How it Works
A straightforward approach to sharing tools with people you trust
Create or join a group
Start by creating a private group for your circle — whether that's your neighborhood, family, or a group of friends. You can invite others via email or share an invite link. Groups are completely private and only visible to members.
Add your tools
Catalog the tools you own by adding them to your group. Include photos, descriptions, and categories to help others find what they need. You control which groups can see each tool, so you can share different tools with different circles.
Request to borrow
Browse tools available in your groups. When you need something, send a borrow request to the owner. You can include a message and suggest a return date. The owner will receive a notification and can approve or decline your request.
Track and return
Once approved, the tool is marked as borrowed and you'll see it in your active loans. You'll get reminders as the return date approaches. When you're done, mark it as returned and it becomes available again for others in the group.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a marketplace?
No. FriendsWithTools is designed for sharing within trusted groups, not for buying, selling, or renting tools. There are no payments, no ratings, and no public listings.
How much does it cost?
Core features are free. Creating groups, borrowing tools, and managing your inventory costs nothing. We may offer optional premium features in the future, but the basics will always be free.
Who can see my tools?
Only members of the groups you choose to share them with. You have full control over which groups can see each tool. Nothing is public.
What if someone doesn't return a tool?
You control who's in your groups. FriendsWithTools is built for people you already trust — friends, family, and neighbors. You can see who has what and when it's due. We send reminders, but trust is the foundation.
Ready to share your first tool?
Join the waitlist and we'll invite you when a spot opens.