Beginner's guide: DIYs with wood

If you’re getting started with crafting projects, DIY projects with wood are an excellent place to start. Many woodworking projects only need basic tools and inexpensive materials, like scrap or reclaimed wood, to make unique decorative pieces and more. Here are some tips and ideas for your next DIY woodworking project to help you get inspired:

Before you begin

Familiarize yourself with tools

For most woodworking projects, you’ll need one or more common power tools. These tools include electric sanders, jigsaws, reciprocating saws, routers and jigs. Tools depend on the individual needs of the project, but it’s important to familiarize yourself with how to use the tools at your disposal. Practice with them on scrap wood before diving into a project.

Safety first

Even when not working with power tools, you should protect yourself with the proper safety equipment. Consider safety gloves and eye protection. If you’re working with wood stains and chemicals, stay in a well-ventilated area.

Ideas for basic woodworking DIYs

DIY Mirror frame

If you have a clip mirror in the bathroom, you can easily give it some rustic style with a DIY wooden frame. To build, cut and sand four pieces of wood to the dimensions of your mirror. Sand and finish to your liking, either leaving the wood grain visible or adding a splash of colorful paint.

DIY Drawer organizer

Add some order to your drawers by building your own DIY wooden organizers. The key to this project is measuring carefully to make sure each compartment is useful for fitting the contents of the drawer. All you need to build is several cuts of wood, about one inch thick. With careful measurement, you don’t need to glue or nail to the inside of the drawer; instead, you can fit each piece snugly into place.

These are only a few suggestions for beginner DIY wood projects. Keep these options in mind the next time you want to build your own unique decor.