I've been trying to focus on completing little projects I've been putting off forever. It got me thinking of some of the DIY/home projects that could be done with what you might have at home already.
If so many of us are home more than usual, so let's take advantage of it, right? I gathered a list of ten home projects to work on during this time at home all day!
1. Spray paint something
OK, you may not have the big spray paint stash I do, but even if you just have the basic black and white (you can order it online), you'd be surprised at how much you can change things up!
This mirror used to have a wood frame and the lamps used to be shiny brass:
This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience.
See my policies and disclosure page for more information.
I recently shared some of my favorite things I've sprayed over the years here! You can paint almost anything.
This is by far the cheapest way to change up a space. I don't do this often -- in both of our houses I've found a set up I like and stuck to it...forever. Ha!
But even a simple thing like switching out chairs or tables will freshen up a space:
Think about different layouts and changing things up. It will feel like a brand new room!
This one is a given, right? I always feel like making our storage spaces work better this time of year. This is the perfect time to get to those spots that have always driven you crazy:
You can see two of my favorite closets in our home here and here.
4. Printable art projects
You know how much I love free printables! They are basically free art -- and spring is a lovely time to add some color around the house:
You can find Lauren's prints (pictured above) in this free spring printable round up.
You can also see how to change any photo into pretty watercolor art here:
Don't forget printing off photos and framing them too! Get the photos off your phone and create that gallery wall. :)
5. Fabric projects
Have you had fabric tucked away to make those curtains or pillows? Now is the perfect time!:
I shared how to make pillows with zippers here. If you don't have decorative fabric, you can use any fabric -- old bedding, drapes, shower curtains even!
You can make more than pillows of course. Cover a lampshade with fabric to give it new life (that is an OLD post!). Wrap your photo mats with fabric to add some color to a gallery wall. So many fun ways to add some color around the house.
6. Declutter/edit
Not sure there's a better time to address the clutter. It will free up space in your home (even more important now that most of us are home more!) and it feels SO GOOD to get rid of stuff.
I promise you it will lift your mood! Do you really need 150 markers?:
The answer is no. No, you do not. :)
The key is gathering all like things together -- it makes a HUGE difference. I used the Konmari method a few years ago and have kept up with it over the years:
Decluttering is the best feeling! Clutter stresses us and makes us more anxious than we realize.
This doesn't just work with furniture! Mix things up -- try your accessories in different spots. Change up the decor on your bookshelves:
Or move art and mirrors around. Shop your house!
And don't forget that editing can make a big difference too. This is a great time to let your house "breathe" -- take a few things away and lighten things up for the spring and summer seasons. It will feel good. :)
8. Paint something
Anything! Walls are a given, and make the biggest impact. But if you don't have a whole gallon of paint you can still paint your interior doors:
Or paint a small piece of furniture! A stool, chair, bench. Whatever!:
Paint is a game changer! Add some contrast or lighten things up.
9. Deep clean
Have you seen that meme going around? 😂
So true!! Well, this is the time my friends, let's get it done! Open the windows and clean the house.
I plan to deep clean every rug and carpet with the awesome carpet cleaner I showed you last fall:
It works so well it's almost...enjoyable? There is deep satisfaction seeing what it picks up. (And deep shame for how dirty our rugs are.)
10. Scrap wood projects
This is one of my favorites because I keep a large scrap wood stash. It's REAL hard for me to let go of wood.
Try building some easy picture ledges:
Or a tray for the coffee table or ottoman! I made this HUGE hideaway tray for Legos years ago:
It slides under the sofa!
We also use it for puzzles and games:
Use scrap wood and paint or pretty paper to make labels for baskets:
The perfect project after you're done decluttering and organizing. ;)
There you go -- my top ten home projects to work on when you're stuck at home. I tried to include DIYs using what I already have on hand. What would you add to this list?
Hang in there -- take it one day at a time and keep busy!
See more of our home here. To shop items in our home, click here! Never miss a post by signing up to get posts via email.
Great ideas!
ReplyDeleteGenerally love the ideas, but would caution against using power saws and the like right now. Even a skilled carpenter can have an accident, and now is not the time to have to go to the ER! I really want to work on some framed wallpaper panels, but have put that on hold for just this reason!
ReplyDeleteKinda wish I was working from home so I would get to try these! Thanks for the fun list! ❤️✨
ReplyDeleteCharmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Now that your son is a bit older, have you showed him how to make these items? It would be a wonderful life lesson to teach him while he is out of school. Skills such as cutting and math. Use of tools, safety. You could make something together that he would have to share one day with his family, like your potting bench. These are the lessons not taught in school.
ReplyDeleteYes good idea! I've had him help in the past and it's just not his thing yet. I hope he'll get into it more. He DOES love the nail gun. ;)
DeleteEverything is pretty
ReplyDelete