We’ve picked a few easy ideas for DIY projects, and there’s something for everyone.
CREATE WALLPAPER
Take the time during the holidays to revamp your home. A signature wall plays a huge role in creating a focal point and adds character to a room. Here is how you can create your own wallpaper, using old rectangular kitchen cleaning sponges. Cut the sponge in half, horizontally, and dip it in a paint colour of your choice. You can then dab a cluster of three horizontal stripes, one above the other, using the sponge. You’ll have to space the three stripes across the wall to create the wallpaper effect or pattern you desire.
CONSTRUCT A SERVING TRAY
December is the month for entertaining so how about making a lovely practical piece? A serving tray for entertaining during a braai or cocktail hour is perfect. You will need the following:
- A 35 cm-long and 10 cm-wide (or any size you’d prefer) piece of wood of your choice (get it pre-cut at a hardware store)
- Paintbrushes
- Paint and two handles of your choice, to go with your theme or look and feel
- A drill and screws
To start, make sure your piece of wood is smooth and clean. Then paint the wood the colour of your choice. Once the paint has dried, you can attach your handles on each side using the drill and screws.
MAKE LAVENDER BATH BOMBS
Relax and unwind with your home-made bath bombs. You can choose an essential oil or scent of your choice – we went with lavender. You will need the following:
- Dry ingredients: 1 cup baking powder, ½ cup Epsom salt, ¾ cup cornflour, ½ cup citric acid and dried lavender or any herb of your choice based on your scent.
- Wet ingredients: 2 tbsp coconut oil, 2 tbsp water, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 15–20 drops lavender essential oil, 15–20 drops of chamomile essential oil as a complementary scent.
Method:
- Grab gloves and a greased baking muffin tin or moulding container for your bath bombs.
- Now, mix the dry ingredients in a bowl till thoroughly mixed and the wet ingredients in a separate bowl.
- Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients, a few drops at a time, mix well and add dried herbs (optional).
- Then combine until the mix is crumbly and can just hold its shape when squeezed; add water with a spray bottle as needed to achieve the desired texture, working quickly so the mix doesn’t have time to fizz.
- Lastly, add the mixture to moulds or a greased container then press firmly and leave for 48 hours, or until hardened. Wrap in tissue paper or plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or bag. Use within two weeks.
PLANT A TEACUP HERB GARDEN
Why not put your green fingers to the test by starting a mini herb garden? Use old teacups and saucers, especially those that no longer match, to create your DIY herb garden. You can place them outside your kitchen window – it’s decorative yet practical. Get epoxy glue, soil and seedlings and you’re well on your way to having your fresh herb garden. Glue the cup and saucer together, and wait for the glue to dry and set. Then, pour ¾ full with soil, pop your seedlings deep into the cup, and water. Now wait for your seedlings to sprout.
PAINT COPPER VASES
An oldie but a goodie! Take any old vases, used wine bottles and jars of various shapes and sizes and spray with copper paint. This will create accent vases and a pop of striking elegance in your space. Drop your flowers in and you have a new decorative piece to add life to any room.
BUILD A BACKYARD SWING
Add a cosy and relaxing element to your backyard – a swing bed! This very practical project will provide you and your family with a place to relax and enjoy your backyard. You will need the following:
- Two pallet blocks
- Varnish
- Large bolts and screws, hooks, rope or chains
- A power tool for all the assembling
Put together two pallet blocks with bolts and screws, and make sure they’re cleaned and varnished beforehand. Attach a hook in each corner for a sturdy rope or chain, which will be attached to the ceiling of your veranda, deck or swing stand. Complete the swing bed with a thin mattress or cushions.
REVAMP AN OLD FURNITURE PIECE
Do you have an old piece of wooden furniture, such as a chest of drawers, sideboard or wardrobe, that is looking worn and in need of an update? Why not give it a fresh coat of paint with new handles to bring it to life again? Give the item a wash, or sandpaper it down if needed to get it ready for a paint. Pick a colour of your choice – matte or milk paint is currently on-trend. Add handles to suit the look you are going for.
