There is something to be said for getting your hands dirty and working on a little springtime do-it-yourself project. Surely you have been all over Pinterest, scouting ideas on how to decorate this season, what to build, and how to do it. So what’s holding you back? Even if your DIY venture doesn’t come out quite perfectly, there is immense satisfaction in giving it a try and exclaiming “I did that!” Homemade isn’t supposed to look like it came off a machine, because … guess what? It didn’t!

There are so many tutorials online for creating a piece of décor for a variety of occasions that there just aren’t any good excuses for tackling that project you’ve been considering. A little sweat equity can be a great way to cut decorating costs for your home, wedding, or party. 

Spring is officially here and with its warmer days and cozy evenings calling you outside, it’s the perfect time to show your patio or porch a little decorating love. DIY doesn’t have to be intimidating or revolve around big complicated projects. Smaller projects – like simply repurposing a tablecloth as curtains for your screened-in porch – can add just the right amount of color, texture, and coziness. Installing a rod or hooks and using clip-on curtain rings to attach the tablecloth is a great no-sew way to give instant bang to your outdoor living space. See? Not so daunting after all!

Build a small planter box out of that scrap wood that’s been laying around your garage all winter long and fill the container with lining, rocks, and succulents or fresh flowers placed in mason jars for a trendy and colorful tablescape. Take this project up a notch by adding your family surname stenciled or a favorite quote painted onto the sides of the box for a personal touch. Not sure if you want the upkeep of having a rug outside? Try taping off a grid or diamond pattern on your porch floor and painting it with either tone-on-tone colors or a vibrant contrast to give the space a whimsical feel. There is an option for every style out there … don’t be afraid to try bold patterns and mixing in plants and candles for a tropical feel or soft blushes, gold accents, and neutral pillows for a more bohemian vibe. 

Complete the look with a fun porch sign that incorporates the colors you’ve chosen for your accents, pulling it all together. Include your family members’ names; fun sayings about porch life like “Come sit on the porch with me … where the drinks are cold and the friendships are free,” or “Life is better on the porch;” or something like mile markers to your favorite vacation destinations or your home’s map coordinates. Prop your DIY creation up in the corner or rest it on the mantel if you have an outdoor fireplace. 

Every time you look out at that space, you will feel so much pride knowing that you put it all together yourself with a little elbow grease and a lot of TLC. So take advantage of the warm sunny spring days that are upon us and grab your tools, paintbrushes, and a refreshing drink, and get to work!