two, Ryker and Reese. Her husband, Jason, was born and raised in Texas and very proud of that. Email Sara at sara_e_thomas@hotmail.com.