DIY can seem daunting if you’ve never done it before, but it doesn’t have to be.
Sure, you might not immediately feel confident enough to re-caulk your shower or re-wire the ceiling fan in your bedroom, but you can learn a fair few skills online, especially thanks to plentiful YouTube tutorials. Not only will you be more handy around the house, you’ll also get a huge sense of accomplishment when you fix things all on your own, without the need to pay out for a handyman. While you should definitely leave big projects to the professionals, if you want to feel more confident and capable when it comes to DIY, here’s how to do it.
1. Start with small projects.
Diving straight into major renovations or complex tasks can be overwhelming (not to mention disastrous). Instead, begin with simple projects like hanging a picture frame, fixing a loose screw, or painting a small area. These manageable tasks let you practice basic skills without too much pressure or risk of failure. Starting small helps you build confidence and gives you a sense of accomplishment. As you get more comfortable, you can gradually move on to bigger challenges, knowing you’ve already mastered the basics and can handle more complexity.
2. Watch video tutorials.
Again, YouTube is literally packed with DIY tutorials for every skill level. From assembling furniture to fixing leaky taps, you can find step-by-step guides that show you exactly what to do. Watching someone else do it makes it easier to visualise and replicate their techniques. Make sure to choose videos from reputable sources or highly-rated creators. Watching a few different tutorials on the same topic can also help you feel more confident before you start, especially when you see alternative approaches to the same task.
3. Invest in basic tools.
You can’t do much DIY without the right tools. A beginner-friendly kit might include a hammer, screwdrivers, a tape measure, a spirit level, and a cordless drill. Having these essentials on hand means you’re always ready to tackle simple jobs around the house, no matter when they pop up. Start with quality basics rather than overloading yourself with expensive, specialised tools. As your skills improve, you can add more items to your collection based on the types of projects you enjoy doing most or tasks that come up frequently in your home.
4. Read the instructions carefully.
Many DIY fails happen because people skip or skim instructions. Whether it’s flat-pack furniture or a home repair kit, taking the time to read through the steps can save you a lot of frustration and wasted effort later on. Clear instructions are your best ally when starting out. If the instructions seem unclear, look online for additional tips or explanations. Other people’s experiences with the same product can often provide helpful insights to make the process smoother and less stressful overall.
5. Practice on old or unused items.
If you’re nervous about messing something up, practise your skills on things you don’t mind damaging. For example, test painting techniques on scrap wood or try drilling into a piece of leftover material before tackling your walls. It’s a safe way to learn without risking costly mistakes. Practising in a low-pressure environment helps you get the hang of things without worrying about making mistakes. It also gives you a chance to build muscle memory for key skills, which will make future tasks feel easier and more intuitive.
6. Learn from mistakes.
Source: Pexels DIY doesn’t always go perfectly the first time, and that’s okay. Every mistake is an opportunity to learn and improve. If something doesn’t work out, take a step back, figure out what went wrong, and try again with a fresh perspective and a bit more patience. Even seasoned home improvement enthusiasts make mistakes, so don’t let them discourage you. With every error you fix, you’re becoming more skilled and resourceful, which is what DIY is all about. Embracing mistakes as part of the process will help you improve faster.
7. Borrow or rent tools you don’t own.
If a project requires specialised equipment you don’t have, consider borrowing from a friend or renting tools from a local store. This way, you can complete the job without investing in expensive equipment you might not use often or need again for years. Borrowing or renting also gives you a chance to try out different tools and see what works for you before deciding whether to buy your own. It’s a cost-effective way to get the job done without filling your shed with unused gear or spending unnecessarily.
8. Join a DIY workshop.
Many hardware stores and community centres offer workshops for beginners. These hands-on sessions teach basic skills like using tools, repairing household items, or tackling small building projects. Learning in a supportive group can make the process less intimidating and more enjoyable. Workshops also give you the chance to ask questions and get personalised tips from experienced instructors. Plus, you’ll often meet people who are in the same boat, which can be reassuring and motivate you to keep learning and improving your skills.
9. Use online forums and communities.
DIY forums and social media groups are great places to get advice, share your progress, and ask for help. Whether you’re stuck on a project or looking for inspiration, online communities can provide valuable insights from people who’ve been there before and know the common pitfalls. Joining these spaces also helps you feel less alone in your DIY journey. Knowing you can ask for support when you’re unsure makes tackling projects much less daunting and can even make the process more fun.
10. Break projects into smaller steps.
Looking at a DIY project as one big task can feel overwhelming. Break it down into smaller, more manageable steps to make it less intimidating. Focus on completing one part at a time rather than trying to do everything at once, and you’ll find the process much smoother. Doing things this way makes the project feel more achievable and helps you stay organised. As you tick off each step, you’ll feel a sense of progress and motivation to keep going, even when the task feels daunting at first.
11. Use beginner-friendly materials.
Some materials are easier to work with than others. For example, self-adhesive tiles, pre-cut wood, or peel-and-stick wallpaper are great options for DIY beginners. Choosing forgiving materials reduces the chances of errors and makes the process more enjoyable and approachable. Starting with user-friendly materials helps you build confidence and allows you to focus on learning techniques without getting frustrated by difficult tools or supplies. It also helps your first projects turn out better, which boosts your motivation to keep going.
12. Start with repairs before building from scratch.
Fixing something that’s already there, like a broken chair leg or a loose shelf, can feel less intimidating than starting a project from scratch. Repairs teach you practical skills while giving you a clear purpose for your efforts and a rewarding end result. Successful repairs boost your confidence and make you more comfortable with tools and techniques. Over time, you can move on to building new things with the skills you’ve picked up along the way, knowing you’ve mastered the basics.
13. Celebrate your progress.
Every successful project, no matter how small, is a step forward. Take the time to acknowledge your achievements and reflect on how far you’ve come. Even hanging a single frame or fixing a squeaky hinge is something to be proud of when you’re starting out. Celebrating progress keeps you motivated and reminds you that DIY is a journey. Each project builds on the last, and with patience and practice, you’ll be tackling bigger tasks before you know it. Small wins lead to bigger successes over time.
