Amanda's Top 8 Starter DIY Home Renovation Tools

Amanda's Top 8 Starter DIY Home Renovation Tools

Making our homes feel homier is more important now than ever, and that has inspired a lot of people to start DIY projects. But, are you sure you have the right equipment? Or maybe you're not even sure where to start? Thankfully, we have some amazing picks from DIYer and designer extraordinaire, Amanda (@dwellaware). When we asked her about advice for starting your DIY journey, here's what she said:

"DIY is so empowering and will help you to make home truly yours and to enjoy where you live. As you move towards your DIY journey, it can be overwhelming figuring out what you need to get started! Getting down to the basics is important. 

This list of 8 starter tools will go a long way in your journey of transforming your home. These tools will last you for years to come and will help you in both simple and complicated projects."
Creator Image
Amanda Walker
DIY Blogger

My name is Amanda Walker and I am a DIY home designer, proud mother of two, plant mama, and a unique voice in the social communities that I participate in. ... See More

  • Ryobi 18V One+ Handheld Drill/Driver and Impact Driver Kit Image 1
    Source：amazon.com
    Ryobi 18V One+ Handheld Drill/Driver and Impact Driver Kit Image 2
    Source：amazon.com

    Ryobi
    18V One+ Handheld Drill/Driver and Impact Driver Kit

    Amanda Walker

    This set is indispensable in your DIY journey. I only purchased this set in the last couple of years, and I wish I would have had it from the first day that we moved in! 

    It includes two drills, and they are both cordless but powerful. I mostly use the handheld driver, but the impact driver comes in handy when you need more strength for a project. 

    It also includes two batteries, which is great because you can keep one charged so you don't run out of power during a project. The batteries can also be used for the other tools in the Ryobi brand, so you don't have to purchase them again when getting a new tool.
    $162.45
  • Komelon Monster Maggrip 30' Measuring Tape Image 1
    Source：amazon.com

    Komelon
    Monster Maggrip 30' Measuring Tape

    Amanda Walker

    Having a high-quality tape measure goes a long way in DIYing! This tape measure reaches 30 feet, so it can help you out in all the different types of measuring situations. I also enjoy that this one has a magnetic end.

    Buying a higher quality measuring tape initially is wise because they don't bend and break easily. When you don't have bends in the measuring tape - which happens all the time with cheaper measuring tapes - then it's easier to get measurements on your own.
    $19.65
  • Ryobi 2.6 Amp Random Orbit Sander Image 1
    Source：amazon.com

    Ryobi
    2.6 Amp Random Orbit Sander

    Amanda Walker

    Whether it's refinishing furniture, painting your interior doors, or woodworking, having a sander is so helpful. This is a powerful sander, and I appreciate that it has sanding circle pads that attach to it, so it's really convenient to get it ready for a project. The dust bag keeps the sawdust more contained. 

    Power sanding in certain DIY projects can really give you that finished and professional feel. It's also helpful when you are repainting an item because when you give it a sanding, your paint will adhere more smoothly.
    $64.48
  • IRWIN 16 oz. Hammer Image 1
    Source：amazon.com

    IRWIN
    16 oz. Hammer

    Amanda Walker

    There are so many things you can build and fix with a hammer! This one has a really great grip so you can hold on when you are making DIY magic. Even for hanging pictures, a high-quality one makes a big difference because it's easier to have precision with your hits. 

    It also helps out to reduce hammer marks when you drive a nail in, which is important for having a good finish and not ruining the surface you are hammering. The back of it is also great for removing nails without damaging the wall.
    $9.99
  • Pro Grade Variety Angle Paint Brushes Image 1
    Source：amazon.com

    Pro Grade
    Variety Angle Paint Brushes

    Amanda Walker

    Paint has the power to transform any space! I love this set of paintbrushes because it comes with various angles and sizes, so you can go after any paint project that you want. Depending on your project, you might have the need for each and every one of these brushes. 

    I enjoy how the small ones help you to get into the nooks and crannies when painting to get great coverage. The quality is also great on this set but is much more affordable than others. This gives me peace of mind that I'm not going to ruin a very expensive brush on accident.
    $14.99
  • Rust-Oleum Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer Image 1
    Source：amazon.com

    Rust-Oleum
    Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer

    Amanda Walker

    When we moved into our home, all the doors had yellowed oil-based paint. I struggled for years, trying to figure out what to do, and this paint came to the rescue! I cannot speak enough praises about this paint primer. It is water-based but will stick to almost any surface inside or outside. 

    It can be also used in so many painting projects and does not require heavy sanding before use. I have taken so many projects to the next level, and this is a must in your DIY "toolbelt"!
    $10.70
  • Bates Choice Telescoping Paint Roller Pole Image 1
    Source：amazon.com

    Bates Choice
    Telescoping Paint Roller Pole

    Amanda Walker

    As we have discussed, paint can make such a beautiful difference in a space. That's why having a quality roller pole makes such an impact in a faster and smoother job when painting. High walls and ceilings can be hard to easily DIY, but this roller helps you do the job quicker and more efficiently. 

    My extension pole has been indispensable, as we have painted our whole home. I also enjoy that it collapses small enough that you can reach the bottom of walls at good angles. If you have paint projects in your DIY journey, you will not regret this purchase!
    $13.99
  • Makita 75 PC Metric Drill and Screw Bit Set Image 1
    Source：amazon.com

    Makita
    75 PC Metric Drill and Screw Bit Set

    Amanda Walker

    Having a universal drill and screw bit set is a game-changer when starting out in DIY. Whether you are removing old hardware or adding new cabinet pulls, this set will help you to always be ready for the task. 

    I like this set because you can keep things organized without the need to buy each drill and screw bit individually. It took me a few years to buy this comprehensive set, and I wished that it would have been in my life earlier as it leaves me always ready for quick fixes and more intensive projects.
    $24.97