Typically, I am not a DIY enthusiast. I have my reasons, and I feel they are very sound. I'm not a huge fan of encouraging DIY because:
1. I am unsure of another person's ability for craftsmanship and detail. I don't want to tell someone they can easily do something on their own to have it blow up in their face and then blame me for telling them it would be easy. "Easy" is relative.
2. I am usually not a fan of the look of a DIY project, even when its executed well. Often times, DIY walks the "crafty" line; however, this can be avoided by picking and choosing which DIY projects should be attempted.
3. Sometimes, some things are better left to the pro who does that one thing over and over and over. They know how to get the job done in less time, with less wasted materials and they may even know of some ways to improve upon the process after years of doing that one thing. A pro has little to no learning curve.
That being said....I recommend *certain* DIY projects to *certain* people. If you have great (not good, but great) eye for detail, you know how to use basic power tools, you know how measure and level, you know how to follow instructions and improvise soundly, you know what I'm talking about when I say something is "crafty" (in order to tell the difference, you must know what you are comparing something to), and you are willing to do some basic research and buy the proper materials required...then I think you are okay to tackle a DIY project.
Also, note that there are different levels of DIY. There is easy and there is advanced. Learn to evaluate your skill level before starting a project.
With that "disclaimer" statement, I realize that a lot of people interested in interior design are very creative. A lot of you are hands-on and have a certain eye and aptitude, if not for design itself- then at least for what "looks good". If this sounds like you- I give you my full support in attempting DIY projects.
As a designer, I do DIY projects all the time. My home is my laboratory. I make something to see a mock-up or just to try something new. I'm less nervous about the outcome than the average person because I know pretty much anything can be fixed and I also know that if it doesn't work out- I can toss it and I am happy knowing I tried it on me first, rather than a client's project. These things range from picture arrangements, to moulding details, framing ideas, refinishing applications, trimming out a lamp shade...usually pretty small details. Occasionally I will venture into the land of sewing something up (maybe an idea I would like to hash out before I hire a workroom to do it, or to make use of an amazing upholstery remnant or something. My past as a fashion designer greatly aids my ability in doing this), or a small upholstered piece- such as a headboard or reupholstering a dining room chair seat. Nothing too crazy (in other words- I hire the tile guy when I want to switch out my back splash. Even I,as fearless as I am, know my limits!).
It would be hypricitical and sorta snotty of me to say that everyone should avoid DIY. So, I am partially making a case for it (if you qualify) because DIY can be pretty fun, not to mention fulfilling. There is something about knowing you made something with your hands that's pretty dang cool. And, its even better when someone compliments your DIY and you can say you made it...it must be what Martha Stewart feels like on a regular basis.
I am going to start trying to add some good DIY projects to {Maison Classique}. Keep your eye out! (Or, subscribe- its easier!). Everything will have directions, photos, a tools and supply list and pointers. I think this could be a fun regular feature- please contribute if you have a great DIY project, I would love to hear from you and feature your savvy skills on {Maison Classique}!
(Photo from Nationaal Archief's Flickr)
