DIY or Buy?

posted on March 22, 2013 | by Amanda Holstein

To kick off your weekend right, I’ve got round two of my DIY or Buy series. I’ve wasted plenty of time on the wrong DIY projects in the past. For example, my attempt at a starburst mirror using plastic spoons and spray paint was quite hilarious. If you had scattered some dry macaroni around me, I would have looked like a five year old attempting arts and crafts. It was not one of my better moments. On the other hand, I’ve also spent too much money on items I could have made myself. Impulse purchasing is not one of my strong suites. So before you go out this weekend and waste your time or money on unnecessary craft projects or overpriced items, take a look at my recommendations on what’s worth DIYing vs. buying…

Massager:

Surprise! This is the easiest DIY ever. Literally tape 2 tennis balls together with duct tape.
Lie your back on top of this masterpiece and roll away. The best at-home massage you’ll ever have.

Starburst Mirror:

There are tons of DIY starburst mirrors popping up all over the blogosphere, but those take some serious skills. Why not just purchase a totally affordable one at Target and save your Saturday afternoon? Try this one, too.

Side Tables:

There are some really crafty options out there. Try spray painting a waste basket and turning it upside down or snag some cheap old suitcases and stack them! Check out this room and these great ideas.

Printed Scarves:

While it’s certainly easy to make your own scarf out of an old T-shirt, that doesn’t mean it looks good. Don’t bother struggling to create a gorgeous print on your own when you can snag really cute ones at H&M like this, this, and this.

Lip Scrub:

DIY fo’ sho! Super cheap, easy, and tastes delicious. Plus there are tons of versions using items you already have in your pantry. Try this one!

Coasters:

A simple home accessory, coasters are easy to find at the affordable home decor stores like World Market, Target, and ZGallerie.

What are some of your failed DIY projects?

8 Comments

Shannon Says

Every DIY wreath that I have ever tried to make has turned into an epic fail… I should just stop! These projects look awesome though, might have to get myself a massage later!

Shannon
http://GBOfashion.com

Alyssa Says

I always make at-home lip scrub, and I love using tenis balls to massage my back! I agree though, I’m not sure a printed scarf DIY would be that easy to pull off!

Camille | Planning Pretty Says

Great post! Sometimes it is better to just buy the accessory. DIY materials can really add up and sometimes cost more (and definitely more time) than just buying the original product. I’ve think you’ve listed all my favorite homes stores too!

amaebi519 Says

Really great points! (BTW, to exfoliate my lips, I just use my toothbrush right after I’ve brushed my teeth – voila) DIY is a great way to personalize, especially when you can’t find what you’re looking for at the store/at a price you find reasonable. E.g. I’ve sewn 2 shag rugs together to make a big one, and I like customized chandeliers – I have one I redecorated with red crystals.

Repurposing is another option that includes stuff you might even have at home – e.g. a toddler dress becomes a cute top 2 years later, a brooch might look gorgeous in your hair, an old spice jar holds baking soda in your bathroom (best facial exfoliator ever!), a step can is cheaper than a Diaper Genie…We also use an antique trunk as our coffee table and even repurposed old brick for our backspash, though we hired someone to do that part! ;)

While I have made things I’ve seen on Pinterest, I also see a TON of crafts out there that make me think “Ain’t nobody got time for that!” every time I go online. Time really is money. Choose wisely and have fun!

iliqna Says

super cute!

http://www.glamourgirl-bg.blogspot.com

Christine Says

Those are great ideas for bedside tables. Love the upside down trash can!

Christine In Color

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