A Toolbox of Her Own -- What Every Woman Needs
(ARA) - More and more women are discovering the satisfaction of do-it-yourself projects, whether it's something as simple as hanging a picture, or a bigger job like installing a garbage disposal. While some are inspired by the ever-increasing number of do-it-yourself shows on television, others are driven by necessity -- finding a "handyperson" to tackle home repair jobs can be next to impossible.
Tool manufacturers and hardware retailers have tapped into this growing trend and are providing the tools and training women need. A number of companies offer tools made specifically for women. These tend to be smaller, shaped for a woman's hand, and lighter for ease of use. A survey conducted by tool manufacturer Ryobi found that 88 percent of women would like a power tool as a gift. Big box retailers are also seeing this trend toward women taking on projects around the house, and many are now offering how-to classes specifically for their female customers.
It stands to reason that if women are buying and using more tools, they need a place to store them. Visit your local hardware store or big box retailer and get a feel for the variety of styles and sizes available; there's sure to be one to fit your needs. "Women should look for the same qualities in a good toolbox as men would," says Sue Johnson of Waterloo Industries. The Iowa-based company manufactures a wide range of tool boxes with a variety of features. Johnson says women should look for full-width piano hinges, durable construction, comfort-grip handles and strong latches. If you want to keep the kids (or your husband) out of your tools, you'll want a toolbox with a lock. "Extras like tote trays and small parts organizers help keep everything neat and easy to find," she adds.
While steel toolboxes are more traditional and extremely durable, plastic tool boxes are lighter and more colorful, and will not dent or rust. Choose a size that has room for all your tools, but not one that's too big and heavy to carry around. To help choose the right size (toolboxes range from 16 inches long to 30 inches long), measure the longest tool that needs to fit into the toolbox. In addition, consider how many tools will be stored. Although it is larger than a typical toolbox, a sit/stand/tote with caddy is a very versatile item to consider; not only does it store your tools, but you can use it as a step ladder, eliminating the need to carry one more item around.
If you're running out of room in your toolbox, a project center can help. Waterloo's two-drawer project center has bulk storage to hide all the big stuff, as well as drawers for smaller items. No more half-finished projects cluttering up the dining room table or the spare bedroom; with a project center, there is a place for everything. The center fits right in whether it's used in the house or in the garage.
Toolboxes make great storage solutions for craft items, too. Beaders should look for a toolbox that has lots of small compartments for stashing beads, as well as a larger area for storing other supplies. Scrapbookers will find a toolbox comes in handy to organize markers, stamps, stickers and other tools of the trade.
Courtesy of ARA Content
