Essential tools for DIY room makeovers

DIY room makeover tools, sometimes called home makeover supplies, are the equipment you need to measure, prepare, paint, hang and assemble during a room refresh. Having the right kit before you start saves time, prevents damage to walls and furniture and gives a far more professional finish.

This list is organized by job. It's part of the room design ideas series, and stagers and designers refreshing rooms before a sale or photo shoot will find the same kit useful.

What are the stages of a room makeover?

Most makeovers follow the same order: plan, measure, prepare, paint, hang and install, then furnish and style. Tools are grouped below in that order so you can check your kit against each stage.

Which planning tools do you need?

Planning tools prevent buying the wrong furniture or paint:

• A sketchbook or room-planning app
• Paint swatches and fabric swatches
• A mood board of the look you want
• A budget sheet

Which measuring tools do you need?

Accuracy tools come first, because every other step depends on them:

See essential tools for measuring space accurately for technique.

Which preparation supplies matter?

Preparation decides the finish. You'll need drop cloths, painter's tape, filler and a filling knife, sanding blocks or a sanding sponge, sugar soap or a degreaser for walls, and a vacuum or brush for dust.

Which painting supplies make the biggest difference?

A good brush, the right roller and proper prep. Get an angled sash brush for cutting in, a roller with the right nap for your wall texture (short for smooth walls, longer for textured), an extension pole, a tray and liners. Paint brands such as Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore publish coverage rates per litre, so you can buy the right quantity.

Which power and hand tools are worth owning?

What do you need for furniture assembly and placement?

Allen keys, a rubber mallet, felt pads for legs, furniture sliders, lifting straps and a second person. Fully assembled solid-wood furniture, like most of Artisan's handmade range, needs little assembly but careful moving: use sliders on hard floors, protect corners and lift rather than drag.

Which safety gear should you have?

Safety glasses, a dust mask, work gloves, a sturdy step ladder and good ventilation when painting. Always use the stud finder, or a cable detector, before drilling, and anchor tall furniture such as bookcases to the wall.

How do you style the room once the work is done?

Styling tools are simple: a steamer for curtains, picture-hanging kits, command strips for renters, and a level for shelves. Then layer accessories, art and lighting. See selecting art that complements room design.

When should you rent or hire instead?

Rent specialist tools you'll use once, such as sanders or wallpaper steamers, from a hardware store such as Home Depot or RONA. Hire a professional for electrical, plumbing, gas or structural work, and for anything that needs a permit.

Planning before tools?

Tools fix execution, not planning. Before you start, check your room dimensions and look at room design ideas. If the room needs more than a refresh, a single design consultation can save money on mistakes.