As a perpetual renter with a studio apartment-sized budget, I am always looking for ways to curb my ever-changing style with do-it-yourself home decorating projects. It is such a satisfying feeling to complete a project and be able to say, “I made that” the next time someone compliments it. But starting some DIY projects can feel just as intimidating as looking at big price tags in stores!
Building your DIY confidence is a vital step to balance wanting high-end style and needing to stick to a realistic budget. To feel fully equipped to unleash your creativity on your next DIY overhaul, I have compiled five terrific resources that fostered my DIY spirit and confidence.
Take some time to explore all these resources have to offer, and I think you will find yourself much more inspired than intimidated! All it takes is a few little things for you to be capable of having a big interest in DIY projects!
Do It Yourself Magazine, Winter 2011; Photo Credit to heyjenrenee.com
1) Do It Yourself Magazine Although this magazine is issued only four times a year, each issue is packed full of beautiful, easy-to-complete projects that allow you to display your personality and style through your work. In Do It Yourself Magazine you will find how-to steps for everything from art projects to furniture makeovers.
I Brake for Yard Sales, by: Lara Spencer; Photo Credit to Amazon.com
2) I Brake For Yards Sales by: Lara Spencer One look at this book and your perception of yard sales DIY home projects will never be the same! In her book, Good Morning America correspondent Lara Spencer shares her passion for DIY home projects and thrifty finds and provides readers with all the necessary how-to information to take a DIY project from purchase to presentation. Spencer does an incredible job of showing the uncapped glamour, fun, and personality that can result from some creativity and a little DIY spirit.
HGTV Magazine; Photo Credit to curbed.com
3) HGTV Magazine and HGTV.com are great resources to categorize your personal style and find ways to step out of your design-style comfort zone. This magazine always offers fresh ideas and cutting edge decorating tips from well-known HGTV designers as well as simple ways for every homeowner or renter to spruce up his or her space. The HGTV magazine and website also provide great information for those individuals who are ready to take on larger DIY home renovations. No project is too big or too small for HGTV to discuss.
Pinterest; Photo Credit to pfsweb.com
4) Pinterest If you are at all interested in DIY projects and crafts and don’t have a Pinterest account, I suggest you got one now…well, as soon as you finish reading this blog post. This social network devotes entire categories of “pins” to DIY & Craft, Home Decor, and Design; not to mention the other various categories Pinterest users may pin their DIY ideas and inspirations. Pinterest offers an endless number of project ideas – many of which are linked to websites and other blogs with step-by-step instructions and suggestions on how to complete the projects. The craft supply and home improvement stores will be calling your name after only a few minutes of exploring!
The Nate Berkus Show; Photo Credit to sohautestyle.com
5) The Nate Berkus Show Top interior designer Nate Berkus charms and entertains on his daytime home life and design talk show. The show’s website is full of DIY tips, suggestions, and even places to brag about you own finished projects under the DIY Design Proud tab! The many articles, photos, video segments, and even online viewer comments provide inspiration and the assistance you need to become DIY design proud, too!
What other resources have you used to build your DIY confidence? Where else do you find creative inspiration?
little things + big interests 