Real Simple Home Home Improvement Home Maintenance & Repairs Tool Kit Checklist Tool Kit Checklist Ever wonder how much stuff (make that how little stuff) you actually need? Real Simple rallied the experts to find out. Get your trash bag: We're parin' down. Real Simple Author By Real Simple Editors Advertisement FB Tweet More Pinterest Email Send Text Message Print General Tools 10-inch Hawk one-hand ratcheting pipe wrench Credit: COURTESY OF HOME DEPOT Checklist A putty knife Removes old caulk or opening paint cans. A standard flat-nose claw hammer 12 to 16 ounces with a steel head. A multihead screwdriver Phillips-head, flathead, and Torx (six-point star shape). A 12-volt cordless drill Meant for DIY work, like hanging curtains and mounting heavy art. Assorted fasteners A kit with nuts, bolts, washers, anchors, and nails in various sizes. Duct tape Perfect for quick fixes, like patching a torn bicycle seat. A metal tape measure Should measure at least an inch wide, so it won't flop when extended. A C-clamp Holds together glued pieces while they dry. Needle-nose pliers Good for minor jewelry repairs and pulling out small nails. An adjustable wrench Instead of having a set with many different sizes. WD-40 Right for lubing bike chains and loosening rusty hinges. Slip-joint pliers These adjust to grip items of various sizes. A crosscut saw Measure 14 to 16 inches long, for small carpentry projects.
