Every Woman Needs a Tool Box

Photo by Graeme Weatherston

by Lisa Kight

The one thing you should know – everything, I mean everything, is fixable. So don’t worry about doing something wrong. There is no wrong, only better. With that said, start by looking around your place. What needs to be done? With a few key tools and a little gumption, you will no longer have to endure an endless litany of excuses when it is time to ask for help. Roll up your sleeves and start your first project with a fearless and positive attitude.

Imagine your honey’s surprise when he asks if you need his help to hang that curtain rod, and you smile and say, “No, thanks. I can do it myself.”

a few tips

• Tip # 1 Measure twice, cut once. You can never be too sure when it comes to cutting anything. No one wants to waste time, energy and most of all expensive materials by cutting something too short.
• Tip # 2 LEAVE THE ELECTRICITY TO THE PROFESSIONALS!  There is a reason it is called a shock…IT HURTS!
• Tip # 3 Keep all your tools in a convenient place. 
• Tip # 4 Most of the tools you will need can be purchased at the “Dollar” store.  They won’t be the best on the planet, but will do.  When you become a professional carpenter or handy woman you can buy a better quality.
• Tip # 5 Duct Tape is your friend.  My mother’s entire house was held together with duct tape.
• Tip # 6 READ Directions!  READ Directions!  READ Directions!  Read Directions!
• Tip # 7 One of the most important parts of your arsenal should be patience. Most jobs take longer and require more effort than anticipated, so do not get discouraged. Learn from your mistakes and enjoy the independence that comes with being able to do some things for yourself. 

Best case scenario, you save yourself some grief for not having to rely on someone who always comes up with excuses as to why they haven’t done the task, as promised three months ago. Even better, would be to not have to PAY for having something done that you can do yourself. Just think of all the shoes you will be able to buy as a result of your new found knowledge. How exciting!

Photo from Scott Chan

BUILDING YOUR TOOLBOX

Now for the fun part…creating a toolbox that will ensure you can do it yourself.

Tools you will need:

• Screwdrivers              
• Pliers                         
• Wire cutters  
• Wrench                     
• Tape measure  
• Ruler             
• Razor knife 
• Duct tape
• Cardboard 
• Glue
• Gloves
• Pencil  

Now that you have built a tool box, it’s time to use it. Begin with something simple, like hanging a picture. Remember, if you do not get it right the first time, do it again!

• Measure the width of the wall and divide to get the center point. Hopefully, this will be ideal for your picture placement. 
• Mark the wall with an X with your pencil approximately where you plan on placing the hanger.
• Measure how high you wish to place the picture. Be sure to account for where the hanger is on the back.
• Measure from the ceiling the place you wish to hang your picture. Mark with an X
• Use your hammer to nail in the picture hanger. 
• Reach behind picture, hook on the wire and position until level.
• Step back and enjoy your accomplishment. 

Perhaps, next week you will take care of that squeaky door. 

Just remember, you can do it!