These Are Some Great Multipurpose Items To Have In Your Workshop

If you work smartly, your workshop doesn’t need a myriad of tools and gadgets to get most jobs done. Of course, if you specialize in a certain craft you’ll need some specialized equipment. While you’re doing a variety of DIY projects, general home maintenance or still learning about the craft you want to master, a selected set of multi-purpose items can serve you much better. Not only is it more cost-efficient, but you can get a lot more done with a little. You’ll save space and clutter. Here are our must-haves to maximize a versatile workshop:  

     1. Workbench

The ultimate must-have for any workshop is a good-quality workbench. Your entire workshop essentially centers around this piece of equipment. A workbench will last you for decades if chosen well. It needs to be sturdy, fit your space and your tools and provide the right setup for a range of tasks. You also want to make sure the height is ergonomically correct to avoid strain and injuries.

Whether you’re sawing, drilling, sanding, gluing, varnishing, fixing a bicycle or repairing a dollhouse, your workbench is going to be the place to do it. Workbenches also serve as a key place to attach tools for measuring, cutting and sawing. Additionally, they serve as a storage place for certain items with hooks around the side or attached shelving.

     2. Cordless Drill

This tool is a standard addition to many workshops for good reason. Although it is generally known for drilling pilot holes for wood screws, it has many other uses. 

Cordless drills come with a wide range of attachments and bits which can be changed up easily according to the task at hand. With standard bits, you can drill wood, masonry and drywall. Larger bits are great for planting bulbs while brush bits can be used to clean shower grout. Additionally, cordless drills can double as a screwdriver.

     3. Utility Knife

This small yet handy tool can break down cardboard boxes, splice cords, cut drywall and trim carpet. This inexpensive addition to your workshop is easy to use and offers precision and versatility. Always opt for a retractable utility knife since these are much safer to store and use.

     4. Pliers

Although pliers come in different types for specialized tasks, a pair of standard utility pliers (or slip-joint pliers) are a great all-purpose tool for gripping, bending, twisting and turning things. These have a flat jaw with teeth for gripping smaller items, a round serrated opening for larger objects and a sharp section for wire cutting. Pliers can also be used to hold or stabilize objects, remove nails or pins, tighten bolts and open tight lids. 

When choosing a pair of pliers look for one that has handles with a 2.5-inch gap between them when closed. This will prevent getting pinched while in action.

     5. Oscillating Tools 

Whether you’re doing carpentry, flooring, home DIY, refurbishments, cabinetry or tackling some hobby projects, you will love this tool. An oscillating multitool is excellent for getting clean results when working in tight spaces. Suitable for many tasks, it can cut, scrape, saw and grind. 

Oscillating tools come with a variety of attachments that can be used to grind tile adhesive, flush-cut doors, trim baseboards, cut off nails, clean and remove the grout and scrape away caulk, as well as cut drywall, plastic, timber, metal and fiberglass.

With these tools around your workshop, you’ll be set to do almost any home project efficiently and effectively.