(NC)-Not sure what to get the budding Mike Holmes in your family for the holidays this year? When you visit the hardware store aisles, it can be tough to decipher what the do-it-yourselfer needs to get a good start on their projects - and more importantly, finish them!
Everyone should have a drill around the house. It's the perfect introductory tool for someone who is just beginning to embark on home improvement projects, like hanging pictures or building a shed in the backyard. Black & Decker has some great light-weight, cordless drills that are a beginner's best friend, or you can opt for something more heavy duty from a brand like DeWALT which makes higher powered utility drills.
For those intermediate handymen and women handling bigger jobs, a miter saw is a necessary tool for their collection. The latest in tool technology is the power miter saw, which makes accurate cuts and is a must for picture frames or crown moulding. They'll be able to do a variety of jobs including cutting fence posts or even cutting through steel. In fact, DeWALT has an extensive line-up of different saws that are more light-weight than most on the market.
Finally, to finish off the gift list, a do-it-yourselfer needs a good sander to complete the job. Sanders are a must if you are thinking of painting anything and can be used on small areas such as furniture, or bigger jobs such as sanding down the deck. Porter-Cable has several good quality sanders that have a dust collection system to avoid breathing in fine dust particles. Also make sure you get a low profile sander, which makes it easier to manoeuvre and will cause fewer scratches.
Of course, when your do-it-yourselfer isn't busy improving the home, he or she probably likes to unwind for a bit of home improvement entertainment - consider giving a DVD box set of their favourite home renovation show, or a subscription to their favourite décor magazine. And don't forget the stocking! Stuff it with nails or screws, tape measure, a tool belt, or another handy gadget to get the home projects done right.
For inspiration, check out these websites:
Black & Decker - www.blackanddecker.com
DeWALT - www.dewalt.com
Porter Cable - www.deltaportercable.com
- News Canada