Back-to-school season has us in the mood for a refresher on go-to tools and how to use them. We’ve created a crash course for building your toolkit and utilizing tools commonly used for DIY projects. From basic tools like tape measures to tools that simplify DIY projects, you’ll "drive" deeper into the world of drill bits and ace that next project on your list.
Part 1: Foundational Tool Tips
How To Use a Level
Nothing brings us more joy than a completely level floating shelf, and the easiest way to get it right the first time is with a level. A level ensures a surface is properly angled horizontally, vertically, or at a 45-degree angle. It’s a simple tool that will be handy around your home as well as on DIY projects.
How To Use a Square
Don’t let the name fool you! A square is an L-shaped or triangular tool that allows you to find square (90-degree) angles for DIY projects. There are different square tools to choose from, but our recommendation is a six-inch speed square, which can easily create straight and miter cuts.
How To Use a Tape Measure
A tape measure is a must-have tool for any household. While most DIYers know how to use a tape measure at its most basic level, this tool has key features and designs that might surprise you (like that random measurement on the back of your tape measure). This guide will help you leverage this simple tool, from best practices to products we recommend most.
How To Use Sandpaper
Did you know there’s a right way to use sandpaper? It provides extra attention to detail that every DIY project needs. If you use sandpaper in the right way (or direction), you’ll have wood pieces that are smooth to the touch. Learn how to choose the right sandpaper for your project—and how to use it—with this quick tutorial.
How To Stain Wood
Whether building an outdoor deck or a side table, applying a stain can add a beautiful, finished look to your project. From stain selection to proper application, these steps will leave you with a project that catches your guests' attention.
How To Use a Kreg Jig
A Kreg jig is a handy tool that is used to drill pocket holes, which is an angled hole that forms a pocket for screws to rest in. The jig itself guides your screws from one piece of wood into the other at an angle, creating a stronger joint with a cleaner look. This Kreg jig tutorial will help get you started, from preparing your tools to plugging the holes at the end.
Part 2: Drills and drill bits
How To Use a Power Drill
Power drills are versatile tools that jump-start your tool kit. When you buy different attachments, you can expand what you can use a drill for beyond pre-drilling screw holes or driving screws. With this quick tutorial and the right driver and drill bits (see the accessories and bits videos below) on hand, you can power your way through your next DIY project.
Assorted Drill Bits and Accessories
With the right assortment of drill bits and accessories, you can get even more use out of your drill and simplify DIY steps that might take more time with alternative tools. This video covers attachments for your power drill that you didn’t know you needed—from paint mixers to wire brushes.
What Are Driver Bits?
Driver bits like slot (or flathead) and Phillips fit into a power drill and turn it into the power drill equivalent of a screwdriver, but others like star driver bits and nut drivers are useful to have for DIY projects. This video covers the driver bits most common in DIY projects as well as best practices that will help you DIY to the best of your abilities.
How To Pick the Right Nail or Screw
A common question we get from DIYers is how to choose the right nail or screw for a project, but it’s easier than you might think! Equipped with a couple of shopping tips and a deeper understanding of the difference between nails and screws, you can decide what’s best for your project with confidence.
How To Use Twist Bits
Drill bits are simple tools if you know how to use them, and here’s our favorite: the twist bit. A twist bit is helpful for drilling wood, plastic, and even metal. See how twist bits work—and why you’ll never catch us without one in our toolbox—in this video tutorial.
How To Use Spade or Paddle Bits
Spade (or paddle) bits drill holes partway through materials such as wood, plywood, and some plastics. While this may not be used for every DIY project, spade bits deserve a spot in your toolbox, and in some cases, you’ll find that they perform even better than the average drill bit.
How To Use a Smart-Bit®
Smart-Bits® are commonly used for projects like hardwood or composite wood decking. These bits are designed to pre-drill specific depths as well as countersinks, which creates room for screw heads to be recessed. If you have a decking project on your hands, these are essential!
For more trusted advice for your next DIY project, check out our DIY Advice page!
