So you want to learn about DIY but you’re not sure where to start? Well, you’re in luck! This article will give you the lowdown on some excellent resources that will teach you everything you need to know about doing it yourself. From helpful websites to informative YouTube channels, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a DIY pro in no time. So grab your tools and let’s get started!
Online Websites and Forums
Instructables
If you’re looking for a go-to website for all things DIY, then Instructables should definitely be on your radar. This online platform is a treasure trove of step-by-step guides, tutorials, and projects, contributed by experts and enthusiasts from all over the world. Whether you’re interested in woodworking, electronics, crafting, or home improvement, Instructables has an extensive library of resources to cater to your interests and skill level. The best part? The community on Instructables is incredibly helpful and supportive, so if you ever find yourself stuck or in need of guidance, you can rely on the fellow DIYers to lend a hand.
DIY Network
Another fantastic resource for DIY enthusiasts is the DIY Network. This website offers a wide array of articles, videos, and projects that cover a broad range of topics, from simple home repairs to complex renovations. With their easy-to-follow instructions and detailed illustrations, DIY Network ensures that even beginners can confidently take on various projects. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your backyard, remodel your kitchen, or tackle a plumbing issue, you’re sure to find the guidance you need on this platform. With their emphasis on real-life DIY experiences and expert advice, DIY Network is a valuable source for anyone looking to expand their DIY skills.
Houzz
Houzz is not just a platform dedicated to showcasing beautiful home designs; it’s also a fantastic resource for DIYers seeking inspiration and guidance. This website offers a vast collection of articles, images, and videos that cover a range of topics related to home improvement and DIY projects. From small-scale crafts to large-scale renovations, Houzz has something for everyone. With their user-friendly interface and extensive search options, you can easily find the information and ideas you need to kickstart your DIY journey. Additionally, Houzz allows users to interact with each other, providing a valuable opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and seek advice from experienced DIYers.
Family Handyman Forums
If you prefer a more interactive and community-driven approach to learning about DIY, then the Family Handyman Forums are worth checking out. This online forum allows users to ask questions, share their projects, and discuss various DIY-related topics. With a wide range of categories and subforums, you can find answers to specific queries and engage in conversations with fellow DIY enthusiasts who share your interests. The Family Handyman Forums provide a supportive and collaborative environment for DIYers of all levels, making it a valuable resource for learning and honing your skills.
Video Platforms
YouTube
YouTube has revolutionized the way we consume information, and it has become an invaluable resource for DIY enthusiasts. With countless DIY channels and videos available, YouTube offers an extensive library of tutorials, guides, and project ideas. Whether you’re interested in learning woodworking techniques, mastering home repairs, or exploring new craft projects, YouTube has you covered. Many DIY content creators on YouTube are passionate about sharing their knowledge and experiences, making their videos entertaining, informative, and easy to follow. From beginner-friendly tutorials to advanced skill-building videos, YouTube serves as a go-to platform for DIY learning.
Skillshare
If you’re looking for a more structured and comprehensive learning experience, Skillshare might be the perfect platform for you. Skillshare offers a wide range of online courses, including many DIY-related subjects. These courses are taught by industry professionals and experts, ensuring that you receive high-quality instruction and guidance. From woodworking to home improvement, Skillshare covers various DIY topics, allowing you to learn at your own pace. The platform also offers a supportive community, where you can interact with fellow learners, share your progress, and seek feedback. With its subscription-based model and unlimited access to courses, Skillshare provides an excellent opportunity for continuous DIY learning.
Ted Talks
While known for its thought-provoking and inspiring talks on a wide array of topics, Ted Talks can also be an excellent resource for DIY enthusiasts. Many TED speakers share their experiences and insights into DIY projects, emphasizing creativity, problem-solving, and innovative approaches. These talks can broaden your perspective on the DIY world and inspire you to explore new possibilities. Whether you’re looking for motivation, project ideas, or expert advice, TED Talks can offer valuable insights and spur your creative thinking.
Books and E-books
The Complete Do-it-Yourself Manual
One of the classic go-to resources for DIY enthusiasts is “The Complete Do-it-Yourself Manual.” Written by experts from “The Family Handyman” magazine, this comprehensive guide covers a wide range of topics, including home repairs, woodworking, electrical work, plumbing, and more. With its clear instructions, detailed illustrations, and step-by-step projects, this book is suitable for both beginners and experienced DIYers. You’ll find useful tips, safety guidelines, and troubleshooting advice that will help you tackle various projects with confidence. “The Complete Do-it-Yourself Manual” is a must-have reference for any DIY enthusiast looking to expand their skills.
The Family Handyman: Home Improvement Book
“The Family Handyman: Home Improvement Book” is another valuable resource for DIY enthusiasts. This book combines expert advice, detailed instructions, and useful tips to guide you through various home improvement projects. From painting and flooring to plumbing and electrical work, this comprehensive guide covers it all. With its emphasis on safety and efficiency, “The Family Handyman: Home Improvement Book” ensures that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to complete your projects successfully. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced DIYer, this book is a valuable addition to your DIY library.
DIY Projects for the Self-Sufficient Homeowner
If you’re looking for a book that focuses on self-sufficiency and sustainability, “DIY Projects for the Self-Sufficient Homeowner” is an excellent choice. This book offers a collection of projects, tips, and techniques that enable you to live a more self-reliant lifestyle. From creating a vegetable garden and building a solar panel system to constructing rainwater harvesting systems and generating alternative energy sources, this book provides a wealth of information on sustainable living. With its detailed instructions and practical advice, “DIY Projects for the Self-Sufficient Homeowner” empowers you to take control of your home and reduce your environmental impact.
Podcasts
The DIY To Try Podcast
If you prefer to consume information through audio, “The DIY To Try Podcast” is a fantastic resource for DIY inspiration and education. Hosted by knowledgeable DIYers, this podcast offers a mix of interviews, tips, and discussions on various DIY-related topics. From home improvement projects to upcycling and crafting, this podcast provides insights, techniques, and expert advice from DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Whether you’re commuting, working out, or relaxing at home, “The DIY To Try Podcast” allows you to learn and stay motivated while on the go.
The Handyman Startup Podcast
If you’re interested in turning your DIY skills into a business or side gig, “The Handyman Startup Podcast” is a valuable resource for you. This podcast focuses on the business side of the handyman and home improvement industry, providing practical tips, strategies, and advice for starting and growing a successful business. Whether you’re looking to freelance, start a handyman company, or monetize your DIY skills in other ways, this podcast offers valuable insights and motivation. Join host Dan Perry as he shares his experiences and interviews industry experts who provide guidance on marketing, pricing, customer service, and more.
The Art of Manliness
While “The Art of Manliness” podcast covers a broad range of topics relevant to men’s lifestyle, it also delves into the world of DIY and home improvement. Hosted by Brett McKay, this podcast explores traditional skills, craftsmanship, and the mindset required for DIY projects. From woodworking and metalworking to maintenance and repair, “The Art of Manliness” podcast offers valuable tips, techniques, and insights that can benefit DIYers of all skill levels. By focusing on the importance of practical skills and self-sufficiency, this podcast encourages DIY enthusiasts to embrace their inner craftsmen and take pride in their DIY projects.
Magazines
This Old House
For decades, “This Old House” magazine has been a trusted resource for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. Packed with expert guidance, how-to articles, and real-life project examples, this magazine covers a vast range of home improvement and DIY topics. From tackling specific repairs to planning complex renovations, “This Old House” magazine offers detailed instructions, product recommendations, and design inspiration. With its emphasis on high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, this magazine provides valuable insights that can help you successfully complete your DIY projects.
Family Handyman
“The Family Handyman” magazine is a comprehensive resource for DIYers, covering all aspects of home improvement, repair, and maintenance. With its practical advice, informative articles, and step-by-step instructions, this magazine empowers homeowners to take charge of their living spaces. Whether you’re looking to fix a leaky faucet, organize your garage, or remodel your bathroom, “The Family Handyman” provides expert guidance and time-saving tips. This magazine is a valuable subscription for anyone interested in expanding their DIY knowledge and improving their home.
DIY Magazine
As the name suggests, “DIY Magazine” is dedicated to all things do-it-yourself. This magazine covers a wide range of topics, including craft projects, home improvements, gardening, and creative endeavors. With its stunning photography, inspiring stories, and in-depth articles, “DIY Magazine” provides both practical tips and creative ideas that can help DIY enthusiasts unleash their inner artist. From upcycling furniture to mastering new artistic techniques, this magazine encourages readers to explore their creativity and embrace the DIY mindset.
Online Courses
Udemy
Udemy is a popular online learning platform that offers a wide variety of DIY courses. With thousands of courses available, you can find instruction on almost any DIY-related topic imaginable. Udemy courses are taught by experts in their respective fields, ensuring that you receive high-quality instruction and valuable insights. Whether you’re interested in learning woodworking, plumbing, electrical work, or car maintenance, Udemy has courses for every skill level. With its flexibility and affordability, Udemy provides an accessible gateway to expanding your DIY knowledge and skills.
Coursera
Coursera is another online learning platform that offers DIY courses from leading universities and institutions. With a focus on high-quality education and academic rigor, Coursera provides a great opportunity to deepen your understanding of DIY subjects. From construction management to interior design, Coursera offers a variety of courses that cater to different interests and skill levels. With its interactive assignments, quizzes, and peer discussion forums, Coursera ensures that you receive a well-rounded learning experience. Plus, many of the courses offer certificates upon completion, which can be a valuable addition to your resume or portfolio.
LinkedIn Learning
Formerly known as Lynda.com, LinkedIn Learning is a platform that offers a wide range of courses, including DIY-related subjects. LinkedIn Learning provides bite-sized video tutorials and courses that allow you to learn at your own pace. Whether you’re interested in home improvement, graphic design, or photography, LinkedIn Learning offers courses taught by industry professionals, ensuring that you receive up-to-date and relevant instruction. The platform also integrates with your LinkedIn profile, allowing you to showcase your newfound skills and knowledge to potential employers or clients. With its vast library of courses and user-friendly interface, LinkedIn Learning is a great resource for DIY enthusiasts.
Social Media Groups
DIY Divas
For female DIY enthusiasts, DIY Divas is a social media group that provides a supportive community for women interested in DIY projects. This group encourages women to explore their DIY skills and share their experiences, expertise, and project ideas. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced DIYer, DIY Divas offers a space where you can seek advice, get inspired, and form connections with like-minded individuals. With its emphasis on empowering women in the DIY world, this social media group is a valuable resource for female DIYers looking to expand their knowledge and skills.
Home Improvement DIY Community
The Home Improvement DIY Community is a social media group that caters to DIY enthusiasts of all levels. This community allows members to share their projects, seek advice, exchange ideas, and engage in discussions related to home improvement. With its diverse membership base, this group provides a wealth of knowledge and experiences that can benefit DIYers looking to learn and grow. Whether you’re looking for design inspiration, troubleshooting tips, or recommendations for tools and materials, the Home Improvement DIY Community has you covered.
Crafty DIYers
For DIY enthusiasts interested in crafts, Crafty DIYers is a social media group that provides a platform to share and discuss various craft projects. This group allows members to showcase their creations, ask for advice, and learn new techniques. From knitting and paper crafts to pottery and jewelry making, Crafty DIYers offers insights, inspiration, and support for craft enthusiasts. Whether you’re just starting your craft journey or looking for new ideas to challenge your skills, Crafty DIYers is a welcoming community that fosters creativity and growth.
Home Improvement Stores
Home Depot Workshops
Home Depot is not just a home improvement retail store; it also offers a range of workshops and classes to help DIYers expand their skills. These workshops cover a variety of topics, including basic home repairs, painting techniques, flooring installation, gardening, and more. Led by experienced instructors, Home Depot workshops provide hands-on learning experiences and personalized guidance. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or a seasoned DIYer wanting to refine your techniques, Home Depot workshops offer valuable insights and the opportunity to gain confidence in your DIY projects.
Lowe’s DIY Clinics
Similar to Home Depot, Lowe’s offers DIY clinics designed to help homeowners and DIY enthusiasts improve their skills. These clinics cover a wide range of topics, such as plumbing repairs, woodworking techniques, tiling, and landscaping. Led by knowledgeable experts, Lowe’s DIY clinics provide practical demonstrations, tips, and advice to help you tackle various projects with confidence. Whether you’re new to DIY or looking to enhance your skills, these clinics offer a great opportunity to learn from professionals and connect with fellow DIYers.
Ace Hardware Classes
Ace Hardware offers a series of classes and workshops that cater to different DIY interests and skill levels. These classes cover topics such as basic home repairs, painting and staining, power tool demonstrations, and more. Taught by knowledgeable instructors, Ace Hardware classes provide a supportive and hands-on learning environment. Whether you have specific questions, need guidance on a particular project, or want to learn new skills, Ace Hardware classes offer an opportunity to expand your DIY knowledge and connect with experts in the field.
Television Shows
This Old House
For decades, “This Old House” has been a staple in home improvement television. This iconic show follows expert contractors and tradespeople as they tackle various renovation and restoration projects. With its emphasis on craftsmanship, attention to detail, and problem-solving, “This Old House” offers valuable insights and inspiration for DIY enthusiasts. The show covers a wide range of topics, from small-scale repairs to large-scale renovations, allowing viewers to learn about different techniques, materials, and approaches. With its engaging storytelling and practical advice, “This Old House” is a must-watch for anyone interested in home improvement and DIY projects.
Property Brothers
“Property Brothers” is a popular television show that combines home renovation with real estate expertise. Hosted by twin brothers Jonathan and Drew Scott, the show follows homeowners as they embark on a journey to find and transform their dream homes. From interior design and space planning to construction and renovation, “Property Brothers” showcases various DIY techniques and creative solutions. By highlighting the importance of budgeting, planning, and efficient execution, the show provides valuable insights for DIY enthusiasts looking to tackle their own home improvement projects.
Fixer Upper
“Fixer Upper” is a hit television show hosted by Chip and Joanna Gaines, who are known for their expertise in home renovation and design. The show follows the couple as they transform dilapidated houses into beautiful, functional, and personalized homes. Through their creative vision, attention to detail, and DIY skills, Chip and Joanna showcase the power of home improvement and how it can enhance the overall look and feel of a space. From small-scale projects like kitchen remodels to entire home renovations, “Fixer Upper” provides inspiration and guidance for DIY enthusiasts looking to take on their own fixer-upper projects.
Public Libraries
DIY Books and Magazines
Public libraries are often overlooked as valuable resources for DIY learning, but they offer a wealth of information through books and magazines. Many public libraries have extensive collections of DIY books and magazines, covering various topics such as home improvement, woodworking, crafting, and more. These resources provide a cost-effective way to expand your DIY knowledge and access expert advice. Whether you’re looking for step-by-step instructions, design inspiration, or troubleshooting tips, public libraries offer an opportunity to explore new DIY ideas and techniques.
Online Resources
In addition to physical books and magazines, public libraries now provide access to a vast range of online resources. Many libraries offer subscriptions to online platforms such as RBdigital, OverDrive, and Flipster, which provide digital access to DIY magazines and e-books. These online resources allow you to explore DIY publications from the comfort of your own home, at any time that suits you. With a library card, you can unlock a treasure trove of DIY knowledge, tutorials, and project ideas at your fingertips.
Workshops and Seminars
Public libraries often organize workshops and seminars on various topics, including DIY and home improvement. These events provide opportunities to learn directly from experts, ask questions, and gain hands-on experience. Whether it’s a woodworking demonstration, a gardening workshop, or a session on basic home repairs, libraries offer valuable educational events that can help DIY enthusiasts enhance their skills. Check with your local library for upcoming workshops and seminars, and take advantage of these opportunities to connect with experts and fellow DIYers in your community.
