DIY projects have the potential to go really well or really, really badly. And the difference between them going one way or the other is actually simple. It’s those small details that seem insignificant. It’s in the attention to detail, and it’s in the time and patience you put into the task at hand.
But if you’re looking for ways to get better DIY results, here are a few tips that might be exactly what you need.
Use the Right Screws for the Material
A really simple point, but one that can be overlooked in terms of importance, especially for beginners. And often it won’t fail at the point of completion or even assembly; it will be down the line. The wrong type of screw for the job can have a massive impact on your DIY job, and it might be that the rust bleeds through paint or a screw shears off under load, etc.
Choosing stainless steel screws, for example, means you’ve got screws that will resist corrosion in a way standard steel doesn’t, automatically making them a better choice for jobs in areas where there are high levels of moisture or for outdoor projects. Then you can keep your standard steel screws for dryer projects and indoor areas.
Measure Twice Cut Once
This isn’t a new rule, but it’s one that many people overlook, especially if they’re in a rush. But the truth is one single incorrect measurement can throw off an entire project, especially when multiple pieces need to fit together.
Take your time measuring, then check it before you cut anything at all. The more accurate your numbers are, the less chance there is of something being off and you having to start again, thus wasting time, materials, and money.
If you’re still unsure, it’s best to cut slightly longer than shorter, as you can always trim it afterwards; you cannot do that if it’s too short.
Sand Between Coats of Paint or Varnish
Skipping sanding between coats is one of the main reasons a paint or varnish finish ends up looking rough or uneven instead of smooth. A light pass with fine grit sandpaper between coats removes dust nibs and brush marks. The result is a smoother surface to bond to rather than sitting on top of existing imperfections. Don’t forget to wipe the surface down with a tack cloth afterward to remove the dust before the next coat goes on.
Use a Level Before Mounting Anything
Shelves, mirrors, and picture frames that look slightly off are due to the positioning not being checked with a level before they were hung. Even a small tilt becomes obvious once other items in the room are compared against it.
Holding a level against the piece before marking or drilling any holes will catch anything that’s slightly out of alignment before it becomes a permanent part of the wall.
Checking twice, once before drilling the first hole, and again before drilling the second will help you avoid something looking crooked because one side is slightly off.
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