10 tools to get you started on an upcycling project

The summer is a terrific time of year to do some DIY projects, organise your garage and practise your talents. or create something fresh out of something old.

In recent years, upcycling and restoration have become increasingly popular. TV shows like The Repair Shop and Money for Nothing have become mainstays, and a quick Google search yields hundreds of results brimming with guidance and inspiration.

Thus, we made the decision that now was the perfect moment to explore this exciting new frontier and take a peek at the equipment that will be useful for your summertime upcycling endeavours.

1. What tools do I need?

1. Screwdriver

We suggest the Halfords Advanced 8-Piece Screwdriver Set since any competent upcycler needs to have a few screwdrivers on hand. Four standard slot screwdrivers and four Pozidriv screwdrivers with comfort grip handles and magnetised tips are included in this affordable yet functional set. These are perfect for taking out old screws from handles and putting in new ones.

2. Pliers and wrench

An adjustable wrench and pliers are essential tools for every toolbox because older fixtures and fittings can be difficult to work with. You’re covered for all eventualities with the Halfords 4-Piece Pliers and Wrench Set, which comes with combination pliers, long nose pliers, a locking wrench, and an adjustable wrench.

3. Utility knife

A utility knife, also known as a craft knife, is perfect if you’ve taken on the task of reupholstering an antique piece of furniture because it can cut materials like card, craft foam, and even fabrics with extreme precision.

The Halfords Quick Change Utility Knife features a retractable blade storage that can contain up to five blades, an ultra-thin design for comfort, and a quick change blade release mechanism. It won’t break the bank at less than five pounds, and it will finish the task neatly and safely.

4. Sandpaper

Sandpaper or a sanding sponge like the Halfords Sanding Sponge will come in handy if you have rough surfaces that need to be smoothed down and prepped for a fresh coat of paint or varnish.

The Halfords Sanding Sponge offers a soft backing for comfortable use, may be used wet or dry, and rinses clean in water. It works well on metal, wood, plastic, and most do-it-yourself materials. It is especially well suited for sanding curved regions.

5. Hacksaw

To assist you with cutting items to size, such as metal, wood, and stiff plastic, consider adding a Halfords Junior Hacksaw to your collection. It’s not appropriate for children, despite the name! It’s just a smaller, more accurate kind of hacksaw that can do smaller tasks.

With its plated steel frame and finger guard, the Halfords Junior is ready to use right out of the box. It also comes with a blade.

6. File

If you wish to deburr, round, or get rid of those sharp edges, you really must have one or more decent files. Two sizes and the most popular file shapes are included in the Halfords Advanced 8-Piece File Set Modular Tray.

The set is also a part of our modular tray line, which fits neatly into any Halfords Advanced tool chest or cabinet and allows you to create your own custom take kit.

7. Drill

If you need to drill, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Combi Drill Starter Kit is a fantastic option because Ryobi is a well-known manufacturer of hand tools.

This drill is a member of Ryobi’s ONE+ system of cordless tools and boasts a two-speed transmission, 24 clutch settings, a comfort grip, and a compact design. Thus, you may maximise mobility and convenience by using the same 18V+ rechargeable battery for numerous tools.

8. Tape measure

Any DIYer or upcycler knows how important a tape measure is for getting those precise measurements on challenging projects. The sturdy housing of the Laser Tape Measure features a ribbed grip for added grip, a locking mechanism, and a quick release. Additionally, a five-meter tape with easily readable numbers is included so you never have to miss a measurement.

9. Duct tape

There is no way we could leave duct tape off this list because it serves so many purposes. Duct tape is sturdy, sticky, and sometimes even waterproof. It may be used for anything from patching broken components to shielding delicate sections from paintbrush damage. And we shall always hold a special place in our hearts for it.

10. Storage

The Stanley SortMaster Organiser is an ideal solution for storing all of these tools, or at least the ones that don’t already have a case.