You don't need a professional bar to make great cocktails, but a few simple tools make the process quicker, tidier and much more fun. Most of them cost very little and will last for years.
Here's what to buy first, what each tool does, and the glassware that finishes a drink off. Please drink responsibly. Some links go to other shops and we may earn a small commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you.
The cocktail shaker
A shaker chills, dilutes and mixes a drink all at once. There are two main styles: the three-piece cobbler shaker, with a built-in strainer and cap, and the two-piece Boston shaker, a metal tin paired with a glass or smaller tin.
Cobbler shakers are easier for beginners. Boston shakers are what most bartenders use, as they're faster and hold more. Whichever you choose, fill it at least two-thirds with ice and shake hard for around fifteen seconds.
The jigger
A jigger is a small double-ended measure, usually 25ml on one side and 50ml on the other. Cocktails rely on balance, so measuring properly is the single biggest step towards drinks that taste the same every time.
Bar spoon, strainer and muddler
A long, twisted bar spoon is made for stirring spirit-only drinks like Martinis and Negronis. A Hawthorne strainer, the flat one with a spring, sits over a Boston shaker to hold back ice, and a fine mesh strainer catches small shards and bits of fruit for a silky finish.
A muddler gently presses mint, fruit and sugar to release their flavour in drinks like the Mojito. Press, don't pulverise: crushed mint turns bitter.
Ice: the most overlooked tool
Ice is an ingredient, not an afterthought. Large, clear cubes melt slowly and keep spirit-forward drinks cold without watering them down, while crushed ice suits Mojitos and juleps. Silicone moulds for big cubes and spheres cost very little and instantly make home drinks look more professional.
Always use fresh ice from a clean freezer, as old ice can pick up flavours from food. And never reuse the ice you've shaken with: strain the drink over fresh ice in the glass so it stays cold and crisp.
A sturdy chopping board, a sharp small knife and a peeler for citrus twists complete the kit. Fresh garnishes cut just before serving look and smell far better than anything prepared hours ahead.
The right glass isn't just about looks. Short, heavy tumblers suit drinks served over ice, such as an Old Fashioned or Negroni. Tall highball glasses are made for long drinks with mixers. Stemmed glasses like Martini glasses and coupes keep warm hands away from drinks served without ice.
A set of six tumblers is a sensible first buy, as they cover spirits on ice, short cocktails and even soft drinks.
Classic V-shaped Martini glasses show off a clear, stirred drink beautifully. Ribbed glass adds a vintage touch and makes them feel special for date nights and dinner parties.
If you're buying bar kit as a gift, personalised glasses turn something practical into a keepsake. They're a thoughtful present for birthdays, Father's Day or a new home.
Once you've got the basics, there are a few extras worth considering. An automatic cocktail machine mixes drinks at the touch of a button, which is handy when you're hosting a crowd and would rather chat than shake.
Not everyone at the party wants a cocktail. An electric aerator pours and aerates wine in one go, which can soften young reds, and it makes opening a bottle feel like an occasion.
Key things to remember
Rinse tools straight after use so sugar doesn't stick.
Chill glasses in the freezer before serving.
Buy a big bag of ice: you'll always need more than you think.
Frequently asked questions
What bar tools do I need to start making cocktails?
A shaker, a jigger, a bar spoon and a strainer will let you make almost every classic cocktail.
Which cocktail shaker is best for beginners?
A three-piece cobbler shaker, because it has a built-in strainer.
What glasses do I need for a home bar?
Start with tumblers and highballs, then add Martini glasses or coupes.
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