Workshop expert-approved gifts for cottage DIYers

Oscillating multi-tool

Able to cut wood, metal, and drywall in tight spots with weird angles, oscillating multi-tools are handier than a pocket in a Kenora dinner jacket.—David Zimmer

Bluetooth-enabled earmuffs

I want 3M’s Bluetooth-enabled earmuffs, with 24dB noise reduction rating and high-fidelity speakers. Sanding is boring, but with these, I could listen to podcasts or a playlist.—Fiona McGlynn

Cordless Framing Nailer

Cordless nail guns are a major upgrade from their pneumatic predecessors—no more fighting with a compressor or an air hose! The Metabo HPT cordless framing nailer is a good all-around pick, but many tool brands offer cordless options.—F.M.

20V Max adhesive gun

I hate caulking—I can never get the smooth bead I hope for with a hand-cranked gun. A cordless caulking gun, like DeWalt’s 20V Max adhesive gun, could improve my results and make me happy.—Wayne Lennox

MetMo Grip

MetMo Grip is a British-made adjustable wrench that copies an innovative design not manufactured since 1930. Stainless steel, mesmerizing mechanism, super cool.—Steve Maxwell

Bifocal safety glasses

Instead of switching constantly between safety and reading glasses, bifocal safety glasses with an integral magnifying lower lens are a game-changer! The flow is back in my woodworking now.—Sean Ledoux

Crook knife

A traditional tool in many cultures, crook knives are great for hollowing concave shapes, sculpting organic forms, and texturing surfaces in wood. I have a pine stump that I’m carving into an address marker; I want to try a crook knife instead of spoon gouges.—S.L.