When it comes to painting projects, some tools, like paintbrushes, rollers and trays, are must-haves. Other implements are lesser-known but no less important for DIY and professional painters to accomplish their projects and should be a part of the hand tools department in your operation.
“Our counter displays are a good reminder to our customers of the hand tools they may have forgotten.”—John Sheehan, Tri-County Paint & Spray
The Right Product Mix
The Hand Tools Your Customers Need
Many DIY customers are not familiar with hand tools and the ways they can use them to complete their painting projects. Stock these hand tools and educate your customers on their many uses.
Scraper
- Comes in both flexible and rigid versions
- Removes old caulk, grout and putty
- Opens paint cans
- Scrapes off paint and wallpaper
Utility Knife
- Easy to carry on a job site and a must-have for any painting project
- Cuts dropcloths, plastic, masking and more
- Scores wallpaper
- Cuts drywall for repairs
Putty Knife
- Stock a variety of widths for different uses
- Works as a paint guard
- Use to apply filler before painting
- Safely removes baseboards and trim
Multitool
- Comes in a variety of versions, from 2-in-1 to 21-in-1 and everything in between
- Removes outlet covers
- Takes off door hinges
- Use to uninstall and reinstall doorknobs
In Plain Sight
Merchandising Tips
To merchandise hand tools, Tri-County Paint & Spray in New Braunfels, Texas, displays these items on traditional pegboards, but also has a smaller display of hand tools next to the cash register. The store has these items, along with others like paint can openers and brushes, near the point-of-sale to encourage impulse and add-on sales, says co-owner John Sheehan.
“Our counter displays are a good reminder to our customers of the hand tools they may have forgotten,” he says.
Along with merchandising well, Sheehan says it’s important to educate customers on what you offer in hand tools.
“Many customers believe they can get a better deal on hand tools at the big-box stores,” he says. “Our store actually has a better selection and the same or better pricing.”
