apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

Learning how to use a power drill changed my life.

Electric stud finder...

(insert pun here)

I am currently head over heels for my battery powered circular saw. It is only a matter of time before I return to my jigsaw fantasies.

I'm moving into my first house tomorrow. Very helpful list, thanks.

If you live in an older house/apartment, a current finder. We didn't have one and my husband hit a wire while drilling into the wall. Hooray for a *very* sensitive and efficient circuit breaker!

A good toolbox! Or other system for storing and organizing your tools and supplies. For organizing screws, nails, drill bits, and electric screwdriver bits, head over to the sewing and crafts organization section. The flat boxes for organizing floss, buttons, and such are often cheaper there than the nearly identical products sold in the hardware section.

Another thing: If you're going to build anything with screws, and there's even the slightest chance you'll need to take the screws out later, don't buy cheap screws! If you ever find yourself looking for heavy-duty screws, get deck screws instead. The square head won't strip out like a Phillips screw head can.

Also, don't buy cheap screwdrivers. My Sears Craftsman set has served me very well; my step-dad has a set that's older than me and still going strong. We've both destroyed a few cheap screwdrivers in the meantime.

Stud finder...yes, very useful.
The phone number of a good handyman when projects go haywire...priceless.

Thanks for the article! It's full of useful tips! Now I'll try to find those priceless discount power tools you've recommended.

This list is very handy. Thanks!

Also, fellow AT'ers, if you are a homeowner, will you take this quick survey about home improvement as a favor to me: http://www.surveygizmo.com/s/115813/tv-commercial-feedback

Thanks!