DIY Home Projects to Tackle This Summer: Easy and Affordable Ideas Under $100

Summer is the perfect time to tackle some DIY home projects. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your space or add a touch of creativity, there are plenty of quick and easy projects you can accomplish on a budget. Here are some fantastic DIY home projects that anyone can do for under $100.

1. Refresh Your Walls with Paint

Project Overview: A fresh coat of paint can transform any room. Choose a new color for an accent wall or refresh your existing color scheme.

Materials Needed:

• Paint (one gallon)
• Painter’s tape
• Paintbrushes and rollers
• Drop cloth

Cost Estimate: Approximately $50-$75

Steps:

1. Prep the Wall: Clean the wall and apply painter’s tape to trim, edges, and fixtures.
2. Apply Paint: Use a roller for large areas and a brush for edges and corners.
3. Final Touches: Remove the painter’s tape carefully once the paint is dry.

2. Create a Garden or Herb Planter

Project Overview: Adding greenery to your home can improve air quality and aesthetics. Create a simple garden or herb planter for your kitchen or patio.

Materials Needed:

• Planter boxes or pots
• Potting soil
• Herb or plant seeds
• Small gardening tools

Cost Estimate: Approximately $30-$50

Steps:

1. Fill Planters: Add potting soil to your planter boxes or pots.
2. Plant Seeds: Sow herb or plant seeds according to package instructions.
3. Water and Care: Place in a sunny spot and water regularly.

3. Build a Bookshelf or Storage Unit

Project Overview: A custom bookshelf or storage unit can declutter your space and provide additional organization.

Materials Needed:

• Plywood or wooden boards
• Screws and nails
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper
• Paint or wood stain

Cost Estimate: Approximately $50-$100

Steps:

1. Cut Wood: Measure and cut the plywood or boards to the desired size.
2. Assemble: Use screws, nails, and wood glue to assemble the bookshelf or storage unit.
3. Finish: Sand the edges and apply paint or stain for a polished look.

4. Update Your Lighting with New Fixtures

Project Overview: Changing light fixtures can dramatically improve the look and feel of a room.

Materials Needed:

• New light fixture
• Screwdriver
• Wire nuts
• Voltage tester

Cost Estimate: Approximately $30-$100

Steps:

1. Turn Off Power: Ensure the power to the light fixture is turned off at the breaker.
2. Remove Old Fixture: Carefully remove the old fixture and disconnect the wiring.
3. Install New Fixture: Connect the new fixture using wire nuts and secure it to the ceiling or wall.

5. Revamp Your Outdoor Space with a DIY Fire Pit

Project Overview: A fire pit can make your backyard a cozy retreat for summer evenings.

Materials Needed:

• Fire pit stones or bricks
• Sand
• Gravel

Cost Estimate: Approximately $50-$100

Steps:

1. Choose a Location: Select a safe, level spot in your yard.
2. Lay the Foundation: Create a base with gravel and sand.
3. Build the Pit: Arrange the stones or bricks in a circular pattern, stacking them to the desired height.

6. Create a Custom Chalkboard Wall

Project Overview: A chalkboard wall is a fun and functional addition to any room, perfect for notes, doodles, or menus.

Materials Needed:

• Chalkboard paint
• Painter’s tape
• Paintbrush or roller
• Chalk

Cost Estimate: Approximately $20-$30

Steps:

1. Prep the Wall: Clean the wall and apply painter’s tape to edges and trim.
2. Apply Chalkboard Paint: Use a roller or brush to apply chalkboard paint in even coats.
3. Cure the Wall: Let the paint dry completely, then condition the surface by rubbing a piece of chalk over it and wiping it off.

7. Upgrade Your Furniture with a Fresh Coat of Paint

Project Overview: Revitalize old furniture by painting it a new color.

Materials Needed:

• Furniture paint
• Sandpaper
• Paintbrushes
• Drop cloth

Cost Estimate: Approximately $20-$50

Steps:

1. Prep the Furniture: Sand the surface to remove old paint or finish.
2. Apply Paint: Use a brush to apply paint in smooth, even coats.
3. Dry and Finish: Let the paint dry completely before using the furniture.

8. Install a New Backsplash in the Kitchen

Project Overview: A backsplash can add color and texture to your kitchen.

Materials Needed:

• Peel-and-stick tiles or adhesive tile sheets
• Tile cutter
• Grout (if needed)

Cost Estimate: Approximately $50-$100

Steps:

1. Clean the Surface: Ensure the wall is clean and dry.
2. Apply Tiles: Carefully place peel-and-stick tiles or adhesive tile sheets, pressing firmly.
3. Finish Edges: Use a tile cutter for precise edges and apply grout if needed.

9. Create a DIY Floating Shelf

Project Overview: Floating shelves are stylish and functional, perfect for displaying decor or storing items.

Materials Needed:

• Wooden boards
• Brackets
• Screws
• Paint or stain

Cost Estimate: Approximately $20-$50

Steps:

1. Cut and Sand Wood: Cut the boards to the desired length and sand the edges.
2. Paint or Stain: Apply paint or stain to the wood for a finished look.
3. Install Brackets: Secure brackets to the wall and attach the shelves.

10. Build a Vertical Garden

Project Overview: A vertical garden is a space-saving way to grow plants, herbs, or flowers.

Materials Needed:

• Wooden pallet or vertical planter frame
• Potting soil
• Plants or seeds

Cost Estimate: Approximately $30-$60

Steps:

1. Prep the Frame: Clean and, if desired, paint or stain the pallet or frame.
2. Fill with Soil: Add potting soil to the planters or pockets.
3. Plant Seeds or Seedlings: Plant your chosen greenery and water as needed.

Exploring these DIY home projects can enhance your living space and provide a sense of accomplishment without breaking the bank. With just a bit of creativity and effort, you can transform your home this summer, all for under $100.