By Stephen Bennett
The holidays are a time to gather with loved ones and create cherished memories. With simple updates and thoughtful touches, these quick DIY projects will make a big impact and leave plenty of time to enjoy the festivities.
Deck the doorway
Your front door sets the tone for the whole home. A fresh coat of paint in an eye-catching shade that complements your exterior house color adds instant curb appeal and personality. On the other side of the door, organize and clear the clutter from your entryway to provide ample space for greeting guests. A simple bench with stylish, woven baskets underneath keeps shoes and accessories tidy. For a finishing touch, add a rug or runner to add warmth and style, securing it with a rug pad or rug tape to prevent slipping.
A feast for the eyes
With so much time spent in the kitchen, make a significant impact with a simple change. Swap basic cabinet hardware for something unique. It’s a little touch that adds a punch of flair. To save money, use wood knobs and paint them. Just be sure to apply a protective coating to aid in durability.
Add picture frame molding to elevate your dining space — a simple project that brings instant character. Use a brad nailer to attach the molding and a nail punch to fix any nail heads sticking out from the surface. Then fill all holes with spackle and finish with paintable caulk over the seams before coating everything in your chosen color. The result is a sophisticated and custom
feel without the custom price tag.
Comfort and joy
Make your guests feel at home with simple updates to the guest bedroom and bathroom. Install a stylish light fixture with a dimmer switch and a compatible, dimmable bulb in the bedroom for extra relaxation. Then switch the bathroom light fixture to something brighter and more flattering. Upgrade old hardware like faucets, towel racks, and toilet paper holders
for a coordinated and modern style.
That’s a wrap
For a quick and cozy upgrade, replace cool-toned light bulbs with warm white or amber, vintage bulbs. The soft glow will enhance the holiday mood during the year’s darkest days. To help keep in the warmth, check for cracks in caulking or gaps in weatherstripping around doors and windows. Fresh seals not only look cleaner, but also help lower heating bills.
Stephen Bennett is the lumber buyer and sales associate of Juergens Hardware & Rental in Huntington, a Do it Best member. Do it Best is a Fort Wayne-based home improvement cooperative supporting thousands of hardware stores, home centers, and lumberyards throughout the U.S. and worldwide. Visit your local Do it Best store or doitbest.com for thousands of the best home improvement products.
(This article is for informational purposes only. Indiana Connection and Do it Best assume no liability for the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein, or for injuries, property damage, or the outcome of any project.)
