Home Home Improvement Home Maintenance & Repairs 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. By Real Simple Editors Real Simple Editors Facebook Instagram Twitter An article attributed to "Real Simple Editors" indicates a collaborative effort from our in-house team. Sometimes, several writers and editors have contributed to an article over the years. These collaborations allow us to provide you with the most accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information available.The REAL SIMPLE team strives to make life easier for you. They are experts in their fields who research, test and clearly explain the best recipes, strategies, trends and products. They have worked for some of the most prestigious brands in lifestyle journalism, including Apartment Therapy, Better Homes & Gardens, Food & Wine, the Food Network, Good Housekeeping, InStyle, Martha Stewart Living, O: The Oprah Magazine, Parents, POPSUGAR, Rachel Ray Every Day, and Vogue. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Updated on October 18, 2021 Share Tweet Pin Email Photo: COURTESY OF HOME DEPOT A putty knifeRemoves old caulk or opening paint cans.A standard flat-nose claw hammer12 to 16 ounces with a steel head.A multihead screwdriverPhillips-head, flathead, and Torx (six-point star shape).A 12-volt cordless drillMeant for DIY work, like hanging curtains and mounting heavy art.Assorted fastenersA kit with nuts, bolts, washers, anchors, and nails in various sizes.Duct tapePerfect for quick fixes, like patching a torn bicycle seat.A metal tape measureShould measure at least an inch wide, so it won't flop when extended.A C-clampHolds together glued pieces while they dry.Needle-nose pliersGood for minor jewelry repairs and pulling out small nails.An adjustable wrenchInstead of having a set with many different sizes.WD-40Right for lubing bike chains and loosening rusty hinges.Slip-joint pliersThese adjust to grip items of various sizes.A crosscut sawMeasure 14 to 16 inches long, for small carpentry projects. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit