Between various DIY blogs, YouTube channels, Pinterest boards, and even Project Home DIY inspiration, there are so many DIY projects that it may seem insurmountable to learn all of the skills that each requires. Each DIY project is unique and comes with its own set of necessary tools, supplies, and craftsmanship. There's no need to cross any projects off of your DIY bucket list though! You can accomplish any DIY project once you've got some of the basic skills down. Here are the top crafting skills to master to start tackling those bigger, more intricate DIY projects.

Why DIY Skills Matter

Why do DIY skills matter? Because you want your DIY projects to turn out perfect, of course! Honing your skills on practice projects or even throw-away practice pieces allows you to create stunning DIY projects when you do implement your skills. Better yet, many skills translate across mediums. Learning how to apply certain materials or use specific tools gives you the creative capability to achieve more using what you already know. 

11 Skills You Should Know as a DIYer

Ready to get crafting? Here are 11 skills you should definitely know for taking your DIY crafts to the next level.

How to Sew a Button

Sewing basics are essential for crafts that involve fabric. Learning how to sew a button — or just sew at all — allows you to manipulate all fabric forms while also honing your skills on intricate work. Beyond DIY, sewing also gives you the chance to repair things around the house, including things such as mending tears in clothing. 

How to Paint

To the inexperienced eye, it may seem like painting is just throwing some paint on a project and moving onwards. However, actual painting is more prep work than it is picking up a paint brush. It's vital to learn how to achieve smooth painting, including sanding a surface, taping surroundings, applying primer, and, lastly, applying the paint and/or any finishes. Don’t forget to learn how to properly clean your paint brushes as well! You don’t want to have to replace them after each project just because of dried-on acrylic — trust us!

How to Marble Pieces

When it comes to elevating your projects, marbling is the way to go. There's a no-stone way to achieve this popular veining pattern, and it's using nail polish! Simply fill a disposable container with warm water and add a few drops of colored nail polish. The polish will irregularly spread through the water, and you can dip your desired piece in the pan to translate the pattern. (Best of all, nail polish remover can be used to fix any mistakes!) Allow it to dry for a few hours, and even add clear nail polish or a finishing spray to fully set if need be.

How to Operate a Drill

Performing quick fixes around the home or taking your DIY crafts to the next level, having an idea of how to operate a cordless drill properly can be extremely handy. The beauty of this skill is that it is easy to perfect. You can practice using a cordless drill, set of drill bits, a piece of scrap wood, and some spare screws. Practice drilling pilot holes and driving screws into the wood. Next thing you know, you'll be fixing furniture, hanging shelves, and building more complex crafts.

How to Restore Furniture

Many believe that DIY projects end at decor, but most of us end moving onto bigger projects like furniture eventually! Whether you’re into vintage pieces or just looking to touch up some older furniture around your home, most furniture needs some TLC every once in a while. Who better to do it than you? There are lots of tricks for repairing scratches or removing water rings from furniture pieces, and handy tips will teach you how to properly clean, polish, and restore wood. Additionally, it's always good to know how to clean upholstery!

How to Cut a Straight Line

Okay, we know: this one sounds a little basic. But! Learning how to cut a perfectly straight line, whether in paper or fabric, is the foundation for so many DIY projects. It may seem simple, but it’s the simplest tasks we get caught up on the most — and straight lines can actually be awfully hard to achieve! The best way to cut a straight line is by using a craft knife on a cutting mat. For extra tips, check out this article by Make and Tell!

How to Mod Podge

Mod Podge is a decoupage medium, also referred to as a combo glue, sealer, and finisher. Mod Podge is insanely useful, and it allows you to cover projects in other textiles. It adheres fabric, paper, and other porous materials to any surface, and dries clear for a seamless aesthetic.

How to Make a Tassel or Pom-Pom

Tassels are a staple in the DIY realm. They’re cute, fun, and spunky, plus they add a lot of character to whatever project it is you’re making. Creating your own tassel or pom-pom isn’t hard; just see this article by Flax and Twine. Once you've got these fluffy additions down, you can add them to wreaths, wall hangings, and fabric pieces like blankets!

How to Make a Stamp

Adding painted stamps to everything from fabric DIYs to wood pieces, paper, and beyond yields one-of-a-kind results. Learn how to make your own using cork board and foam brushes to customize any project.

How to Bake Clay

It’s true: you don’t need a kiln to bake clay at home! Baking clay at home allows you to make ceramic projects, ranging from custom coasters to handmade earrings. You'll have to do a little math, as the oven temperature and length of baking depend on the thickness of your project, but once you've got it down, the possibilities are endless.

How to Apply Gold Leaf

Last, but certainly not least, is how to apply gold leaf. Metallic leafing is a hit in the DIY realm, especially as of late. Adding metallics elevates any project to the next level through an air of elegance and luxury. You can make any DIY piece seem professional and expensive with just a few small steps. To get into leafing, you'll need to purchase gold leaf sheets, a metal leaf adhesive, and a bristled brush for editing and removing the excess foil.

Expand Your DIY Capabilities With Project Home DIY

To increase your DIY skills and challenge yourself with new designs, sign up for Project Home DIY's DIY subscription box. Each new box challenges your design capabilities while still providing easy-to-follow instructions. Moreover, you can even elevate each craft by implementing the other skills you've learned throughout your DIY journey. Sign up today, or browse our selection of available one-time boxes online now!