Home Decorating Toolbox 101

By Home Decorating Digest

Where is that Hammer?

Save time and frustration by assembling your own decorating toolbox. Most do-it-yourself projects are hampered by the lack of tools (or knowing where to find the tools) to get the job done.

Storing Your Tools: A toolbox, caddy, or storage step stool can be used and will allow you to organize your tools by making them available for easy carrying.

The Right Tools for the Job

Hanging Things:

Push Pins
Plastic Anchors
Picture Wire
Thumb Tacks
Sewing Machine Needles (to hang pictures without large wholes, holds approximately 30#)
Cup Hooks

Attaching Things:

Glue Gun & Glue Sticks
Can of Spray Adhesive
Staple Gun & Staples
Multi-Sized Rubber Bands
Plastic Twist Ties
Fusible Interfacings
Fabric Glue
Sewing Needles & Thread
Starch (Easy on Easy off walls for fabric wallpapering or for appliqués)

Cutting Things:

Good Pair of Scissors for Fabric
Utility Scissors for everything else
Box Cutter
Woodworking — you may need a light weight handsaw

Measuring Things:

Yardstick
Tape Measure
T-Square or Level

Decorating Things:

Gold Touch-up Pen
Spray paint Black & White
Sandpaper
Brushes
Craft Paint in your decors color scheme
Assortment of ribbons, buttons, and fringe.

These tools may not all fit in your toolbox, yet are good to have on hand:

Hammer
Screwdriver — Phillips and Flat Head (get multiple sizes)
C-Clamps
Iron & Ironing Board

Take the time in advance to gather your equipment for that next do-it-yourself project.

Now where is that hammer? In my Decorating Tool Box! •

About the Author
Home Decorating Digest is an online publication where you will find home decorating ideas and feature articles on style, color, and interior design. Get decorating basics, do-it-yourself projects, organizing, and outdoor garden design tips.

08/14/04