Practical projects and tips for the backyard DIY fanatic
Scott and Tara faced a real challenge updating this kitchen and family room, which was a classic leftover from the 1970s. The original layout didn’t make the best use of the available space, the exposed brick walls looked daggy and the kitchen had seen better days....
Don found some bargains in the seconds area of a retail pot shop. Shops that specialise in pots and planters often have a bargain area for damaged stock and end of line items, and most nurseries have regular pot sales to clear old lines and damaged stock. You can save...
Don and Scott used faux rock panels and colourful foliage plants to makeover an ugly, damaged brick wall. Faux rock walls These semi-flexible panels are made from moulded polyurethane covered in sand, oxide and paint. We used two sections (3m x 2m), weighing between...
Don and Tara visited a warehouse brimming with industrial and commercial offcuts, seconds and outdated stock saved from landfill. These materials are suitable for re-use in craft, art, design, theatre and home renovations.
Rita Hill ran up some brightly coloured, polar fleece throws to keep the family warm through autumn and winter. These throws are particularly good for kids, because polar fleece is 100% polyester and fully machine washable. Best of all, each throw cost under $30 to...
Rita Hill gave some old leather bar stools a new lease of life. They were in good structural condition, so all they needed was a quick makeover. Bar stool brush-up 1. Rita covered the rubber feet with masking tape, then spray painted the metal legs with a brilliant...
SKATEBOARDS AND SKATEBOARD RAMPS ARE DANGEROUS It is the responsibility of builders of skateboard ramps and users of skateboards to ensure maximum safety. Scott Cam received a letter from Luke Davis, who lives with his grandparents, asking for plans and instructions...
Rita Hill showed how to make wax lanterns to give your home a warm, cheery glow. They can be used indoors or outdoors and they’re wonderful for parties, or for that special romantic dinner. You will need helium strength balloons an old, medium-sized saucepan...
When Chris and Michelle Hetherington bought an old house north of Perth, they realised they needed to ‘makeover’ the garden. They also needed extra space in the house. They achieved both aims with a covered garden room or pavilion between the house and...
Rita Hill revamped a tired old iron and timber garden setting. This was a labour of love – it didn’t cost much but plenty of elbow grease was required! Revamping the garden setting 1. Give the setting a good hose down and a scrub, then leave it to dry. 2....