The end of year is always so bittersweet – reflecting on all of the amazing memories, but grateful to move on from some others.
One of the best things this year was our blog. We have always loved sharing our home projects with others, but documenting them as been amazing!
We even started including some of our more crafty endeavors.
Creativity definitely inspires more creativity.
My love for organization inspired a few of Ash’s garage projects this year. While, Ash’s constant repurposing “junk” has rubbed off on me.
I love that we continue to inspire each other.
Here are our best DIY projects from 2016. In true New Years Eve style, here’s the countdown:
#10 – CD Tower to Pantry Shelf
This CD tower was ready to be kicked to the curb, until Ash had the brilliant idea of using it for built-in pantry storage.
He cut a hole into a pantry wall, used a cool little gadget to search inside, knocked more of the wall, and inserted the tower.
#9 – Ice Cream Sundae Gift Box
Wrapped in a pretty little box and adorned with ribbon, this Sundae Gift Box was a hit!
Much cheaper (and cuter) than ordering from the store, it has everything you need to make a sundae.
It’s a perfect gift for those who need a little happiness 🙂
#8 – Built-In Bookshelf with a Window Seat
Hands down, this is my absolute favorite of our DIY projects. In just a few weeks, Ash turned a boring old wall into a complete dream.
Not only does this built-in beautifully store all of the books I have collected, but it’s bright, airy, and gorgeous.
Not to mention the window seat, which is aesthetically pleasing and the cabinets below are awesome storage.
#7 – Chalk Paint Makeover
The before and after on this one is shocking! My dad’s jaw dropped, and he is usually only impressed with Ash’s projects.
This was my first experience with chalk paint, and I am sold. 2017 will definitely be bringing more chalk paint makeovers. This was one of our DIY projects with the biggest transformation.
#6 Picnic Table
Ash blew me away with this one too – as he built this in ONE day!
The table top and bench seats are made of composite decking – a durable, safe material that’s easy to clean, and is easy on the eyes.
We’ve had it in the yard for about five months now, and it looks just as great as it did on the first day. If you are looking for DIY projects that are cost-effective and simply, build a DIY picnic table.
#5 – Kitchen Cabinet Makeover
Our kitchen got a major makeover this year, as we gel stained the cabinets, painted the walls, and installed tile backsplash.
Yet as far as cost goes, you can’t beat it.
I was hesitant to take on such a big project, but I started small (with the bathroom vanity) – and went on to completely change our kitchen’s look.
#4 – Building a Shed
When Ash told me that he was going to build a shed, I laughed – I thought he was joking! He only had a few DIY projects under his belt, and building a shed is like building a house!
However, his motivation, attention to detail, dedication, and love of learning resulted in this beautifully built shed.
I am still in awe.
#3 – Wedding Wine Basket for First Year Milestones
This sweet wedding milestone wine basket has been on the trend this year!
It’s a creative, personal gift, and I’ve done all the work for you – as I’ve included all of the printables I used for free!
It’s so much fun to make that I’ve been waiting for more friends and family to marry, so I can make more 🙂
#2 – Green Rain Barrel
After watching me lug gallons of water down the backyard to water my plants, Ash created an eco-friendly rain barrel.
Using a trash can, he made a system that collects rain water to reuse. Thus, eliminating my trips back and forth and saving good water!
# 1 – Folding Workbench
Tired of working on the floor, Ash finally had a chance to build a workbench of his own – which was a dream of his.
Always thinking of how to save space, he came up with a floating design that doesn’t compromise any structural integrity.
Through being featured on sites such as Life Hacker and Make, it brought tons of visitors this year, thus earning our number one spot.
Wishing you a very happy new year!