Got a DIY Project? Borrow From Carhartt’s New Lending Library of Tools

Carhartt, a brand known for its workwear, has launched a tool lending program called the Carhartt Workshop with a Tool Bench, located in its Detroit flagship store. This initiative aims to assist local residents with their home improvement projects by providing access to specialized or expensive tools that might otherwise be cost-prohibitive for a single-use project. The program was inspired by the company's long-standing connection to the Detroit community and a desire to serve as a resource by removing barriers for DIY enthusiasts. Sheila Johnson, a new homeowner in Oak Park, utilized the program to borrow an orbital hand sander, a floor scraper, and a tripod work light. These tools were crucial for her renovation, particularly for removing carpet padding and staples after purchasing her house. She highlighted the financial relief the program offered, especially after the significant expenses associated with buying a home. According to Gretchen R. Valade, Carhartt's director of sustainability and the daughter of CEO Mark Valade, the program aligns with the company's philosophy of supporting individuals who work with their hands. Achille Bianchi, Carhartt’s Detroit Workshop manager, explained that the lending library addresses the common problem of homeowners needing specific tools for short-term projects that don't justify a purchase, such as a wet tile saw for a bathroom remodel. Instead of buying a tool that would then sit unused, customers can borrow it as needed. Carhartt collaborated with Colony Hardware to curate the tool inventory, which currently consists of about 150 items, primarily from the Stanley Black & Decker family. The selection includes duplicates of high-demand tools like chain and pole saws, and the company plans to expand its offerings based on customer feedback. A free membership allows customers to borrow tools for seven days, with the option for a seven-day extension. Additionally, on-staff experts provide guidance on tool selection, demonstrations, and recommendations for complementary tools. Since its opening in early August, the program has attracted approximately 80 members. Adam Murphy, director of the nonprofit Focus Detroit, also benefited from the program while building out his organization's cargo van. Focus Detroit, which supports city youth and families, relies on DIY construction projects, and the tool library provided essential equipment that volunteers would typically have to supply themselves. Murphy noted the ease of the process, comparing it to setting up a library account. Achille Bianchi specifically recommends borrowing, rather than buying, five types of tools: a wet tile saw, a portable bandsaw, a biscuit joiner, a tuck point grinder, and an automatic caulk gun. These tools are often needed for specific, infrequent tasks, making them ideal candidates for a lending service. The wet tile saw is useful for bathroom or kitchen remodels, while the portable bandsaw handles hard-to-reach metal work. A biscuit joiner enhances the strength of DIY furniture, and a tuck point grinder simplifies brick-and-mortar repair. The automatic caulk gun is particularly beneficial for large-scale sealing projects, ensuring consistent application and reducing manual fatigue. The Carhartt Workshop is located at 5800 Cass Ave., Detroit, and its website is carhartt.com/content/workshop. #DIYProjects #ToolLendingLibrary #CarharttWorkshop #HomeImprovement #DetroitCommunity #CommunityService #HomeRenovation #SustainableLiving #ToolAccess #DIYProjects #ToolLendingLibrary #CarharttWorkshop #HomeImprovement #DetroitCommunity #CommunityService #HomeRenovation #SustainableLiving #ToolAccess

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