Staying distant due to COVID-19 is responsible, but it sure is boring at the same time. You’ve been staring at the same walls for quite some time now. That said, there are probably a couple of times when you looked up and noticed a project that needs to be done. To make solid use of your time, you may as well invest in where you’ll continue to be while polishing your DIY know-how. If you read this and know exactly what task’s calling you, go on and do it. However, others may need some inspiration. If so, here are four DIY projects to do while stuck at home.
Small: Paint a Door or Chair
Let’s start with something that should take you no more than a weekend—a small paint job. If you’re like most humans, you use doors and chairs daily. With regular use comes wear and tear—scratches, fading, chips, and discoloration. In time, these pieces need new paint jobs.
Take this opportunity to do one of two things: finally match your chair or door with surrounding furniture and molding, or make it boldly stand out.
Either way, make sure you apply the correct amount of primer and don’t go light on paint—saving time and skimping layers here will cost you in the long run. If you prefer simple, try milk paint. This popular option doesn’t require a primer and gives the wood a nice, distressed look.
Medium: Deep Clean Wherever
Ranging from small- to medium-sized, deep cleaning projects may require a bigger time investment. If you’re sick of living amongst dust bunnies, build a battle plan for combating it throughout your home. Dust all the regular spots and go hunting for pockets in harder-to-reach areas. Chandeliers are one common dust-heavy spot.
In the same vein, go outside and see what needs power-washing. Your sidewalks are a good starting point, while your siding usually takes a larger chunk of your time. Power-washing, in particular, is kind of addicting—the satisfaction of ridding your home of grime is really significant. You may even call it fun—though, that may be the cabin fever talking.
Medium: Put Your Scrap Wood to Use
Another DIY project to do while stuck at home requires your creativity. If you have any experience with woodworking, you likely have some scrap wood living in your garage. Take stock of it and take a walk through your home. Concoct a plan for what you could use it for. Newbies can start with the humble yet vital coaster. More daring craftsmen can push to make floating shelves for their entryway or family room. Truly, though, let your supplies give you inspiration and enjoy turning your leftovers into a feature.
Big: Assemble a Man Cave
This one’s for those with a lot of time on their hands. Dream no longer about a man cave—it can become a reality with a few weeks of sweat and think. Keep in mind certain safety tips for your renovation, such as keeping your tools in good shape, and dig in.
There are a number of considerations when building a man cave. Begin by sorting out the technical side—this is usually plumbing and electrical work. Then, start from the bottom up, installing trim and flooring that gives off the vibe you’re looking for. The best part is decking out your space with comfortable furniture, a quality sound system, retro arcade games, and anything else you could want.
Van Rundell is a writer and author who specializes in transportation, travel, guidance, health & fitness. With over 10 years of experience in the industry as a driver and an entrepreneur, he has seen it all. His tone is professional but friendly with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. In past, he has been advising, educating and writing about transport for the public and professionals alike.
A qualified fitness instructor with over 5 years’ experience as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, Van brings his deep knowledge of health and exercise science to his articles on health & fitness.
