Category: DIY

Create The Perfect Cozy Nook

Once New Year’s is over I’m ready to usher in the long hot days of summer. Whether or not you’re of a similar mind, a nice way to wait out the short gray days is to create a perfect cozy nook in your home that you can go to relax and decompress. This can be a low-commitment, fun personal project. Here are a ideas to get you started.

Used with permission from Emily Foll owill

Choose the Right Spot:

First, Find a quiet and comfortable corner in your home that you can dedicate to your perfect cozy nook. It could be by a window, in a quiet room, or even a corner of your bedroom.

Comfortable Seating:

Invest in a comfortable chair, cushion, or bean bag. Choose something that you can sink into and relax. Consider adding soft blankets or throw pillows for extra comfort.

Soft Lighting:

Use soft and warm lighting to create a cozy atmosphere. Consider adding fairy lights, string lights, or a small table lamp. Avoid harsh, bright lights for a more relaxed ambiance.

used with permission from Jane Beiles Photograp hy

Personal Touches:

Decorate the space with personal items such as photos, artwork, or items that hold sentimental value. This will make the nook feel uniquely yours.

Texture and Layers:

Incorporate different textures like soft fabrics, plush rugs, or even a faux fur throw. Layering textures adds depth and makes the space more inviting.

Books or Reading Material:

If you enjoy reading, consider adding a small bookshelf or a stack of your favorite books. This not only adds to the decor but also makes your perfect cozy nook a reading spot.

used with permission from Jane Beiles Photograp hy

Plants:

Bring nature indoors with some potted plants. Greenery can add freshness and contribute to a calming environment.

Curtains or Canopy:

If your cozy nook is by a window, consider adding curtains or a canopy for a sense of privacy. This can also enhance the overall aesthetic.

Aromatherapy:

Use scented candles, essential oil diffusers, or incense to introduce pleasant scents into the space. Choose fragrances that help you relax.

used with permission from Jane Beiles Photograp hy

Music or Sounds:

Consider incorporating a small speaker for playing calming music or nature sounds. This can enhance the overall ambiance.

So, how about starting your perfect cozy nook this weekend?

Remember, the key is to create a space that reflects your personality and provides a sense of comfort and relaxation. Don’t forget to check out our previous articles on how to create the perfect cozy nook. Have fun with it and don’t feel like anything is permanent – the space should change with your needs.

January 12, 2024
Everything You Need To Know About Painted Furniture Peeling: Problems and Solutions
Painting furniture to change its colour or make it look new again can be a great idea. If done properly, the furniture will look fantastic and last for years. However. If you don’t do this properly, you’ll find that the paint quickly starts to peel; leaving you with an unattractive piece of furniture.

That’s why many people choose to use a professional furniture restoration firm. It means the job will be done properly and will last. But, if you’re determined to paint your furniture yourself, you need to know the most common furniture painting problems. It will help you avoid the issue.

used with permission from Blackband Design

Failing To Prep

Furniture will usually have either a painted, varnished, or some other treatment covering its surface. The point of this is to make the item look good and help it to last as long as possible.

Eventually, no matter how well it was crafted, the outer coat will start to peel. This is when many people will recoat the item.

This is also when the most common first mistake is made. In effect, it’s failing to prep it properly. In short, if you fail to remove the original coating properly, the new paint will not stick and will peel.

To avoid this, prep properly by:
- Washing the item with soap and water
- Sanding it with a medium grit paper, all over
- Removing all traces of dust
- Filling cracks etc.
- Cleaning again
- Coating in your chosen paint
Sanding removes the old varnish and provides better adhesion for the paint. However, it can still help to use a primer before you paint.

used with permission from Blackband Design

It is best to sand with several grades of sandpaper. You should start with a coarse paper that will remove all the paint on the furniture. It is then possible to use the medium grit to ensure there are no bits you’ve missed. To finish, use a fine grit sandpaper. This will ensure you have a smooth finish, ready for your chosen paint.

If you don’t want to sand all the old paint off, you should ensure the topcoat has been removed and then sand the paint layer to scratch the surface. This acts as a key to help your new paint stick to it properly.

Poor Quality Paint

When you’re painting an item it is important not just to look at the colour of paint you like but also at what type of paint it is. Many household paints are latex-based. However, this doesn’t stick well to many items of furniture, especially wooden or metal pieces. In short, it will quickly peel. To avoid this, you need to make sure that the paint you choose is specifically designed for the material you want to paint. It will reduce the likelihood of issues.

used with permission from Blackband Design

You Used Too Much Paint

It’s much better to add lots of thin layers of paint to get a perfect finish on an item. If you opt for one or two thick layers the paint won’t adhere properly to the surface and will start to peel.

While it’s tempting to apply a thick layer of paint, the reality is that taking a little longer to do multiple thin layers will give a much better finish.

Failing To protect Your New Paint

Whenever you paint something you should add enough coats to get the desired finish and, after the paint has dried, ad a few coats of protection. This is generally referred to as a lacquer or clear topcoat.

It’s applied lightly in the same way as paint. The clear topcoat doesn’t change the colour or the finish of the job you’ve already done. But, it will protect your paint, making it much less likely that it will peel off.

It is worth noting that you can buy paint with a built-in topcoat. You may prefer to adopt this approach although you get the very best finishes when you use paint and a separate topcoat.

used with permission from Blackband Design

Abuse

If you have repainted an item and it’s then abused the paint will start to peel. In some cases, this simply can’t be helped. It may be that you have boisterous children or that the item spends all its time in the sun and is often climbed on.

However, it s worth thinking about the level of abuse the item will take before you choose your paint. There could be a better option than you should have chosen. If in doubt, you can speak to a professional. Thanks to Glen Sheldon Furniture Restoration for consulting.
July 14, 2022
Spring is on it’s way! 10 great tips to freshen up the place at little to no cost

We might still have a month or so until we feel comfortable temperatures again. However, now is the best time to start thinking about updates and ways you can freshen up your home. From wallpaper to accessorizing, the tips below are sure to inspire you to roll up your sleeves and get to work (and fun!)

1. ~~Paint~~ Panel Wallpaper is your best friend!

I imagine one of the first things you think of when it comes to quick, easy, and affordable ways to spruce up a room, you think paint. Well think again my friend! And don’t worry, I’m not going to suggest you construct and install elaborate wood panels that are so popular these days. Your best option is panel wallpaper! Wallsauce.com had created and carefully selected panel wallpaper designs. Not only is the measuring process more straight forward, but the installation is simple too! For the trendsetters, the designs are also available on a self-adhesive, peel and stick wallpaper. So, when you are ready for a new feature wall, simply peel it off and your wall is instantly ready for its next feature. This also makes it a safe, clean option for anyone renting.

image via wallsauce.com

Wow! Talk about an upgrade!

2. Stick to a theme.

What do you call a Japanese, Victorian, and Modern theme? Answer: a college dorm. Try to stick to a basic theme and work with that design. Having a congruent theme throughout your home makes decorating much more full proof and gives the impression that you know what you’re doing!

Photo by shche_ team on Unsplash

3. Use visual cues.

Most people ignore very innate physical attributes of a home. Arched doorways are good for a Spanish theme. Crown molding works well with Victorian and Art Deco styles. Wainscoting on walls can work with a country theme. Solid walls work well with modern.

4. Furniture makes a statement about the room.

One of the biggest investments you can make can be the furniture you purchase for a room, however, try to repurpose existing furniture or try using simple chairs with matching table to create a theme.

5. Take a peek under the carpet

If you own an older home, chances are you are covering hard wood floors with that 70’s shag carpet. If you own a new home don’t be afraid to pull the carpet and put down wood laminate. Engineered wood has never been more affordable.

Photo by Josh Hemsley on Unsplash

6. Put down an area rug.

Area rugs can be purchased for as little as $200 and give a room a very expensive look. Carpet remnants make for excellent area rugs. See local Carpet store.

7. Ditch the overhead chandelier for wall sconces

Lighting is the oldest trick in the book to make a room pop; just ask Hollywood filmmakers. Get creative while sticking to the theme. Create a modern room by hiding the light source or create a Victorian feel by putting wall sconces on a light fader.

8. Less is more

Most people believe that every square inch needs to be filled in a room but emptiness is a statement in itself. You know the phrase “silence is deafening” ? Well, repeat the mantra, “sparse is stunning.” Don’t be afraid to leave a wall free of furniture.

Photo by House Method

9. Use accessories.

One of the least expensive ways to add color to a room with white walls is to add red pillows. Pillows, throw rugs, candles, paintings, photos, and flowers can make mild into wild.

10. Add a plant

One of the best ways to make a room feel like a living space is to add living plants, like a tall leafy plant in one corner, or just get some fresh seasonal flowers for the table.

BONUS TIP

Any change you make will add to your overall curb appeal and ultimately to the value of your home. Keep in mind that outdoor improvements such as foliage, plants, and bushes take a long time to grow so plan ahead. Thanks to Wallsauce for consulting.

January 27, 2021
A look back at my tiny kitchen 10 years ago!

It’s always fun to look back and see what your space used to look like, so here’s one for kicks!

I’m so excited to share with you guys the brave feat of painting that just took place in our kitchen, which Chris and I moved into in August. I was lucky enough to have the gracious folks over at Royal Design Studio contact me to see if I’d like to do a stencil review on Decorology. Uh….yeah! I instantly knew the effect I wanted to get, which is a sheen effect.

The inspiration for the look I wanted – a gloss/matte sheen effect came from photos I’d collected similar to the one below:

So…here was our kitchen before…pretty standard for a 1 bedroom apartment in a building…

And…here is the kitchen after…

pretty drastic change right?

The stencil I selected was the Large Marrakesh Trellis. Chris and I took a trip to Morocco two January’s ago, and the tiles and ornate plaster work will leave your jaw on the floor. The stencil reminded me of the tours we took of medersas in Fes and Marrakesh.

The stencil as featured on the Royal Design Studio site

An illustration of the stencil showing the registration marks and the scale.
The stencil also came with some instructions and stencil care information.

Once I received the stencil, and before setting off to paint – I did some research on how to achieve the look I wanted. Like most projects, prep work is key!

The Royal Design Studio site offers a lot of resources and tips for stenciling. I got the basics from their Basic Stencil Techniques page for all over stencil patterns.

I knew to achieve the look I wanted I would need the same paint color, but in different sheens. I chose gloss and flat. Here’s where I ran into a little issue. Once I got the stencil I realized that, if I put down the solid flat coat first, the way the stencil is cut, most of the wall would end up being gloss. I didn’t want that because I was afraid the room would be too shiny. However, upon doing research and asking around, painting a solid base of the gloss and then painting the stencil in flat over the gloss wouldn’t work either, because the matte paint would not adhere to the gloss painted wall. Hmmm…I was stuck.

So, being the extremely stubborn woman I am, I did a little more research and came across the talented Megan Bouton, who was the genius behind this wall treatment:

Check out her gorgeous dining room here.

Just the look I wanted! So I wrote her asking what she did to get the matte paint to work over the gloss, and she was awesome enough to reply that she hadn’t done anything special, and that even a year later she can’t even scratch the matte off with her fingernail.

So, I decided to give it a try, and here is my process and results

First, we covered the walls in a high-gloss navy called “Royal Hyacinth” from Olympic. I hadn’t painted in high-gloss before, and it sure is shiny! It also required 3 coats to get everything of uniform “glossiness.” You also need to work with a nice wet roller, because if it gets too dry it will just lift up the some of the paint you just put on – which is super noticeable the glossier your paint is. We also taped off the edges with a standard blue painters tape.

Some supplies you will NEED:

• stencil spray adhesive. Don’t go with a general adhesive spray – that didn’t work for me. Get a spray specifically for stencils at a craft or hobby store. Also – wear a mask when you work with it – it’s not the most lung friendly stuff.

• level. very important for making sure you aren’t taping the stencil up out of line.

• a small roller. If you are working with glazes and/or diluted paints use a stencil brush, which the folks over at Royal Design Studio recommend. I knew I’d never finish unless I used a roller. I used a brush for corners and touch-ups.

• painter’s tape. Okay, I hate to diss a product, but the green tape pictured here – called Frog Tape, wasn’t strong enough to hold up the stencil. I’m sure it’s great for it’s intended purpose, but it wasn’t sticky enough for the Mylar stencil. I ended up using the traditional blue painter’s tape.

• patience. Don’t expect to finish this in the amount of time it takes to simply paint a room. The more care you take doing research, practicing, and lining up your stencil, the more beautiful the result will be.

Optional:

• a brayer: you can purchase at your crafts/hobby store. If helps press the stencil flat on the wall more quickly than using your fingers.

Also – I recommend practicing before you start stenciling, especially if you haven’t done it before. I just used a large piece of cardboard.

Sorry the picture is so blurry. But whenever I moved the stencil I would line it up best I could and then check that it was level.

Once level I’d secure it with some tape so it lays flat. The flatter your stencil, the crisper your lines will be. Also notice how the stencil is now covered in paint? Since I was using undiluted latex, the paint would eventually make the registration marks impossible to see. So every now and then I’d let the paint on the stencil dry, and then I could peel it right off like a film. No water, soap, or scrubbing required.

A close up of the result, once dried.

Since it took me so long to finish the project, since I’ve been so busy at work, I never got that “wow” factor because I had been looking at it for so long before it was finished. I wish I could walk into it finished without seeing it before!

Mugs from our travels we keep in the glass cabinet. They don’t coordinate, but they remind me of the places we’ve been.

Aren’t these acorn squash pretty? They are from my parent’s farm, Chestnut Creek. (The website is designed by your’s truly)

The matte paint over the gloss is surprisingly durable, though if you scrape it with something hard it does scratch, so I wouldn’t recommend matte over gloss for places that see a lot of movement. It’s also not as “scrubbable” as eggshell, semi-gloss, or gloss. Luckily we have a very large stone backsplash, and most of the cooking and what not only happens beneath the backsplash.

So, what do you think of my first stab at stenciling? I wish the color had been a little bit darker, but I’m happy with it. We still have a lot of work to do in the kitchen. I’d like to add a runner, organize our pantry, and fix the crooked cabinets. Since it’s a rental, there’s only so much we can alter.

Once again, many thanks go out to Royal Design Studio. Make sure you check back next week as I will be introducing a giveaway from Royal Design Studio, and I hope to reveal some of the DIYs I will be doing in the kitchen next week. I can give you a hint: it includes repurposing a piece of furniture to increase storage space, and another DIY that will allow you to gain the equivalent least an entire cabinet!

*disclosure: I received the stencil as a sample from Royal Design Studio

November 4, 2020
The ultimate garage organization checklist

Yuck. The garage. Not a very fun one to organize is it? Unfortunately it’s one of those chores that must be done, and being that it’s a long weekend you might have more time to get it done. Being that the American Home Buyer expects a garage in the single family home, it is easy to find a lot of organizing resources. I found this amazing plan to tackle your garage in BHG, and added my own ideas to it. Here is BHG’s plan for organizing your storage in the garage.

Create Task Kits. Create kits for various outdoors projects by filling 5- and 10-gallon plastic buckets with all the tools, products, and accessories you need to complete specific tasks such as car-washing, weeding, bicycle repair, and more.

Addition from me: My husband swears by this tactic and uses one of those 5-gallon bucket organizers that you can put over the bucket

Stash Sporting Gear. Fill tall kitchen trash cans with large and odd-shaped sporting gear. Drill holes in the bottom of bins if drainage is important. Stabilize containers by securing to a wall with short bungee cords.

Addition from me: Yes! get everything off the floor that you can. It makes it easier to clean the floors and stops the hazard of your garage door hitting something thus saving you from garage door opener repair. Instead of trash cans, also consider laundry baskets so you don’t have to dig down too deep to find smaller items that might have sunk to the bottom.

Organize the Trunk. Clean out your vehicle’s trunk. Toss every item that is expired or damaged. Place all trunk gear in a canvas bin or box. Make sure the container doesn’t slip by adding rubber or hook-and-loop tape to the bottom.

Addition from me: Make sure you have an emergency roadside kit in your trunk!

Tidy Up the Tools. Hang hand tools on a wall near your workbench from hooks on pegboard, magnetic board, or a wall-mount strip system. Label each tool’s spot. Put extra tools in a tool box or clear plastic boxes and store on floor underneath workbench.

Addition from me: Make sure often used tools are easiest to reach, and specialty items can be stored higher up

I’ve rounded up a bunch of images that I hope you find inspiring and help you rally the motivation to organize the garage. Once you’re done, you can take a look at garage storage guides to help you get your garage organized as can be.

The chalkboard cabinet and drawer fronts is a great idea. You could always paint yours with chalkboard paint.

A magnetic kitchen knife strip works great for holding drill bits too

Use magnetic spice containers to hold small hardware in the garage

This space has to be the prettiest garage I’ve ever seen

In the garage, bins and hooks and boxes are our friends

A rolling cart with most used cleaning supplies and tools is a great idea!
images above via BHG

Take a cue from Julia Child’s kitchen and do the same for your tools!
via Martha Stewart

To summarize, we almost all have a garage. Just check out Mississauga Real Estate to confirm. That being said, organizing it doesn’t have to be a miserable chore. The peace of mind and ease it will bring to your life makes it all worth it! Thanks to American Home Buyer, ssbhg.ca, and Canadian Doors for consulting!

October 23, 2020
Completing DIY Projects at Home During Quarantine

This year, many people have been spending more time at home than ever before due to quarantines and social distancing. And though it’s important to note that going easy on yourself through the many emotions that come up during this unsettling time is necessary, it’s also possible to want to fill your time with creative projects around the house. Maybe you are noticing things you’ve never seen before – like hardwood flooring that needs a touch-up, or the fact that your bedroom could use a new coat of paint in a re-energizing color. Or maybe you’ve had a running list of DIY projects for a while, that you’ve never had the time or space to tackle until now.

via Margaret of York

No matter the situation, we know that it will feel good to see some positive changes in your living space! If you are a DIY pro, or just starting out, there are some easy ways to ensure that you will have a smooth, enjoyable foray into the world of home improvement. However you choose to approach your projects, just remember to keep a positive attitude and a sense of adventure – that will do nothing but boost your creativity.

First, make sure you have all of the tools you need for your chosen project. It’s always frustrating when you finally get some momentum going, and you find that you ended to run out and purchase something that’s integral to the project! Try gathering all of your tools, instructions, supportive materials, etc before you start. Then, you can turn on some music or a podcast and dive deeply into your project.

via Margaret of York

For some projects, it can be valuable to assess whether you need to call in a professional to add their expertise. Especially when restoring hardwood flooring, or even installing new flooring in your home where there once was only carpet, calling in professionals with top-tier hardwood flooring services can cut down on your time and effort. And, it can ensure that you won’t make any costly mistakes that could derail your project.

A fresh coat of paint is an easy way to spruce up your living space and add extra energy to inspire your day to day activities! Bright colors like red, orange and yellow are perfect for creative spaces that require focus, energy, and attention. Red, in particular, is perfect for a kitchen, because not only does it promote warm feelings and connection but it promotes a healthy appetite, too!

More subdued colors like blues and greys are perfect for your bedroom, bathroom, or your meditation space. If you find yourself struggling to relax when you get in bed at night or to keep your mind focused during meditation, consider that the design elements in the space may not be conducive to relaxation or calm mental states.

via Margaret of York

Adding plants to your living space is another great way to improve your well-being and make the room feel homier and put together. If you’re someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, working on your porch or patio to make it comfortable and livable could be an excellent way to express your creative energy.

via Margaret of York

No matter what project you choose to take on, as long as you approach it with a positive outlook, a can-do attitude, and the right tools and support, we know you will have a fantastic DIY experience. And you will come away with not only a sense of satisfaction with your achievement, but also a beautiful new addition to your home that you can enjoy for years to come. Thanks to Floors NC for consulting

July 27, 2020
Home DIY: Cool woodworking projects and the tools required
Woodworking Projects

Working with wood is incredibly satisfying, and the pride of creating a really cool, useful object for your home is very rewarding. Wood furnishings and decor are solid, have a great feel and each has a unique pattern only nature could provide. The ability to find a design and make the item yourself from start to finish provides satisfaction that can last a lifetime. Woodworking does not require a workshop larger than a dorm room or a whopping budget. Building wood projects yourself has advantages and is a lot of fun. It requires only a modest budget for a few basic tools to get started. Some great practical starter projects are suggested below.

Benefits of DIY Woodworking

Making it yourself has several advantages. First, you can customize what you’re building. Rather than search for the exact size, color and features you want, find a plan and create it. By making it, the choice of material, finish and size is in your control. A second reason is the cost. Even if you could find everything you want available for purchase, you may pay a premium for it. Making it yourself, especially when working with all-wood or reclaimed wood projects , is frequently far less expensive. A third reason is that creating items can be mentally stimulating. Using math, doing 3-D spatial visualization and following detailed directions engages the left side of your brain while the creativity of finishing a piece and improvising when necessary engage the right side. Woodworking uses both sides, so whichever side of the brain you normally use, most woodworking is a part comfort zone and part experience in new terrain.

Tools to Get Started

A few basic tools will be required to get started. It does not have to cost too much at first. As you take on more challenging projects, you can upgrade some of the hand tools to power tools. All of these tools can be used for many other projects around the house with a power tools guide.
- Power drill. It’s worth spending money on a drill that gives not only good power but options for attachments. Some come with an impact driver, which can drive a screw without a pre-drilled hole. A variety of drill bits, including a countersink bit, screwdriver bits and paddle bits will come in handy. A pocket-hole jig to create angled holes is useful for many jobs.
- Miter saw. A miter saw helps get straight or angled cuts exactly right every time and you will be surprised how often you use it. A compound miter saw does beveled cuts and a sliding variation will cut wider pieces of wood, so anticipate your needs, space and budget when buying.
- Circular or jigsaw. A circular saw is the ideal tool for long lengths of wood, which the miter saw is unable to do. A jigsaw is light and flexible and best for cutting shapes.
- Dremel tool. I LOVE my dremel tool. The more you use it the more you discover all the ways it can come of use around the house. It can also add decorative effects to trim pieces or carve grooves to create joints where boards meet. You can sand, carve, clean and more. Both the 4000 and the 4200 will serve you well but there is a cool difference between the two tools and there is no doubt that the newer 4200 offers a higher level of convenience. For more information head over to: https://besttoolreview.net/dremel-4000-vs-4200/
- Hand tools. An assortment of basic hand tools to have on hand would include a hammer and counterpunch, wood rasp and chisel set, sanding blocks and a variety of clamps.
- Safety equipment. Basic safety equipment to stock would include safety glasses, masks to avoid inhaling sawdust and ear protection
Suggested Starting Projects

Finding plans for projects is easy. Hundreds are available for free online or in library books and those TV shows with the giant workshops often offer their plans at the end of the show. Below is a list of woodworking projects perfect for a beginner that rely on basic tools. Accessories: A variety of easy-to-make home accessories are available that will be practical and help you get to know your tools.
- These hanging shoe racks use premade dowels and can be placed in out-of-the-way spots.
- This super-easy cutting board uses a variety of woods for a striking effect, although it requires a power sander or planer.
Storage: Everyone can use more storage options and shelves are a good first project.
- These sturdy floating wall shelves are good to tuck into a small space.
Tables: Tables offer a variety of uses, indoors, outdoors and in the workshop. Here are three inexpensive designs that are easy to build and can be used in a number of ways:
- Small indoor/outdoor end tables.
Garden planters: Outdoor garden items make good starter projects because they’re often simple to make and there’s less perfection expected for items that are going outdoors. The last two projects call for expensive cedar because it is naturally weather-resistant, but a less expensive wood could be substituted and coated with outdoor paint, especially if the plants are going to be in individual pots.
- These super-simple plant stands create a designer look for a few bucks.
- This window box would add instant curb appeal.
At the end of a woodworking project, you have a customized item ready for use, but that’s not all. You also have additional skills that have prepared you to tackle your next project. Thanks to Dremel for contributing!
April 20, 2020
Home Improvement: Why DIY?

At this day and age, Do it yourself, commonly known as DIY, is no new term to our ears. DIY’s are the new in thing, and rightfully so. When it comes to home improvement, many people have now turned to DIYs. And if you are wondering if you are fit enough to try them out, the answer is yes, you are. Everyone is capable of coming up with something, and thanks to the internet, you can find tons of information on the same. If you want to revamp your new home that you bought from Movoto? DIY is the way to go! And here are the reasons why;

via J. Patryce Design photography: Christian Harder

1.      It is cheaper.

This is no brainer. One of the most stressful things that most homeowners think of when they want to revamp their homes are the costs. Many people think that a revamp costs an arm and a leg, and some will even opt to do away with the idea. But you do not have to shutter your makeover dreams in the name of costs anymore, just DIY! By doing things yourself, you will save on very many expenses, including labor costs. With enough knowledge from the online resources, you can be able to buy affordable materials that will help you with your project.

2.      It gives a sense of fulfillment

It feels incredible getting things done by yourself. Imagine sitting in your living room, enjoying your coffee as you look at the beautiful artwork that you did yourself- Simply fulfilling! The sense of achievement makes you want to try out even more things. It is a great way to see that nothing is impossible if you set your mind on it.

via J. Patryce Design photography: Christian Harder

3.      You get to learn a new skill

Did you ever think that you would be able to paint the walls? Or even install a new floor in your home? Well, DIY’s give you the opportunity to get to learn something new that adds value in your life. And the good thing is that no one rushes you to complete your DIY’s. You can watch as many videos as possible, read as many articles as possible before getting started. By doing this, you will find yourself learning new things each day. And this is also a great way to extend your skills to your family members and friends to. It always feels good to bring others on board by teaching them something new. And this leads us to the next point; you can use your new skill to earn money

4.      You can start your own business

As the old maxim goes, information is power. Getting to learn more about something and even how to do it is a great resource. After doing one or two DIY’s, you, in turn, get good at it and even become a pro. People around you might notice your skills and even ask you to work on some of the projects that they have. Of course, they will have to pay after you complete working on the projects. Within no time, you get known and even get referred to other people. At the end of it all, you might find yourself having an extra source of income, all thanks to the DIY skills that you taught yourself.

via J. Patryce Design photography: Christian Harder

5.      Increases the value of your home

Fixing your broken fixtures in your house, or building a shed in your backyard not only improves the aesthetics of your home but also adds equity. Ensuring that everything works perfectly in your home and doing some home improvement projects saves you a lot, even in the future. In cases where you might need to sell the house, the chances are that you will get a good buyer ready to pay up for the house. Remember, buyers always look at the condition of the home before making their purchase. Someone will only buy the house if they feel it is in good shape and is also aesthetically appealing.

6.      It is fun

What better way to bond with your family than engaging in some DIY’s while at home? It feels good to spend time with your loved ones creating something from scratch. You can allocate tasks depending on the ability of every family member. This helps you work in harmony and make the project a success. You will find yourself making jokes in the processes, which is a great way to create long-lasting memories. At the end of it, you can reward yourself with a barbeque and some cold drinks.

7.      Keeps your brain at work

DIY projects are a great way to keep your brain at work at all times. They challenge you and keep you thinking of how you can improve things in your home. You no longer think of having someone do it for you, but think of how you can get it done by yourself. This, as a result, pushes you to think harder and even dig deeper into researching on how well you can start a project from start to finish.

via J. Patryce Design photography: Christian Harder

8.      It has immense health benefits

Did you know that DIY’s have significant benefits to your health? Thought you should know. After a long stressful day at work, doing some DIY can help you relive that stress instantly. And the good thing is that DIY projects need not be very complicated and time-consuming. You can easily make a picture frame within 10 minutes, and something as simple as that boosts your mood almost immediately. Also, DIY’s are a great way to boost your self-confidence. As aforementioned, completing the projects gives you a sense of satisfaction. And knowing that you are able to come up with something boosts your self-esteem. Besides, DIY’s are a great way to be on the move- especially those that are a bit demanding, such as painting the walls, building a shed, replacing the window treatments and so on. They can help you keep fit physically.

Take Away

It is always good to challenge yourself by trying out a new DIY project, and what better way to save a few bucks than DIY’S! Thanks Movoto for contributing!

April 1, 2020
5 Closet Hacks That Will Help You Declutter

If you live in a small space and you frequently update your wardrobe to stay current with your style, you may be looking for ways to declutter your closet. A well-organized closet helps save you time while you’re getting ready for your day and can help protect your clothing from unexpected damage. A systematic closet space often offers more storage space, which could come in handy for someone with limited options.

Over The Door Solutions

via Breeze Giannasio

Utilizing an over the door pocket hanger has so many amazing uses. Use it for its suggested storage item, shoes, or roll up your leggings and be able to see each pair individually. Gloves, hats, and other small items are also great for hanging pocket holders. These provide a great way to arrange your beauty products and hair care items for easy daily access as well.

via Breeze Giannasio

Floor Shelves For Shoes

A set of floor shelving on the ground can help arrange your shoes in a way that saves some space. Place one shoe with the toe facing forward and the matching shoe facing opposite, heel forwards. This helps shoes to fit more snuggly, thus allowing an additional pair of shoes to make their way onto your shelf.

There are many hanging closet organizers that can play a huge role in managing your closet space. Whether you need to create the space or add to an already existing space, hanging closet organizers are for you. If you need space for shelving, you can simply hang it on the rod in your closet and instantly create a better organization system for yourself. Another suggestion is adding another rod to your closet. A drop rod hooks onto the one above it and creates a two-leveled system of hanging clothes that will help everything fall into place in your small space.

via Lisa Furey Interiors

Simple Do-It-Yourself Hacks For Decluttering

There are so many simple little DIY hacks that will increase the capacity in your small space. Use shower curtain rings to organize scarves or layering tank tops on a hanger. Clothespins or bag clips on hangers make for useful ways to hang pants and skirts. Additionally, soda can tabs fit perfectly on the hook of a hanger to create a tiered effect allowing you to hang more clothing items in one space. If you want to step it up and make it a little more classy, chains and S-hooks create the same effect.

Make Use of Empty Space

Hang additional clothing rods along the width, or place baskets in dead space. Oftentimes, the sides of our closets create hard-to-reach places and wasted space. Be creative and make that area work for you. Hang suitcases and other seldom-used items up out of reach.

Decluttering should be on everybody’s list of things to do. Removing unnecessary items from spaces, or simply reorganizing those items so that they’re neat, can provide a sense of relief. The closet is a space that becomes overcrowded on a regular basis, but with these decluttering hacks, you should be on your way to a stress-free wardrobe. Thanks to StitchFix for contributing

March 31, 2020
Thanksgiving decorating ideas that you haven’t seen a million times

It’s quite a challenge to find unique decorating ideas for the holidays. Especially with so many people entertaining over Thanksgiving, you want some decor that makes your home a little more memorable. Here are some ideas that I hope are new to you!

Choose an appropriate but non-traditional color palette. Orange and brown is a classic for Thanksgiving, but how about white and brown. It definitely lends your home a fresher look. Click here to get these free Thanksgiving printables!

via Pinterest via The Tom Kat Studio

I love this handmade garland with a palette straight from nature. A little metallic paint and you can create a custom message. Learn how here

via Pinerest via Love Paper Paint

The pastel color palette on this table definitely makes it memorable.
via Pinterest via Decorating Your Small Space

And yet another example of how unexpected color freshens up Thanksgiving decor. I love the addition of the pink mums! Without them it would be a pretty, but rather ho-hum porch.

via Making it in the mountains

November 11, 2019