The most important factor in completing home improvement projects is having the right tool for the job. It’s that simple. Home improvement isn’t rocket science, and when you’re unable to complete a task, it’s usually not because you aren’t smart or skilled enough. It’s because you don’t have that tool that does that thing you need in order to finish the job!
Unfortunately, you can’t bring your entire workshop with you wherever you go. So my system is this: I have a separate tool bag for different types of work. That way, I can grab one and go, and be confident I’ll have the tools I need for the repair I’m tackling. I recommend you try it out; a sturdy, versatile tool tote like this one, from Husky, is affordable enough that you can buy several. And the rotating handle makes it easy to access all your stuff (even large tools).
Here’s what I have in my tool bags:
All-Purpose Tool Bag
(This is the one you can grab for anything!)
- (1) Level
- (2) Measuring tape (this one from Milwaukee is the best I’ve ever used)
- (3) Drywall anchors
- (4) Drill (I like this combo drill-driver, but if you have space, get an impact driver as well)
- (5) Drill bits
- (6) Utility knife
- (7) Dremel oscillating tool (seriously – always have one of these on hand)
- (8) Multi-bit screwdriver (make sure you get the ratcheting type)
- (9) Adjustable wrench
- (10) Diagonal cutting pliers
- (11) Hammer
- (12) Flashlight
- (13) Random fasteners (screws, nuts, washers, nails … they always come in handy)
- (14) Zip ties
- (15) Hole saw (for installing deadbolts, punching through cabinets, quick wiring jobs)
Electrical Tool Bag
- (1) Voltage tester
- (2) Wire stripper
- (3) Lineman’s pliers
- (4) Utility knife
- (5) Electrical tape
- (6) Flashlight or headlamp
- (7) Screwdriver
- (8) Marker
- (9) Outlet plates and switch plates
- (10) Assorted wire nuts
- (11) Machine screws (assortment pack)
- (12) A spare outlet and switch
Plumbing Tool Bag
- (1) Pipe wrench, (2) adjustable wrench, and (3) chain wrench
- (4) Basin wrench
- (5) Groove joint pliers
- (6) Locking pliers
- (7) Hacksaw
- (8) Pry bar
- (9) Pipe cutter
- (10) Eye protection
- (11) Gloves
- (12) Teflon tape
- (13) Utility knife
Painting & Patching Tool Bag
- (1) High-quality brushes (keep them clean and they’ll last forever)
- (2) Spackle
- (3) Putty knife (not the cheap plastics ones … get some good ones and take care of them)
- (4) Painter’s tape
- (5) Drop cloth
- (6) Brillo pad
- (7) Utility knife
- (8) Mini foam roller
Now, obviously this system isn’t going to cover you for every repair or project you take on. But the idea is, if you’re doing something electrical, you should be able to grab your electrical tote and know that you have almost everything you need (maybe you’ll just have to add a few specific things). Not only that, but it makes storage and organization a little bit easier (just dump tools back the right tote and you’re done).
This post is sponsored by The Home Depot, but all opinions are mine alone. Thanks for supporting the brands that help make Curbly possible.
I LOVE this system! I’ve been using one beat up toolbox that is a jumbled mess at the bottom — so frustrating. I really like the idea of having different bags for different purposes so you can grab and go. Thanks for the tip!
@marlene thanks!!