Contributed by David Galassi, Catalogs.com Info Guru

Are you an “around the house” carpenter? A handyman, Mr-fixit or first class putterer?

It doesn’t matter what your level of expertise is, these ten tools are the start of what every carpenter shouldn’t undertake a project without. Buckle on your toolbelt, add your tools and stand like you mean business. Even if you’re just wrapping some duct tape, you’ll look like a pro.

10. Circular Saw

Can rip or crosscut. Interchangeable blades makes it perfect for any job: Lumber, plywood, or any other material.

9. Two C Clamps

These act as your 3rd hand. A third hand is just about the most useful thing any carpenter could order. If you can’t recruit a volunteer, or hire a helper, or find your wife (even the kids will do), you need C clamps. don’t stop with one. Hey, don’t stop with 2. Holds most anything from a rip fence to glue tasks.

8. Four-foot level

Plumb and level. The key to any projects outcome of value. Acts A level acts as straight edge too. Any tool that does double duty makes your life easier, and helps you get the job done without running for more tools.

7. Speed square

Great for squaring lines on crosscuts on limber. Can be used as a crosscut saw guide. Also stands on-edge to square verticle attachments.

6. Chalk line

A chalk line can snap the long line you need, or it can act as a layout dry line for height and wander. Hung by the hook end it, acts as a plumb bob. A plumb bob is a cool accessory. It can hypnotize young children who are getting in the way of your under-sink plumbing project.

5. Utility knife

Cuts most any material. Changeable blades. Sharpens pencils. For you or the kids. Actually, do all the Number 2’s in the house. It’s kind of fun and let’s you walk around in your toolbelt. Makes you look useful.

4. Two-foot square

Works well for squaring corners and layout of 90 degree tasks. Works well to draw straight lines also. It can be used as a wallpaper straight edge for cutting.

3. Tape measure

Well, you cannot measure and cut without one. Get a 30-footer for those longer jobs. Fits nicely in the tape pouch of your belt. Also has conversions and scales on the back side. These are very useful, so you don’t have to try to remember your basic math, much less algebra.

2. Tool belt

Get a serious tool belt, I hate to say it, but if you don’t have a clue where to start, think “Village People.” Get one with all the bells and whistles. This is what makes you look like you know what you’re doing. Several pouches and loops for keeping your fasteners and tools handy. A good tool belt actually makes for easy clean up: “just hang up your belt.”

1. Hammer

A 16 oz. claw hammer will suffice for most jobs. It will pull nails and drive in even a 16 penny sinker. Lightweight and hangs nice on your belt (see above.)

Consider this a shopping list for the essentials. You can add nails, tape and other things as you work your way through a project.