10 Budget-friendly DIY Projects for Beginners in Brentwood
Looking to upgrade your home on a budget? Whether you're a newbie in the DIY realm or just looking for some simple weekend tasks, we've got you covered! Here are 10 beginner-friendly DIY projects that won't empty your pockets.
1. Hang a Picture Frame
Why It's Great for Beginners:
It's simple and doesn't usually require drilling or hammering, which can be risky or may not be permitted by landlords.
Steps for Small Pictures:
Choose the desired location on your wall.
Opt for adhesive solutions like Command Strips, which are strong enough to hold smaller frames and are also removable. a. Clean the wall area with rubbing alcohol.
b. Attach the strips to the frame as per the instructions.
c. Press the frame onto the wall and hold.
d. Ensure its level.
Ensuring a picture is level without a spirit level can be trickier, but it's still possible with some household items and a little ingenuity. Here are a few methods:
1. Use a Measuring Tape or Ruler:
- Measure from the ceiling or floor to the top of the frame at both ends.
- Adjust until the measurements are equal.
2. Water in a Transparent Bottle:
- Fill a clear bottle or glass halfway with water.
- Place it on top of the frame.
- Adjust the picture until the water line appears level.
3. DIY Plumb Line:
- Tie a weight (like a small metal washer) to a string.
- Hold or hang the string from the top of the frame. The string will naturally find the vertical due to gravity, acting as a plumb line.
- Adjust the picture frame to align with the string.
4. Use a Flat Surface:
- If you have a flat surface (like a table or a shelf) that you're sure is level, place the picture frame or a ruler on it to compare.
5. Phone Apps:
- Many smartphones have built-in levelling tools or apps that can be downloaded. If you have a smartphone, you might already have a virtual spirit level in your pocket! Check your phone's utilities or app store.
6. Eyeballing:
- Stand back and observe. Sometimes, the human eye can be surprisingly accurate, especially when looking from a distance. Ask someone else to check your alignment for a second opinion.
Always remember, though: While these methods can be fairly accurate, they might not be as precise as using a spirit level. If precision is crucial, it might be worth investing in a spirit level or borrowing one.
Tip: Hiring a handyperson is prudent for larger frames, mirrors, or heavier items. They'll have the expertise to mount these securely without risking damage to your walls or the item itself. Not only will this ensure the safety of your decor, but it also prevents potential complications like hitting hidden pipes or wiring.
2. Change a Light Bulb
Why It's Great for Beginners:
A simple switch can drastically transform the ambience and functionality of a room.
Steps:
Ensure the power is off.
Unscrew the old bulb.
Choose your new bulb based on the desired effect:
Mood Lighting: Consider bulbs with different hues. Warm white can create a cozy atmosphere, while cool white can make a space feel more open and clean. Colours like soft pink, blue, or amber can set a specific mood.
Decorative Bulbs: These bulbs come in various shapes, sizes, and filament designs. They can serve as a decorative element in rooms where the bulb is visible, like in pendant lights or open fixtures.
Smart Bulbs: A smart bulb connects to your home's Wi-Fi, allowing you to control its brightness and colour from your phone or through voice commands if you have a compatible smart speaker. They can be scheduled to turn on or off and even change colours or brightness based on the time of day or your mood.
Screw in your chosen bulb.
Tip: If your light fixture is in a hard-to-reach place or is a ceiling fixture, a handyman can ensure a safe and proper bulb replacement.
3. Assemble IKEA Furniture
Why It's Great for Beginners:
IKEA offers more than just affordability — their modular designs make them an excellent choice for those looking to dip their toes into the world of DIY home design.
Steps:
Start by laying out all the parts, ensuring you have every component.
Follow the visual step-by-step guide provided, taking it slow and steady. Remember, Swedish design prioritizes function and simplicity, so trust the process.
Advantages of Choosing IKEA:
Customization: One of the joys of IKEA furniture is its adaptability. With a little creativity, you can personalize many of their products. Whether it's painting, adding new handles, or combining elements from different IKEA products, there's room to make each piece uniquely yours.
Eco-Friendly: Many IKEA products are made from sustainable materials. For instance, their KUNGSBACKA kitchen fronts are made from recycled wood and PET bottles, demonstrating a commitment to reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
Swedish Design Philosophy: Rooted in the principles of Democratic Design, IKEA believes in combining form, function, quality, sustainability, and low price into every product. This approach ensures you're getting a functional piece and one that's well-designed and sustainable.
Tip: While many IKEA items can be assembled solo, some larger pieces may require a buddy. If you find yourself needing more tools, consider reaching out to a handyperson. They might even share some customization tips!
4. Plant a Garden
Why It's Great for Beginners:
Gardening isn't just about beautifying your space or growing your food. It's a journey of patience, learning, and connecting with nature. Plus, by focusing on native plants, especially those from Essex, you support local ecosystems and reduce maintenance needs.
Steps:
Plan Your Garden: Decide if you want a vegetable garden, a flower garden, or a combination of both. Consider integrating native plants from Essex for an authentic local touch.
Integrate Essex Natives:
Woodland Wonders: Such as Wood Anemone and Bluebell, which add a touch of woodland beauty.
Coastal Charms: Sea Lavender and Sea Thrift thrive in coastal-inspired gardens.
Grassland Gems: Harebell and Bird's-foot-trefoil can brighten up any sunny spot.
Wetland Wonders: Marsh Marigold is perfect for those damp patches in the garden.
Unique Finds: Consider adding the carnivorous Round-leaved Sundew or the Common Spotted Orchid for a touch of the unusual.
Budget Finds: Visit the bargain section of your local garden centre. Often, plants are there because they're out of season or not looking their best. With a little TLC, many of these plants can thrive.
Start from Seeds: Consider buying seeds instead of young plants to save even more.
Eco-friendly Gardening:
Support Wildlife: By planting native plants, you attract and support local wildlife.
Composting: Reduce waste and enrich your soil.
Water Conservation: Use mulch and collect rainwater.
Tips:
Always check plants' specific needs when placing them in your garden regarding sunlight, water, and soil type.
If you need more clarification about the soil type in your garden, consider getting a soil test kit.
When to Call a Handyman:
If your garden has become overgrown, or if you're considering a larger landscaping project, bringing in a handyperson can be beneficial. They can assist with clearing, soil preparation, and more.
5. Paint a Room
Why It's Great for Beginners:
Transforming a room with paint is more than just freshening the space. The colours and techniques you choose can evoke emotions, enhance spaces, and reflect your personal style.
Steps:
Colour Psychology: Choose your palette based on the mood you'd like to create.
Blues: Calming and serene, perfect for bedrooms or bathrooms.
Greens: Fresh and relaxing, ideal for spaces where you want to feel rejuvenated.
Yellows: Energetic and uplifting, they can brighten kitchens or dining areas.
Reds: Passionate and intense, often used to create focus in dining rooms.
Paint Finishes:
Matte: Non-reflective, great for hiding imperfections.
Eggshell: A hint of shine and more washable than matte.
Semi-Gloss: Shiny and highly durable, ideal for trim and mouldings.
Gloss: Highly reflective; consider for furniture or accent pieces.
Feature Walls: Instead of painting the entire room one colour, choose one wall to become a focal point with a contrasting colour, wallpaper, or a different painting technique like sponging or stencilling.
Preparation:
Primer: Especially if you're making a significant colour change, priming ensures better paint adhesion and truer colour.
Tape off Areas: Use painter's tape around trim, windows, and outlets.
Drop Cloths: Protect your floor and furniture.
Paint! Start with the edges (known as "cutting in") and then use rollers for larger areas. Remember to let the paint dry between coats.
Tips:
If uncertain about a colour, buy small samples and paint swatches on the wall. Observe them at different times of the day to see how light affects them.
Use high-quality brushes and rollers; they can make a significant difference in the application.
When to Call a Handyman:
If you're looking to paint a high ceiling or intricate mouldings, or need special techniques that require a steady hand, consider getting professional help. A handyperson can ensure an even and smooth application and save you time and potential mishaps.
