Tools, Gear and Equipment

The Family Handyman editors share everything about the best tools, gear and equipment for DIYers.

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    Clamp Extenders

    Build some clever plywood clamp extenders to use when bar clamps are too short to do the job. It beats...


    You’ve Got Your Pallet, Now Where Do You Start?

    You've been eyeing a project that uses wooden pallets, but you're unsure how to get started. We'll show you the...


    Sanding-Belt Recycling

    Save a “used”sanding-belt to make specialized sanding tools. All you need is the belt, a pair of scissors and a little...


    DIY Dictionary: Setting Compound

    Setting compound is a powder which, when mixed with water, creates a fast-setting material used to fill gaps and cracks...


    What is an HVLP Spray Gun (And How It Compares)

    A standard spray gun—usually connected to a compressor—aggressively propels finish onto your project.


    Safety Gear Every DIYer Should Own

    As an avid DIYer, you have the necessary tools, but do you have the proper safety gear? Here are 12...


    Top 3 Spray Foam Insulation Sprays To Consider Using

    Not sure which spray foam to choose from? These have been reviewed as the top spray foams that will give...


    15 Brilliant Ways to Reuse Plastic Grocery Bags

    Even if you use reusable shopping bags, there's a good chance you have some plastic grocery bags somewhere in your...

    Make Your Reusable Grocery Bags Sturdier

    Make transporting your groceries easier with this simple hack.


    Best Way to Cut Threaded Rod to Your Desired Length

    When you’re shortening a bolt or threaded rod with a hacksaw, you always mangle the threads at the sawn end,...


    DIY Dictionary: Plumb Bob

    A plumb bob is a weighted object connected to a string that can be used to establish a vertical line....


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    Saturday Morning Workshop: How To Build a Fold Down Workbench

    Every good workshop (even if it's just a sliver of your garage) needs a quality workbench with ample storage. Begin...


    DIY Dictionary: Sawzall

    What is a Sawzall? Sawzall—though a registered trademark of Milwaukee Tools—is the term often used to describe any brand of...


    DIY Dictionary: 16d Nail

    What is a 16d Nail? A 16d nail is one that is 3-1/2 inches long. But what does the 'd'...


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    How to Scribe for a Perfect Fit

    Fit woodwork perfectly to even the waviest walls with an inexpensive compass.


    Shop-Made Edge-Gluing Clamps

    For about $30, you can fortify your bar clamp arsenal with these mighty tools. These clamps apply pressure horizontally as...


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    Reader Project: Mobile Flip-Top Workbench

    Family Handyman reader Christopher Rings sent us photos and drawings of his incredible workbench. We just might need to build...

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    12 Easy Things Everyone Should Know How to Fix

    Whether you're a new homeowner or an expert DIYer, knowing how to fix these common household problems can save you...


    How to Use Paste Wax for Table Saw Lubrication

    Using paste wax is the best way to lubricate the top of your table saw, which will help wood pieces...


    O-Ringed Router Bits

    Use rubber O-rings to help you position router bit shafts the right depth in the collet. Use 5/32-in. dia. O-rings


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    10 Awesome Hammer Hacks

    You can use a hammer to pound nails, but there's so much more you can do, too! Check out these...


    Sharpen and Use a Cabinet Scraper

    Once you try a cabinet scraper to smooth flat surfaces or curved sculpted forms, you’ll want to use it on...


    17 Tips for Tidy Outdoor Storage

    Transform your yard with innovative, budget-friendly outdoor storage solutions to keep gardening tools and supplies neatly organized and accessible.

    Make a Power Paint Mixer with an Electric Drill and Hanger

    Forget the paint stir sticks and make your own power paint mixer.


    How To Drill a Hole in Glass Without Breaking It

    Drilling through glass requires patience and the right tools in order to avoid cracking or shattering.


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    20 Tips & Tricks for Making Drywall Work Easier

    We've hung and patched and primed and finished our fair share of drywall. Check out this compilation of tips for...


    Check if a Square is Square

    All you need to check if a square is square is a piece of plywood with a factory edge, a...


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    How To Use a Miter Saw

    A miter saw is a versatile tool that offers fast, accurate cuts. Learn how to use yours safely so you...


    16 Useful Tools for Collecting Leaves

    With fall comes of the promise of leaves, clumping up on your grass and matting down on your flowerbeds (even...