More and more people are spending more time at home because of the pandemic. Because of this, many also take on more DIY projects to keep themselves busy. So whether you’re looking to save some money or want to learn some new skills, there are plenty of home projects that you can do by yourself with just a little bit of know-how. Here are five ideas to get you started.
Painting
A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for a room, and it’s a project that almost anyone can tackle. Just be sure to prep the area properly before you start painting and choose the right type of paint for the surface you’re working with. For example, it’s estimated that people who paint their interior walls have more than 100% ROI, while exterior walls have an ROI of around 50%.
Hanging Curtains
Curtains are an easy way to add some personality to a room and are not too tricky to install. Just make sure you have the proper hardware and follow the instructions carefully. Here’s a simple guide on how you can hang curtains by yourself:
- Choose the right curtain: First, you need to choose suitable curtains. Choose the right color that fits the room, and make sure you measure the length and width accurately.
- Gather hardware: Gather all the hardware you need, such as curtain rods, brackets, screws, and a screwdriver.
- Hang the brackets: Mark where you want to place the brackets on your wall using a pencil or marker, then carefully screw in the stands.
- Install the rod: Place the curtain rod onto the brackets, and tighten any screws or bolts to secure it.
- Hang curtains: Hang the curtains onto the rod, ensuring they are even on both sides. And voila, your room has a whole new look!
Organizing Your Closets
We could all use a little more storage space, and one way to create it is by decluttering and organizing your closets. This is a project you can do gradually as time allows, and it doesn’t require special skills or tools.
Planting a Garden
Gardening is a great way to get outside and enjoy some fresh air, and it’s also pretty rewarding when you see (and eat!) the fruits of your labor. If you’ve never done it before, start small with just a few easy plants to care for, such as herbs or tomatoes. Or, if you don’t have a lot of outdoor space, try indoor plants for some greenery inside your home.
A garden might not drastically increase your home’s price, but the garden’s yields can help you reduce grocery bills, and the added greenery can improve the overall curb appeal. Plus, it’s just a fun hobby to try out!
Refinishing Furniture
Giving an old piece of furniture a new lease on life can save you a lot of money. Of course, you’ll need to do some sanding and staining (or painting), but the results will be worth it.
These are just a few ideas to get you started on your DIY journey, but there are endless possibilities for home improvement projects you can do yourself. However, much like many home projects, safety comes first. Here are four ways to ensure your safety while doing your home projects.
Safety Equipment
First, you need to invest in some safety equipment. Here are three essential pieces of safety equipment you should always have at home.
Winches
Most of the time, you’ll need to lift heavy objects for DIY projects. Investing in robust lifting winches can help ensure safe lifting. It can also help with projects such as hanging curtains or painting high walls.
Eye Protection
Eye protection, such as goggles or safety glasses, should always be worn to protect against flying debris or chemicals.
Respirator Mask
A respirator mask is necessary when working with chemicals or particles that could harm your lungs.
Clear Instructions
Make sure you carefully read and understand the instructions before starting a project. If anything is unclear, research to ensure you fully understand what you need to do.
Tools Maintenance
Properly maintain your tools to ensure they are in good working condition and won’t cause any accidents. This includes sharpening blades, checking for frayed wires, and properly storing them when not in use.
Take Breaks
Working for long periods can lead to fatigue, increasing the chance of accidents. So make sure to take breaks, stretch, and stay hydrated while working on projects. And if you feel any discomfort or pain, stop immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.
DIY projects can be a fun and fulfilling way to improve your home. However, safety always comes first. So make sure to properly equip yourself with the necessary safety equipment, understand the instructions, maintain your tools, and take breaks as needed. Happy DIY-ing!
