Ask Amy! The DIY Edition

Hi friends,  I am continuing the Ask Amy! series today with some great ideas about DIY.  I have really become a fan of DIY'ing my way through my home.  It's been a slow learning process for me and I've definitely made my mistakes (think huge gashes in the wall and spilled paint), but I've also improved my skills along the way.  It's been a fun process and I have a lot more projects in the works.

I came from a family where my dad was the DIY guru.  He built shelves, he repaired things and generally knew a lot about projects.  My hubby (LOVE him!) but he doesn't have the DIY gene.  He is good at a lot of other things, but DIY is not one of them.  That's where I come in.  Probably since beginning to blog, I have started taking an interest in this whole do it yourself idea.  I really didn't care much before that.  Now, I am learning and am excited to share some of my tips and project ideas with you today.

Are you a fan of DIY?

You may have caught my inspiration board for my 2nd One Room Challenge space; a Modern Tween Hangout Space.  I am super excited to show you some of the DIY projects I am doing in that space as the weeks go by, so make sure to stay tuned.

Of course, you need your basic hammer, nails, and screwdrivers to do a DIY project, but I have gathered some of my other favorite products on the market to DIY with.  Let me know if you have any of your own to share.

{This post contains affiliate links, see full disclosure here.}

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 Paint:

• Purdy Paintbrushes and rollers– I could not have done my kitchen cabinets without these!
• Paint Handle Pail– Super helpful when you are on a ladder and don't want to hold your can for fear of spilling (yes, we've done that!)
• Rustoleum Spray Paint Handle– Really helps keep your grip consistent when doing painting projects.
• Paint Brush Covers: Ok, so these are a lifesaver when doing a major painting project.  Put your wet brush in and take your phone call, your paint will not dry out because of this sealing cover!
• Shur-line Touch Up Paint Gadget– This gadget stores extra paint in its handle for quick touch ups in seconds.  An attached foam roller needs to be cleaned or replaced after each use.  Works great for small scuffs etc.

 

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General DIY Helpers:

• Magnetic Stud Finder– I have a small one, but it works like a charm!
• 3M Pro Grade Precision Flexible Sanding Sheets– foldable stretchable sheets are my fave!
• Magnogrip– I love the wristband which your screws and nails will magnetize too.
• Staple Gun– Even if you aren't a heavy DIY'er, I use my staple gun for craft projects a lot.
• Original Tacky Glue– This is my favorite go-to glue for craft projects and little repairs.
• Cordless Drill– I inherited mine, but if I was to buy one today, I would buy this one.  It is so versatile.
• Self-Drilling Anchors: These are easy to use anchors and hold up to 50lbs.

 

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DIY Project Starters:

• Reclaimed Wood Pallets– I can think of a hundred projects to use these for!
• Removable Wall Paper– I am doing a closet project now that I can't wait to show you!
• Hairpin Legs: Perfect for making tables, desks, planter stands etc. They have a cool modern vibe.
• Mason Jars: I use these for all kinds of projects; vases, storage and food projects.
• Sisal Rope: One of my favorite materials because of how many things you can create with rope.
• Wood slices: I have used these for wall art and trays, but there are many other project ideas you could come up with.

 

So what have been some of my favorite DIY projects to date? Click on the picture to be taken to the post.

And a reader question from last time was, “I would love to know how your home style has evolved or changed. What’s one thing you always thought you’d love or have in your home but don’t like anymore?”

Funny enough, I just participated in the Before and After style edition last week.  You can see the full post here.  I would say, one of the things I thought I'd love in my home is color!  I was all about color when we bought our house 15 years ago.  I mean bold and beautiful and every room a different color; red, yellow, green, brown.  These tended to be my favorites.  Now I am just the opposite in that I want white or cream rooms and add color sparingly.  My neutral home makes the spaces feel more fresh, clean, and happy.  I can now add color when I like, but don't have to live with it if I change my mind.

 

Need some books to get you started and inspired on your DIY journey?

Here are a few of my favorites.  {And you had to know I was going to sneak that last one in there. :)}

 

Got a question for Ask Amy!  Comment below.  I'd love to hear from you!

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To life feeling like home!

XO,