Top 16 Gift Ideas for the DIY Enthusiast

Cyber Monday is the perfect day to look for online deals and steals. Even if you missed Cyber Monday, I have some stocking stuffer ideas for your little (or big) DIYer? These are gift items I know any DIYer would love to have in their stocking. In the list are items I’ve found useful while working on a variety of projects this year (including building a whole house.) Here’s my list of 16 gift ideas for the DIYer in your life (in no particular order):

 

  1. Swanson Framing Square
  2. Iso-tune Bluetooth Noise Reducing Headphones
  3. DeWalt Battery USB charger adapter
  4. Workman’s Friend Barrier Cream and Moisturizer
  5. 10-in-1 Painter’s Tool
  6. Kreg Jig
  7. Capital Gaines by Chip Gaines
  8. Rockwell Oscillating Tool
  9. Stanley FatMax Fit in Hand Tape Measure
  10. Greenlee Non-Contact Voltage Tester
  11. Pro-Sensor Precision Stud Finder
  12. No Cry Safety Glasses
  13. DeWalt Random Orbital Sander
  14. RZ Re-usable Dust Mask
  15. DeWalt Jobsite Bluetooth Speaker
  16. Hand & Body Warmers

About my gift suggestions:

Swanson Framing Square – This year I’ve used this framing square for many framing and cutting needs especially when using my circular saw. In addition, I’ve used it to scribe a line for ripping lumber with my circular saw. Any good carpenter would be lost without a good framing square.

Iso-tune Bluetooth Noise Reducing Headphones – When you are trying to protect your hearing (but dread using ear plugs), this set of noise reducing ear buds will keep you happy and safe as you jam to your favorite tunes while working.

DeWalt Battery USB charger adapter – While preparing for Hurricane Florence, I pulled this USB charger adapter from my tool box and brought it inside. Although I didn’t have to use it, this little adapter has been invaluable for freeing up the outlets while my crew and I were running on conditional power. (It does require a DeWalt battery to attach to for charging.)

Workman’s Friend Barrier Cream and Moisturizer – I’m very particular about hand lotions. They have to provide a lot of moisture without leaving a greasy feeling. The Workman’s Friend moisturizing cream in my opinion is the perfect consistency, but it also acts as a barrier cream keeping your hands cleaner after a day of getting dirty.

10-in-1 Painter’s Tool – I didn’t think there was any way to improve on the standard 5-in-1 painter’s tool, but Purdy proved they could do it. Tucked into the handle of this tool is a small flat head and philips head screwdriver. In addition to the screwdrivers, you can also use this tool to set nails, scrape, open cans, spread compound, open/clean cracks, clean rollers, pull nails, and hammer.

Kreg Jig – The Kreg Jig has been my favorite tool for building furniture and frames. It’s an invaluable tool for anyone getting started in woodworking. You can read my tutorial for How to Use a Kreg Jig here. Forget the more expensive models of the Kreg Jig, the K4 is all you need.

Capital Gaines by Chip Gaines – This book may seem random in a list of tools, but I highly recommend everyone read this book. Chip has written a book that is full of inspiring quotes and mindsets to push you forward in any endeavor you choose!

Rockwell Oscillating Tool – This is one of those desert island tools that will get you out of a jamb and allow you to make precision cuts to molding, cut nails and score in tight spots. I never take this tool out of my truck.

Stanley FatMax Fit in Hand Tape Measure – I get it, you already have a working tape measure. But, if you try this tape measure you’ll understand my new found love for the “fit in your hand” tape measure. As a woman, I struggle with larger tape measures, but this one fits nicely in my hand, and it’s perfectly balanced if I want to drop extend it while standing on a ladder. Finally, it beats all other tape measures in a stand out competition. (Let’s be honest, it’s lots of fun to beat out the boys in a stand out competition. LOL.)

Greenlee Non-Contact Voltage Tester – Never take on any electrical job without this tool. It can test for power through wire insulation and is easy to see and hear when voltage is present.

Pro-Sensor Precision Stud Finder – This is by far the simplest and easiest stud finder I’ve used. It visually shows where the start and end of studs are in your walls.

No Cry Safety Glasses – I have a small head, but these safety glasses fit perfectly on my face without slipping down my nose. But, they also fit a larger head circumference comfortably. The No Cry Safety glasses are my new favorites.

DeWalt Random Orbital Sander – This orbital sander is another favorite tool with a dust collection bag or port to hook up to a vacuum cleaner. The hook and loop pad makes changing sandpaper a breeze.

RZ Re-usable Dust Mask – When it comes to safety equipment, you’ll be more likely to wear it if it’s comfortable. That’s why I like the RZ dust masks. The soft fabric doesn’t leave mask marks and the velcro closure provides a more comfortable fit. The inner filter can be changed as needed, and the exterior can be used over and over again. It’s better for you and the environment!

DeWalt Jobsite Bluetooth Speaker – This little bluetooth speaker has great sound, it’s small and can withstand being dropped and kicked around.

Hand & Body Warmers – Working in my unheated garage or on the job site this time of year leads to frozen fingers. I like keeping a stash of these hand warmers nearby to keep my fingers and body warmer (allowing me to work longer hours.)

I hope you liked this list of 16 Gift Ideas for the DIY Enthusiast. Anyone who works with tools or on a job site will love them too.

21 ways to reuse or upcycle an old sweater featured image

21 Ways to Reuse or Upcycle an old sweater - Pinterest Image21 Ways to Reuse or Upcycle an Old Sweater

Decorating for winter doesn’t always have to mean decorating for the holidays. Have you ever thought about reusing an old sweater to make winter decorations? Sweaters represent warmth and coziness. Implementing them into your decor can bring those same attributes to your home. Here are some fantastic ideas on how to reuse or upcycle an old sweater to make something new!

Ideas:

DIY Sweater SnowmanCreate this adorable Snowman for your winter decorations using a sweater and bags of rice.

 

wine gift bag from old sweater

Give the gift of wine wrapped in an awesome upcycled sweater.

 

Make Your Own Fall Wreath from a goodwill sweaterCreate a Fall Wreath from a sweater to add a cozy feel to your decor.

 

Create Felted wool roses tutorialShrink a wool sweater in the dryer and use it to create felt roses.

 

DIY Sweater turned into a lampshadeMake a gorgeous chic lampshade using an old sweater with a cool design.

 

10 minute tooth fairy pillow Create this 10-minute Tooth Fairy Pouch from an old piece of sweater.

 

create garlands out of wood sweatersMake these gorgeous wool garlands from old upcycled sweaters.

 

Make a cozy looking centerpieceHow cute is this sweater vase for a winter centerpiece on your dining table?

 

sweater covered potUse a patterned sweater and repurpose it into this cute plant pot cover.

 

Cover lampshade with sweater coverCreate some coziness in your room by covering this lampshade with a white sweater.

 

no sew sweater pumpkinThese no-sew sweater pumpkins are quick and easy additions to your fall decor.

 

turn sweaters into pillow coversCreate some DIY pillows using old sweaters and have endless variety of pillow designs.

 

ottoman from sweater Makeover a storage ottoman with a nice old sweater.

 

Cushion your camera strap with this upcycle sweater idea.

 

sweater wrapped vaseHere’s a tall version of sweater wrapped vases.

 

christmas ornaments made from sweatersUse old sweaters to make these adorable christmas ornaments.

 

diy felt rug from sweatersCreate a psychedelic rug using sweaters cut into strips.

 

diy sweater sleeve into pumpkinTurn sweater sleeves into these adorable pumpkins for your fall decorations!

Or if you still want to wear that old sweater this fall and winter, here are a few creative ways to re-use them:

upcycle goodwill sweaterRe-size and Dress Up a sweater from Goodwill with felt flowers.

 

Make leg warmers really quickly from a cute old sweater.

 

turn old sweater into winter hatTurn an old sweater into a winter hat in just minutes!

I hope you enjoyed all of these ideas on how to reuse or upcycle an old sweater. They are such creative and fun ideas! Please be sure to save this post on Pinterest so you can find it easily again and share via social media if you would like. Here’s a great photo for Pinterest:

21 Ways to Reuse or Upcycle an old sweater - Pinterest Image

Hi, I’m Sheri from Hazel + Gold Designs. Here are a few fun stats about me: I like love chocolate and peanut butter (together of course.) If you like stats, I have been crocheting for about 16 years, crafting for 20, and woodworking for about 4 years. I found a passion in making and being creative and began documenting my projects online at Hazel + Gold Designs.

When not working on projects, I enjoy spending time with my husband, four children, perfect dog, and ornery cat. You can find me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.

Read all of Sheri’s tutorials.

~Find more of Sheri’s projects here ~

change-ugly-recessed-lights

Do you have those old discolored recessed can lights in your home that use big hot flood bulbs? If so, it’s time for an upgrade!

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED
How to Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED Lights

Today I want to show you how to update ugly recessed can lights with energy saving LED recessed lights. This process is quick and easy, not to mention the new lights will look better, last longer, and save you money on your energy bill! What more could you want? Change out all your ugly recessed lights in no time by following this simple tutorial.

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.)

Instructions:

Here is what my old lights look like. Not only are they ugly, but they use the large flood light bulbs that use too much energy, radiate heat, and burn out quickly. I don’t know about you, but I am tired of changing these burned out bulbs.

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Want to see how quickly you can change out your lights? Here’s a one minute video (that’s how fast you can do it):

The first step to replacing these recessed lights is to remove the light bulb by simply unscrewing it from the socket. Unless you’re extraordinarily tall, you’ll probably need a step ladder for this project.

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Next, find two small springs inside the baffle, as shown in photo below. They look like a wire with a loop in the center. Pull up and out on the springs to release the baffle inside your can light.

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Remove the trim by simply pulling it off the ceiling.

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Grab your new retrofit LED recessed light and screw the adapter into the light bulb socket, exactly as you would screw in a light bulb. It’s that easy!

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Inside the opening, find two metal clips. Squeeze the spring hinges on your LED light and insert them into the clips inside the old recessed can. These will hold the light in place.

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Finally, gently push your light up into the ceiling. Believe it or not, you’re done!

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Now you have a beautiful, white, and energy-efficient LED recessed light. Take some time to admire it.

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Now you can easily change out all the can lights in the room and voila, your lighting is upgraded! This is such a quick, easy, and inexpensive project. There is no point in putting it off any longer.

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial. Feel free to share any questions or thoughts in the comment section below. Thank you for reading!

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Liked this project? I know you’ll love these other lighting upgrades:

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Change Out a Dated Hollywood Strip Light

 

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

How to Convert a Recessed Can Light to Accept a Hard-Wired Light

16 diy built in storage and shelving ideas social media image

16 diy built in storage and shelving ideas pinterest imageBuilt in storage and shelves are a great way to create an attractive home that is as functional as it is beautiful. Built-ins maximize the space you can use in your home and make it easier to keep organized and clutter free. Here is a collection of 16+ DIY Built In Storage and Shelving Ideas to help you come up with ways you can upgrade your home this year with built in storage!

16 DIY Built In Storage and Shelving Ideas:

build a floating tv shelf

Learn to build this modern and sleek a floating TV shelf that doesn’t take up much space but offers great storage.

coat rack made from an old door

Add some beautiful hanging storage to your wall by building this Coat Rack made from an Old Door.

install scrap wood wall with built in ledgesAdd warmth, character and display space by building this Scrap Wood Wall with built-in ledges.

upgrade laundry room with flow wall cabinets and slat wall

Upgrade and organize your laundry or storage room with a Flow Wall cabinets and slat wall.

Glass Window Shelves

Add storage without sacrificing sunlight by building some Glass Window Shelves.

Install Rain Gutter BookshelvesOrganize kids books and keep them in view by installing these simple and functional Rain Gutter Bookshelves.

Industrial display shelves

Add some small decor features to your room by installing these Industrial Display Shelves.

Boy's Red, White & Blue Themed Room | Pretty Handy GirlRepurpose your space and turn a Spare Closet into a Reading Nook.

Build a Children's Closet Library

For a quiet kid zone, build this Children’s Closet Library to make great use of unused wall space.

Sports Gear Storage Shelf

Tackle your sports equipment by building this Sports Gear Storage Shelf within a small unused space.

Built In Storage and Shelving IdeasBuild full Chalkboard Front Storage drawers for your pantry to organize and easily find any item you need.

built in decorative shelf

Add some simple elegance to a room by building this Built-In Decorative Shelf.

shelves using corbel brackets

Take your decor up a notch by adding gorgeous Shelves Using Corbel Brackets for storage. Don’t let a tile wall stop you!

built in shoe shelves

Don’t search for missing shoes any longer, organize your closets by building these DIY Built-In Shoe Shelves.

build a wall mounted hutch

Upgrade your office or kitchen storage by building a beautiful Wall-Mounted Hutch.

Thvintage ruler stops for narrow pantry shelves

Make great use of small space by building these Narrow Pantry Shelves with vintage ruler stops.

And here’s your bonus +1! Make custom storage for under your sink cabinet using scrap wood and dollar store bins!

I hope these DIY built-in storage and shelving ideas inspire you to maximize the space you have available in your home and create a more organized and clutter free space for your family to enjoy!

16 diy built in storage and shelving ideas pinterest image

Built In Storage and Shelving Ideas

Built In Storage and Shelving Ideas
Hi, I’m Sheri from Hazel + Gold Designs. Here are a few fun stats about me: I like love chocolate and peanut butter (together of course.) If you like stats, I have been crocheting for about 16 years, crafting for 20, and woodworking for about 4 years. I found a passion in making and being creative and began documenting my projects online at Hazel + Gold Designs.

When not working on projects, I enjoy spending time with my husband, four children, perfect dog, and ornery cat. You can find me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.

Read all of Sheri’s tutorials.

Built In Storage and Shelving Ideas

~Find more of Sheri’s projects here ~

DIY Firepit and Seating | Pretty Handy Girl

46 Awesome DIY Projects for Outdoor Spaces Pinterest image

Awesome DIY Projects for Outdoor Spaces

One great way to enjoy more time outdoors is to make your outdoor spaces useful, attractive, and functional! Here are 46 Awesome DIY Projects for Outdoor Spaces that will help you to create a personalized oasis on your property. Some are so simple you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of them.


Diy living wall planter by pretty handy girl
Make a beautiful Living Wall Planter on a fence or porch wall.

 


How to Build Rot Resistant Raised Planter Bed
Rot-Resistant Raised Planter Beds are a great way to get your garden started!

 

How to Build a Scalloped Planter Box Centerpiece

A Scalloped Planter Box Centerpiece would be a beautiful addition to a patio table.

 

Outdoor Planter From an Ice Bucket

Make your own Planter from an Ice Bucket to display beautiful flowers on your porch.

 

DIY Patio Umbrella Utensil Station

 This Utensil Holder for patio umbrella is a great addition when hosting a party!

 

DIY mini PlantersThese Mini Planters would work on any table or small outdoor shelf.

 

How to Make a Window Pane Lattice Gate & Fence

How to Build a Window Pane Lattice Privacy Fence and GateLearn how to build these beautiful and professional looking window pane lattice privacy fences and gates

 

How to Build a Wood Storage Shed

Build a Wood Storage Shed and enjoy s’mores around your fire pit without looking for more wood.

 

DIY Marble Toss Game

This Marble Toss Game would entertain the kids during your next outdoor party!

 

Dressing up a Patio TableDress Up a Patio Table for your next brunch.

 

Turning a Bed Frame into a Patio Bench

Turn a Bed Frame into a Patio Bench and curl up with a good book outside.

 

DIY Firepit and Seating

Create an amazing Firepit and Outdoor Seating space to entertain all year long.


DIY Fence Trellis

A Fence Trellis is a gorgeous way to turn those climbing plants into art.

 

DIY Giant Mandala Tattoo for Deck

This Giant Mandala Tattoo is a unique way to beautify your deck.

 

How to Build Adirondack Chairs from Scratch

Use these Adirondack Chair Plans for more outdoor seating.

 

DIY Gravel Patio

Install a Gravel Patio for a great seating spot!.

 

Build a Porch Swing with Pallet Wood

This Porch Swing from Pallet Wood is a perfect spot to enjoy the beauty of every season.


Install Concrete Paver Edging

Install Concrete Paver Edging around your flower beds.

 

How to Create an Inexpensive Stone & Mulch Walkway

Install super Simple Mulch & Rock Garden Paths anywhere in your yard.

 

Create Living Wall Lattice Privacy Screen

A Living Wall Lattice Privacy Screen provides beauty and some privacy from your neighbors.

 

How to build a Raised Garden with Cucumber Trellis

Build Garden Bed with Cucumber Trellis to keep your plants healthy and productive.

 

Air Conditioner Screen from Pallets

An Air Conditioner Screen from Pallets will hide that hideous—but oh so necessary—appliance.

 

How to Install Low Voltage Landscape lights

Learn how to Install Low Voltage Landscape Lights along your walks for nighttime lighting.

 

How to Install your own Sprinkler System

A DIY Sprinkler System can keep your landscaping thriving.

 

DIY Washer Toss Game

This Washer Toss Game would be fun at your next barbecue!

 

Little Red Wagon Planter

A Little Red Wagon Planter is a cute feature in any garden.

 

How to Tile a Small TABLETOP

Tile a Small Tabletop to add a pretty table to your patio.

 

Painting Metal Patio Chairs

Re-Painting Metal Patio Chairs handles rust and keeps them fresh and new.

 

No Sew Patio Tablecloth with Umbrella Hole

A No Sew Tablecloth for Table with Umbrella will come in handy every night of the week.

 

Scrap Wood Planter Box

Scrap Wood Planter Boxes are quick and easy projects to make for your flowers.

 

Repurpose Vintage Milk Jug into Side Tables

Repurpose Vintage Milk Jugs into Side Table for a farmhouse addition to your porch.

 


Tips to Create Knock Out Container Gardens | Pretty Handy Girl

Tips for Creating Knock Out Container Gardens will come in very handy this year.

 

DIY Yard Dice

Make DIY Yard Dice and have fun rolling them with the kids.

MORE DIY projects for outdoor spaces

How to Build a Solid Gate

Learn How to Build a Rock Solid Gate and keep the dogs in or people out.

 

Tall Cedar Planter by Jaime Costiglio

Make some DIY Tall Fence Planters for just $10 each, they’ll look modern and sleek in your landscaping!

 

How to Fix Window and Door Screens

Knowing How to Fix Window and Door Screens will save you lots of money.

 

Inspiration for Backyard Landscaping

Check out this post for Inspiration for Backyard Landscaping this year.

 

Make a Grown Up Swing Set

Kids grown up? Make a Grown Up Swing Set and have more fun than the kids.

 

Marimekko Decorative Tin Can Planters by Pillar Box Blue

Add some gorgeous color to your patio by making these Easy Upcycled Marimekko Tin Can Planters.

 

Build a pergola with Trellis Screens

Build a Pergola with Trellis Screens to hide your trash cans and add beauty to your walkway.

 

Easy Solar Light Stand DIY

Easy Solar Light Stands creates an inviting spot and they will keep those solar lights from falling over.

 

DIY Rolling Plant Caddy Tutorial

Build a Rolling Plant Caddy so you don’t have to lift your heavy planters.

 

DIY Recover Outdoor Pillows

Save money by learning how to Recover Outdoor Pillows and add some comfort to your outdoor space.

 

DIY Concrete Wood Planter

A DIY Concrete and Wood Planter is a modern and sleek way to hold succulents for your porch or deck.

 

DIY Outdoor Dining Bench

This Indoor/Outdoor Dining Bench is perfect for some quick and easy seating.

 

DIY Hose Hiding Planter by Jaime Costiglio

Make a DIY Hose Hiding Planter to keep your landscaping looking sharp.

I hope you loved this roundup of DIY Projects for Outdoor Spaces! Which was your favorite? Share in the comments!

Pin the image below for reference and show all your friends these great ideas!

46 Awesome DIY Projects for Outdoor Spaces Pinterest image

If you liked this list of outdoor ideas, you’ll love these beautiful Dreamy Screen Porches:

DIY Screen Porch Makeovers