Time to DIY: Build projects to try at home

by Ann Hayward 10/02/2023

Some of the best home DIY projects are as useful as they are satisfying to build. Projects requiring power tools might seem intimidating, but they're really just like cooking: once you have all the materials, just follow the recipe! If you’re a home DIY enthusiast, new project ideas can be super beneficial, stretch your DIY skills and provide useful additions to your home.

Polished concrete tabletop

Concrete is an incredibly versatile and affordable alternative to materials like natural stone. To put this concept into practice, consider making a polished concrete table. Using treated lumber, construct a simple base and table legs sturdy enough to hold the weight of concrete.

Measure and build a form for your tabletop, and mix the concrete according to the instructions. Once it's set and cured, you can put the pieces together and have an elegant yet practical table.

Build a shoe storage booster stool

What could be better than hidden storage space built into another useful furnishing? A combination shoe storage and step-stool makes a helpful addition to a mudroom, entryway or closet. Using wood glue and nails, you can make a rectangular box out of your choice of lumber and add smaller compartments, which are perfect for shoe storage.

Tile-top table

A Tuscan-style tile top table offers an excellent combination of traditional woodwork and tiling techniques. You can even upcycle an existing table by adding a custom tile design. Lay your choice of tiles onto the surface using grout and finish it off with simple wood trim molding around the edges.

This particular project can take several days, but your time and effort will be well-rewarded with a beautiful and unique table. Try it with matching tile or a mixture of bold colors for a funky aesthetic.

Build a raised garden bed

Growing fruits, vegetables and other plants outside is much simpler with a raised garden bed. Rather than deal with the ground soil, you can custom-build your ideal planting environment in whatever size or shape you desire.

First, select a location and calculate the size and footprint of your raised bed. If you're using wood for this building project, measure carefully to ensure you cut the correct lengths. If you opt for galvanized metal for your garden, have it professionally cut to size unless you have experience with the right tools.

These are only a few easy DIY home projects to consider. Using basic tools and techniques, you can accomplish these crafting projects and more.



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About the Author
Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]