The Unexpected Toolbox Essential That DIYers Will Want On Hand

A DIYer's toolbox is full of multipurpose essentials that can be used for a wide range of projects. Take measuring tape, for example — there's a whole list of tape measure hacks that you'll wish you knew about sooner if you don't know them already. That's just one of the many tools and supplies that every DIYer needs to own. Of course, you will also want to have toolbox staples like hammers and screwdrivers. But, there is one tool that you may or may not already have in your toolbox that can do much more than meets the eye — a spackle tool.

A spackle tool, also called a putty knife, is an unexpected toolbox essential that has applications in general house repairs, remodeling, home decor, art, and even cleaning. This versatile tool is one that DIYers won't want to leave out of their toolbox. From essential home updates to arts and crafts, here are eight DIY projects you can do using a spackle tool.

If you own a putty knife, you are probably already aware that it is commonly used to fix minor holes in drywall, usually caused by nails and screws. But nail holes aren't the only repair putty knives are good for. You can also use them to repair dents, pitting, large holes, and edges of walls, as well as for removing paint, wallpaper, and glue during a remodel. Walls aren't the only thing you can repair, either; you can use this spackle tool to repair trim, doors, windows, and even furniture.

If you don't want to waste time and energy putting up painters' tape around all the edges of a room, only to have it peel away and mess up the lines anyway, you can use a spackle tool instead. It's not difficult or time-consuming, but it does require a steady hand. First, prepare your area like normal. Then, when you are ready to paint the edges, line the spackle tool up with the edge that you want to cover. Place your prepared paint brush flush with the tool and run both along the wall together. Do small sections to avoid mistakes.

Beyond general home DIYs, you can use a spackle tool for a wide range of art projects. For example, it can be used to create textured wall art. Start by choosing a canvas; it can be as small or as large as you want. Then, select your spackle, or you can substitute spackle with a DIY homemade mixture. Then use the tool to create patterns on the canvas. Once it is fully dried, you can paint it as well.

If you look at old, worn-out furniture and think, "man, that would be fun to refinish," this next one is for you. You can use a putty knife and a spray bottle to upcycle old furniture. Adding a layered or chipped finish to furniture is a fun DIY that brings personality to old pieces. For this, use the putty knife to apply paint of different colors to mimic natural wear and tear, giving the piece a shabby chic style. The spray bottle is used to water down the paint, making it easier to spread.

Instead of spending a fortune on fancy frames, you can design your own with a few simple tools, including a spackle tool. You will need some wood, long wood staples, spackle and a spackle tool, and paint. Cut the wood to the sizes you want and secure the frame together with the staples. Then, use the spackle and the spackle tool to apply whatever type of design you want. Wait for it to dry completely before painting.

Looking for something that adds depth, without taking up space like a canvas? Add texture and charm to your walls on a budget with a subtle DIY spackle design using stencils. All you need is a stencil design you like, the spackle, and your spackle tool. Simply place the stencil on the wall where you want it and use painter's tape to secure it in place. Then, spread the spackle over the stencil in a smooth, even layer. Finally, lightly pull the stencil away and allow the spackle to dry.

This one is for people who love thrifting but want to transform the items into something unique. Take a lamp or vase and lightly sand down the surface so spackle will adhere to it. Then, use your tool to spread it over the surface in whatever pattern you like to create a layer of texture. Then, paint to your heart's desire for a fresh new centerpiece design.

One of the most practical applications for your spackle tool is for cleaning. A spackle tool can easily replace a scraper for removing stuck-on materials on glass-tops, ovens, tile, windows, and more. You will want to be careful about what type of cleaning you do if your putty knife is metal, though. For most cleaning tasks, a plastic spackle tool may be the better option. Metal tools can be used for more challenging jobs, like cleaning the inside of the oven.