I'm looking for the perfect "starter pack" of tools and supplies for my girlfriend, who is really getting into home improvement projects. She enjoys doing everything herself, from growing her own food to making cleaning products, but she's just starting with renovations and has only basic tools. I want to help her out with things she might actually need. I was thinking about safety gear like a mask and glasses for when she's drilling or sanding, but I'm unsure what else would be useful. Any suggestions?
5 Answers
Definitely consider a good drill if she doesn't have one yet; it's a game changer for projects! Heavy-duty power cords, a color-coded wrench set, and a set of vise grips are also super useful. Don't forget a toolbox or a bag on wheels so she can keep everything organized and mobile!
Gifting a mitre saw might inspire her into woodworking! Just a heads-up though, never sand indoors without a mask, and keep batteries out of smoke alarms when you're working, trust me!
If she's into cordless tools, check what brand she's using to ensure you get the right battery family for any additional tools or accessories. Otherwise, a good air purifier could be a lifesaver for managing the dust that these projects generate!
A gift card to a local hardware store is a great idea! She'll probably be visiting there often. Plus, everyone ends up with random tools from the projects they start, so it's nice to let her choose what she wants. That way, if she finds she needs something specific after her first few tries, she's covered!
Good personal protective equipment (PPE) is key, especially for DIY work. Comfortable safety glasses, over-ear hearing protection, and a respirator with filters can make a big difference for her safety and comfort. And hey, gloves in multiple styles will help her choose what works best for different tasks!

Totally agree! I have so many tools from mistakes I made, it's better for her to pick what she really needs.