-Matt Grisham
Every builder needs some essential items in their shop. Here is our top list of items you shouldn‘t live without.
1. Dahle Vantage Self Healing 5-Layer Cutting Mat- https://amzn.to/2XpE976
This is a MUST for any builder. These mats are the perfect work surface for almost any project, whether you are cutting foam or painting props your surfaces will be safe with this amazing cutting mat. We use our all the time, especially when working at home, it is the perfect quick cover for the dining room table for some indoor airbrushing.
2. Magnetic Wristband- https://amzn.to/2PiNR8y
I cannot tell you how many times this little band has saved me from hours of searching on the floor looking for a tiny screw. This magnetic wrist band is great for those moments when you need a third hand. Its strong hold and comfortable design is perfect for the builder in all of us. Screws, bolts, screw drivers and more this band will quickly become a "stylish" additive to your daily shop outfit.
3. 1x2x3 Block- https://amzn.to/2Xt8Hoz
Shop list all over the net have one thing in common and its 1x2x3 blocks. These are by far one of the most useful, yet simple tools you can have in your arsenal. They are great for holding things down, measurements, propping things up, and so much more. Do yourself a favor now and JUST BUY ONE....or make that TWO, because you are always going to need extras
4. Airbrush (Iwata Revolution)- https://amzn.to/2V9mV0w
This may seem like an item that only a select few need, but I have found more uses for mine that you could image. You don't have to be a skill painter to use one of these little guns, and they are super fun. Personally I am a huge fan of the Iwata Revolution Gravity feed gun. This budget friendly gun has all the bells and whistle of much more expensive guns and is built to stand the test of time. It doesn't matter if you get a professional gun, or a el-cheapo just get a gun you will thank me.
5. Rotary Tool- https://amzn.to/2DrhlfI
Grinding, Cutting, Sanding, and more, rotary tools are the chameleons of tools. The multitude of adaptors, accessories and parts make this an invaluable tool for builders. Any rotary tool is a great start, the one above is just one of my more recent suggestions, since it comes with a wide variety of pieces to get you started. The carrying case isn't bad either, it will help keep all those pieces ready to use and easy to find.
6. Dusk Mask (RZ Mask)- https://amzn.to/2Xt9PIP
We only have one set of lungs and we need to protect them at all cost. I have tried a lot of different kinds of dusk masks...and I mean TONS, but the RZ Mask beats them all. They are super comfortable, and breathable. Unlike most mask they don't cut off air supply and they do an amazing job of filtering your air. I have multiples of these at the house and shop, and even bought my wife one for working outside in the yard (they are great for allergies). I cannot say enough about these mask and how much I love them.
7. Heat Gun- https://amzn.to/2IKsqMn
Most all heat guns have the same features and are built pretty much with the same idea in mind. The heat gun will be a useful tool in your line up with many projects and task. We use them for foam, plexiglass, paint, and much more when working with props. Its a fantastic way to dry projects faster when you are in a bind, and can even add a little warmth to your space in the winter.
8. Glue Gun-https://amzn.to/2XwvpfM
Lets just be straight out with each other here, what project couldn't use a little hot glue on it? The hot glue gun is another one of our top items, because of the shear amount of use we get out of it in the shop. Whether we are making a mold box, temporary putting props together, working with foam and so much more, the one tool we always reach for is our Hot Glue Gun. Do yourself a favor and just buy one now if you don't already have one, because no builder should be without, which is why its the item that finishes up our list today!
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