8 Last-Minute Holiday Gifts for the DIYer in Your Life

(Recommended by the Alamosa Building Supply Team!)

Holiday shopping always sneaks up on everyone, especially when you’re shopping for the DIYer, the person who can build half the gifts you planned to buy them.

But even the handiest person appreciates a tool that makes their projects faster, easier, or more fun.
To help you skip the stress, the Alamosa Building Supply team shared their own top picks, the tools they personally love, use, or wish they had.

Even better?
Every item below is in stock, easy to grab last minute, and perfect for any skill level.

Let’s get into the list.

 

1. Dremel VersaTip — Kelley’s Pick for All-the-Projects People

team members holding their tool picks

If your DIYer is always in the middle of something (or five somethings), Kelley’s choice, the Dremel VersaTip, is the upgrade they’ll reach for constantly.

This butane-powered tool may be small, but it pulls serious weight. It welds, cuts, melts, shrinks, and handles light-duty heating with the kind of precision that makes detailed projects way less frustrating.

Perfect for woodworking, crafting, electronics, home repairs, and any project that calls for careful control.

Why it makes an awesome gift:

  • Incredibly versatile for both beginners and pros.
  • Compact enough to live in any toolbox, belt bag, or project bucket.
  • Runs on butane, so it’s fully portable, no cords, no hassle.

2. DeWalt XR Brushless 3-1/4″ Planer — Angelo’s Pick

Angelo chose this one because he doesn’t have one yet, and DeWalt is his go-to brand.

This brushless, cordless planer delivers clean, accurate cuts and a pro-level finish, without the cords or compressors. It’s the kind of upgrade a DIYer wouldn’t always buy for themselves, but one they’ll use constantly.

Check out more DeWalt tools on our Tools & Equipment page.

Why it stands out:

  • Brushless motor for long life and strong performance
  • Smooth, precise material removal
  • Cordless convenience for indoor and outdoor projects

3. Shop-Vac Wet/Dry Vacuum — Michelle’s Pick

team members holding their tool picks

Michelle loves this one because it’s convenient, high-quality, and always needed.

A good Shop-Vac is one of the most underrated workshop essentials. This model handles everything: sawdust, dirt, drywall debris, and even water. It includes multiple nozzles, filters, and a wall-mount option to keep things tidy.

Why DIYers love it:

  • Wet + dry cleanup in one machine
  • Great for garages, sheds, and project spaces
  • Easy storage, powerful suction, and reliable performance

4. DeWalt 20V MAX XR Nailer — Brandin’s Pick

Brandin swears by this tool because it was a must-have when framing his barn.
“It was much faster than using a hammer and nails,” he says.

This cordless, brushless framing nailer gives pneumatic power without the hose. It’s built for serious projects, remodeling, framing, decks, and home builds, and has the speed and consistency DIYers love.

Why it’s a favorite:

  • Cordless freedom on big jobs
  • Brushless motor = more runtime and power
  • Two-speed settings for soft or tough materials

5. Makita DUC303Z Chainsaw — Eli’s Pick

team members holding their tool picks

Eli recommends this because it’s battery-operated, convenient, and incredibly versatile.

This Makita chainsaw delivers smooth cutting without gas fumes, noise, or heavy maintenance. Great for prepping firewood, trimming trees, and handling outdoor projects.

Why DIYers love it:

  • Lightweight, ergonomic, and easy to control
  • Quiet brushless motor
  • Compatible with Makita’s popular 18V LXT batteries

6. DeWalt 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw — Donna’s Pick

Donna likes this one because it’s great for carpentry and tons of household projects.

This reciprocating saw is a powerhouse for demolition, pruning, remodeling, and quick cuts. With variable speed and up to 3,000 SPM, it gives DIYers precision when they want it and power when they need it.

Why it’s a great gift:

  • Keyless blade change
  • 4-position blade clamp for angled and flush cuts
  • Fast, efficient cutting on tough materials

7. Crescent 95-Piece Professional Tool Set — Robert’s Pick

Robert chose this because it’s good quality, a trusted brand, and useful for many projects.

This is more than a wrench set; it’s a complete professional-grade toolkit made of chrome-finished, heat-treated steel. It’s perfect for DIYers building their first tool collection or upgrading to better gear.

Why it stands out:

  • 95 tools for repairs, installs, and tune-ups
  • Organized storage case
  • Durable materials designed to last

8. Bucket-Full-of-Tools Kit — Bev’s Pick

team members holding their tool picks

Bev also loves this because it includes a mix of practical tools you can use right away, all in an easy-to-carry bucket.

This version includes:

  • Hammer
  • Heavy-duty gloves
  • Gear Tie rope
  • Utility cutter
  • Niveler (level)
  • STRAIT-LINE® chalk reel
  • And other job-site essentials

Why it’s a standout:

  • Looks impressive without a huge budget
  • Everything inside is useful
  • Easy to build yourself with help from our team

Tips for Choosing the Right Gift

Before you shop, think about:

  • What projects has your DIYer been talking about
  • Whether they prefer woodworking, repairs, or decor projects
  • What tools or accessories do they already own
  • Whether they prefer DeWalt, Makita, or mixed brands
  • If they’re just starting out or already fully equipped

Don’t Forget to Check Out Other Helpful Resources

You can also explore these on-site guides for holiday prep inspiration:

These are great for understanding what tools pair well together (or for gifting ideas beyond the list!).

Ready to Shop? Visit Alamosa Building Supply Today

If you’re down to the final shopping days, you’re in luck; every gift on this list is easy to grab right now at Alamosa Building Supply.

Stop by the store, ask our team for recommendations, or let us help you build the perfect “bucket full of tools.”

Make this holiday unforgettable for the DIYer in your life.
Shop local. Shop quality. Shop Alamosa Building Supply.

Visit us today to pick up your last-minute holiday gifts,  and maybe a few tools for yourself, too.

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