Don’t Start Without Them: 10 Essential Tools for DIY Cabinet Projects

Cabinets are standard in every home and often require touch-ups or minor repairs. While some prefer calling professionals for cabinet-related work, others prefer doing it themselves. The latter option is undoubtedly practical and can save thousands of dollars over the years through accumulated cabinet repair costs. 

If you want to start DIY cabinet projects to keep your cabinets in good working order year-round, you will need these 10 Do-It-Yourself (DIY) kitchen cabinet tools. Let’s explore the list shared below.

1. Cordless Drill/Driver

A cordless drill/driver is a must-have tool because you’ll need it in every type of DIY cabinet project. Whether you’re driving screws, creating pilot holes, or assembling hardware, this single tool will do most of the work. 

While corded drills serve the same purpose, we recommend choosing cordless models, as they give you the freedom to work anywhere without tripping over cords or hunting for power outlets. A 12V or 18V model would be perfect for most cabinet projects.

2. 4-Foot Level

Here’s a surprising fact – nobody notices perfectly levelled cabinets, but everyone notices crooked ones. Cabinets that aren’t level look terrible and function even worse. This is where a 4-foot level comes into the picture. It delivers accuracy across standard cabinet widths, making it ideal for most cabinet-related DIY work. 

You can use it to mark level lines before you start the cabinet installation process. It also helps to check your cabinets from multiple directions to ensure levelled work from every angle. 

3. Stud Finder

Cabinets need to be attached to wall studs, not just drywall. If you skip this step, your cabinets may crash to the floor. A stud finder eliminates guesswork and protects your walls from the damage usually caused by exploratory drilling. 

Thankfully, this Do-It-Yourself (DIY) kitchen cabinet tool is affordable, reliable, and available in electronic and magnetic versions. Choose a stud finder model that easily fits your budget and upcoming project requirements.

4. Tape Measure

If you don’t want to waste time and resources redoing cabinet adjustments, ensure you have a tape measure handy at all times. This single tool can prevent you from ordering the wrong-sized cabinets or drilling holes for hardware in the wrong spots. Choose a 25-foot length tape as it comfortably handles most cabinet projects. 

You can also look for models with a lock feature so you can take measurements solo without the tape snapping back.

5. Cabinet Hardware Jig

A cabinet hardware jig is a must-have if you want your cabinet knobs and handles to look perfectly centered and evenly spaced. 

We recommend getting adjustable jigs that work with various handle sizes and drawer widths, so you don’t have to do any mental math to avoid drilling holes in the wrong spot. 

6. Clamps (Various Sizes)

Clamps are non-negotiable tools for any DIY cabinet projects, as they keep cabinets perfectly aligned while you secure them together. These are extremely crucial when you’re working solo. Consider getting quick-grip clamps as they offer speed and one-handed operation, with 6-inch to 12-inch sizes covering most cabinet needs. You should have at least 4-6 clamps for a typical cabinet project. 

7. Adjustable Wrench

Cabinets have numerous adjustable parts, including hinges, hardware, and mounting brackets. 

This Do-It-Yourself (DIY) kitchen cabinet tool lets you fine-tune everything to perfection. A 6-inch or 8-inch adjustable wrench handles most situations economically, though a small socket set offers precision for tight spaces. 

You’ll need this tool to assemble RTA cabinets, tighten hardware without stripping screws, and make some post-installation adjustments. 

8. Circular Saw or Jigsaw

Walls aren’t perfect, and neither are cabinet spaces. This tool helps you smooth both. You will need this tool to cut filler strips to fit irregular walls, trim cabinets or shelves for custom fits, and make cutouts for plumbing or electrical obstacles. 

If you’re new to DIY, choose a jigsaw over a circular saw as it’s more approachable for beginners. 

9. Safety Glasses and Hearing Protection

No one should be doing Do-It-Yourself (DIY) kitchen cabinet projects without safety gear. Wood chips, metal shavings, and drywall dust fly everywhere during cabinet work, and even one piece in your eye can cause severe damage. 

Similarly, power tools create noise levels that may affect your hearing over time. Wearing safety glasses and hearing protection during cabinet work can help protect you from potential damage.

10. Countersink Drill Bit Set

If you prefer a professional-grade finish on your DIY projects, invest in a high-quality countersink drill bit set. This tool can help you create professional-looking screw holes with recessed heads that sit flush with the surface. It prevents screws from sticking out and interfering with cabinet doors or drawers. They can also drill the pilot hole and countersink in one operation, saving time. 

Conclusion

Having the right Do-It-Yourself (DIY) kitchen cabinet tools alone can help you finish numerous cabinet-related projects at home. They can enable every project from simple hardware updates to complete kitchen installations. Beginners may find it challenging to work with these tools initially, but ease and comfort will flow with repeated usage. 

Most of the tools listed in this blog don’t require extensive training to use correctly, so start small and scale up as needed.