If you're a Pinterest junkie (like so many) but don't know if you can make those projects look as good on your own, don't get discouraged just yet! There are tips and tricks that can help you make them look as fantastic as the ones in the photographs that have you longing for a craft room (or at least a table) of your very own.
Make sure everything is listed out for you
Before you get ALL excited to do a project you see in one of those pretty pictures, make sure the links work and sources are correct so that you can EASILY access a detailed tutorial to help you recreate it.
You will want one that has step-by-step directions, materials list, measurements, tips and tricks, and multiple photos to help you make your project. If you cannot find all the information you need for the project - you may want to find it elsewhere OR find one similar to it.
Gather the materials
Before you start the project, gather all materials you'll need. Nothing will make a project flop faster than not having everything where you need it, when you need it. It's similar to cooking- you can't make it happen without all the ingredients OR the substitutes! Go down your check list and have everything in place before starting- including a printed version of the instructions to help keep you on task.
Gauge your skills and be honest
Do you really have the patience, time, or skills to make this project? Um, be honest with yourself! If you simply cannot do it, no amount of step-by-step preparation will help you. So you may be GREAT at scrapbooking, but are you good at sewing? Know your limits, respect those limits, and don't be afraid to build your skills slowly to help you reach a point where you can do the more difficult projects.
Time it
Will this project take a couple of hours? Then you probably won't have time to squeeze it in during nap time. Do not start a project unless you know you can devote the amount of time needed. More often than not, running out of time simply means a project is put on the back burner and never truly completed. If you do want to do a lengthy project, schedule it out. Choose to break it down into steps that you can easily come back to after breaks.
Do your research
Do you know what mosaic glue is? Research it! If there are materials you are UNSURE about OR may want to try alternatives - find out what people who do this thing often recommend. You can find cheaper ideas, variations that suit your tastes, and things that truly do (and do not) work. Don't assume that because it worked well for this one person and this one picture that the list of materials will do what you want or need.
Sometimes a little research and preparation goes a long way in making DIY projects a huge success.
Do you have any DIY project tips to share? Have you attempted to make something off Pinterest, but failed? Let me know in the comments.Link to this post:
<a href="https://mamaof3munchkins.com/2014/05/5-secrets-to-pinterest-project-success.html">5 "Secrets" to Pinterest Project Success</a>