I CAN DO IT & SO CAN YOU!

This month, 10 industry experts and influencers share the can do this’ moments that were a turning point in their DIY journeys

- Laura Higgins

Taking on a DIY project with no experience can be a daunting prospect - lack of confidence is the reason most don't get off the starting block. But what if you did give it go? Where could it lead you? If fear is holding you back, read on - these industry experts and influencers all started from scratch, yet have achieved success in their renovation journeys (albeit with some bumps along the way). The one thing they all agree on? They don't regret taking the DIY plunge. 

1 Rachel Verney (@the_shoestring_home) tackled tiling for her first attempt at DIY

'Rather than waiting for my dream period home, I decided to do whatever made us happy in our current home, which started with a faux fireplace! Most of the small budget went on wood to build the stud wall for the recess. We sourced a bargain iron fireplace from eBay and a surround that was being chucked out. My other half, Jon, and his family are handy, so I always have them to learn from. I'd never tiled before, so the hearth was scary, but I loved it. I never thought I could do something like that. Now I will try most DIY jobs, but I'm still a beginner and Jon often has to help! Since then I have painted, wallpapered and upcycled furniture, and recently stencilled my patio. I have loved learning new skills and I hope to be able to keep on growing in confidence.'

2 'When you break these projects down, the individual elements are manageable' 

Melissa Ritchie (@littleterracedhouse) created a window seat for a bay window