A Toolbox is Handy to Have Around!

In order to be organized, things need to be where you use them. Sometimes this means installing a hook or a shelf where there isn’t currently one. Plus, I always have little jobs around the house that I want done; hanging a picture, loosening a sticky door knob, tightening drawer pulls, etc. I used to avoid these tasks (or have to wait for help) because I never had the required tools handy and I did not feel like running to the downstairs workshop to hunt for what I needed from my husband’s tool bench. I found this frustrating.

I finally realized that what I needed was my own set of tools, (labeled as mine, of course) kept upstairs, so I could use them whenever I needed and always count on them being there. So, I purchased a small, inexpensive toolbox like this, to tote my tools. Make sure whatever one you buy closes and latches tightly and easily. I like the kind with the storage compartments built into the top, so that I can keep nails and screws.

Here's what's in my toolbox:

• 4 in 1 screwdriver (with small & large, Phillips & regular heads)
• Small hammer
• Adjustable wrench
• Metal measuring tape
• Safety glasses
• Small level (to use when hanging pictures)
• Knife (retractable)
• A basic cordless drill (with charger)—this one also comes in red, but the pink is so pretty)
• A small assortment of drill bits (for hanging hooks which require anchors—in drywall)
• WD40-pen size; for loosening stuck/tight metal things, and removing sticker adhesive
• Plastic zip ties (short and long) great for tying things together that you want to stay put, such as replacing a broken luggage strap or tying up a plant to a stake.
• An assortment of short and medium nails, screws and anchors (small and medium)
• Plastic zipper baggies (snack and sandwich size)
• Scissors
• Black Sharpie marker
• Pencil
• Velcro One-Wrap® Straps; very useful for wrapping cords which are too long. These are easy to undo and redo, making them ideal for cords of appliances that are used often (these are 8". They come in 12", too.)
• Command Hooks; Stick on, removable hooks for hanging all kinds of things. The previous link is for use with .5 lbs or under, but this link leads to the whole page with a range of options.

When you want to hang something on drywall, don't let it scare you. Plastic screw anchors are easy to install. I have even taught my 10 year old girls to do it! It is simplest to purchase the anchors like the ones linked above, which come in combination with the properly sized screws. Note the size of drill bit needed, it should be just a little smaller than the diameter of the anchor so it grabs when pushed in.

Mark the place where the hole is to be drilled with a pencil, tape a plastic baggie underneath and drill the hole. If you need to drill a second hole, make sure to use the level before you mark/drill the second hole to make sure the shelf or hook will be straight when you are through. Push the anchor in (use gentle hammering if needed), then screw the hook into the wall. That’s it! You’re done!

For help with any organizing project simply call Linda, 716-631-5619.
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