Let’s face it – we have all experienced needing a cutting tool and it wasn’t where we expected it to be. I have a pair of kitchen scissors and when I go to get them out of the knife block they are missing. Why are they missing? Because my kids used them and forgot to put them back where they belong.
Sometimes you need a simple cutting tool such as a pair of scissors, utility knife, box cutter or hand saw for your own tasks. By keeping these simple cutting tools in your toolbox or drawer, you simply reach into your toolbox or tool drawer and pull them out.
Scissors – Great Cutting Tool for Thin Items
Whether cutting paper, cardboard, metal foil, cloth or small rope, one tool that can do the job is scissors. This is why we believe you should keep a good pair of scissors in your toolbox. A good pair of scissors, like the ones pictured below, can cut carpet, tape, and more. While you may be able to cut wire with scissors, we recommend using wire cutters.
Utility Knife – A Cutting Tool for More than Boxes
A utility knife or a retractable blade knife is a versatile knife that utilizes a razor blade for cutting. This knife has a retractable blade so it is safe when not in use and the blade can be replaced when it becomes dull. Additionally, if you keep spare blades in your toolbox, your knife will always be ready to use. A utility knife can cut carpet, cardboard, and more. It can be used for more than opening boxes and cutting tape. It can be used for trimming or scraping wood or plastic, marking cut lines and cutting cords. We recommend having both scissors and a utility knife in your toolbox.
Snap-Blade Knife – A Cutting Tool for Simple Tasks
A snap-blade knife is a utility knife with a retractable blade. However, it does not use razor blades. When the blade is too dull to use, the blade can be snapped off and a new blade is ready to use. The snap-blade knife will suffice for cutting paper, cardboard and perhaps unraveled carpet material. It is not as sturdy or versatile as the utility knife.
Hand Saw – A Simple Cutting Tool for Bigger Jobs
So far, most tools we have recommended fit nicely into your tool box with the exception of the cordless drill. Next up is the hand saw, which will need to be stored safely in the garage, a closet, or other safe area of your home.
Hand saws are handy for cutting small brush and tree limbs around you home. Maybe you have a DIY project that requires cutting wood and you don’t have a power saw.
When you buy a hand saw, you want to consider the type of wood you are cutting and the size of it. Saws, with fewer teeth per inch cut faster, but the cut is rougher. When cutting thicker pieces of wood, a saw with more teeth per inch will produce more sawdust and will clog and bind the saw. However, the same saw, used for a thinner and softer piece of wood, will do a great job.
For information on what other tools to put in your toolbox, be sure to check out our tool list.
Like this article? The Lazy-Girl Guide to Life also has tips on how to run your household, manage your money and feed your family.