DIY Projects: Wood projects for beginners

by Debbie Goldberg 07/07/2024

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

Debbie Goldberg

I'm a full time Realtor with over 30 years of experience yet young enough to embrace today's ever-changing scope of marketing and technology. Having grown up in Connecticut and moved many times (too many to count!) I can empathize with today's buyers and sellers. Strictly maintaining ethical standards and being a fierce advocate on behalf of my clients are things I take very seriously. As a buyer, you can expect me to listen to and evaluate your real estate wants and needs. I can assist in explaining relevant forms, agreements, and closing procedures. I will guide you through the process of finding the right home, negotiating your offer, adhering to all contract dates and terms as well as final walk through and closing procedures. As a seller, I will listen to and evaluate your goals, needs, and timing in order to properly price your home to get the maximum exposure needed to attract the right buyers. In addition to negotiating on your behalf, I will make sure we communicate throughout the entire process as we navigate the contract terms, finance and inspection contingencies, as well as all closing procedures. I was born in Japan, grew up in Hamden and lived in New York, Ohio and Southern California before settling down in New Haven county to raise two kids, two dogs and a cat. I'm passionate about good food and love to bake. Some of my free time has been spent volunteering at Temple Beth Sholom, a synagogue where my family has been members for over 40 years. I also spend time at Tower One/Tower East, an assisted living center in New Haven where my mother-in-law now resides. 30 years of helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals has given me the peace of mind to know that what I do everyday matters. If you are thinking of buying or selling please keep me in mind.