There’s nothing worse than realizing you’ve run out of one of your tried and true, always-have-on-hand products mid-DIY. As a serial DIY-er, I use a few items at least once in almost every project. They’re kind of like go-to condiments and spices in the kitchen. The meal, or in this case, DIY projects, just can’t be completed without them.
These are the items I always have on hand, with at least one backup at all times, because nothing is more frustrating than getting on a DIY roll and having to run to the hardware store. After all, one of your “besties” is running on empty. Without further adieu, these are the products every DIYer needs.
Products Every DIYer Needs: Glue and Adhesives
I use glue or adhesive in almost every project I work on. The number of glue and adhesive products available can be overwhelming if you’re starting out, which is why I recommend grabbing more versatile products that can be applied to different projects and surfaces. There are three that I always have on hand to keep the DIY flow going.
Wood Glue
Nothing works better for wood-based projects. The bond is unmatched when adhering one wood surface to another, and in some cases, wood glue can remove the need for any fastener (such as nails and screws) altogether.
Industrial-Strength Adhesive
A clear, paintable, industrial-strength adhesive is imperative for almost everything else. It can be used for a permanent bond on many surfaces, including wood, metal, plastic, ceramic, and fabric.
Expert Tip: Invest in a pinpoint nozzle for next-level precision. You won’t regret it!
Glue Gun Sticks
Every crafty girl knows you can’t live without a glue gun, but the instant bond makes it magical for DIY purposes. I don’t find the adhesion of a glue gun to be anything special, but I like to pair it with my industrial adhesive to create an instant hold while the stronger glue is curing.
Related: 5 Must-Have Power Tools Every DIY Beginner Needs to Create Their Best Work
Primer and Finish
Primer is, IMHO, a bit of an unsung hero when it comes to DIY projects, but it is such a valuable item to have on hand. It is often quickly forgotten on supply runs, so I always try to have a stash in my arsenal. For me, the gold standard is a shellac primer.
It’s got incredible adhesion and coverage, and really nothing compares. It comes in paint tins and spray paint formats, giving you the best base for a professional, long-lasting finish.
And really, what is primer without a good protective finish?
My personal favourite is a satin, non-yellowing, water-based finish. I like the easy cleanup, and most projects will benefit from the extra durability of a good clear coat.
Paint
Paint colour will vary from project to project, but there are some base colours and products that I always like to have on hand based on COUNTLESS trips to the hardware store for the same thing. Eventually, you remember to add it to your “must always have” list!
Spray Paint in Black, White and Gold
I can’t tell you how often I have run to the store for a can of black, white, or gold spray paint. From refinishing hardware to creating a smooth coverage on full projects, the versatility of spray paint is incredible.
Black and White Paint With a Built-in Primer
These are huge time savers. While primer isn’t necessarily required in every project, I almost always turn to black or off-white when it is. So, I have learned to keep each container on hand at all times.
Related: The 10 Most Popular Paint Colours in Canada Might Surprise You
Sandpaper
There are so many types of sandpaper out there, which can make it confusing to know what to use depending on what project you are working on. My favourite sander is my random orbital sander (it’s the most versatile, IMO). For this reason, I’m always repurchasing 5” discs because they fit my particular sander.
No matter what format works for you, the grit number is super important. 120 and 220-grit sandpaper are my jam. Both types of sandpaper are sufficient for most DIY projects. You can opt for a super gritty 80 if you need something to be really stripped down.
Drywall Anchors and Spackle
If you’re anything like me, your DIY adventures tend to point you toward hanging anything and everything up on your walls. From mirrors to picture frames, wall hangings, shelves, hooks, and racks – once you discover how easy it is to hang anything on your wall, the possibilities are endless!
Again, if you are anything like me, you probably like to change things up pretty often! Sometimes cosmetic changes are seasonal, or you happen to stumble upon a brand new shelf/hook/rack that would fit perfectly in a currently occupied space.
I embrace change happily in my DIY world by keeping many drywall anchors for the new and spackle for the holes left behind.
You really can’t have one without the other! I have tried many different drywall anchors, and I find that the strongest, most versatile, and easy to use are screw-in metal anchors. They hold a good amount of weight; all you need is a hammer and a Phillips screwdriver. The possibilities are endless with this trio!
There you have it, the holy grail list of products I always keep on hand as a serial DIY-er to save my time and sanity. What products do you keep in your workshop?
Feature image courtesy of Getty Images. Photos courtesy of Courtney Ryall.
