Want a tool kit with all the gear, but not sure where to start? Here’s how to grab the basics for about $100

Why call in the professionals for the simplest of jobs just because you haven’t got the right gear? With a useful set of hand tools, which costs about $100, you can do all sorts of jobs around the home yourself. Add a basic cordless screwdriver/drill kit and a few drill bits, and you’re still looking at less than $200, depending on the features. Of course, if you buy top-brand tradesman’s tools you’ll pay top dollar. But for occasional use, inexpensive alternatives are often more than adequate and once you have the basics, you can add to your collection as you need the tools. This way your tools will owe you nothing.

Toolbox or carry-all ($5-10)
To keep your tools stored together, start with a plastic carry-all (from $5) or a hard-wearing metal toolbox (from $10). Many come with various compartments for particular items so you’ll be able to find your tools easily.

Hammer (from $9)
To encourage bits and pieces into place as well as drive nails, you need a hammer. A good first hammer is a medium-weight claw type. You can hammer nails and use the claw to pull them out, as well as pry things apart.

Spanner (from $10)
Use an adjustable spanner for doing up/undoing various sizes of nuts and bolts with hexagonal or square heads. Turn the knurled wheel to adjust the jaws. A 150mm spanner is a good multipurpose tool.

Tape measure ($4)
There are times you need to take measurements. The most useful tool is an 8m tape measure that’s easy to read and has a locking mechanism. Affordable 8m tapes start at about $4. For smaller work, include a 300mm steel rule.

Pencil/marker ($2)
If you’re taking measurements you’ll need to note them down, so a 2B pencil or marker is invaluable. You may already have a number of pens in the house but make sure you have plenty in your toolbox. Keep them in the box because, as you know, you can never find a pen when you need it.

Screwdrivers ($6)
You’ll need several screwdrivers, both slotted and Phillips types. You can buy them individually, in a number of sizes, or as a 13-piece set. Either way, screwdrivers are inexpensive.

Pliers ($20)
Pliers are a must for holding, bending, cutting and squashing things. For a versatile pair, try Trojan pliers, which convert from broad to long-nose pliers and also include a wire cutter.

Level ($7)
You’ll need to make things level or plumb (vertical) sometimes, such as hanging pictures or building shelves. A good starting point is a 225mm torpedo level, which is short enough to fit the toolbox.

Set of saws ($17)
Most home projects involve cutting wood or the odd rusted steel bolt. A good investment is a small compass saw that takes interchangeable blades to cut various materials. A good hard-point handsaw, designed to cut wood, starts at about $11.

Utility knife ($4)
Knives are used for opening parcels, sharpening pencils and cutting soft materials such as carpet, rubber and a few types of plastics. Most of the tools you buy come in packaging for which you need a knife to open. No-name knives are inexpensive.

Brush ($2)
The most common maintenance job is painting, so have a 38 or 50mm brush ready. Brushes can vary in price, but cheapies start at about $2.

Safety gear ($15)
Be aware of your safety when creating noise, dust or woodchips – wear goggles, earplugs and a breathing mask. These safety items cost about $15-20 each.

Add a few consumables like masking tape and sandpaper, and you’re well on your way to tackling anything, from hanging a picture to making a piece of furniture. Add a cordless drill and you could tackle something even bigger.