May 18th, 2023 by Shauna Hammond

If you are an avid DIY or Crafter and are looking for the next big project or just starting out, woodworking projects can be much easier than you may initially realise and what’s more, they are incredibly reading, helping you to create pieces around your home that reflect your personality and add some real character to your home. In the blog we will discuss some woodwork projects you can complete at home whether you are experienced are a complete beginner.  

Before You Start

To get started, you'll need to be sure that your work area is well-lit and has enough space for the project you have in mind. You'll also want to make sure that it's clean and tidy before starting on a new woodworking project.

If you're going to be working with power tools such as drills and saws then it's important that these are properly set up and maintained so they won't cause injury while being used. It's important to follow all manufacturer instructions when setting up any machinery like this so make sure not only do they work properly but also don't pose any kind of danger while doing so!

Woodworking can sometimes be dangerous if safety precautions aren't considered when building something with sharp edges or points (like nails). Make sure everyone involved understands how these tools work before attempting any kind of DIY project involving them because otherwise there could end up being some serious injuries down the road!

Pegboard for Tools

Let’s start with something easy and low-cost that will also benefit you in your future projects – getting your tools organised! Pegboards are a great way to organize your tools and you can make your own pegboard for a relatively low price you can then use it as a base for organizing all of the tools you have lying around in your garage, shed or basement.

What You Need

·        Plywood or particle board: Choose a sturdy board material that is at least 1/4 inch thick and large enough to accommodate your tool collection.

·        Pegboard hooks: These are the accessories that will hold your tools in place on the pegboard.

·        Drill and drill bits: Required for making holes in the board.

·        Saw: To cut the board to the desired size, if needed.

·        Sandpaper: For sanding the edges and surface of the board.

·        Level, measuring tape, and pencil: To ensure proper placement and alignment of the pegboard.

·        Jigsaw or Circular Saw

How to Make the Pegboard

·        Determine the size and layout

Measure the available space where you plan to install the pegboard and decide on the dimensions. It's a good idea to take an inventory of your tools and plan the layout accordingly.

·        Cut the board (if necessary)

If your board is larger than the desired size, use a saw to cut it to the appropriate dimensions. Be sure to wear appropriate safety gear when using power tools.

·        Sand the board

Smooth the edges and surface of the board using sandpaper. This will help prevent splinters and provide a clean finish.

·        Mark the holes locations

Using a measuring tape and a pencil, mark the locations where you want to place the pegboard hooks. Ensure the markings are evenly spaced and aligned.

·        Drill the holes

Select a drill bit that matches the diameter of your pegboard hooks. Carefully drill holes at the marked locations on the board. Ensure the holes are straight and clean.

·        Attach the pegboard

Position the pegboard against a wall or desired surface and use a level to ensure it is straight. Attach the board to the wall using screws or wall anchors. Make sure the screws are long enough to secure the board firmly.

·        Hang your tools

Insert the pegboard hooks into the drilled holes, and hang your tools on them. Arrange the tools according to your preference, keeping frequently used items easily accessible.

Birdhouse

Another easy project that is great for those just getting started is making your own birdhouse. This easy project will also welcome more wildlife into your garden too, which is a definite bonus for those who love nature.

What You Will Need

·        Wood: Choose a sturdy and weather-resistant wood, such as cedar or exterior-grade plywood. You'll need pieces for the front, back, sides, roof, and base.

·        Saw: To cut the wood to the appropriate sizes.

·        Drill and drill bits: Required for making entrance holes and ventilation holes.

·        Screws or nails: To assemble the birdhouse.

·        Sandpaper: For smoothing the edges and surfaces of the wood.

·        Exterior-grade paint or sealant (optional): To protect the birdhouse from the elements.

·        Eye screws or wire (optional): For hanging the birdhouse.

How to Make A Birdhouse

·        Design the birdhouse

Decide on the design and dimensions of your birdhouse. You can find pre-made plans online or create your own. Make sure the design includes appropriate entrance hole size and ventilation.

·        Cut the wood

Using a saw, cut the wood into the necessary pieces according to your design. Typically, you'll need a front piece, a back piece, two side pieces, a roof piece, and a base piece. Sand the cut edges and surfaces to remove any roughness.

·        Drill entrance and ventilation holes

Using the appropriate-sized drill bits, make an entrance hole near the top of the front piece. The size of the hole will depend on the type of birds you want to attract. Research the specific bird species you're targeting to determine the appropriate hole diameter. Additionally, drill a few small ventilation holes near the top or under the roof to provide airflow.

·        Assemble the birdhouse

Position the back piece perpendicular to the base piece and attach them together using screws or nails. Then, attach the front and side pieces to the base and back using the same method. Finally, attach the roof to the top of the birdhouse.

·        Paint or seal the birdhouse (optional)

If desired, you can paint the birdhouse with non-toxic exterior-grade paint in colours that blend well with the environment. Alternatively, you can apply a weather-resistant sealant to protect the wood and enhance its durability. Be sure to let the paint or sealant dry completely before proceeding.

·        Add hanging mechanism (optional)

If you plan to hang the birdhouse, attach eye screws or wire to the top of the roof. Ensure they are securely fastened and positioned to provide a stable and balanced hang.

·        Install the birdhouse

Find a suitable location for the birdhouse. Ideally, it should be mounted on a post, tree, or pole at an appropriate height and away from potential predators. Make sure the entrance hole is facing away from prevailing winds and is not exposed to direct sunlight throughout the day.

Garden Bench

Not only can garden furniture be expensive but sometimes you want your furniture to have more personality that’s why you might enjoy making your own! Not only can you paint it in whatever colour you want but you can tailor the size and shape to suit your space.

What You Will Need

·        Wood: Choose a sturdy and weather-resistant wood, such as cedar or teak. You'll need pieces for the seat, backrest, armrests, legs, and supports.

·        Saw: To cut the wood to the appropriate sizes.

·        Drill and drill bits: Required for making holes and attaching the pieces.

·        Screws or nails: To assemble the bench.

·        Sandpaper: For smoothing the edges and surfaces of the wood.

·        Exterior-grade paint or sealant (optional): To protect the bench from the elements.

·        Cushions or outdoor fabric (optional): For added comfort.

How to Make Your Own Bench

·        Design the bench

Decide on the design and dimensions of your bench. You can find pre-made plans online or create your own. Consider the desired seat height, backrest angle, and armrest height for optimal comfort.

·        Cut the wood

Using a saw, cut the wood into the necessary pieces according to your design. You'll typically need seat slats, backrest slats, armrests, legs, and supports. Sand the cut edges and surfaces to remove any roughness.

·        Drill pilot holes

To prevent the wood from splitting, drill pilot holes in the pieces where you plan to attach screws or nails. These holes should be slightly smaller than the diameter of the fasteners.

·        Assemble the bench

Begin by attaching the legs to the seat. Depending on your design, you may need cross supports for added stability. Then, attach the backrest slats to the back legs. Finally, attach the armrests to the front legs.

·        Sand and finish

Use sandpaper to smooth the surfaces and edges of the bench. This will help remove any splinters and create a more polished finish. If desired, you can apply an exterior-grade paint or sealant to protect the wood from the elements. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying times.

·        Add cushions or fabric (optional)

For added comfort, you can attach cushions or outdoor fabric to the seat and backrest. Measure the dimensions of the seat and backrest, and sew or purchase cushions or fabric covers that fit accordingly.

·        Place and enjoy

Pallet Furniture

You may recall that Pallet furniture was a big trend, especially around 2020 during the lockdown – well this is because not only is it an easy way to make your own unique garden furniture. Perhaps the best thing about pallet furniture is that there is really very little work involved to get them looking fantastic. You can make a table as easily as placing two pallets on top of one other, using screws to secure them before sanding and painting or staining in your desired colour! If you would like to make pallet furniture we recommend doing some research and finding a style that suits you and following the guide as the possibilities with this one are endless!

Hopefully, this list has given you some inspiration for your next DIY project. If you're looking to build your own furniture at home then these woodworking projects are perfect! They're all super easy to do and require only basic tools like hammers, saws and screwdrivers - so there's no reason not to give one of them a try today!