Overwhelmed by DIY? You’re Not Alone

If you’re reading this and feeling a bit overwhelmed by the idea of starting your first DIY project—whether it’s not knowing what tools to use, which materials to buy, or even how to begin—you’re in the right place. I’ve been exactly where you are, staring at a pile of wood and feeling totally unsure of my next move. Maybe you’re intimidated by all the tutorials online or worried that you don’t have the skills to pull off the look you want. Spoiler alert: I’ve been there, too.

But here’s the thing—I didn’t start with confidence, or a fully-stocked workshop, or perfect results. I started small. And that’s exactly how you’ll gain momentum, too.

How I Started Small and Built Confidence

When I first got into DIY, I felt completely inadequate. I didn’t have a ton of experience, and the idea of using some of the bladed power tools scared me a little (okay, a lot). But instead of diving into some big project right away, I started with something small and manageable.

The first time I decided to tackle a true DIY home project, I jumped right into updating an old ceiling fan. Sounds easy, right? Well, let’s just say I spent a lot of time on the phone with my dad, getting step-by-step guidance to make sure I didn’t mess it up! It was nerve-wracking, but I got it done, and the satisfaction of completing that project on my own was huge.

Once I got a taste of that DIY magic, I was ready for more. I moved on to updating fixtures and refinishing old furniture—turning scratched, worn pieces into something beautiful and functional again. That led me to bigger projects, like building custom cabinets, wall treatments, mobile workshop benches, outdoor furniture, and even stunning oak bathroom vanities. Each project taught me something new, and every success built my confidence. Those small steps turned into bigger leaps, and now DIY is a huge part of who I am.

And it all started with my first power tools, a sewing machine and a serger! If you have that creative itch, you can learn just about anything you really want to.

Celebrate Every Win (Even the Ugly Ones!)

It’s so important to celebrate every win along the way—no matter how small or imperfect the result might be. That crooked shelf? It was a win because I learned something with every cut and every brushstroke. Did I make mistakes? Absolutely! But I gained momentum and confidence each time I completed a project. The key is to take action, even if it’s not perfect.

Here’s a little secret: the first step is always the hardest. Once you get started, even on a small project, you’ll feel that sense of accomplishment that drives you to tackle the next one. That’s how it worked for me, and I know it can work for you, too.

Start Small—You Don’t Need Fancy Tools or Tons of Experience

You don’t need to have a workshop full of tools or be a master carpenter to start DIY. Some of my favorite projects have been the simplest ones! Start with something you can manage with basic tools—like a shelf, a picture frame, or even a painted accent wall. These small wins will build your confidence, and soon enough, you’ll feel comfortable taking on bigger challenges.

Don’t worry if you don’t have all the right tools yet. Borrow from friends, pick up second-hand tools, or even rent what you need for your first few projects. And remember, you don’t need to know everything right away—DIY is all about learning as you go. Proficiency over perfection.

Look for Inspiration from Others Who Have Been Where You Are

I didn’t learn everything on my own. I looked to other DIYers for inspiration and guidance. Following others who’ve been where you are is so important—whether you’re watching tutorials, reading blogs, or getting ideas from social media. You’ll see that even the most experienced DIYers started as beginners.

Find creators who resonate with you and let them inspire you. The beauty of the DIY community is that we’re all learning together. You’ll find that even the most seasoned pros were once standing in your shoes, unsure of how to get started.

You’ve Got This!

The most important thing I want you to take away from this post is that you’ve got this. Feeling intimidated or overwhelmed is totally normal, but don’t let it stop you. Start with one small project, celebrate every win (no matter how it turns out), and let your confidence grow with every step. Before you know it, you’ll be taking on DIY projects you never thought possible.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab that hammer (or paintbrush), and start small. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish, one little project at a time. And remember, I’m here cheering you on every step of the way!

Happy DIYing!