What's in my
Tool Box
Behind every successful project is a well equipped tool box. Here are a few of my recommendations to start building your collection.
Saws
Chicago Electric 10” – 15 Amp Benchtop Table Saw
Affordable, functional, safe, and easy to transport, the Chicago Electric 10”, 15 Amp Benchtop Table Saw was a great addition to my tool arsenal. It has single handedly changed the way I can approach design and building for all projects.
RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless Brushless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw
​
My first power saw, the RYOBI 7-1/4” Circular Saw is a must have for all furniture type DIY projects. It is exceptional for cutting dimensional lumber as well as plywood.
RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless Orbital Jig Saw
​
I love having the RYOBI Jig Saw, especially when I want to make a rounded cut, or a sharp angle that I would be unable to cut with the circular saw. It is a versatile tool that has added greater capabilities to my DIY projects.
Hand Saws
DEWALT Single Edge Pull Saw
​
A thicker blade than the SUIZAN Pull saw, I use this saw for cutting thicker dowels, trim pieces, or even shims if needed. It packs more of a punch when cutting through material with a thicker blade and bigger teeth.
​
SUIZAN Japanese Hand Saw 8” Ultra Fine Cut Dozuki Dovetail 0.2mm Blade Pull Saw
​
This is my favorite hand saw, a Japanese style pull saw, this super thin blade is great for any fine cuts. I use this mostly in my attempts at finer wood working and finish cuts.
​
DEWALT DWHT20541 Flush Cut Saw
​
The thin, flexible blade of this saw gives me the ability to make thin, hard to reach trim cuts, often cuts flush with another surface. This is a must have tool for any dowel joinery.
Drills
RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Lithium-Ion Cordless ½” Drill/Driver
​
A basic drill, like this one, is a must have for any DIY Project. I use this tool more than any other! The RYOBI model offers great function and practicality all in one affordable drill.
DEWALT 20-Volt MAX XR Lithium-Ion Cordless Brushless 3-Speed ¼” Impact Driver
​
I love having the impact driver as it is a juiced-up version of the normal drill. It is a great tool for fastening applications, especially stronger, harder materials. It speeds up fastening and drilling and, in the end, always gives me a stronger fasten.
Nail Guns
RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless AirStrike 18-Gauge Brad Nailer
​
The battery powered brad nailer that RYOBI created is made for the DIY’er. I had my eyes set on this beauty with it is compact and lightweight design and its lack of an air compressor and hoses. I use this tool for lightweight and quick fastening, usually paired with wood glue for added strength.
Sanders
RYOBI 2.6 Amp Corded 5” Random Orbital Sander
​
No one likes sanding, but everyone loves the final product. Having a random orbital sander makes the process somewhat more enjoyable, it makes sanding faster and more efficient.
Chicago Electric 6 Amp 3 in. x 21 in. Belt Sander
​
Talk about a work hog, this sander will remove material like you've never seen. It is a great addition to the tool box when working on flattening a table top.
Miscellaneous
RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless Fixed Base Trim Router (Tool Free Depth Adjustment)
A non-essential tool that I have, however, it allows me to easily and effortlessly create perfectly lined up edges. My favorite application with this tool is using the round over bit to create a smooth and seamless rounded edge on any wood product.
Empire 7” Rafter (Speed) Square
​
I need to make precise measurements and markings for all my projects. This was one of my first tools because I needed the ability to create perfect squared up joints and cross cuts.
​
Empire 12” Combination Square
This combination square is not an essential tool for most DIY projects, I bought one for its ability to give me perfectly machined edges and angles. Its blade lock function is best for when I need to set precise depth cuts.