100 Inspiring DIY Projects From Real DIY Enthusiasts

100 Inspiring DIY Projects From Real DIY Enthusiasts

By Jenny Stanley

Updated on Sep. 05, 2024

Get ready to be inspired! This collection showcases 100 incredible DIY projects from talented individuals just like you. From backyard transformations to ingenious home improvements, these real-life projects demonstrate the power of creativity and DIY ingenuity. Prepare to be amazed by unique accent walls, innovative storage solutions, and even a few automotive creations!

Trending DIY Projects

Backyard Oasis

Juan Zetino, a dedicated family man and veteran, transformed his backyard into a relaxing oasis. Inspired by various DIY publications, he spent months meticulously planning and constructing a stone patio perfect for reconnecting with loved ones. Learn more about building a stone patio.

Hidden Bed with Bookshelf

Brandon Dempster’s guest room features a magical disappearing bed cleverly concealed behind a functional bookshelf. This ingenious space-saving solution maximizes functionality and style. Discover the secrets behind this disappearing bed.

Watch Inspiring DIY Projects

Check out this video showcasing some of the most impressive reader projects of all time:

Arts & Crafts End Table

Arts and Crafts Style End TableArts and Crafts Style End Table

Mike Gratzer crafted a stunning Arts & Crafts style end table, adding a touch of elegance to his home. He meticulously followed plans from a past issue of The Family Handyman, demonstrating the beauty of woodworking craftsmanship.

Solid Cedar Mailbox with House Numbers

Solid Cedar Mailbox with Metal NumbersSolid Cedar Mailbox with Metal Numbers

Todd Johnson’s DIY journey led to a unique solid cedar mailbox. After encountering a measurement mishap, he ingeniously incorporated cedar boards, stain, and metal house numbers to create a personalized and eye-catching mailbox. Learn from Todd’s step-by-step process.

Cool Copper Cupola with Motorcycle Weathervane

Bruno Bucci elevated the classic cupola design with a custom copper top and a distinctive motorcycle weathervane. This personalized touch showcases the potential for customization in DIY projects. Explore cupola building instructions.

Workbench with Butcher Block Top

Workbench with Butcher Block and BacksplashWorkbench with Butcher Block and Backsplash

Charles Brown’s workbench features a durable butcher block top and a protective backsplash, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. This practical upgrade demonstrates the value of thoughtful design in a workspace. Get workbench plans here.

Bright and Modern DIY Kitchen Remodel

Carlo Pelandini embarked on an ambitious six-month kitchen renovation, transforming a dated space into a bright and modern culinary haven. Explore kitchen remodeling ideas and tips.

Outdoor Wood-Fired Oven for Baking

Inspired by cultural exchange, John White constructed a professional-grade wood-fired oven in his backyard, expanding his culinary horizons.

Green Garage Storage Unit for Organization

Wilbur Waggoner tackled garage clutter with a vibrant green storage unit, efficiently organizing boots, jackets, and more. Get DIY mudroom storage plans.

DIY Pine Accent Wall with Weathered Finish

Pine Accent Wall with Weathered LookPine Accent Wall with Weathered Look

Jamey Heim and his wife collaborated on a unique pine accent wall, using distressed boards and a variety of weathered wood stain colors to create a striking focal point.

Mobile Flip-Top Workbench for Flexibility

Mobile Workbench with Flip TopMobile Workbench with Flip Top

Christopher Rings designed and built an ingenious mobile flip-top workbench, maximizing space and versatility in his workshop. See Christopher’s how-to photos and plans.

Raised Patio Planter for Gardening

Bob LaBelle constructed a raised patio planter, providing his wife with the perfect environment for cultivating fresh vegetables and herbs. Build your own raised patio planter.

Upcycled Sewing Table from Trash

Pink Sewing Table Made from Repurposed TablePink Sewing Table Made from Repurposed Table

Cathy Abene and her children transformed a discarded wooden table base into a charming pink sewing station, demonstrating the power of repurposing.

Private Studio Space for Creativity

Studio Building with Double DoorsStudio Building with Double Doors

Dale Lockwood built a dedicated creative studio for his wife, complete with double doors, windows overlooking a lake, a loft, and a charming woodchip pathway.

Showcase Wall with Custom Cubbies and Arches

Showcase Wall with Arches and CubbiesShowcase Wall with Arches and Cubbies

Mike Farron personalized the showcase wall project with custom cubby configurations and elegant arches, adding a touch of sophistication to his home. Build a showcase wall with these plans.

Backyard Grill Gazebo for Entertaining

Grill Gazebo with Stone SurroundGrill Gazebo with Stone Surround

Al Gingrow constructed a backyard grill gazebo, creating a focal point for outdoor gatherings and delicious grilled meals. Get grill gazebo plans.

Amazing Marble Tracks for Fun

Steve Moseley’s intricate marble track system provides hours of entertainment and showcases the endless possibilities of DIY creativity.

Dream Shed with Retaining Wall and Porch

Red Shed with Porch and Retaining WallRed Shed with Porch and Retaining Wall

Greg Reierson adapted the Dream Shed project to his backyard’s unique terrain, incorporating a retaining wall and a charming front porch. Learn how to build a dream shed.

Ikea Kallax Hack for Craft Room Storage

Craft Room Storage Table Made from Ikea KallaxCraft Room Storage Table Made from Ikea Kallax

Becky Christensen completed an Ikea Kallax hack in memory of her husband, creating a functional and sentimental craft room storage solution. Get the Ikea Kallax hack plans.

Pond Upgrade with Waterfall

Janice Ferguson and her husband enhanced their existing pond with a small waterfall and bird-friendly accessibility, inspired by The Family Handyman. Build a backyard pond and waterfall.

The Ultimate Dog House with Special Features

Dog House with Multiple FeaturesDog House with Multiple Features

Corey Hosick created a luxurious dog house equipped with various features to pamper his furry companions. See photos of the ultimate DIY dog house.

Batman-Themed Flip Flop Step Stool

Red and Yellow Step Stool with Batman LogoRed and Yellow Step Stool with Batman Logo

Jeffrey Pease built a personalized Batman-themed flip-flop step stool for his granddaughter, showcasing the thoughtful touches possible with DIY. Build a flip-flop step stool.

Amazing Kitchen Remodel in a Ranch Home

Updated Kitchen in Ranch HomeUpdated Kitchen in Ranch Home

Denise Boyd, a passionate DIYer, renovated the kitchen in her 1960s ranch-style home, achieving a stunning transformation. Get more kitchen remodeling ideas.

Timber-Frame Workshop Built Over Three Years

Mike Pado dedicated three years to building a remarkable timber-frame workshop, a testament to patience and craftsmanship.

Closet Transformed into Custom Cabinets

Brett Gardner cleverly converted a closet into custom built-in cabinets, drawers, and shelves, maximizing storage and style.

Open-Fire Brick Barbecue Bar for Outdoor Entertaining

Outdoor Kitchen with Brick Barbecue and BarOutdoor Kitchen with Brick Barbecue and Bar

John Kubicki, without prior experience, constructed an impressive outdoor kitchen featuring an open-fire brick barbecue, a mini-fridge, and a built-in bench. Learn about modular outdoor kitchens.

Lakeside Shed with a Relaxing Front Porch

Shed with Porch Overlooking WaterShed with Porch Overlooking Water

Jim Reitenbach built a lakeside shed with a charming front porch, providing a serene spot to enjoy the outdoors. Get shed with porch plans.

Hidden Staircase Drawer for Secret Storage

Mark Maixner ingeniously incorporated a hidden drawer into his staircase, creating a discreet storage space. Discover how to build a hidden staircase drawer.

Jeep Beds for Adventurous Kids

John Forck designed and built amazing Jeep beds for children, complete with headlights, license plates, and off-road style wheels. Get Jeep bed plans.

Elevated Vegetable Garden Planter for Easy Gardening

Elevated Garden Bed with Planter BoxesElevated Garden Bed with Planter Boxes

Jan Ryan simplified gardening chores with an elevated planting table, providing easy access to her vegetables and herbs.

Before & After Bathroom Remodel with Modern Updates

Modern Bathroom with Updated FixturesModern Bathroom with Updated Fixtures

Denise Boyd and her father collaborated on a transformative bathroom remodel, replacing outdated fixtures with modern elements.

Drill Dock for Organized Tools

Drill Dock with PVC Pipe HoldersDrill Dock with PVC Pipe Holders

Carle Davis built a drill dock using PVC pipe to keep his tools organized and his workbench clutter-free. Build your own drill dock.

Bookcase Entertainment Center for Media and Books

Entertainment Center with Bookcases and CabinetsEntertainment Center with Bookcases and Cabinets

Matt Godsey crafted a beautiful bookcase entertainment center, providing ample storage for books and media while serving as a focal point for family gatherings. Build a classic bookcase.

Modular Pet Ramp with Window Seating and Storage

Dog Ramp with Window Seat and StorageDog Ramp with Window Seat and Storage

Doug Swanson built a custom ramp with window seating, a safety railing, and built-in storage for his dachshunds, demonstrating the love for pets.

Home Theater for Movie Nights

Home Theater with Projector and ScreenHome Theater with Projector and Screen

Todd Rice created a dedicated home theater, complete with a projector, screen, and comfortable seating, for an immersive movie experience.

In-Wall Kitchen Cabinets for Extra Storage

Vern Schleyer maximized kitchen storage by building cabinets directly into the wall, a clever solution for limited space.

Backyard Stone Fireplace for Warm Gatherings

John Golock, a first-time mason, constructed an impressive stone fireplace in his backyard, creating a cozy gathering spot.

Custom Vanity Drawers for Bathroom Organization

Bathroom Vanity with Custom DrawersBathroom Vanity with Custom Drawers

April Lesho maximized bathroom storage by adding custom drawers to her vanity, utilizing every inch of space. Get more small space storage ideas.

Reclaimed Lumber Decking for Sustainable Style

Deck Made from Reclaimed LumberDeck Made from Reclaimed Lumber

Dallin Pedersen transformed salvaged Ipe boards into a beautiful and unique deck, showcasing the beauty of reclaimed materials.

Custom Truck Bed Drawers for Tool Organization

Truck Bed with Custom DrawersTruck Bed with Custom Drawers

This DIYer optimized truck bed storage with custom-built drawers, keeping tools organized and protected from the elements.

Perfect-Fit Fence with Custom Arches

Fence with Arches Matching House StyleFence with Arches Matching House Style

Scott Schneider built a custom fence with arches that perfectly complement his home’s architectural style.

Home Office with Custom Cabinetry

Home Office with Built-in Cabinets and DeskHome Office with Built-in Cabinets and Desk

Leo Paquin created a functional and stylish home office with custom cabinets, countertops, and ample storage, mimicking the design of a kitchen.

Simple Miter Saw Stand with Added Features

Miter Saw Stand with Extensions and Tape Measure HolderMiter Saw Stand with Extensions and Tape Measure Holder

Richard Rowe built a miter saw stand with added features like extensions, a tape measure holder, and a built-in vacuum system. Build a convertible miter saw station.

Pirate Ship Tree House for Imaginative Play

Douglas Goble constructed a whimsical pirate ship tree house, complete with a cannon, sail, and spinning helm, providing endless fun for his children.

Twin Adirondack Chairs with Curved Backs

Two Adirondack Chairs with a Fire PitTwo Adirondack Chairs with a Fire Pit

Billy Keith built twin Adirondack chairs with a curved back design, creating a comfortable seating area around a fire pit. Get Adirondack chair plans.

Above-Cabinet Wine Rack for Creative Storage

Wine Rack Built Above CabinetsWine Rack Built Above Cabinets

Michael Hubbs utilized unused space above his refrigerator by building a custom wine rack inside the cabinets.

Skinny Workshop Cart for Sheet Goods

Narrow Cart for Storing Sheet GoodsNarrow Cart for Storing Sheet Goods

John White designed a skinny workshop cart on casters to efficiently store sheet goods in the narrow space behind his lower cabinets. Learn how to build a skinny workshop cart.

Dorm Room Spinning Storage Unit for Small Spaces

Spinning Storage Unit with Multiple SidesSpinning Storage Unit with Multiple Sides

Michael Kirby created a multifunctional spinning storage unit for his daughter’s dorm room, maximizing space with cubbies, shelves, a mirror, and a magnetic board.

Cover-Worthy Shed Built from Magazine Plans

Attractive Shed with Windows and DoorsAttractive Shed with Windows and Doors

Byrom Stacey constructed a stunning shed using plans from The Family Handyman, achieving a professional-looking result.

DIY Window Seating with Built-in Storage

Window Seat with Storage UnderneathWindow Seat with Storage Underneath

Richard and Susan Barber built a comfortable window seat with storage, utilizing cabinets as a base and adding a platform with vents and a cushioned top.

Patio with Pergola for Outdoor Relaxation

Michael McGuire saved money by building a patio and pergola himself, creating a relaxing outdoor space.

Garden Shed with Outdoor Shower

Garden Shed with Outdoor ShowerGarden Shed with Outdoor Shower

Emlyn Jones built a garden shed with an unexpected feature: an outdoor shower. Get outdoor shower ideas.

Uncovered Fireplace During Wall Demolition

Gary Grant uncovered a beautiful old fireplace during a demolition project and incorporated it into his home’s decor.

Restored Farmhouse Dresser with Creative Drawer Solution

Refurbished Dresser with Matching DrawersRefurbished Dresser with Matching Drawers

John Susil ingeniously restored a farmhouse dresser with a missing drawer by cutting the remaining drawer in half and rebuilding it.

Backyard Putting Green for Golf Enthusiasts

Backyard Putting Green with Flagstone BorderBackyard Putting Green with Flagstone Border

Shane Graham created a backyard putting green with artificial grass, a flagstone border, and two holes for practice.

Bright Yellow Shed with Concrete Ramp

Yellow Shed with Concrete RampYellow Shed with Concrete Ramp

Nick Ross built a cheerful yellow shed with a concrete ramp for easy access, using plans from The Family Handyman. Get dream shed plans.

Repurposed Kitchen Cabinets for Bathroom Storage

Tall Bathroom Cabinet Made from Kitchen CabinetsTall Bathroom Cabinet Made from Kitchen Cabinets

Janet Johnson transformed two secondhand kitchen cabinets into a tall and stylish bathroom cabinet.

Tree House with Expansive Deck

Tom Beerley built a tree house with a large deck, creating an expansive outdoor play area.

Boat Bird Feeder with Landscape Lighting

Bird Feeder Made from a BoatBird Feeder Made from a Boat

Dan Cork repurposed an old boat into a unique bird feeder with landscape lighting, containing the birdseed and enhancing his backyard. Get birdhouse plans.

Upgraded Garage Doors with Plywood and Cedar

Garage Doors with Decorative Wood TrimGarage Doors with Decorative Wood Trim

Joe Hawkins significantly improved his garage doors’ appearance by adding plywood, cedar boards, and decorative framework.

Garden Tractor Built from Junkyard Parts

Tractor Made from Junkyard PartsTractor Made from Junkyard Parts

Keith Rider scoured junkyards for months to collect parts for a fully functional and unique garden tractor. Learn about Keith’s junkyard tractor project.

Rebuilt Swing Set with Cedar Wood

Wooden Swing Set with SlideWooden Swing Set with Slide

Ben Hoyle rebuilt a used swing set with new cedar wood, creating a safe and attractive play area for his daughters while repurposing old materials for a workbench. Get DIY playset ideas.

Cottage-Style Shed with Modified Plans

Shed with Cottage Style FeaturesShed with Cottage Style Features

Alan Luebs adapted the Dream Shed plans to build a charming cottage-style shed with modified doors, windows, and unique siding. Get Dream Shed plans.

North Woods Bench with Durable White Finish

Keith Simpson built a North Woods bench with a smooth and durable white finish, achieved by using enamel primer, acrylic latex paint, and sanding between coats. Build a North Woods bench.

Fireplace Makeover with Custom Concrete Hearth

Fireplace with Stone Surround and Concrete HearthFireplace with Stone Surround and Concrete Hearth

David Riggins transformed his fireplace with a stone surround and a custom-poured concrete hearth, fulfilling his wife’s vision.

Plywood Storage System for Organized Garage

Plywood Storage Rack in GaragePlywood Storage Rack in Garage

Steve Christakis devised a clever plywood storage system to maximize space and prevent clutter in his garage workshop. Learn how to build this plywood storage system.

Classy TV Cabinet with Pocket-Hole Joinery

TV Cabinet with Doors and ShelvesTV Cabinet with Doors and Shelves

Ronald Berg built a classy TV cabinet using plans from The Family Handyman, mastering the use of a Kreg pocket-hole jig in the process. Get DIY TV stand plans.

Vintage Office Chair with Adjustable Base

Vintage Office Chair with New BaseVintage Office Chair with New Base

Carla Phillips combined a vintage oak office chair with an adjustable base from a thrift store chair, creating a comfortable and functional seating solution.

Eyebrow Entry with Copper Roof and Cedar Trim

House Entry with Overhang and StoneworkHouse Entry with Overhang and Stonework

Tyler Ferguson tackled a challenging entryway project, incorporating laminated plywood, LVL joists, a copper roof, and cedar trim.

Loft Bed with Room Underneath for Activities

Loft Bed with Space Underneath for Desk and StorageLoft Bed with Space Underneath for Desk and Storage

Jak Krumholtz built a loft bed with ample space underneath for a desk, storage, and even bicycle storage. See photos of this loft bed project.

Basement Arcade with Games and Retro Decor

Basement Arcade with Games and SeatingBasement Arcade with Games and Seating

Brian created a nostalgic basement arcade with video games, foosball, air hockey, a snack corner, and retro decor.

Outdoor Bench with Storage Made from Teak and Cedar

Outdoor Bench with Storage CompartmentOutdoor Bench with Storage Compartment

Billy Keith constructed a durable and stylish outdoor bench with storage, using teak for the exterior and cedar for the interior.

Repurposed Armoire from Dumpster Finds

Armoire Made from Reclaimed MaterialsArmoire Made from Reclaimed Materials

Harold Gibbons crafted a unique armoire using discarded materials from dumpsters and a former ice cream factory.

Two Classic Garden Benches with Matching Corner Table

Two Benches and a Corner TableTwo Benches and a Corner Table

Dan Kemper built two classic garden benches and a connecting corner table, creating a cohesive and inviting outdoor seating area. Build a classic garden bench.

Playhouse Designed to Grow with Children

Playhouse with Loft and PorchPlayhouse with Loft and Porch

Dave Mensch built a versatile playhouse that can adapt to his children’s needs as they grow, potentially serving as a study space or guest area. Learn more about this playhouse.

Modified Viking Table and Bench for Dining

Long Dining Table with BenchesLong Dining Table with Benches

Kevin Rusch modified the Viking Long Table and Bench plans to create a custom dining set for his home. Build a Viking long table.

Lighted Guitar Wall Art from Discarded Instrument

Guitar with Rope Lights on WallGuitar with Rope Lights on Wall

Andrew Wilson and his son transformed a discarded guitar into a lighted wall art piece using rope lights.

Portable Storage Bins for Workshop Organization

Portable Storage Bins with LabelsPortable Storage Bins with Labels

Randal Monceaux designed portable storage bins with attached jigs and casters to keep his workshop organized and efficient.

DIY Shutters for a Custom Look

Exterior of House with ShuttersExterior of House with Shutters

Glenn Galbraith opted to build his own shutters, achieving a custom look and saving money in the process.

Starfighter Play Set for Outdoor Adventures

John Rubino created an impressive starfighter play set for his sons, fostering imaginative play in their backyard.

Miter Saw Stand with Convenient Accessories

Miter Saw Stand with AccessoriesMiter Saw Stand with Accessories

Steve Christakis added convenient accessories to his miter saw stand, such as a tape measure holder, to improve workflow.

Cedar Garden Shed Built from Magazine Plans

Cedar Garden Shed with Double DoorsCedar Garden Shed with Double Doors

Kurt Schmatzhagen built a beautiful cedar garden shed using plans from The Family Handyman‘s Ultimate Garden Shed.

Faux Stone Accent Wall with Reclaimed Wood Frame

Faux Stone Accent Wall with Wood TrimFaux Stone Accent Wall with Wood Trim

Chris Galiyas created a faux stone accent wall framed with reclaimed floor joists, blending rustic and modern elements.

Kitchen Upgrade with Custom Bridge Feature

Kitchen with Island and Bridge FeatureKitchen with Island and Bridge Feature

David Smith, a retired general contractor, renovated his kitchen with new tile, lighting, granite countertops, and a unique bridge feature above the sink.