DIY Projects: Wood projects for beginners

by Anna M Woods 10/02/2023

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

Anna M Woods

Hi, I'm Anna Woods and I'd love to assist you. Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. I'd be honored to put my real estate experience to work for you.

I am a full-service Realtor® since 2010. I serve the High Desert in Southern California. 

Prior to earning my real estate license, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting at California State University, San Bernardino in 2002. I found myself not satisfied in my work life, so I sought out a new career. I found happiness in helping families obtain their dream homes. In 2019 I became an Associate Broker.

I moved to the High Desert in 2003, in search of peace and quiet away from the city lights. I found the rural lifestyle in the High Desert. I now have several farm animals and love to garden.