after I was done with MY projects and got my house on the market.Well, guess what?
It’s time!
I’m going to start answering some of your questions and requests with a new series of posts that I’m calling:
Basic DIY Skills Training
Here are some of the requests/questions I’m thinking of covering:
- basic framing
- drywall installation and patching
- what tools do you use for what and how do you use them
- how to change out a light fixture
- install a faucet
- changing hardware (doors and cabinets)
- how to install flooring (hardwood and floating laminate)
- install shelves in a closet
- how to cut and install crown moulding
I keep getting requests for a wainscoting tutorial. Because of the extensive time, effort and expense it will take to create it, (if I do create it) it will probably be an E-book for purchase. It would be a really big commitment from me.
Also, I keep getting asked about this one: How to paint cabinets? I already did this tutorial once but my all the pictures disappeared on part 1 so I deleted the whole thing and I haven’t had it in me to create it again! It was really, really involved! I will re-do it sometime. It might be another E-book thing. I haven’t decided.
Did I miss something?
Do you have a specific BASIC DIY PROJECT you’d like me to (try to) cover?
I’m not saying I’ll know how to do everything. If I don’t know how to do something, I’ll try to get a guest who does. 🙂
UtahMillers says
I'd love a post on how to paint cabinets. We're moving into a new house and the cabinets are black with yellow doors! What the?
Jenny says
You will probably cover this in your crown moulding tutorial, but for the life of me, I want to know how to use a mitre saw to mitre corners. Correctly, that is. Without swearing and multiple trips to Lowe's because we messed up the cuts. Again.
m @ random musings says
drywall patching please!! While my attempts are infinitely better than the previous homeowners (ever hear of sandpaper, guys??) They really only pass cursory inspection….. =/
Miss Marina Star says
How to not be intimidated by my husband's tools. I hope I'm not the only one who just adds links from my favorite DIY blogging women to my husband's "honey-do" list.Seriously, unless I've had to use them to change batteries in a toy, I'm terrified of the tools.
Victoria at Party Puff says
This sounds great!
Clydia says
I'm with Jenny! Please, pretty please, give us a "quickie" mitre saw tutorial! My hubby worked with me the other night, but when he shows me something my mind just gets all fuzzy! I think sometimes he wants me to "need" him so he doesn't explain all the different cuts real well…LOL
Sharlee says
I'm so glad you are willing to share your knowledge. You da best!
Lydia says
I just found your blog through a friend and I have to say…….you have an amazing eye for design!!! Great job on the house. It was an incredible transformation and very inspiring. From one handy gal to the next, it is great to go through your blog and see the progress, I imagine the place will sell quickly. I know this is not a request for a tutorial but I just wanted to give you props for being a great DIY'er. Well Done!!
AbrewFamily says
Thank you taking the time to do this! I would love to learn how to repair drywall corners so you can't notice a difference once the repairs/Painting are complete. I would also love to learn how to install window casing(?) or is it called moulding lol. Our windows look boring and naked without them. SO happy I found your website!
Katy says
For me personally, the best way to learn is sit down with the tool and figure it out on your own. Tutorials are a great place to start, so you know what's what..but as far as getting your hubby to "show" you what to do, I've found that's a real quick way to forget everything.(When someone starts talking/explaining something to me I zone out. But if I can get my hands on it I'll have it mastered in 15 minutes.)Some people just learn better that way. The key is to not be intimidated. Tell yourself: "if that guy can do it, I KNOW I can too.":) Also — only read the instruction manual if you are stuck. ha ha
Erin says
How about removing wallpaper that has been textured and painted over. Discovered 2 out of 3 of our bathrooms this was done to. Now the wallpaper is peeling away from the wall. Joy :/
Lily says
This is a great list! So excited to learn!
pinktoesandpowertools says
I would love a tutorial about drawers. Maybe this would be a couple of days worth–construction one day, drawer slides another, planning your cabinet with drawers in mind for a third, drawer faces a fourth…a week or two of drawer love.It won't save my current project, but it sure would help my sanity for the next one 🙂
CuddlyBunny says
Hey! You already said "How to install a faucet"!Can't wait to see that one! Well, I can wait at least until I can afford a new faucet, but after that … on the edge of my seat!
Andrea says
As long as you write it, I'm reading it. That's my motto.(and if you post it, but don't write it, it's probably worth a read, too. Motto #2.)
Kristi says
My question (not sure if it's basic) is how to build cabinets…preferably without a ton of fancy tools-just a couple basic ones (nail gun, table saw, jig saw, sander, etc)Thanks girl! You rock! (pssst. I'd love to review your ebook on my blog for ya when you get it all written!! *squeeel!*)-Kristi @ Creative Kristi
SH says
I've been looking everywhere for Cabinet painting tips. I'm getting ready to tackle mind and I really want to see other examples of painted cabinets. Please do Cabinets ! Love,love your site and home ! http://www.bargainfun.net
Heidi @ Honeybear Lane says
Oh you so know I will be buying that ebook! Great info from a home construction genius! I stumbled this post.
gracefulvintage says
Out of ALL the blogs I receive feed from (over 60!) yours is the one I have learned the most from!!!!I would love to learn how to move or add and electric outlet instead of paying thru the nose for an electrician!!!Keep up the excellent work…..any nibbles on your move in ready listing?????
Nicole says
How about adding tiling (floor or backsplash) to your list?
Brooke says
Did I read that right? You sold your house? Congratulations! It is so beautiful its a wonder it lasted more than a day on the market. Any ideas on how to make my home like yours I am in. 🙂 Thanks so much for this blog. I love it.
Sawdust and Paperscraps says
Brooke and anyone reading after you: No, I did not sell my house yet. Darn! But thanks for the positive thoughts. 🙂
Booyah's Momma says
I second the comment about tiling. Either that, or how to remove or cover up heinous, early 80's style tile that makes you want to vomit.If you want a working project to take pics from, you're welcome to come over to my house. 🙂
Nima K says
Drywalling pls :)) I've plans to convert wasted space in our large unfinished Laundry/Storage Area into a Craft area and it would be great not to involve a Handyman's service(and plenty of $$$ the hubs will fret about)
prettyjunk says
SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Excited! What a great IDEA!!! Can't Wait!
orange sugar says
Can you share how tall your hallway ceilings are and how tall your wainscoting is?
Anonymous says
Absolutely love your blog! Thanks so much for sharing your awesome talents with us. To second another poster here, I would very much like to see a tutorial on building cabinets; I would be willing to purchase as an e-book. Again, thanks!
Amy says
New reader. Love the idea of a Boot Camp for girls. I start my very first woodworking class later this month and am excited to learn how to make and repair things on my own.