Easy DIY Home Improvement Projects for Beginners

Do you want to spruce up your home without spending a fortune? Whether you’re renting or owning, there are many ways to make your space more comfortable and stylish with some simple DIY projects.

In this article, we will show you 10 easy DIY home improvement projects that anyone can do, even if you’re a beginner. These projects are budget-friendly, fun, and rewarding. Read on to find out how you can transform your home with your own hands!

Here are 10 easy DIY home improvement projects that anyone can do:

• Paint a room
• Install a backsplash
• Create a gallery wall
• Build a bookshelf
• Update cabinet hardware
• Install a dimmer switch
• Create a vertical garden
• Refinish furniture
• Install a programmable thermostat
• Organize your closet

Paint a Room

Painting a room is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to transform a space. You can choose a color that matches your style and personality, and create a fresh and inviting atmosphere.

Painting a room is also an easy DIY project that anyone can do, even if you’re a beginner. You just need some basic tools and materials, such as paint, brushes, rollers, tape, and drop cloths. Here are the steps to paint a room in your home:

• Prepare the room for painting. Remove any furniture, wall art, and rugs from the room, or move them to the center and cover them with drop cloths. Take off any outlet covers and switch plates, and mask the edges with painter’s tape.

Clean the walls with a damp cloth and a mild detergent to remove any dirt, dust, or grease. If the walls have any cracks, holes, or stains, fill them with spackle or primer and let them dry. Sand any rough or glossy areas to smooth them out.

• Choose the right paint and tools for the job. Depending on the size and condition of the room, you may need different types of paint and tools. For the paint, you can choose between water-based or oil-based paint, and between matte, satin, semi-gloss, or gloss finish.

Water-based paint is easier to clean and dry, but oil-based paint is more durable and resistant to moisture. A matte finish is good for hiding imperfections, but a gloss finish is more reflective and washable. For the tools, you will need a paint tray, a roller, a brush, and an extension pole.

The roller is good for covering large areas, but the brush is good for cutting in the edges and corners. The extension pole can help you reach the ceiling and high walls. You may also need a ladder, a paint stirrer, and a paint opener.

• Paint the ceiling first, then the walls, and then the trim. Start by painting the ceiling with a roller and an extension pole, working in small sections and overlapping the edges. Cut in the edges with a brush, and blend them with the roller.

Let the ceiling dry completely before moving on to the walls. Then, paint the walls with a roller, working from top to bottom and from one side to the other. Cut in the edges and corners with a brush, and blend them with the roller.

Let the walls dry completely before moving on to the trim. Finally, paint the trim, such as baseboards, door frames, and window frames, with a brush, masking off the wall-trim edge with painter’s tape. Remove the tape before the paint dries to avoid peeling.

• Clean up and enjoy your new room. Once the paint is dry, put back the outlet covers and switch plates, and remove any drop cloths and masking tape. Clean your brushes, rollers, and trays with water or solvent, depending on the type of paint you use.

Dispose of any leftover paint or empty cans according to the local regulations. Then, admire your work and enjoy your new room!

Paint a room One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to transform a space is by giving it a fresh coat of paint. Choose a color that matches your style and personality, and don’t be afraid to get creative!

Install a Backsplash

Installing a backsplash is a great way to add some flair and protection to your kitchen or bathroom walls. You can choose from a variety of materials, colors, and patterns to suit your taste and budget.

The best part is, you don’t need to hire a professional to do it. You can install a backsplash yourself with some basic tools and supplies, such as tile, adhesive mat, grout, and a utility knife. Follow these simple steps to install a backsplash the easy way:

• Clean the wall thoroughly with a cleaner to remove any grease or other debris. Use sandpaper, if necessary, for a clean and smooth surface.
• Measure the wall space to determine the best fit for your tile. Transfer the measurements to the tile adhesive mat and cut to size using scissors.
• Peel one-half of the back off of the adhesive mat, and align the unexposed section to a straight surface like the existing countertop. Ensure the side with the thicker gap between glue dots is aligned to overlap the next sheet.

Once the sheet is in the correct position, stick it to the wall. Then peel the bottom half and stick that to the wall. Repeat this process until the desired area is covered. Use a rubber float to press the adhesive mat to the wall for a permanent bond.

• Hold the tile up to the wall to determine where it will need to be cut to size. Use a utility knife to cut the mesh behind the tile. Peel the plastic coating off of the adhesive mat, and carefully place each tile section onto the adhesive.

Once the tile is in the correct position, push it in place with a rubber float. Repeat this process until the wall is covered with the tile.

• Fill the gaps between the tile with the pre-mixed grout and the rubber float. Apply it diagonally until all of the spaces between the tiles have been filled with grout.
• Fill a bucket with water and using a clean sponge, wipe the excess grout off the tile, again diagonally. Be careful to only wipe the grout off the face of the tile, not the grout in between the tiles.
• After 24 hours, a haze may appear on the tile. To remove it, wipe the tile with a rag.
• Enjoy your new backsplash!

Create a Gallery Wall

Creating a gallery wall is a wonderful way to display your favorite photos, artwork, and memories in your home. You can mix and match different frames, sizes, and mediums to create unique and personalized wall art.

It’s also an easy and budget-friendly DIY project that anyone can do, even if you’re a beginner. Here are the steps to create a gallery wall in your space:

• Evaluate your space and decide where you want to hang your gallery wall. You can choose any wall that needs some life, such as above the sofa, in the corner, or in your home office. Make sure you have enough space to fit all your pieces comfortably.
• Choose your winning pieces and create a cohesive color palette. You can use prints, photographs, canvas art, or anything else that speaks to you. Try to stick to a similar tone and intensity for your pieces, and choose colors that match your style and personality.
• Have fun with frames and mix and match different styles, shapes, and materials. You can find frames at craft stores, antique shops, or flea markets. You can also paint or stain your frames to match your color scheme.
• Alternatively, consider a grid layout for a more orderly and symmetrical look. You can use the same size and style of frames and align them in rows and columns. This can create a more polished and modern look for your gallery wall.
• Lay out your gallery wall on the floor before you hang it. Measure the space you want to fill on the wall and tape off a box that size on the floor. Then arrange your pieces within that area, keeping about 3 inches of space between them. Play around with the layout until you’re happy with it, and take a photo for reference.
• Transfer your pieces to the wall and hang them with nails, hooks, or adhesive strips. You can measure the distance between the pieces or just eyeball it. Use a level to make sure your pieces are straight and aligned.
• Switch things up as needed and enjoy your gallery wall. You can always add, remove, or rearrange your pieces as you like. Your gallery wall is a reflection of your personality and style, so have fun with it and make it your own

Build a Bookshelf

Building a bookshelf is a fun and rewarding project that can add more storage and style to your home. You can make a bookshelf with some basic tools and materials, such as plywood, wood glue, nails, and a circular saw.

You can customize the size and design of your bookshelf to fit your space and needs. Here are the steps to build a bookshelf in your home:

• Decide how big you want your bookshelf to be and how many shelves you want to have. You can use a tape measure to measure the space where you want to place your bookshelf and sketch a plan with the dimensions.
• Cut the plywood to the size you need for the sides, top, bottom, and shelves of your bookshelf. You can use a circular saw or ask your lumberyard to cut the plywood for you. Sand the edges of the plywood to smooth them out.
• Assemble the frame of your bookshelf by attaching the sides, top, and bottom pieces with wood glue and nails. Use a carpenter’s square to make sure the corners are at right angles. You can also add some corner braces or L-brackets for extra support.
• Mark the positions of the shelves on the sides of the bookshelf with a pencil and a level. You can make the shelves adjustable by drilling holes and inserting shelf pins, or you can make them fixed by nailing them to the sides.
• Add some trim to the front edges of the bookshelf to hide the plywood and give it a finished look. You can use any kind of wood trim that matches your style and budget. Cut the trim to the length you need and attach it with wood glue and nails.
• Paint or stain your bookshelf to the color you want. You can also add some varnish or polyurethane to protect the wood and make it shine. Let the bookshelf dry completely before moving it to its place and filling it with your books and other items.

Update Cabinet Hardware

Updating your cabinet hardware is a quick and easy way to give your kitchen or bathroom a fresh and modern look. You can replace your old and outdated handles, knobs, and hinges with new ones that match your style and budget.

All you need are some basic tools, such as a drill, a screwdriver, and a tape measure. Here are the steps to update your cabinet hardware:

• Remove the old hardware from the cabinet doors and drawers. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws on the back and pull out the hardware from the front. Keep the screws in a safe place in case you need them later.
• Fill and camouflage any existing holes that you don’t want to use for the new hardware. You can use wood filler or putty to fill the holes and sand them smooth. Then paint or stain the area to match the rest of the cabinet.
• Decide on the placement and size of the new hardware. You can use a template from a hardware installation kit or make your own with cardboard or paper. Mark the drill holes for the new hardware on the cabinet doors and drawers with a pencil. Use a level to make sure the marks are aligned and even.
• Drill the new holes for the new hardware. Use a drill bit that matches the size of the screws for the new hardware. Open up the cabinets or drawers before drilling, or you could end up drilling into the cabinet frame by accident. Drill into the marked spots for the new holes.
• Install the new hardware. Line up the new hardware pieces with the drill holes on the front of the doors and drawers. Put the hardware’s fastening screw through the hole in the back of the cabinet, pushing it forward to the front. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws. Repeat this process for each piece until they’re all attached.
• Enjoy your new cabinet hardware. You’ll be amazed by how much difference this simple change can make to your space.

Install a Dimmer Switch

Installing a dimmer switch is a smart way to control the lighting and mood of any room in your home. You can adjust the brightness of your lights to suit your needs and preferences and save energy and money by using less electricity.

Installing a dimmer switch is also an easy DIY project that anyone can do, even if you’re a beginner. You just need some basic tools, such as a screwdriver, a wire stripper, a voltage tester, and a drill. Here are the steps to install a dimmer switch in your home¹²³:

• Turn off the power to the circuit that controls the light you want to dim. You can do this by switching off the breaker or removing the fuse from the main panel. Use a voltage tester to make sure there is no current flowing in the wires.
• Remove the cover plate and the existing switch from the wall box. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the screws that hold them in place. Pull out the switch and disconnect the wires from the terminals. You may have two or three wires, depending on the type of switch and circuit. Label the wires with tape or a marker to remember how they were connected.
• Connect the wires to the new dimmer switch. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and the wiring diagram that comes with the switch.

Usually, you will have to connect a black wire (hot) to a black wire on the switch, a white wire (neutral) to a white wire on the switch, and a green or bare wire (ground) to a green wire or a metal screw on the switch.

Use wire strippers to strip about 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends of the wires, and use wire connectors to twist them together. Wrap the connections with electrical tape for extra security.

• Mount the dimmer switch to the wall box. Push the wires back into the box and align the switch with the screw holes. Use a screwdriver to fasten the screws that hold the switch in place. Make sure the switch is level and tight.
• Attach the cover plate to the dimmer switch. Use a screwdriver to secure the screws that hold the plate in place. Make sure the plate is flush with the wall and covers the edges of the box.
• Turn on the power to the circuit and test the dimmer switch. You can do this by turning the knob or sliding the lever on the switch to adjust the brightness of the light. Enjoy your new dimmer switch and the ambiance it creates!

Create a Vertical Garden

Creating a vertical garden is a wonderful way to add some greenery and beauty to your home, especially if you have limited horizontal space. You can grow a variety of plants, such as herbs, flowers, succulents, and even vegetables, on a vertical structure that suits your style and budget.

There are many ways to create a vertical garden, from using ready-made structures to building your own from scratch. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Use a living wall system. A living wall system is a modular structure that allows you to attach planters to a wall or a frame. You can buy a living wall kit or make your own with wood, metal, or plastic.

The planters can be filled with soil and plants of your choice and watered manually or automatically with a drip irrigation system. A living wall system is a great way to create a lush and vibrant vertical garden in any indoor or outdoor space.

• Use a trellis or a lattice. A trellis or a lattice is a simple and classic way to create a vertical garden. You can buy a trellis or a lattice from a garden store or make your own with wood, bamboo, or wire.

You can attach the trellis or the lattice to a wall or a fence, or use it as a standalone structure. You can grow climbing plants, such as roses, jasmine, clematis, or ivy, on the trellis or the lattice, and train them to cover the entire surface. You can also hang pots or baskets from the trellis or the lattice for more variety.

• Use hanging baskets or pots. Hanging baskets or pots are an easy and inexpensive way to create a vertical garden. You can use any kind of baskets or pots that have holes for drainage, and fill them with soil and plants of your choice.

You can hang the baskets or pots from hooks, nails, or wires on a wall, a fence, a balcony, or a pergola. You can also use a metal or wooden rack to hang multiple baskets or pots in a row or a column. Hanging baskets or pots are ideal for growing herbs, flowers, succulents, or strawberries.

• Use a pallet or a crate. A pallet or a crate is a creative and eco-friendly way to create a vertical garden. You can use a pallet or a crate that you have lying around or find one at a local store or online.

You can paint or stain the pallet or the crate to match your decor or leave it natural for a rustic look. You can lean the pallet or the crate against a wall or a fence, or mount it on a wall with brackets.

You can fill the gaps or the spaces in the pallet or the crate with soil and plants of your choice, or attach pots or planters to the pallet or the crate. A pallet or a crate is perfect for growing herbs, flowers, lettuce, or kale.

Refinish Furniture

Refinishing furniture is a great way to give new life to old or damaged pieces. You can restore the original beauty and charm of your furniture, or change its color and style to match your decor.

Refinishing furniture is also an easy DIY project that anyone can do, even if you’re a beginner. You just need some basic tools and materials, such as sandpaper, paint or stain, brushes, and rags. Here are the steps to refinish furniture in your home:

• Prepare the furniture for refinishing. Remove any hardware, such as knobs, hinges, or handles, and store them in a safe place. Place the furniture on a drop cloth or a tarp to protect the floor.

Clean the furniture with a damp cloth and a mild detergent to remove any dirt, dust, or grease. If the furniture has any cracks, holes, or scratches, fill them with wood filler or putty and let it dry.

• Strip the old finish from the furniture. If the furniture has a thick or glossy finish, you may need to strip it off before applying a new one. You can use a chemical stripper or a heat gun to remove the old finish.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear gloves, goggles, and a mask for safety. Apply the stripper or the heat gun to a small section of the furniture at a time, and scrape off the old finish with a scraper or a putty knife. Wipe off any residue with a rag and mineral spirits.

• Sand the furniture to smooth the surface. Use a sandpaper or a sander to sand the furniture lightly and evenly. Start with a coarse-grit sandpaper and work your way to a fine-grit sandpaper. Sand along the direction of the wood grain and avoid over-sanding. Wipe off any dust with a tack cloth or a damp rag.
• Apply the new finish to the furniture. Choose a paint or a stain that matches your desired color and style. Stir the paint or the stain well before using it. Use a brush or a roller to apply the paint or the stain to the furniture in thin and even coats.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and let each coat dry completely before applying the next one. You may need two or three coats to achieve the best coverage and color. For extra protection and durability, you can apply a clear topcoat, such as varnish, polyurethane, or wax, after the final coat of paint or stain.

• Reattach the hardware and enjoy your refinished furniture. Once the furniture is completely dry, you can reattach the hardware that you removed earlier. Place the furniture in its desired location and admire your work. You have successfully refinished your furniture and given it a new look!

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Save energy and money by installing a programmable thermostat. This simple upgrade can help regulate your home’s temperature and reduce your utility bills.

Part 3 of the current page talks about how to install a programmable thermostat as an easy DIY home improvement project for beginners. The main points are:

• Benefits of a programmable thermostat: A programmable thermostat can help you save energy and money by adjusting the temperature according to your schedule and preferences. You can also control it remotely with your smartphone or computer.
• Tools and materials needed: You will need a screwdriver, a drill, a level, a wire stripper, and a new programmable thermostat. Make sure the new thermostat is compatible with your heating and cooling system.
• Steps to install a programmable thermostat:
  • Turn off the power to your heating and cooling system at the circuit breaker or the furnace switch.
  • Remove the old thermostat and disconnect the wires. Label the wires according to the terminals they were attached to.
  • Mount the new thermostat base on the wall using screws and a level. Make sure the wires are accessible through the hole in the base.
  • Connect the wires to the corresponding terminals on the new thermostat. Follow the instructions that came with the new thermostat.
  • Attach the thermostat faceplate and turn on the power to your heating and cooling system.
  • Program the thermostat according to your desired settings and test it to make sure it works properly.

Organize Your Closet

Organizing your closet is a smart way to make the most of your space and find your clothes easily. You can declutter, sort, and store your clothes in a way that suits your lifestyle and preferences.

Organizing your closet is also an easy DIY project that anyone can do, even if you’re a beginner. You just need some basic tools and supplies, such as a tape measure, a screwdriver, a drill, a level, and some storage solutions. Here are the steps to organize your closet:

• Empty your closet and sort your clothes. Take everything out of your closet, including clothes, shoes, accessories, and hangers. Sort your clothes into four piles: keep, donate, sell, and trash.

Keep the clothes that fit you well, that you wear often, and that match your style. Donate or sell the clothes that are in good condition but that you don’t need or want anymore. Trash the clothes that are stained, torn, or worn out.

• Clean your closet and measure your space. Wipe down the shelves, rods, walls, and floor of your closet with a damp cloth and a mild cleaner. Vacuum or sweep the floor to remove any dust or dirt.

Measure the length, width, and height of your closet, as well as the distance between the shelves and rods. Write down the measurements and use them to plan your storage solutions.

• Choose your storage solutions and install them. Depending on the size and shape of your closet, you may want to use different types of storage solutions, such as shelves, drawers, bins, baskets, hooks, racks, or dividers.

You can buy ready-made storage solutions from a home improvement store or online, or you can make your own with some wood, metal, or plastic. Install your storage solutions according to the instructions, using a screwdriver, a drill, and a level. Make sure they are sturdy and secure.

• Arrange your clothes and accessories in your closet. Put your clothes back in your closet, using your storage solutions to organize them. You can sort your clothes by category, color, season, or occasion.

You can also use labels, tags, or stickers to identify your clothes and make them easier to find. Hang your clothes that are prone to wrinkles, such as shirts, dresses, or jackets, on hangers.

Fold your more durable clothes, such as sweaters, jeans, or t-shirts, and store them on shelves, drawers, or bins. Store your shoes on racks, shelves, or baskets. Store your accessories, such as belts, scarves, hats, or jewelry, on hooks, dividers, or organizers.

• Maintain your closet organization. To keep your closet organized, you should follow some simple habits, such as putting your clothes back where they belong after wearing them, donating or selling any clothes that you no longer need or want, and doing a seasonal purge of your closet.
• You can also use some tips and tricks, such as using matching hangers, rolling your clothes to save space, or using the reverse hanger method to track your usage.

Conclusion

Home improvement doesn’t have to be overwhelming, especially for beginners. With these 10 easy DIY projects, you can make a big impact on your home without breaking the bank. So grab your tools and get started!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)