8 Skills Every DIYer Should Know

Caulking around wood molding.

DIY projects take a lot of planning, some creativity, and a good amount of hard work. But what makes these projects straightforward is having a hold on some basic DIY skills. Learn below what skills every project-focused homeowner should get a grip on to apply to a wide range of DIY and home improvement projects.

1. Caulking

Caulking is a great skill for any DIYer to have. This could come in handy with bathroom or kitchen projects in particular. A good caulking job can increase a home’s energy and efficiency levels and create a more pleasing aesthetic. Learn how to use a caulk gun for the ability to complete a wide range of projects. It’s easy to do!

2. Using a Drill

Someone using a drill on a wall.

Drills are a common DIY tool that any home improvement lover will want to understand how to use well. This tool is important for something as simple as putting up shelves to something as complex as building your own furniture. The best way to get comfortable using a drill is to simply grab some scrap wood and drill holes again and again. This will get you used to the trigger of the drill and its reaction. Be sure to change bits and experiment with them.

3. Painting

While everyone can paint, working on this skill takes some fine-tuning. But, it’s worth the investment if you love a good DIY project. This comes in handy if you’re planning on painting a wall, the inside of your home, cabinets, or freshly made furniture. Painting on your own is not only fun and rewarding, but it also can save you some serious cash, making it a worthwhile skill to have in your toolbelt.

4. Using a Spirit Level

A close up of a spirit level.

Knowing how to use a spirit level well is a skill that will be used again and again in the world of DIY projects. Whether you’re hanging a picture, tiling, or paving, this is something you’ll need to learn how to do. To use a spirit level, lay it along the line or surface that you want to check. The bubble in the vial should settle in the middle of the level. If the bubble is off to one side, you need to adjust accordingly.

5. Measuring

This is another skill that seems straightforward, but becoming a skilled measurer can take some practice. Get your trusty tape measure ready and use it for an endless range of home improvement projects. Always have a pencil and paper handy to take down measurements for quick reference.

6. Unclogging a Drain

Someone unclogging a sink.

No one said that DIY projects are always glamorous! Knowing how to unclog a drain is a hugely useful skill to have, and when it’s necessary, you’ll be grateful to have this in your back pocket. There are many tricks and fixes for clogged drains, helping you to avoid calling a plumber if it’s not completely necessary.

7. Pulling Nails

When there’s an old, rusty nail protruding out of a project material, you need to know how to get rid of it. This is another essential DIY skill, as it’ll be needed more than you may think. To do this, simply slip the hammer claw around the exposed nail shaft. Next, take a pair of locking pliers, tightly clamping them into the nail as close as possible to the hammer claw. Gradually pull back the hammer handle and watch as the nail begins to come out. Reposition further down on the nail shaft and repeat as needed.

8. Using a Circular Saw

Someone using a circular saw on a sheet of wood.

Another tool that’s important to have some experience with is a circular saw. This is an easy-to-use item that's can be used for many projects, such as shortening a door or building planter boxes. While this tool can be a bit intimidating at first, it’s easy to learn how to use, especially after a bit of practice.

These skills are important to ensuring that every DIY and home improvement project is seamless, simple, and successful! Brush up on any of these skills that you may not have sharpened in your arsenal of abilities so that you’re ready for any project that comes your way.