Make It, Fix It, Clean It, Do It at Home – DIY

About this Page

by BB Curtis

Here’s a place to find tricks, tips, repairs, crafts, hobby hints, and homey ideas for those who prefer doing things on their own, those who want to reuse and recycle more, those who are looking for natural solutions, and/or those who are thrifty. Links to the information will be given outright so that those who have worked hard to develop the ideas and instructions are given full credit. If you are looking for specific information on a project and having trouble finding it, please email me at astartehome.bobbi@gmail.com with details. We will do our best to help find what you seek and add it here for others who may be searching. If you have hints/tips that you would like to share, email me at astartehome.bobbi@gmail.com and I’ll add your contribution.

The newest contributions appear at the top of the list.

It’s pool noodle mania! Tips and tricks using pool noodles outside the pool:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/pool-noodle-hacks/

Handyman tips and tricks:
https://fb.watch/nmUTtAiEw3/

Things that are cheaper in Autumn:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/things-that-are-cheaper-in-the-fall/

Food storage tips — to refrigerate or not to refrigerate:
https://youtu.be/Husim2iu-ic?si=IjP7TrHKyFWfbovU

Fun features your car might have:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/weird-car-features-you-didnt-know-you-might-have/

Ideas for Halloween decorations:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/how-to-decorate-your-house-for-halloween/

Help dealing with leaves in your Fall clean-up:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/tips-for-dealing-with-fall-leaves/

Information on biomass energy that can impact our futures: https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/biomass-energy/

How Windex can be used for things other than glass: https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/surprising-uses-for-windex/

How about some Halloween landscaping:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/landscaping-ideas-to-make-your-home-stand-out-for-halloween/

More kitchen tricks including how to easily make garlic spread:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=212907291522143&ref=sharing

Home maintenance for Autumn:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/fall-maintenance-must-do/

How to safely clean your TV screen:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-clean-tv-screen/

Tips on kitchen organization:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/how-to-organize-kitchen-cabinets/

Problems with your toilet that shouldn’t be ignored:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/toilet-problems-youll-regret-ignoring/

Carpentry hacks:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/finish-carpentry-tips-every-diyer-should-know/

Great ways to organize and clear clutter:
https://www.facebook.com/watch?v=314298151111211

Simply wonderful garden hacks: https://www.facebook.com/5Minute.Crafts.Men/videos/312468077901447

Kitchen hacks – woohoo:
https://fb.watch/n9CPJk5lj1/

What’s the difference between gardening soil and potting soil?
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/garden-soil-vs-potting-soil/?

Hints on Autumn yard work:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/perennials-to-cut-back-every-fall/?

Handy painting hacks:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/tiktok-painting-hacks/?

Easy-to-do kitchen storage hacks:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/clever-kitchen-storage-hacks/?

Sustainable construction materials:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/sustainable-materials/?

Removing water stains from wood:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/how-to-remove-water-stains-from-wood-tricks-to-try/?

The 8 grades of steel wool and their uses:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/steel-wool-grades/?

Got a wobbly chair? Here’s what to do:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/fix-a-wobbly-chair-reglue-a-wooden-chair/?

Multiple uses for used tea bags:
https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/lifestyle-buzz/everyone-throws-away-used-tea-bags-when-you-see-what-they-can-be-used-for-you-ll-never-do-it-again/ar-AA1g55gc?

14 ways to reuse used coffee grounds:
https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/cleaning-and-organizing/don-t-trash-those-old-coffee-grounds-here-s-14-ways-to-reuse-them/ss-AA1gaJu6?

“Upcycling for beginners – 10 things every new DIY-er should know”:
https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/home-and-garden/upcycling-for-beginners-10-things-every-new-diy-er-should-know/ar-AA1gaZBX?

What to know and how to paint rusted metal:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/restore-metal-before-painting/?

Your grill brush is MIA; you’re in a hurry; and you’re getting ready for a BBQ. Here’s a tip: https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/no-brush-no-problem-heres-how-to-clean-your-grill/?

It may be a bit early for Thanksgiving decor ideas, but some of us need extra time to prepare: https://www.hometalk.com/posts/craft/holiday-crafts/s-18-amazing-tablescapes-to-copy-this-thanksgiving-11202478

Fraud prevention tips – be sure to check out the links in the article as well:
https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/tips/two-scams-currently-making-the-rounds-that-everyone-should-know-about/ar-AA13V9Ux?

What is the purpose of putting a penny in your freezer when you leave the house for more than a few hours?
https://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/topstories/why-do-people-put-a-coin-in-their-freezer-before-leaving-the-house/ar-AA1fO8Wj?

Make a fairy house:
https://youtu.be/L9iuGU5twWY?si=Rzh1CKZfa3IG6IfY

Use hairpin legs to make some fabulous furniture:
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/build/furniture/s-hairpin-leg-ideas-43322098

Add magic to your yard:
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/outdoor/walkways-paths/rocky-river-rainbow-yard-decorating-43487582

Bookcase ideas you can build:
12 Budget Friendly Bookshelves For The Bookworm in Your Life! | Hometalk

An amazing collection of household hacks from food storage to flower arranging:
https://youtu.be/k1GC_AlPwwg

Things to know for future wood projects – types of rot-resistant wood: https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/rot-resistant-wood/?

What else can you do with your drill:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/the-most-incredible-drill-hacks/?

Helpful uses for plastic wrap:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/plastic-wrap-uses-you-probably-didnt-know-about/?

Ways to personalize your patio:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/stamped-concrete-patio-ideas-we-love/?

Create shade with fast growing trees:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/fast-growing-shade-trees/?

Soaking and sprouting made easy:
https://youtu.be/1mbR5xcO8aI

Ecobricks — A great use for plastic bottles:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/ecobricks/?

Something you should be doing and here’s how — clean your toilet tank:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/how-to-clean-your-toilet-tank/?

Hints for DIY electrical work:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/tips-for-diy-electrical-work/?

18 ideas for home decor that can be completed in a weekend:
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/decorate/s-15-easy-diy-projects-that-you-can-do-this-weekend-37522733

Mosaic tile designs and tips:
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/tile/s-mosaic-projects-43313574

Repurpose 65 household items normally thrown away:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/incredible-uses-for-things-you-normally-toss/?

Home repairs DIY:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/stop-hiring-out-for-these-home-repairs/?

We have become a “deliver it to me” society. One of the drawbacks is what to do with the packing materials. A few days ago storage ideas to reuse boxes was posted. Now we have a non-recyclable issue. What to do with styrofoam? Make GLUE. (Clue not in the video: make it in a glass jar with tight-fitting, screw on lid for easier, better storage.)
https://youtu.be/1_teWbQh9lQ

Plumbing hacks:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/seven-plumbing-tricks-you-have-to-know/?

Excellent gardening hacks:
https://youtu.be/O_pMzgwaw7k

Creative storage ideas reusing cardboard boxes:
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/decorate/rooms/s-10-free-storage-ideas-using-cardboard-boxes-19237282

Projects you can accomplish in a weekend:
https://realestate.usnews.com/real-estate/articles/6-diy-projects-to-tackle-in-a-weekend#

Loads of ways to repurpose old clothing (also check out the links in the article):
https://sustainabilitynook.com/repurpose-clothing/#

Repurposing plastic bottles:
http://diytotry.com/ways-to-repurpose-plastic-bottles/

Things to do with old pots and pans:
https://thepan-handler.com/what-to-do-with-old-pots-and-pans/#

How to make hard cheddar cheese at home without a lot of specialized equipment:
https://youtu.be/pbRao72jTKI

Preventing weeds in flower beds:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/weeds-in-flower-beds/?

Homemade Teriyaki sauce:
https://youtu.be/pfUh50ZNiQE

Chase away pests like mosquitos and flies and make your house smell great:
https://youtu.be/b6hM2J3k1_c

How to make a mist fan to cool your patio or picnic area outside:
https://youtu.be/S9_41X9oZ8U

DIY Fourth of July table decorations:
https://www.prudentpennypincher.com/4th-of-july-table-decorations/

Dealing with smells in the bathroom:
https://cottagenotes.com/2019/08/11/easy-bathroom-smell-hacks-and-tips/

Decor designed to hide the necessary but unattractive spots in your home: https://www.hometalk.com/posts/decorate/rooms/s-12-creative-ways-to-hide-your-ugliest-eyesores-43428336

Don’t throw away those cans! Repurpose is the buzzword:
https://www.hometalk.com/posts/upcycle/s-these-cut-up-soda-can-decor-ideas-are-perfect-for-your-home-22045507

Turn tea boxes into curio shelves:
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/kitchen-dining/kitchen-dining-furniture/curio-wall-cabinet-made-from-dollarstore-tea-boxes-44271242

Antique Side Table in Warm White Shackteau Milk Paint: https://www.hometalk.com/posts/bedroom/furniture/antique-side-table-in-warm-white-shackteau-milk-paint-44248109

Change bottles into unique decor:
https://petticoatjunktion.com/spray-paint/diy-spray-paint-glass-decanters-for-home-decor/

Homemade, natural furniture polish:
https://www.happy-mothering.com/homemade-furniture-polish/
[To purchase CPTG (Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade, not just Therapeutic Grade or lower quality) oils click here to find more information and pricing. If you’re interested in getting information on how to save 25% on all your purchases of CPTG oils, please contact me at bobbicurtiseo@outlook.com.]

Turn antique chairs into shelving:
https://skicountryantiques.com/blogs/news/88231302-hang-antique-chairs-as-shelves?fbclid=IwAR0gr02gn7kTP5gsaDBDUKDCIEmxQx2pB-xq8FXfHtQg5JpiIG4qxjQ61rY

So many uses for aloe vera:
https://fb.watch/iKiwf6IwTv/

Keeping the bathroom cleaner with ease:
https://www.hometalk.com/posts/clean/bathroom/s-how-to-keep-dirty-bathroom-spots-clean-and-fresh-much-longer-14492865

Update an old chest of drawers:
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/kitchen-dining/kitchen-dining-furniture/antique-oak-chest-of-drawers-44255896

Magical transformation of a plastic laundry basket into a fabulous decorative basket:
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/decorate/rooms/dollar-store-laundry-basket-turned-chic-metallic-rope-basket-25609565

3D art projects:
https://www.hometalk.com/posts/decorate/walls/diy-3-d-art-30582187

Various useful household tricks:
https://fb.watch/iQB-FmcqmN/

15 Genius Ways to Organize your Bedroom:
https://www.hometalk.com/posts/bedroom/organizing/s-15-genius-ways-to-organize-your-bedroom-to-save-space-37056935

Renew kitchen countertop on a tight budget:
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/kitchen-dining/kitchen-dining-furniture/concrete-counters-feather-finish-over-formica-my-version-29325256

Glass terrarium how to:
https://www.hometalk.com/posts/craft/closed-terrarium-from-glass-centerpiece-44254049

Easy hanging kitchen towel hack:
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/decorate/rooms/easy-hanging-kitchen-towel-hack-44265859

Hide the stems in a flower arrangement:
https://www.hometalk.com/posts/decorate/rooms/conceal-flower-stems-in-a-flower-arrangement-44253267

Geometric accent wall:
https://www.hometalk.com/posts/decorate/walls/geometric-accent-wall-44245242

Organization tips for the house:
https://fb.watch/i_4rorg1Te/

17 projects using thrift store dishes:
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/upcycle/s-17-reasons-to-drop-everything-and-buy-cheap-thrift-store-dishes-15470091

Cleaner house tricks:
https://nowiveseeneverything.club/enhance-smart-home/11-cleaning-hacks-that-can-leave-your-house-spotless-8438/?utm_source=tsp_pages&utm_medium=fb_organic&utm_campaign=fb_gr_5_minute_crafts&fbclid=IwAR0xgvsGzBg_7OpnPBkT0zqyZ3ndlU7UfwKqP_92WRIKuRKySIsZHSQxAfk

Adorable repurposed jars:
https://www.hometalk.com/posts/upcycle/revamped-pasta-sauce-jars-44267856

Raised garden ideas:
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/build/raised-garden-beds/s-raised-garden-bed-ideas-41740742

Inexpensively clean grout with items you probably have in your kitchen:
https://www.hometalk.com/posts/clean/bathroom/http-www-thekreativelife-com-diy-tile-grout-cleaner–19947519

Make some cat hats (having a hard time trying to stop laughing, these are great!):
https://www.boredpanda.com/adorable-knit-crochet-hats-for-cats-oona-patterns/

Using fruit to cultivate:
https://fb.watch/j74fcwz_9d/

Appetizers and snacks – Foodbites’ mozzarella roses:
https://www.instagram.com/p/CocHFtDs1a2/

Kitchen Fun with my 3 Sons’ Cheesy Taco Sticks:
https://kitchenfunwithmy3sons.com/cheesy-taco-breadsticks/

Kitchen hacks for food storage:
https://greatist.com/health/kitchen-tips-hacks#food-storage

Gift wrapping hacks:
https://youtu.be/RpH6iaQZjMs

45 great kitchen hacks:
https://www.diyncrafts.com/7615/food/45-amazing-kitchen-life-hacks-absolutely-genius

45 more kitchen hacks:
https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/best-kitchen-hacks/

Snazzy Snowman candleholder :
https://www.hometalk.com/posts/craft/seasonal-decor/glass-candle-holder-snowman-44126529

Make old furniture look new on a budget:
https://www.styledemocracy.com/refurbish-old-furniture/

Easter fun hacks:
https://thekrazycouponlady.com/tips/family/21-amazing-easter-hacks-diy-ideas-you-must-try

Spring is here, and it’s time to work on the garden:
https://blog.gardenloversclub.com/diy/garden-projects/

Bookshelf ideas:
https://homebnc.com/best-diy-bookshelf-ideas/

Easter/Spring centerpieces:
https://homebnc.com/best-diy-easter-centerpieces-ideas/

How to reupholster a chair:
https://www.bhg.com/decorating/do-it-yourself/fabric-paper-projects/diy-chair-upholstery-guide/

Spring cleaning hacks:
https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/spring-cleaning-tips

Simple way to refinish old hardwood floors:
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/floors-ceilings/a-wood-floor-face-lift-without-sanding-stripping-or-priming-43982963

Natural homemade cleaners:
https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/natural-homemade-cleaners/

You build it backyard barbeque grills:
https://www.diyncrafts.com/37846/home/10-awesome-diy-barbecue-grills-to-fill-your-backyard-with-fun-this-summer

How to get your vegetable garden started:
https://onelittleproject.com/vegetable-garden-hacks/

Fancy up your fence:
https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/outdoor/fences/fence-decorating-ideas/

Decorating with houseplants:
https://www.homesandgardens.com/interior-design/decorating-with-plants

Arts and crafts projects for kids:
https://www.gathered.how/arts-crafts/fun-craft-ideas-for-kids-to-make-at-home/

Spring gift wrap ideas:
https://ideas.hallmark.com/articles/gift-wrapping-ideas/stylish-gift-wrapping-ideas-for-perfect-presents/

Etiquette, etiquette, etiquette:
https://youtu.be/JYLepLkFWMw

Hacks for packing your suitcase:
https://www.urbo.com/content/genius-space-saving-hacks-for-packing-your-suitcase/

Excellent computer hacks:
https://www.businessinsider.com/14-best-computer-tricks-everyone-should-know#get-back-that-tab-you-accidentally-closed-1

Helpful home handyman hacks:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/home-repairs-you-can-do-yourself/

“22 Sustainable Swaps to Make at Home”:
https://www.treehugger.com/sustainable-home-swaps-6744228

Tie the scarf cute:
https://helloglow.co/how-to-tie-a-scarf/

Really going green – Spring garden hacks:
https://www.tips-and-tricks.co/home-and-garden/spring-garden/part-2

Non-laundry uses for dryer sheets:
https://morningchores.com/uses-for-dryer-sheets/

Surprise uses for WD-40:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/brilliant-ways-to-use-wd-40/

More home handyman hacks:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/why-didnt-i-think-of-that/

How to get rid of pesky pet fur, clean light fixtures, and more in today’s house cleaning hacks:
https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/tips/cleaning-hacks/

Tips on keeping your workbench tidy:
https://www.toolstoragehelp.com/tips-tricks/10-tips-keeping-workbench-clean/

Handy computer hacks:
https://www.businessinsider.com/14-best-computer-tricks-everyone-should-know#easily-repeat-your-last-command-in-excel-3

60 good and quick desserts:
https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/15-minute-desserts/

Repurposing plastic bottles:
https://foshbottle.com/blogs/fosh/60-ways-to-reuse-plastic-bottles

How to repair broken/chipped ceramics:
https://youtu.be/OUlcDThfhUU

Refinishing a drab, worn bathtub:
https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-refinish-the-tub-1821368

Repurposing for your garden décor:
https://www.idealhome.co.uk/garden/garden-ideas/upcycling-ideas-for-the-garden-273290

Make your own zen area fountain in your backyard:
https://balconygardenweb.com/diy-outdoor-water-fountain-ideas/

Some easy steps to declutter your desk:
https://www.inc.com/christina-nicholson/7-steps-to-feeling-more-organized-at-your-desk.html

Ways to declutter your kitchen countertop, get more workspace, and make it easier to clean:

How to Declutter Kitchen Counters Quickly

Creative upcycling to transform old junk into objets d’art:
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/craft-ideas/how-to/g139/genius-upcycling-ideas/

Quick, easy, essential self-defense methods:
https://rightasrain.uwmedicine.org/well/prevention/self-defense#

How to make paper flowers:
https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/easy-diy-paper-flower-tutorials-4007906

Ideas for unique picture frames:
https://www.homedit.com/How-to-make-picture-frames/#

What you can do with an old lamp (I think you’ll be surprised):
https://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/ideas-repurpose-old-lamps.html#

Ideas for DIY herb gardens inside and out:
https://www.diycraftsy.com/diy-herb-garden-ideas/

“Which Household Appliances Are Draining Electricity?”
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/appliances-drain-electricity/?

DIY toys for kids:
https://babbledabbledo.com/40-of-the-best-diy-toys-to-make-with-kids/#

Turn old plastic containers into attractive planters:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/clever-repurposed-garden-containers/

Indoor window garden ideas:
https://balconygardenweb.com/diy-indoor-window-garden-ideas-urban-gardeners/#

Closet hacks and using Alka Seltzer to clean and deodorize:
https://youtu.be/bfjj1h_IrDE

How to get your evaporative air cooler ready for the summer heat:
https://youtu.be/uuiDlh_vX0Y

Keeping snakes out of your house and yard:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/heres-how-to-keep-snakes-out-of-your-home/?

Helpful life hacks and gadgets:
https://www.lifehackguru.com/?

Quick and easy outdoor decor:
https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/exteriors/curb-appeal/quick-and-easy-outdoor-diy-decor/

Gardening hacks, gardening hacks, gardening hacks:
https://youtu.be/74J52Ruk6HU

Lots and lots of sewing hacks:
https://www.diyncrafts.com/24208/lifehacks/80-ingenious-sewing-hacks-pro-tips-youll-wish-knew-sooner

More organization hacks:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/easy-life-hacks-for-organizing-your-home/?

How to properly wash microfiber cloths to keep them in good condition:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/how-to-wash-microfiber-towels-so-they-stay-super-absorbent/?

How to properly mix concrete:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-properly-mix-concrete/?

Best sponge hacks:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/best-sponge-hacks/?

More great organizing tips:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/organizing-tips-you-will-wish-you-knew-sooner/?

Inexpensive candle hacks that are great for decorating and gifting:
https://youtu.be/m8YPs_pWZA8

How to run wire through walls:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/how-to-fish-wire-through-wall/?

Cleaning your barbeque grill:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/how-to-clean-charcoal-grill/?

How to repair a circuit breaker:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/how-to-fix-a-circuit-breaker-that-keeps-tripping/?

High importance in many locations with draught issues – the best time to water grass for highest efficiency:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/best-time-of-day-to-water-grass/?

Crafts using recycled items:
Fantastic Recycling Craft Idea / Toilet Paper Rolls Flower Tutorial / Paper Decoration DIY

Miscellaneous useful hacks:
14 Simple Tips & Hacks That Are Really Useful

How to make a solar cooker using common household items:
https://www.instructables.com/Best-Solar-Oven/

Crochet basket patterns:
https://easycrochet.com/20-free-crochet-basket-patterns/

“Brilliant Uses of Bananas“:
https://fb.watch/l9zT30n3cy/

Glass painting: