If you’re new to drywall, knowing which tools you actually need can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, it’s easy to buy tools that may not work for you, which can be an expensive mistake. We’ll list the best drywall tools to help you start a solid toolkit without breaking the bank.
Drywall Knives
Every drywall finisher has a set of trusted taping and joint knives for taping, coating, and skim coating. We recommend buying a beginner hand tool set to cover all the knives and accessories that you’ll need for every job.
Set Includes:
- 5" and 6" Joint Knives
- 10" and 12" Taping Knives
- 12" Mud Pan
Benefits:
The joint knives included are perfect for flattening paper tape and inside corners, filling small holes, patch work, and applying the first coat of mud on joints. The taping knives are ideal for finishing coats and skim coats. As a bonus, this set comes with a mud pan!
Mud Pans
A mud pan is a rectangular tray designed to hold joint compound as you work. They’re available in plastic or metal and come in a variety of sizes. The most common mud pans purchased are usually 12” stainless steel, since they’re lightweight and long lasting.
Our Pick:
12” Columbia Stainless Steel Mud Pan
Includes:
- Mud Grip for easier handling
Buckets
A standard 5-gallon plastic bucket is a staple for mixing joint compound, carrying materials, and holding water for cleaning tools. You can’t go wrong with this one– just pick up whatever is available at your local tool store.
Popular Choice:
Dust Masks
When it comes down to sanding, don’t skip on the dust mask! It’s important to wear NIOSH approved masks to filter out harmful dust and cancer-causing particles. These particles often contain gypsum and silica, which can cause long-term respiratory issues if inhaled repeatedly. It is recommended to use a disposable N95 mask or a more advanced respirator to effectively filter these airborne particles.
Popular Choice:
3M™ 8210 Particulate Respirator Dust Mask (N95)
NIOSH-approved and provides at least 95% filtration efficiency against certain non-oil-based particles.
Best Value Pick:
3M™ Rugged Comfort Quick Latch Half Facepiece Reusable Respirator
Can be used with replaceable filters, so you don’t have to keep restocking on disposable masks.
Gloves
While not mandatory, gloves are highly recommended for added safety, especially for drywall apprentices. They protect your hands during taping, sanding, and other finishing tasks, and it’s a good habit to start early on. It's best to pick gloves that are lightweight and flexible, allowing for all-day comfort when handling tools.
Popular Choice:
CSR PowerGrip Multi-Purpose Drywall Safety Gloves
Offers breathable material and features a superior sandy foam grip coating.
Tool Sets
If you prefer not to purchase tools individually, investing in a drywall tool set can be a convenient and cost-effective option. Here are a few top-selling sets that we recommend to get everything you need and more!
Best Pick for Knives:
The Level 5 Stainless Steel Hand Tool Finishing Set
Includes:
- 5.5" and 6" Joint Knives
- 10" and 12" Joint Knives
- 14" Mud Pan
Includes:
- 4", 5", and 6" Joint Knives
- CSR Tools 5 Gallon Bucket
Best Value for Joint Knives:
Columbia Basic Stainless Steel Knife and Mud Pan Set with Bucket
Includes:
- 4", 5", and 6" Joint Knives
- 12" Mud Pan
- CSR Tools 5 Gallon Bucket
Includes:
- 4", 5", and 6" Joint Knives
- 9-in-1 Putty Knife
- 3.5" Pointed Specialty Knife
- 6" Clipped Specialty Knife
- 14" Mud Pan
- CSR Tools 5 Gallon Bucket
Best Value for Joint and Specialty Knives:
Columbia Complete Stainless Steel Putty Knife Set with Bucket
Includes:
- 1.5", 2", 3", 4", 5" 6", 8", and 10" Joint Knives
- 9-in-1 Putty Knife
- 3.5" Pointed Specialty Knife
- 6" Clipped Specialty Knife
- CSR Tools 5 Gallon Bucket
Where Can I Buy These Tools?
All of the drywall tools you’ll need, including everything that we’ve mentioned, are available at CSR Building Supplies in-store and online. We offer fast and reliable shipping worldwide, so you can get your tools shipped right to your doorstep.
Contact Us
Call us Monday to Friday between 6 AM and 4 PM at (905) 761-5611
Email us anytime at info@csrbuilding.ca
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