DIY Projects: Wood projects for beginners

by Lisa Duguay, ABR, SRES 08/27/2023

If you're new to DIY projects, wood is an excellent material to begin with. Woodworking projects range from simple to elaborate, some of them quick enough to accomplish in just a few hours or less. Plus, there are plenty of beginner woodworking projects for useful objects like furniture and storage solutions.

Wood density: Choosing the right materials

Before you get started with woodworking, you’ll need to determine the correct type of wood for your project. Choosing the proper density and strength of wood is essential to a successful finished product.

For example, balsa wood is an extremely lightweight and low-density wood perfect for small, decorative crafts. Hardwoods like oak or cedar are better suited for larger projects like furniture.

DIY wall hooks

Add functionality and storage options to any room of your home by adding wall hooks. While you could simply screw hooks directly into your walls, attaching hooks to a plank or panel of wood first will add a rustic aesthetic.

Plus, you’ll be able to use more hooks even without wall studs in the most convenient places. Grab your woodworking tools and enjoy this great DIY project for any level of experience.

DIY wooden bench

Another way to develop your beginner woodworking skills is by creating a simple wooden bench. Using scrap wood like pallet boards, you can build a bench in a basic rectangular box shape. Alternatively, you can buy custom cut lumber from your local hardware store.

After you build the box shape, all you need is paint or a stain to finish your DIY woodworking project. Add a foam cushion for extra comfort and style.

DIY modern bookshelf

Similarly to benches, simple bookshelves can be an excellent DIY project for the beginner woodworker. You can make a shelf of any size to fit a variety of needs, whether it’s storing books or displaying decorative accessories.

Choose sturdy hardwoods like cedar or oak for this woodworking project to ensure your shelves can handle the proper amount of weight.

These are only a few of the myriad options available for beginner woodworking projects. If you’re new to DIY projects and want to try building your own furniture, consider these ideas as the perfect way to grow and develop your woodworking skills.

About the Author
Author

Lisa Duguay, ABR, SRES

Lisa is a sales and marketing professional with over 20 years of experience representing buyers and sellers throughout Fairfield County. Her deep understanding of local residential markets and current trends along with the exceptional local and global networking resources of Berkshire Hathaway allow her to provide the highest level of personalized, professional and confidential services to her clients. An experienced listener and negotiator, she works with her clients to thoroughly understand and achieve the results they desire. Dedicated, discreet, ethical, honest and principled, Lisa has been consistently recognized as a top producing agent and is a trusted resource within her communities. * Certified Relocation Specialist *Accredited Real Estate Buyer’s Representative (ABR) *Accredited, Senior Real Estate Specialist Council (SRES) *Member, National Association of Realtors *Member, Connecticut Association of Realtors *Member, Greater Fairfield Board of Realtors * Member, National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Lisa is a lifelong area resident who grew up in Westport and currently resides in Southport. She is actively involved as a volunteer for several local organizations including the CT Alzheimer’s Association.