Drill, Saw, Done: 5 Small DIY Projects for People Who Don't Own Power Tools
If you’ve ever wanted to hang a shelf, fix a squeaky hinge, or build something simple—but didn’t want to buy a bunch of tools you’ll use once—this is for you. Richmond’s full of creative folks in small apartments, cozy bungalows, and classic row houses. Not all of us have garages or tool sheds, and that’s totally okay.
That’s where we come in. Here are 5 easy, satisfying projects you can knock out with tools you can rent from us—plus a few common-sense materials you can grab from any local hardware store.
1. Floating Wall Shelf
Great for adding storage or displaying plants/art in small spaces like Fan apartments or Church Hill walk-ups.
🛠 Tools needed: Cordless drill (includes bits), stud finder, laser level
🧰 Materials needed: Wall anchors, screws, shelf brackets, your shelf board of choice, pencil, and a level (if not using a laser)
No need to mess with hammering nails into old plaster—just mark, drill, anchor, and done. We’ll even show you how if you’ve never used one.
2. Basic Bookshelf
Cut a few boards, sand the edges smooth, screw them together, and boom: you’ve got a custom shelf that actually fits your space.
🛠 Tools needed: Circular saw, orbital sander, cordless drill, clamps
🧰 Materials needed: Wood boards, wood screws, wood glue, measuring tape, paint or stain (optional)
Bonus: this is way sturdier (and more fun) than anything you’ll get from an IKEA box.
3. Mini Planter Box
Want a little greenery inside or on your porch? Build a planter box with a bit of plywood, a jig saw, and a quick-connect brad nailer.
🛠 Tools needed: Jig saw, brad nailer (with compressor), circular saw (for straight base cuts), orbital sander
🧰 Materials needed: Plywood or reclaimed wood, wood glue, brads/nails, clamps, measuring tape, pencil, and weatherproof sealant if for outdoor use
You can even curve the edges or cut decorative slots—it’s more fun than it sounds.
4. Fix a Wobbly Chair or Table
Furniture feeling loose? A quick tighten-up with the right bit or hex key is often all it takes.
🛠 Tools needed: Cordless drill, Allen key set, multi-bit screwdriver
🧰 Materials needed: Replacement screws or bolts (if originals are stripped), wood glue (optional), thread lock for recurring loosening
Don’t pay someone else to do it. And no, you don’t need to be a "handy person."
5. Hang Curtains or Blinds
It’s a renter rite of passage—and it’s a whole lot easier with the right setup.
🛠 Tools needed: Cordless drill, laser level, stud finder
🧰 Materials needed: Curtain rod kit or blinds set, drywall anchors, screws, pencil, tape measure
Be sure to pick the right anchor type for your walls—plaster, drywall, brick—Richmond’s got ‘em all.
You Don’t Need to Own It—You Just Need It for the Weekend
Whether you’re tackling your first solo project or just don’t want to buy a power drill for a one-time job, renting tools locally makes sense. It saves space, saves money, and keeps your projects moving.
Got a project in mind? Click 'Explore Tools' below to get your project started, see what’s available, and tell us if there’s a tool you’d love to rent in the future.