New Makers in College: Best Tools for the Budget-Minded Beginner
When in college, some begin to get ideas for different projects they would like to make. However, the typical college student does not have an overabundance of spare funding. So what tools should be the first in the collegiate toolbox?
First and foremost, a good cheap screwdriver (especially with two sizes of Phillips and flat-head) are fantastic for most any project, new or maintenance alike. The screwdriver shown below is available at Walmart for a bit less than $3.
Next up is a small cutting tool. In this case, a retractable snap-blade utility knife. These can be picked up at Walmart for right around $5 for the thinnest model. Snap blades are useful because when the end of the blade gets dull, you can snap them of on a sheer point and keep going.
To snap those blades off it is best to have a good pair of pliers. Now, you can spend as much as you want on these, but it is worth finding some that are comfortable to grip. The most common type is needle nose, as shown below. This particular set can be picket up at Lowes for around $9 and are decent quality.
Last on this short list is the humble tape measure. For college purposes, it may be enough to have a small 6' keychain version, which run about $4. You may need something larger such as a 25' Level-Lock tape measure, which will run about $12.
At the end of the day, don't be discouraged. Find a few cheap tools and try something new. Don't know how to do it? Head to YouTube and look up a tutorial. Don't know what to make it out of? Pick something you can use and give it a shot. Don't let the lack of knowledge hold you back. After all, college is all about learning.
First and foremost, a good cheap screwdriver (especially with two sizes of Phillips and flat-head) are fantastic for most any project, new or maintenance alike. The screwdriver shown below is available at Walmart for a bit less than $3.
To snap those blades off it is best to have a good pair of pliers. Now, you can spend as much as you want on these, but it is worth finding some that are comfortable to grip. The most common type is needle nose, as shown below. This particular set can be picket up at Lowes for around $9 and are decent quality.
At the end of the day, don't be discouraged. Find a few cheap tools and try something new. Don't know how to do it? Head to YouTube and look up a tutorial. Don't know what to make it out of? Pick something you can use and give it a shot. Don't let the lack of knowledge hold you back. After all, college is all about learning.
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