7 Secrets to Becoming a DIY Expert!

The 7 Secrets to Simplified DIY Projects WITHOUT, Breaking the Bank, or your Back!

Hi, I’m Meredith and I love working on projects to improve my home. I have always loved putting my own spin on décor- not always being in the budget, I needed to figure out a way to continue to see my visions come to life. After searching many posts along the way I decided …I CAN DO THIS!! DIY has been my LOVE for almost 10 years now, that’s why I have decided to share my passion for DIY with others who are looking for their own vision.

“Okay, now with that out of the way, I’m super excited to share the top 7 secrets I discovered on my OWN path to achieving DIY success. Let’s start with #1”

Secret #1: Start with Something Small and Simple

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Start your “do-it-yourself journey” with something small. Pick something inexpensive that won’t destroy your home. It will take time to build up your confidence and skill, but you won’t believe what you can accomplish with just a little determination.

“Spray paint my friends …SPRAY PAINT”. Inexpensive and pretty hard to mess up!

Secret #2 : Find your Source of Inspiration

What inspires you , what is your design style, what make you happy? Searching Pinterest ,Google and You Tube are all great ways to see what others have accomplished before you begin. Understanding their journey is so important. A little research can really help you assess how you will approach your own project.

 

“Aren’t they GORGEOUS!”

Once I decided to convert my dining room to an office – I needed privacy and barn doors were my first thought. The amount of videos and post I went through trying to make a decision took some time. This was one of my biggest projects yet, and it just took some time to get a designated plan for my beautiful barn doors, I love them so much!

DO YOUR RESEARCH>>>>>>

Secret #3: Shop your Home or Thrift to Stay within your Budget

When a new idea comes to mind the first thing I do is search my home to see how I may use something in my new design. More than likely that old bookcase sitting in the kids game room could possibly be repurposed in a new space. Or that old utensil holder in the kitchen you wanted to throw out, may be just the item you need to organize your beauty tools under the bathroom sink.

Always shop thrift- Once I found an old “REAL WOOD” cabinet door for only 75 cents , I created a towel rack for my kids bathroom for less than $15.00!!

Repurposing-saves.

Secret #4: Spray paint is your Best Friend!

You can transform just about anything with spray paint! I have spray painted candle sticks, furniture, outdoor furniture, lamps, tin cans, light fixtures and list could go on and one. Most items have a lot more life left to give , just give them a new one with spray paint:)

Secret #5: You can make Minimal Changes for BIG effects.

One thing I love to do is rearrange a room , maybe a few times a year. This can bring so much new life to any room and gives you that excited feeling you get from your latest shopping spree- even though you never spent a dime.

Secret #6: Time for a Tool Inventory

What tools do you have lying around? Or maybe you have a great neighbor like I do ,who might consider letting you borrow the needed tools.

Knowing what you have to work with can really narrow down what projects you can be successful at. You definitely don’t want to try your hand at the “infamous” shiplap wall without a saw!

Secret# 7 Bring a Statement to Your Home’s Entryway.

A very simple but delightful change is sprucing up your entryway. When you drive up to your home, having that sense of pride is priceless. Show how you feel about your home to the world. First CLEAN, CLEAN, CLEAN -take time to really make it shine. Next, put out a new rug, spruce up an old flower pot with spray paint- ” I know you have one lying around somewhere!” Make a simple DIY wreath, and paint your front door. All these simple changes can really amplify your personal design style for the world to see.

 

Favorite

Homebuds Digital Scale: A Perfect Blend of Precision, Style, and Usability If you’re in the market for a reliable, easy-to-use digital bathroom scale that brings style and accuracy to your daily routine, the Homebuds Digital Scale might be just what you’re looking for. Backed by over 20 years of professional experience, Homebuds has crafted a scale that combines precision, convenience, and design, making it a top choice for anyone looking to invest in quality. Why Choose Homebuds Digital Scale? 1. Exceptional Accuracy: With a best-in-class technology foundation, Homebuds guarantees high accuracy, with measurements down to 0.1 lb (0.05 kg). This level of precision stays consistent throughout the scale’s entire lifecycle, so you can trust its readings over the years. 2. User-Friendly Features: Packed with features that make it incredibly easy to use, this scale includes auto calibration, step-on activation, and an auto power-off function to conserve battery. It comes with 3 AAA batteries and offers a choice between three unit settings: pounds, kilograms, and stone. 3. Large, LED Display for Easy Reading: The crystal-clear LED display ensures that readings are always easy to see, even in dim lighting. Plus, it maintains brightness throughout the battery’s lifespan, so you don’t have to worry about readability fading over time. 4. Sleek and Elegant Design: Inspired by the “Less is More” philosophy, the scale features a unique, elegant blue platform that adds a modern touch to any bathroom, bedroom, or living room. It’s not just a tool; it’s a stylish accessory that complements your home decor. 5. A Legacy of Quality and Innovation: Homebuds has been developing high-quality scales since 2001 and is committed to creating products that enhance daily life. Their commitment to quality is evident, as their operations meet both ISO and Social Accountability standards, providing not only a reliable product but also a socially responsible one. Final Thoughts With its blend of functionality, sleek design, and reliable accuracy, the Homebuds Digital Scale is much more than a simple bathroom accessory—it’s a thoughtful addition to your daily wellness routine and your home.

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Christmas Decor Finds at Walmart Under $20: Stylish and Affordable!

  If you’re looking for chic holiday decor on a budget, you’re in luck! Walmart has some incredible Christmas items this season that will elevate your home without breaking the bank. Among the top finds are stylish metal reindeer, which look like dupes of the Pottery Barn versions but at a fraction of the price. These items will help you create a sophisticated Christmas display for less, and they’re perfect for those of us who love getting the designer look without the high-end cost. #1. **Metal Reindeer (Pottery Barn Dupes)** These elegant metal reindeer statues are the star of the show! Their sleek, minimalist design closely resembles the more expensive versions you’d find at Pottery Barn. Whether you display them on your mantel, by your tree, or as a centerpiece, they’ll add a timeless holiday charm to your home. The best part? They’re all under $20, making it easy to pick up a few to create a festive display without breaking your holiday budget. # 2. **Metal Reindeer Stocking Holder** Stocking holders are not just functional—they’re an important part of your mantel decor, and these metal reindeer stocking holders from Walmart hit the mark. They’re sturdy and stylish and match beautifully with the metal reindeer statues. They make it easy to hang stockings with care, keeping the aesthetic consistent and elegant.  # 3. **White Knit Stocking** Complete your cozy Christmas look with a white knit stocking! This timeless accessory pairs perfectly with the metal reindeer stocking holder, adding warmth and texture to your mantel. Its simple, neutral design fits seamlessly into any holiday decor style, and, of course, it’s all available at Walmart for under $20This find, spotted from My Texas Home, adds an understated yet luxurious touch to any holiday setup. # Budget-Friendly Christmas Decor Tips Holiday decorating doesn’t have to mean splurging on expensive items. You can easily create a festive and stylish home by shopping smart and finding budget-friendly alternatives like these. Combining these affordable Walmart finds will give your home a high-end, polished look at a price you can feel good about. Head over to Walmart to check out these incredible holiday decor items and get your home ready for Christmas—without overspending! Amazon Storefront

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floating deck build

“Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Own Floating Deck”

The idea for building a deck came to us after spending countless hours scrolling through Pinterest and admiring beautifully designed outdoor living spaces. We wanted to create a serene retreat that would blend seamlessly with our landscape and be just a few steps away from our home. When deciding on the height of the deck, we also took into consideration the height of our privacy fence. It was important to us to not be towering over and looking directly at our neighbors. Gathering Materials: After meticulous planning, this is where my husband takes over- he is the planning/numbers guru. We went to the local home improvement store, where we loaded up on everything from pressure-treated wood for the decking to concrete deck blocks, gravel, and all the necessary tools. Materials Needed: Decking boards (pressure-treated wood, composite, or other suitable materials) Concrete deck blocks or piers-we used concrete pavers Gravel or crushed stone- gravel went around the areas near our gutter to filter out water Decking Screws Joist Fasteners Tools (drill, circular saw, level, measuring tape, etc.) Landscape Fabric/ Keep out weeds 1X8, 4×4 post, decking boards   Our dog Maggie was great watch dog during the whole process! Our simple pool was another reason we opted for the floating deck. We didn’t plan on keeping the pool forever. Laying the Decking Boards: We eagerly began laying the decking boards as the frame took shape. Each board was carefully positioned, leaving just the right amount of space for drainage and expansion. (We used large nails by placing 4-5 down the boards, removing them as secured them in place with the 3 1/2 ” deck screws. Finishing Touches: We added the final touches with the decking boards in place. Around the edges, a waterproofing seal was applied to protect the wood. The edges were trimmed, and a deck stain will be applied, enhancing the natural beauty of the wood and ensuring longevity. I also added this stunning affordable patio set from Walmart-two chairs , couch and two nesting tables.  The Patio Set is Better Home and Gardens @ Walmart Outdoor Rug is also Better Homes and Gardens @Walmart. DIY

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Gift Ideas That Your Teen Will Love!

Welcome, gift givers and teen enthusiasts! If you’re on a quest to find the perfect gift for the teenage girl in your life, look no further. I understand that the world of teenage trends is ever-evolving, and choosing the right gift can be daunting. Fear not! This comprehensive gift guide is here to help you navigate the realm of teenage desires, offering a delightful mix of trendy and timeless options. I’ve got you covered whether she’s into fashion, technology, self-care, or creative pursuits. Fashion Finds: Personalized Jewelry: Choose a stylish necklace or bracelet with her initials or birthstone for a thoughtful touch. Trendy Apparel: Stay on top of the latest fashion trends – oversized sweaters, graphic tees, and joggers are all the rage. Tech Treasures: Wireless Earbuds: Opt for a sleek pair of wireless earbuds for a seamless music and podcast experience. Smartphone Accessories: A stylish phone case, pop socket, or portable charger can be both practical and fashionable. Creative Corner: Art Supplies: Nurture her artistic side with high-quality sketchbooks, paints, or markers. DIY Kits: Explore DIY kits for jewelry making, candle crafting, or even personalized room decor. Literary Love: Best-Selling Books: Research popular young adult novels or the latest releases from her favorite authors. Bookish Merchandise: Consider book-themed items like literary-inspired clothing, mugs, or posters. Self-Care Splurges: Skincare Sets: Pamper her with a skincare bundle featuring masks, serums, and moisturizers. Aromatherapy Diffuser: Create a tranquil atmosphere with a stylish diffuser and a selection of soothing essential oils. Fitness and Fun: Athletic Wear: Upgrade her workout wardrobe with stylish and comfortable athletic wear. Fitness Tracker: Keep her motivated with a fitness tracker that also doubles as a trendy accessory. Music Mania: Vinyl Records: If she appreciates a retro vibe, vinyl records of her favorite artists make for a unique gift. Concert Tickets: Surprise her with tickets to see her favorite band or artist in concert. Finding the perfect gift for a teenage girl can be an exciting adventure. Whether you choose to explore the latest trends or opt for timeless classics, the key is to consider her interests and passions. With this diverse gift guide, you’re well-equipped to make her day extra special. Happy gifting!            Here are a few gift ideas for that teen lady on your list this year!   Macbook Protection Bundle Kendra Scott Necklace The Gym People-Bra Top White Nike Crew Socks All White On Cloud Sneakers Silk Pajama Set Sol De Janeiro Body Fragrance Mist

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Hot Cocoa and Gingerbread-Themed Coffee Bar

c My coffee bar is one of my favorite places in my home! Today, I will be sharing how I decorate it specifically for Christmas! This area is always my seasonal go-to when I’m having a little fun with decorating. Check out how I decorate for Halloween, too! Halloween Coffee Bar Starting at the top of my  3-tier wooden Shelf, which I picked up on Amazon. I started with the sweetest gingerbread house, a cookie jar from Hobby Lobby. The jar to the right is an upcycled jar I found around the house, and the foam decorations came from Micheals. Dollar General has lots of small decor pieces you can use as fillers. Create a dedicated hot cocoa/coffee station with all the essentials. Set out a variety of hot cocoa mixes, marshmallows, whipped cream, and festive toppings like crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings. Consider using mason jars or decorative containers for a charming display. I’ve picked up an assortment of Christmas-themed mugs for my guests. Whether it’s classic red and green designs or ones adorned with cute reindeer and snowflakes, the right mugs can add an extra touch of holiday spirit. I personally love these large Rae Dunn-inspired mugs from Home Goods. Hobby Lobby has the BEST Gingerbread Houses! I love this spoon rest I picked up at Amazon:) With the delightful combination of a whimsical gingerbread houses and a hot cocoa haven, your Christmas coffee bar is sure to become the heart of holiday gatherings. May your holidays be filled with warmth, sweetness, and the magic of Christmas! https://klassydesignventures.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/7446733c3d35487fa9ebff855b2a2019-1.mov This notice is visible to admins only. Visual Header disabled due to GDPR setting. Click here for more info. This message is only visible to admins. Problem displaying Facebook posts. Click to show error Error: Error validating access token: The session has been invalidated because the user changed their password or Facebook has changed the session for security reasons. Type: OAuthException Subcode: 460 Solution: See here for how to solve this error This notice is visible to admins only. Like Box disabled due to GDPR setting. Click here for more info.

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