So, you’re ready to get into the DIY game. Maybe there are a few projects around the house you want to complete. Or maybe you finally just want to hang those photos you’ve been putting off forever. Whatever your motivation, every DIY journey begins with assembling the perfect toolkit to help you tackle any project, big or small.

We’ve put together a list of basic tools to have that both the average homeowner and a beginner-level DIYer will need to succeed.

Essential Tools for Homeowners and Beginner DIYers

1. Tape Measure

You’ll be surprised how often you’ll reach for your tape measure for one reason or another. A 25-foot long tape will cover a wide range of DIY and home improvement projects. If you’re looking for a sturdy tape measure, choose one with a nylon or acrylic-coated blade that won’t crack or split.
Average Price: $5-$20
Projects You’ll Need It For: Any projects that require precise measurements, from remodeling projects around the home to measuring for new appliances or furniture.

2. Utility Knife

A utility knife is a great basic tool to have. Cheaply-made knives are prone to problems such as blades that snap or won’t lock into place, so when shopping for one, go for a mid-range knife with a rubber grip to prevent slipping.
Average Price: $15-$30
Projects You’ll Need It For: You will find more uses for this tool than you might think; from opening packages to DIY projects like removing carpet, taking out a bathroom vanity or even breaking down an old mattress.

3. Claw Hammer

While there are several types of hammers, the claw hammer is most commonly used. Its main use is to pound or extract nails from wood. Choose one with a rubber or vinyl handle for shock absorption and an easier grip.
Average Price: $10-$40
Projects You’ll Need It For: Hammers are handy for everything from hanging pictures on the wall to more in-depth DIY projects like removing tile flooring or tearing down your wooden deck.

4. Screwdriver Set

In the current do-it-yourself age, a screwdriver set is vital to have. And most beginner DIYers learn the hard way that just one single screwdriver won’t cut it. Find a set with both flat-head and Phillips-head screwdrivers in various sizes to cover a range of projects big and small.
Average Price: $20-$40
Projects You’ll Need It For: You’ll use your screwdriver set for everything from putting new batteries into your child’s toy to home gutter repairs.

5. Hardware

An assortment of hardware – or nails and screws – in various types and sizes will come in handy often. Keep them in a box with compartments for easy separating and label them so you can quickly find what you’re looking for.
Average Price: $9-$11 (can be purchased in 6-ounce or 1-pound packages)
Projects You’ll Need It For:

• Finishing nails are used for putting the final touches on molding, trim and hardwood flooring projects.
• Vinyl sinkers are used in construction and carpentry projects, and help make it easier to hammer into wood.
• Galvanized nails are used for mainly outdoor projects, specifically roofing, because they are coated in zinc to prevent rust and corrosion.
• Drywall screws are used to secure drywall to metal studs and can be used to patch ceilings after knocking down a wall in your home.
• Outdoor screws are typically made of stainless steel and are completely rust resistant, which make them great for building a new deck.

6. Tape

There’s a wide range of tapes that may be better suited for your project than all-purpose masking tape or scotch tape. Each type of tape has different qualities of fabric, polyethylene, and adhesive made for a variety of uses.
Average Price: $7-$10
Projects You’ll Use It For:

• Duct tape provides strong adhesion and can be used for the largest variety of projects from art to working on finishing your basement.
• Electrical tape, also known as insulating tape, is pressure-sensitive and can be used for insulating wires or other materials that conduct electricity.
• Painter’s tape is designed to protect your door frames, floorboards and trim during painting projects. It comes off easily without leaving residue or damaging existing paint.
• Plumber’s tape – also known as PFTE, thread seal or Teflon tape – is commonly used in plumbing for sealing pipe threads.

7. Adjustable Pliers

Adjustable pliers will make a great addition to your tool collection. Its angled jaws make this tool useful for turning nuts and bolts. Pliers can also function as clamps and wire cutters and may also be called plier wrenches, tongue and groove pliers or locking pliers.
Average Price: $15-$30
Projects You’ll Use It For: Depending on the type you buy, a pair of pliers can be used for gripping something large like a rod or pipe or smaller things like nails in wood trim, if you are removing or replacing your baseboards.

8. Adjustable Crescent Wrench

Adjustable wrenches have a moveable jaw, allowing them to be used with different sized nuts and bolts. At the beginner level, a full set of various sizes isn’t necessary; just one large adjustable wrench will do. Make sure to store your wrench in a cool, dry place to avoid rust.
Average Price: $20-$35
Projects You’ll Use It For: You will use these when you are loosening or tightening a nut or a bolt, possibly in a plumbing project or when assembling new furniture.

9. Allen Wrenches

An Allen wrench is a simple tool that is used to drive bolts and screws with hexagonal sockets in their heads. Choose a set with various sizes to accommodate a range of projects. Allen wrenches are also called hex keys or Allen keys.
Average Price: $5-$15
Projects You’ll Use It For: There are multiple uses for these wrenches including putting together or repairing furniture, fixing bicycles or even picking a door lock that your adventurous child may have gotten stuck behind.

10. Level

Levels are used to ensure that lines or surfaces are entirely straight. Levels usually consist of small tubes containing liquid and an air bubble. If the air bubble is in the center of the tube, the line or surface is level. Most can double as a ruler or straightedge as well.
Price Range: $10-$40
Projects You’ll Use It For: Levels can be used to find level ground, ensure that new flooring is even or even for something as simple as hanging art or photos on the wall.

11. Stepladder

This isn’t exactly a tool, but a 6-to-10-foot stepladder will allow you to reach most areas of your home. When choosing one, make sure to check the stability and always ensure you are using it on a firm, level, non-slippery surface.
Average Price: $70-$100
Projects You’ll Use It For: A stepladder will come in handy often in your home, especially for completing simple chores like dusting, changing lightbulbs or reaching high cabinets. You will also need it for DIY projects like installing new light fixtures or painting your ceilings.