Dad's Quick Take
A starter toolkit covers most home tasks: a drill, hammer, screwdrivers, tape measure, level, pliers, utility knife, adjustable wrench, stud finder, and an assortment of screws/nails/anchors. Add a flashlight and you're set for the common stuff.
The starter ten
- Cordless drill — drives screws, drills holes; the workhorse.
- Hammer and an assortment of nails.
- Screwdrivers (Phillips & flathead) or a bit set.
- Tape measure and a level for hanging things straight.
- Pliers and an adjustable wrench.
- Utility knife, stud finder, and wall anchors.
Hang things without wrecking the wall
For anything heavy, find a wall stud (with a stud finder) and screw into it, or use the right drywall anchor rated for the weight. A nail straight into drywall will pull right out and take a chunk with it.
Dadgree Decoder
A stud is the solid wood framing behind the drywall. An anchor is the plastic/metal piece that grips drywall so a screw can hold weight where there's no stud.
Common questions
Buy a pre-made kit or build my own?
A basic pre-made household kit is a great, cheap start. Add the cordless drill separately — it's the one tool you'll reach for constantly.