There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a bit of self-sufficiency — especially when it means you don’t have to waste your weekend waiting on handymen (or handy hubby). Sure, some things are best left to the pros, but when it comes to assembling furniture, hanging pictures or sanding a table, all you need are the right tools.

So, real living asked Sydney builder Murray Flynn to recommend the essentials for a beginner’s toolbox.

(All prices are approximate and from local hardware stores. Note: with tools, it pays to buy the best you can afford. Quality tools always last longer than cheap ones.)

Black & Decker cordless drill, $90

Useful for driving screws into self-assembly furniture, but also handy for picture holes or adding shelves for extra storage.

Set of assorted screws, $6

The key item for hanging or fixing just about anything.

Assorted nuts, $3, and bolts, $4.50

Brilliant for assembling heavy wooden pieces together — particularly outdoor furniture.

Allen keys, $7

Try assembling anything from Ikea without these. Go on, we dare ya!

Pliers, $19

For snipping wires, tightening or loosening, pulling out nails, and more.

Combination pliers, $17

This handy multi-tool not only packs pliers (excellent for removing fiddly bolts or staples), it has a knife blade and bottle opener.

8-metre/imperial tape measure, $10

From measuring window frames to checking whether your new sofa will fit through your front door, a tape measure is a must.

Stanley knife, $12

Perfect for everything from pulling up old carpet and lino to sharpening pencils.

Screwdriver set, $10

Even if you only use these to take the lids off paint cans and tighten the odd cabinet hinge, they’ll come in handy.

Monarch paint brush, $15

Hang brushes by the handle to dry after each job.

Staple gun, $75

Invaluable when it comes to re-covering chairs or stretching fabric over canvas frames.

For more great ideas and practical solutions for your home see http://www.reallivingmag.com.au/