What tools would you suggest

[BWKatz]

I prefer an electric drill over a battery because I hate the batteries wearing out. They are also lighter weight. I use the jigsaw more than the circular saw for the same reason.... lighter weight.U can use it for more precise cutting also, notching, circular , etc. I cut PVC, counter laminate, metal...just make sure u use the right blade and go slow. One thing I noticed no one mentioned is safety glasses. Always wear them and if u have long hair make sure u have it tied back. Take ur time & don't be afraid to ask for help in stores ...guys always get a kick out of showing us ladies how to do it right.

 

[mgw]

Another useful item would be a carpenters apron for ladies or nail bags for guys. you can keep all of your smalll essentials in them. things like marking pencil, screw drivers, speed square, 9" level, fasteners, and other misc. When you are done for the day you just hang it up with those items in it then you are ready for next time.

 

[Cargo]

The Jigsaw (or sabresaw) is the first power cutting tool you should have in your toolkit. This is a very versatile tool that with some limitations on material thickness, can crosscut, bevel, miter and make scrolling curved cuts. Jigsaws use interchangeable blades depending on the material to be cut. This is a tool that can be used with one hand, and you will find it indispensable.

Here's How:

1. Put on your eye protection. Although this is a user-friendly tool it is still a power tool and blades can snap as well as cut material can fly up.
2. The metal base of the jigsaw is often called the "shoe". You'll start by positioning the tip of the shoe on top of the material you're cutting and facing the cut you want to begin making.
3. Note which side of the cut line you want to make your cut and place the blade slightly away from where you want to begin.
4. Firmly holding the grip, press the power button and begin your cut.
5. Apply gentle pressure when making cuts. Never force the blade. The motor and blade do all the work and forcing the cut can bind the saw and create a dangerous situation. With jigsaws, the blade is moving very fast in an up-and-down motion. If stressed with too much forward motion, the blade will snap off completely. Be careful.
6. CURVED CUT: If you're making a curved cut, then follow the line regulating the speed of your cut by what the material will allow.
7. STRAIGHT CUT: If a straight cut is what you're after, then you will need a guide for the saw to follow. Because the jigsaw blade is so small it can wander in the cut unless the saw is guided. The saw guide can be a straight piece of wood clamped at both ends onto the material being cut so as to precisely place the blade cut where it's required.
8. STRAIGHT CUT: Another method to achieve an accurate straight cut is to use an accessory that typically comes with the jigsaw called a rip-guide. Assuming the edge of your material is straight and you only need to cut a few inches from the edge, this works fine.
9. Once you complete the cut, let the blade come to rest and place the saw down.

Tips:

1. Don't force the cut as the blade may snap.
2. Jigsaws have a limitation as to thickness of material being cut. about 1½" is the limit for these saws. Beyond that the saw works too hot, can overheat and the blade wanders causing un-square cuts.
3. Jigsaw blades cut by pulling up. That means if you are cutting a material that has a finished side, say plastic laminate or paneling, you want to front side to be facing down.
4. Make sure the blade is always sharp. They are fairly cheap and make the saw work much better and easier.
5. Buy a saw with a variable speed feature. It makes all the difference in control of your cuts.

Copy Pasta from: http://homerepair.about.com/od/toolsmaterialsyouneed/ht/ht_use_jigsaw.htm