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Stop overpaying at the auto shop! Try these DIY car maintenance hacks that show you how to handle common car problems quickly and affordably.

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DIY Car Maintenance

Taking care of your vehicle doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a little knowledge and the right tools, any car owner can handle basic routine maintenance that helps extend the life and value of their vehicle.

The good news is that many simple tasks like checking fluids, replacing wiper blades, or learning the best way to handle a flat tire can be done right in your own driveway.

Your owner’s manual is a great place to start since it outlines important service intervals and care tips specific to your vehicle.

When you do need supplies, a quick trip to your local auto parts store can provide everything you need to keep your car running smoothly.

With these great tips, you can save money, avoid unexpected breakdowns, and keep your vehicle in great shape for years to come.

DIY Car Maintenance Tutorials

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We hope you found these DIY car maintenance tutorials helpful and encouraging for taking better care of your vehicle. Whether you start with one small task or tackle several routine maintenance jobs, a little effort can go a long way in keeping your car running smoothly.

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If you like this post, you may also like this post with easy home maintenance tasks for the interior of your home:

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How to Build a Floating TV Shelf

Hello all! I have a fantastic DIY project today that will help you with storage, organization, and will free up floor space.

Recently my son moved into his first college apartment and as you would expect in a first apartment, space is at a premium. My son wanted to mount his TV on the wall and also have storage for games and his components. To solve both issues I came up with a floating TV shelf stand that would maximize his storage but also be perfect in small rooms (depending if he wanted it in the bedroom, living room, family room, or other spot.)

There are many tv stand designs we could have bought, but he wanted a floating look and something that went with his modern apartment vibe. Together we talked about several design options, but ultimately decided to build this simple DIY project together.

After building and finishing the floating shelf in my workshop, we transported it to his college town for installation. It was pretty straightforward, but we had to finish the build by drilling holes for cable management once we got to his apartment (and could see the size of the plugs.) Once it was hung, he fished the wires for the TV and components through the holes we made and plugged it into the wall. Then we filled the shelf with games and gaming components.

I’m so excited to share these simple DIY plans to build a floating TV Shelf stand. The plans I have will instruct you to build a floating shelf 48 inches wide, 5 inches tall, by 12 inches deep.  

Measure your TV base before beginning. Feel free to enlarge the width of your floating tv stand. It’s not recommended to increase the depth of your shelf by more than an inch or two. Making your shelf deeper than 12 inches can cause your shelf to sag or not be as sturdy on the front edge.

This shelf is very easy to build and doesn’t require any special tools.  You can have it completed in a couple hours and hung on the wall in about five minutes.

So are you ready to learn How to Build Your Own Floating TV Shelf? Start by downloading the plans here.

First you’ll need a few building materials and the right tools. I’ve listed them below for your convenience.

Floating TV Shelf Materials:

(I’ve included affiliate links for your convenience. I earn a small percentage from a purchase using these links. There is no additional cost to you. You can read more about affiliate links here.)

Floating TV Shelf Cut List:

  • (1) 1 ½” x 3 ½” x 48″ (back of TV shelf frame)
  • (3) 1 ½” x 3 ½” x 10½” (TV shelf supports)
  • (2) ¾” x 12″ x 48″ (top and bottom of shelf)

Floating TV Shelf Instructions:

You’ll find the simple detailed plans for this structurally sound tv display shelf here.

DIY floating TV Shelf Stand Drawing

A Note about Measurements:

Depending on how tall you want your shelf, you can either use a 2″x 4″ (which would make the opening in your shelf 3 ½” tall).  Or you can use a 2″x 6″ (which would make the opening 5 ½” tall).  If you have a table saw, you can rip whatever size board to the custom height you want.  (For this build, I ripped a 2″x 6″ down to 4″ wide for my frame.)

Once you determine the width you want, cut a piece at 48″ long.  Then, cut your three pieces at 10 ½” long.

Installation Instructions:

It’s crucial that you install your shelf to wall studs for a secure installation. For this tutorial I am assuming you are mounting your floating shelf on a wood construction wall with drywall. If you have another wall type, you may need other use strong anchors (masonry anchors or other) to secure your shelf.

Find the location you want your shelf to hang using my easy solutions to finding a wall stud without a stud finder.

Use a level to make sure the shelf is level. Locate at least 2 studs (3 is better) behind the shelf and use structural screws at least 4″ long to attach through the back of the shelf into the studs. And that’s it. You’re done!

This shelf frees up space below for more storage or to keep a minimal and modern look in your home.

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Pin this tutorial to share the DIY inspiration:

 

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Don’t toss that wood! Looking for thoughtful handmade gift ideas? This roundup features 40+ creative DIY gifts you can make from scrap wood, perfect for holidays, birthdays, and special occasions.

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Scrap Wood Gift Ideas

If you’ve ever stared at your scrap wood pile wondering what on earth to do with it, you’re not alone. This collection of DIY gift ideas is here to fix that!

Each project includes a full tutorial and can be made with simple basic tools. We’ll show you how to take pieces from that pile and turn them into a unique piece that’s not only functional but also full of personality.

Whether you’re making something for a friend, a family member, or even yourself, these projects are all about letting your creativity shine.

What’s great about this collection is how versatile it is. From rustic home decor to clever organizers, every idea lets you put your own spin on it and really show off your creative expression.

Plus, there’s something so satisfying about taking something that might’ve been tossed aside and turning it into the perfect gift.

If you love hands-on projects and want to impress your loved ones with something truly one-of-a-kind, these simple scrap wood projects are just the ticket!

Scrap Wood Gift Ideas

45 creative DIY gift ideas transform scrap wood into charming, personalized treasures. From rustic home decor to practical organizers, these woodworking projects make thoughtful, budget-friendly gifts.

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Make gorgeous gifts and crafts using items from your recycling bin, scrap pile or even the trash. 35 creative and eco-friendly DIY gift ideas!

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DIY Gift Ideas & Crafts

When it comes to giving something meaningful, DIY gifts are always a win. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, surprising a family member, or getting ready for the holiday season, the best part about these amazing homemade gifts is the love and thought that go into them.

Unlike store-bought gifts, these crafty ideas show off your creativity and add that personal touch everyone appreciates.

In this post, we’re sharing fun and easy DIY gift and craft ideas that are perfect for any time you want to make someone feel extra special.

Gift & Craft Ideas Made from Trash, Scraps & Recyclables

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Are you inspired to create your own DIY gifts after seeing these ideas? There are so many great crafts too!

Thanks for stopping by.

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If you like this post, you may also like this post with DIY gifts from your kitchen.

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diy laundry detergent with chalkboard label

Today’s tip is a DIY laundry detergent recipe that is gentle on your washer (HE and regular), but most importantly it will save you money!

homemade laundry detergent in glass jar

If you’ve ever looked at the cost of store-bought detergents, you may have choked at the cost. I have a wonderful detergent recipe to make your own own homemade laundry detergent for only $1.25 per year!

And the detergent is low suds and low residue which will keep your washer and clothes cleaner.

How to Make DIY Laundry Detergent

If you think this homemade liquid laundry detergent couldn’t possibly work on dirty clothes, think again. I can tell you that in addition to our regular clothing, I’ve been using this recipe for 9 years on my boys’ clothes, on my own work clothes, and my husband’s karate clothing. And it really works.

Whatever stains don’t come out in the wash are no match for my DIY Miracle Stain Remover.

The great thing about this laundry detergent is the basic ingredients are simple, gentle on sensitive skin, and can be purchased at your grocery store. Just look on the high or low shelves in the laundry detergent aisle.

If you can’t find them in the laundry aisle, it’s always a good idea to look at your local hardware or home improvement store.

To make the homemade detergent, you only need about 15 minutes and then let the liquid detergent sit overnight. The next morning, you stir, add more cold water, and you are done!

Do you think that’s too much time to devote to making your own laundry soap? What if I told you that this batch lasts our family of four (did I mention two of them are young boys) six months or more.

Make Your Own Laundry Detergent for Only $1.25 per year

Click Here to Download the Printable Version of the Recipe

Laundry Detergent for $1.25 a Year

Several of you asked me to make a video showing how I make my own detergent. For your convenience you can watch the video, then scroll down to read the directions to make your own laundry soap.

Ingredients:

(I’ve included affiliate links for your convenience. I earn a small percentage from a purchase using these links. There is no additional cost to you. You can read more about affiliate links here.)

DIY Laundry Detergent Ingredients

Please note, you can purchase these items cheaper at your local grocery store or hardware store. The links are here to help you see what the box looks like or to order if you can’t get to the store.

Optional: Essential Oil for Scent (see below for scent ideas)

Instructions:

  1. The first step is to cut your Fels Naptha Bar in quarters. Grate one quarter of the Fels Naptha Bar using a fine cheese grater.
  2. Boil 1 cup of water. Pour grated Fel Naptha into pan of boiling water. Stir continuously until the soap has dissolved. Meanwhile, pour 2 1/2 quarts (10 cups) of water into a large container or bucket. Pour dissolved Fels Naptha into the bucket of water. Stir.
  3. Add 1/4 cup Super Washing Soda and 2 TBSP Borax to the bucket.
  4. Add 2 1/2 quarts more water and stir.
  5. Cover the mixture and let is sit overnight out of reach of pets or children. Uncover the bucket and stir the gelatinous mix.
  6. Add 5 Quarts (20 cups) of water to the bucket. Stir.
  7. Add 15-30 drops of your favorite essential oils.

Some essential oil scents you may like:

Citrus scents: the added scent of lemon, lime, orange, bergamot, or grapefruit is a favorite!
Herbs scents: peppermint, spearmint, rosemary, basil
Other scents to try: Eucalyptus, chamomile, cypress, lemongrass
Want to fight mold & mildew? Use Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca)

Blends to try:

  • basil & lemon
  • lavendar & lemon
  • orange, bergamot, and lemon
  • chamomile, lavender, and orange
  • lemon & tea tree

Miracle Stain Remover Recipe:

If your clothing gets stained, try soaking in this miracle stain remover a day or two before laundering. You’ll be amazed how the stain lifts out effortlessly. It’s a great way to get even the toughest stains out.

miracle stain remover

How did I figure out my cost per year?

I had to do a little guestimating to figure out my cost. In the nine years I’ve been making this recipe, I’m only on my second box of Borax and Arm & Hammer Washing Soda.

Each batch of this homemade laundry soap consists of at least 4o cups. If you use the required 1/4 cup per load (do not use more, as more detergent won’t get your clothing cleaner) you can easily get 160 loads of laundry from each batch.

All this to say, I came up with a very conservative estimate that I pay $1.25 for laundry detergent per year, much less than commercial detergents.

The next time you have a load of laundry to wash, give this diy laundry soap a try. You may never buy commercial laundry detergent again!

Make Your Own Laundry Detergent for Only $1.25 per year

Storing Your Laundry Detergent:

The first time I started making this recipe, I used my empty laundry detergent plastic container. But, it was often too small for the batch size. Next, I used an empty 2.5 Gallon bucket water jug.

But, several years ago I bought a big glass drink dispenser and a smaller bottle with a flip top stopper. The smaller bottle is filled and used for dispensing detergent into the 1/4 cup measuring cup and then added to the washer.

The large drink dispenser holds all the excess detergent. This is a prettier solution to storing all the detergent and looks better on your laundry room shelf.

DIY Laundry Detergent | Pretty Handy Girl

Gift Idea:

Once you try this DIY laundry detergent, I know you’ll love it. And then you’ll want to share this recipe with everyone you know!

It does not contain any harsh chemicals and takes just a little bit of time to make. I like to share the recipe with a small sample amount in a laundry themed basket.

DIY Laundry Detergent |Pretty Handy Girl

If you want more uses for that big box of Borax, check out my 2 Ingredient Ant Killer!

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Make Your Own Laundry Detergent for Only $1.25 per year