Things YOU learn while DIYing

Breathe in breathe out. I have the key to my new little place in Utrecht and a little over three weeks ago everything still had to be done. Holes in the walls, a broken window, rotten frames, loose wires all over the place, a big clean-up XXL and oh yes, that laminate floor also had to be pulled out. On day 1 I was still yelling that paint splatters were flying in my hair, now I am a renovation pro, with a dirty work overall and all. Because believe me, even the biggest klutz with two left hands learns a lot the moment you start stripping a house from top to bottom. What I learned from this chaotic past month?

Plugs are annoying things

You know, those ‘handy’ round tubes for in the wall. I learned what the best tactic is to remove them from your wall. One takes a nail, screws it into the plug and then yanks it out with a screwdriver. Hasta. Next.

Without a ladder, you're nowhere

Get that right away on day 1, because kid, you're nowhere, trust me.

Prepare yourself: you won't eat healthy

A downside of DIYing. You already crave greasy stuff in the afternoon, but: you actually burn a lot of calories with really good handyman work so hey, it's allowed. Bring it on with that pizza.

Actually still the best tip: make sure you always have enough good food at home

To prevent yourself from feeling nauseous and with trembling hands around four o'clock almost dying. Even worse: when people come to help you and you can't even offer them something for all that effort.

Hardware stores are actually quite fun

You're hardly ever there, but when you are, it's actually a breath of fresh air between sanding, scraping wallpaper, and painting. Which brings me to the next point.

You won't leave the hardware store under a hundred euros

Seriously. Try it. It won't work.

Don't underestimate stirring the paint

Or if you're in the mood for a spectacular color difference: definitely do it. Don't have a stirring stick? I grabbed an old skirting board and that works just fine.

Make a plan per room

It really works. This way you prevent that you've painted that one wall and then suddenly realize that you also want to sand something in that room that day. Doesn't work.

Tape. Everything. Off. Before. Painting.

In the category of annoying work, this sweetheart undoubtedly ranks number one. But really, do it and you'll be a happy person. Adult and all. Proud of yourself.

Clean brushes when you're done

In the category of annoying work, this sweetheart undoubtedly ranks number two. But really, do it and you'll be a happy person. Adult and all. Proud of yourself.

And, one last tip for when people come over...

Stop immediately with tearing down everything that is not 'finished' or 'ready' or 'pretty' or 'to your liking'. I noticed I did this very often. "Yes, but this door is still going to be painted!" "Sander is going to pimp the garden." "No, but that shower is actually really inconvenient, maybe the bath will go away." Be proud of your little place. Anyway, that's my DIY insights so far. This neighbor is going back to work. A je to!.

Things you learn while DIYing: Amayzine.com