SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE - With a brand new shiny set of tools, Diane Wiseman is only just beginning to delve into the world of do-it-yourself construction, but she doesn't want her husband letting loose on them. There is a solution.

Pink tools, said Wiseman, are a powerful deterrent to male inclinations toward these devices.

"I kind of like my things to myself," she said. "He (her husband) certainly likes the tools but pink ones will keep your husband away from them," said Wiseman.

On Saturday Wiseman was in the Centre Square Mall with a display of Tomboy Tools - tools and tool kits made specifically for women.

As a recent Tomboy Tools representative, Saturday was Wiseman's first time promoting the products and she said she had some "good responses."

She became interested in the tools, which come in blue and pink, when she saw them at a trade show.

"I'm not very talented (at construction), but with winter around the corner I thought it would be something fun to get into," she said.

So what makes these tools different from regular ones?

According to Wiseman they are ergonomically designed to meet the needs of women.

"They're designed to work for women who have different strengths to men. They're a different weight, shape, and they're easier to hold," she said.

One of the products on display Saturday was a hammer with a magnetic head and cleverly designed nose which allows the nail be driven without having to be held, sparing fingers from injury.

"It's not ideal for precision work, but if you're putting up moulding or a deck, it's ideal," she said.

One of Wiseman's favourite implements in the range is a hacksaw with a rotating blade, which allows the user to comfortably hold and use the instrument, even if it's upside down.

However, Wiseman has a particular tool in mind to add to her collection.

"I'm eyeing up a pink power drill," she said.

Product parties, similar to Tupperware parties, are used to sell the products, and Wiseman has her first such occasion this week.

Other products include female-sized safety gloves and earplugs.

Asked how earplugs could be made specifically for women, Wiseman explained that they are the only item in her collection that men are allowed to touch.

"They're for husbands who get sick of being told to stay away from your tools," she said.