Home DIY projects can be both creatively inspiring and functionally rewarding – and with a few easy steps they can go from daunting and complex to fun, straightforward and satisfying. As an experienced DIYer, here is an ultimate guide on how to get started;
1. Get Prepared: Being appropriately prepared for the task at hand is critical for any project’s success. Read instructions, measures and assembly instructions and have all the needed tools and materials before beginning. Set up a workspace – preferably one with good lighting – and stock it with the necessary materials.
2. Dream and Design: Let your mind wander to visualize the ideal outcome for your project – this is where you get creative. Start doodling or drawing the project or look for inspiration from magazines or websites. Be as detailed as possible, even adding wall paint colour, trimmings and furnishings.
3. Break it Down: Break the project down into smaller, doable tasks. Make lists or notes on what you need to do, what you need, and timescales and deadlines. This gives you an organized plan of action and keeps you on track.
4. Gather the Troops: Gather together the team and resources you’ll need for your project. Do you need to call in some expert help? This when home DIY projects really become projects (and potentially parties!).
5. Let’s Get Started: Once everything is carefully laid out and ready, begin the project. But, yes, with all projects of this kind, the devil is in the details. Pay special attention to the little things that bring a big difference.
6. Embrace the Mess: Let’s face it, getting messy is part of the beauty of home DIY projects. Even the most meticulous of us will end up with cuts, scrapes and bruises – so go ahead, mess with joy and enthusiasm.
7. Reap the Rewards: Celebrate the joy that comes with completing a project yourself! Enjoy the process, all the way through, and have fun with it. The rewards of seeing what you’ve achieved with the help of your own two hands, can be truly gratifying.
PART 2
1. Take Safety Seriously: It is always important to prioritize safety above all else when doing a home DIY project. Wear eye and ear protection every time you use a saw, drill or any other power tools, and practice good safety habits while handling them. Put away your tools when leaving the task or break.
2. Have a Backup Plan: Even if you plan ahead and make sure you have all the materials and tools, life gets in the way and sometimes, unforeseen circumstances may arise. Prepare for any bumps in the road and leave room for mistakes by having some extra supplies on-hand to fix any problems that may arise.
3. Clean up Time: Remember to tidy up and dispose of scrap materials and mess as you go. This will help keep your workspace organized and tidy making it easier to find your materials and tools. Clutter-free workspaces will also help to avoid any potential hazards.
4. Quality Matters: If you think it necessary, take the extra time and money to upgrade fixtures, hardware, materials or finishes. Doing so, will save time and energy down the line and will make your project last longer.
5. Take Some Time: Home DIY projects often require patience and perseverance so remember not to rush through them. A job well done starts with a job done well and this means taking your time and investing in the quality of the finished product, for maximum satisfaction.
PART 3
1. Budget Control: Achieving the desired effect in a project means being conscious of the budget and not being too extravagant. You should make smart decisions about when to save and when to splurge – and trickier still is knowing which materials and tools will make the most difference in a project’s overall success.
2. Keep Track: Keep track of all the time and money you spend on your project – it will ensure the project comes in at or below budget. Also document every piece of the project with photos and video. A picture is worth a thousand words and a video can save you time in the long run, making for easy reference when replacing old parts or making minor fixes over the years.
3. Timeless Tips: Knowing when to invest in higher quality items and when to try do-it-yourself solutions will stretch your budget and bring you one step closer to your project’s completion. To make it easier to find the right solutions, look to manufacturers, the internet and local hardware stores for advice.
4. DIY Store: Building a DIY store so you don’t have to go to the hardware store every time you work on a home DIY project is a great way to save time and money. Stock up on a rotation of basic supplies such as screws, nails, sandpaper, tape, and wood putty.
5. Hire an Expert: If a job is too complex, or seems to be taking too much of your time, consider calling in an expert for some help. Hiring someone with specific expertise can speed up the project or save recommended parts that you may not have had on hand.
PART 4
1. Measure Twice, Cut Once: A classic DIY adage for a reason – measure twice, before you cut anything, for a better job and less waste. If you’re unsure, re-check your calculations and take into account any extra spare parts you could need for contingencies.
2. Store What You Can: If you’re investing in building materials for a project, store whatever you can that won’t spoil or rot in a dry and preferably cool place. This will save you having to buy plenty of replacements whenever you need them.
3. Capturing the Moments: Don’t forget to capture each stage of the DIY project transformation by taking plenty of photos and videos of fully enjoy the experience when it’s all done. One day you’ll be proud of what you’ve accomplished and you’ll have something to show the family.
4. Unlearning or Learning: DIY projects are also an opportunity to challenge your existing skills, and to learn new ones. If you aren’t familiar with a certain tool or material, take the time to do some research or even better, take a course. As the saying goes, safety first!
5. Here Comes the Pride: Last but not least, when all is said and done, pat yourself on the back for a job well done (However messy it looks!). All those small DIY projects that you have completed around the house will come in handy in the future. Celebrate your success, young DIYer!