We all like to live in a nice home. The only problem is that keeping it looking good can cost a lot of money, especially if you have to call in a professional to get the job done. Fortunately, some of the jobs you would have had to pay a tradesperson to do are now relatively easy enough to have a go at yourself.
The availability of modern building materials and new tools has made what were complex skilled tasks super easy. Here are just a few examples.
The availability of modern building materials and new tools has made what were complex skilled tasks super easy. Here are just a few examples.
You don’t always need a carpenter
This skirting boards company produces lengths of pre-primed MDF skirting board that is designed for homeowners to install themselves. This approach is a lot cheaper than calling in a carpenter and a painter. MDF is easy to cut and very light, so it is possible for someone working alone to handle what was once a complex job. MDF does not shrink or crack as wood has a tendency to do, so you should find that they last longer.
Putting up shelves
If you want new storage then putting up shelves is an easy task to take on. There are plenty of online videos that show you how to do it. Plus, provided you are not going to put anything heavy onto them, you may not even need to drill any holes. There are now some very good glue products that can be used to fix the brackets to your walls. Why not go for something unusual and upcycle old crates for a modern yet practical look.
No need for a painter or decorator
A lot of people like the look of wallpaper, but do not have the necessary skills to hang it properly (yes, I'm looking at my Husband...) So, typically, you call in a decorator to do it, which is usually expensive. Fortunately, there is another way, which is to use a wall sticker. They are now widely available, including huge ones that enable you to cover an entire wall with an interesting image without having to worry about the joins showing. Putting it up is not difficult. Although, if you are going to be using a really big wall sticker an extra pair of hands are going to come in handy.
Making your own soft furnishings and window coverings
In the past, new curtains and soft furnishings would have cost a fortune. Recently prices have fallen, but finding exactly what you want at a price you can afford can still be a challenge. Instead, you could pay someone to make what you need or do it yourself. In some cases, you won't even have to get your sewing machine out.
Modern fabric glues can usually be used in place of stitching. It is really easy to find inspiration for no-sew home furnishings. There are tons of how to videos and articles available online.
Modern fabric glues can usually be used in place of stitching. It is really easy to find inspiration for no-sew home furnishings. There are tons of how to videos and articles available online.
Re-upholster your furniture
Even upholstering a chair to give it a fresh new look is not as hard as many people think. Provided your sofa is not too awkwardly shaped, you can easily re-cover that too. Again, you just need to go online and find the right 'how to' video and with a little practise you could breathe some new life into your home.
The more of the above tasks you take on and complete yourself the better your DIY skills will become. So it really is worth giving one or two of them a try!
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