DIY home improvement projects are not just about saving money; they’re about expressing your creativity, enhancing your living space, and having fun along the way. If you’re thinking about having a hand in your home’s latest update—from applying a coat of paint to create an accent wall to breaking down the drywall—you’ll want to read these tips, tricks and inspiration.

1. Start small.

When beginning your DIY home improvement journey, it’s tempting to look at all of those beautiful before-and-after photos on social media and want to immediately start breaking down walls. But, you don’t want to overwhelm yourself—or make costly errors—so it might be a good idea to start with manageable projects. Your initial projects should be relatively simple and not too time-consuming. Consider tasks such as repainting a room, installing new cabinet hardware, or creating custom shelving. Build that confidence, and go bigger.

2. Gather the essentials.

Getting a good set of tools is fundamental to your DIY home improvement success. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in the outcome of your project. Essential tools to have in your DIY arsenal include a cordless drill, a set of screwdrivers, a level, measuring tape, safety goggles, and gloves.

3. Plan and research, research, research.

Take the time to thoroughly research and plan. This step is often overlooked but can save you a lot of time and frustration in the long run. Start by watching tutorials, reading guides, and gathering all the necessary materials. Create a checklist to ensure you have everything you need before you start.

4. Choose your niche.

DIY home improvement can mean a lot of things, from woodworking and plumbing to electrical work and interior design. To truly excel in the world of DIY, it’s essential to find your niche—the area that genuinely excites you. Whether you have a passion for creating custom furniture, renovating kitchens, or beautifying outdoor spaces, identifying your niche will make your DIY home improvement journey more fulfilling.

5. Learn from mistakes.

Mistakes are an inevitable part of the DIY home improvement journey, especially for beginners. Instead of becoming discouraged by errors, view them as valuable learning opportunities—including knowing when to call a professional. Embrace the learning curve and be open to making improvements along the way.

Plan Your Home Improvement Projects by Season

Not sure where to begin? Your home improvement ambitions might be greatly influenced by the seasons. For example, you probably don’t want to build a poolside gazebo in the middle of January. These ideas will help you plan your DIY projects for the entire year.

Spring: Outdoor Oasis

As the weather warms up, spring is the perfect season to enhance your outdoor living spaces. Consider embarking on a project to create an outdoor oasis. Build a wooden deck, install a pergola, or construct a beautiful garden pathway. Transform your backyard into a retreat where you can enjoy the beauty of nature all summer long.

Summer: Kitchen Upgrades

Summer is synonymous with gatherings and delicious meals. Take advantage of the warm weather by focusing on kitchen upgrades. Install new countertops, update cabinet doors, or create a stylish backsplash. A refreshed kitchen not only enhances your living space but also makes hosting summer parties a breeze.

Fall: Cozy Interior

As autumn arrives and temperatures drop, turn your attention to enhancing your home’s interior for the upcoming colder months. Consider DIY projects focused on creating a cozy atmosphere. Craft custom curtains, add weatherstripping to doors and windows, or install a fireplace mantel. These projects will not only make your home warmer but also create a welcoming environment for the fall and winter seasons.

Winter: Energy Efficiency

During the winter, focus on improving your home’s energy efficiency. Seal any drafts, add insulation, or upgrade to energy-efficient windows. These projects not only reduce energy costs but also make your home more comfortable during the cold months. Additionally, they contribute to a greener and more sustainable living environment.