I am of the belief that your tools will find you. This may come in the form of the right tool will be on the shelf when you go to the local supply shop; or you may come across it as you pass some place that you would not normally stop at.
As for making your tools, yes. By making them, you add your own energy to them. I make my own candles. For me, it is more personal to use candles that I have made, myself. I look at it like the difference between buying a cake for someone's Birthday, or baking it. (Keep in mind, if you can't bake, by all means buy the cake) And there is nothing wrong with buying tools from a store. I bought a small, cast iron cauldron for my censor (I've never been good at casting metal). I am expecting my wand to make itself known to me when I'm out in the woods.
And taking a favorite knife, that you used to use for preparing your own meals with, and re-purposing it for use in rituals makes a lot of sense. I was hesitant about the idea at first. But someone explained to me that his is an object that you are familiar with, you are comfortable with it and, it already has a lot of your own energy in it. So, when used in ritual, you will be comfortable with it. It would be like having an "old friend" with you.
And keep in mind, you may acquire one, or more, tools that are only temporary. It, or they will work for you until you find the one that you will use for the rest of your path.
The bottom line is, as with much of our belief, what is your intent? Most any object can be sanctified, and used. What is your intent with it? What does it mean to you? Can you used that tool comfortably? Look inside yourself, and you will find the answer to this question. Until then, make, or buy your tools as you feel the need.
May this help.
