Step stool
Tape measure
Utility knife
Stud finder
Drill bits
Small tool bag
Hex keys
Combination screwdriver
Touch-up marker
Yardstick
Eye protection
Caulk smoother
Duct Tape

Step stool

For indoor jobs, a large, heavy ladder isn't usually needed. Invest in a solid, preferably aluminum step stool. Be sure to account for not only your weight but the approximate weights of different things you might be lifting while on the stool.

Tape measure

When tackling those big projects, you'll need a sturdy tape measure. It's recommended to invest in a 25-foot (7.6 meter) tape measure and one that's wide enough to avoid bending and collapsing when it's extended across a room.

Utility knife

From tough cuts like plastic zip ties to easier-to-manage string, the utility knife is a must-have. Ensure the blade you choose is replaceable and sharp. When you're not using the utility knife, take the blade out and safely store it.

Stud finder

Ready to hang something up on your wall? Anything you attach to a wall should always be mounted to the vertical structural pieces of wood, known as studs, behind the wall. This finder helps you locate the studs so you can easily hang your photo or piece of art.

Drill bits

For many medium-to-large-sized jobs, it's easier to first drill a hole before driving any screws or bolts into the wall. When you purchase the drill, consider the drill bits you might need in the future. Often, hardware stores will sell them in sets or packs, so you're covered no matter what.

Small tool bag

You may know someone who has a metal toolbox at home, and while they're okay to have, fabric ones make carrying much easier. It's also better for popping open the top and grabbing something quickly.

Hammer

This hammer is an excellent staple item to have for every DIY'er. The head of the hammer should be in the 16 to 20-ounce (535 to 566 grams) range and have a curved claw at the back to help pull nails out should you need to.

Hex keys

Sometimes, new furniture will come with small, flimsy Allen wrenches, but as with most other tools, it's worthwhile to invest in a good set of hex keys. At some point in your future, you'll need a hex key, so it's better to have good ones handy.

Combination screwdriver

Having a combination screwdriver or one with multiple heads included will cover you for most home repairs and maintenance. It takes up much less space than having six individual screwdrivers. Plus, it's likely more sturdy and quicker to use.

Touch-up marker

Furniture is something we use regularly, and the longer you have it, the more scrapes, knicks, and dents it's bound to accumulate. A quick, budget-friendly fix is to use furniture touch-up markers. They dry quickly, and it only takes a few seconds to apply.

Yardstick

A yardstick should accompany your tape measure and be a resource for when the tape measure won't sit flat enough against a wall to trace a line. Though the yardstick won't fit in your tool kit, it's often thin enough to slide into a closet somewhere near your tools.

Pliers

Pliers are one of the tools you'll likely use most often. Buy a good set with various pliers included, as you'll likely have different needs arise. For example, large tongue-and-groove pliers are great for large pipes, while cutting pliers will go through anything and help with small-to-do tasks like cutting plastic ties.

Eye protection

Protecting your eyes and vision is essential. While you're hard at work on your home DIY projects, keep your eyes safe from wood dust, chemicals that might splash, or other hazardous materials. Depending on the specific task you're working on, safety glasses (versus safety goggles) are more appropriate.

Caulk smoother

In the past, many would smooth caulk with their fingertips, but it often resulted in cheap, sloppy-looking work. Using a caulk smoother tool will help you evenly distribute the caulk and set the rest of your project up for success.

Ruler

While your DIY tool kit will include a yardstick and tape measure, sometimes neither of those will work well enough for certain projects. Invest in a footlong (30 cm) ruler, as these can help you draw straight lines on walls and so much more.