Here is a list of things that most professional home decorators use: Measuring tape - A retractable steel tape, 25 foot long. Nail kit: Keep a set of various sizes for all kinds of tasks. Notebook: A small notebook for sketching and note taking. Magic hem: Iron-on magic hem from craft stores, that creates seams without sewing. Glue gun: Keep it handy for many decorating purposes. Hammer: A must in every household! Pins: Both straight pins and safety pins (for drapes/curtains). Screwdriver set: Keep several sizes in your tool kit. Also keep many sizes of screws. Velcro: For various fabric decorative jobs. Wire: For hanging picture frames and other smaller decorative items.