House One How To & DIY

Yards

How to Build a Pergola

Bring shade and style to any backyard with a pergola kit. Here’s how to assemble it.

By Jenn Largesse, This Old House DIY Expert & Editor, House One

Do you have an awkward space near your staircase or entryway that could use some storage? Watch as House One editor and DIY expert Jenn Largesse builds a simple corner bench with storage near her stairs.

How to Build DIY Trough Shelves

A trough shelf is an excellent place to store extra paint cans and supplies in your garage or workshop. Want to build your own? Watch as House One editor and DIY expert Jenn Largesse demonstrates how to build a trough shelf.

How to Apply Chalkboard Paint

Whether you’re creating an actual chalkboard or just enjoy a dark matte finish, here’s what you need to know to apply chalkboard paint.

How to Build a Leaning Ladder Bookcase

Looking to add an element of design to your living room or entryway? A leaning ladder bookcase can easily be built for a third of the price you’d pay to buy one at the store. Follow these easy steps to learn how to DIY a ladder shelf.

How to Make an Embroidery Hoop Wreath

Embellishing an embroidery hoop is an easy and inexpensive way to create a modern and beautiful wreath for just a few dollars. Watch this tutorial from House One’s Jenn Largesse to learn how to make your own hoop wreath.

How to Stain Wood

Adding a wood stain can give your project the warm finish you’re looking for. However, it’s important to follow the right steps for applying stain to unfinished wood. Watch this video and follow the guide to learn about the best wood-staining technique.

3 Ways to Finish Plywood Edges

Watch these three easy ways to conceal plywood edges for more professional-looking results.

How to Build an Outdoor Air Conditioner Cover

Air conditioning is nice to have, but the look of the clunky unit outdoors can be unsightly. Watch as Jenn Largesse, DIY Expert and House One Editor, creates a wooden cover for her air conditioning unit.

Cat sitting on top of a DIY bed made from a basket.

How to Make a Cat Bed from a Basket

Need a place for your cat to nap? You can make an easy DIY cat bed using some plywood, a basket, and some creativity. Watch as DIY Expert & House One Editor Jenn Largesse shows you how.

How to Build a Basic Garden Bench

House One’s Jenn Largesse demonstrates how to build a DIY bench for your garden.

How to Build a Wall-Sized Frame for a Fabric Print

Do you love the look of wall murals, but are too hesitant to commit to the permanence of paint or wallpaper? This project will give you the look of a mural, without the commitment.

Jenn Largesse builds a porch swing bench

How to Build a DIY Porch Swing

House One’s Jenn Largesse demonstrates how to build a very simple, but stylish porch swing.

How to Build an Art Caddy

Need an organizer for art or school supplies? You can make one yourself using only scrap wood materials. Watch DIY Expert & House One Editor Jenn Largesse show you the steps for building a helpful wooden art caddy.

Easy Fixes for Pesky Home Problems

Whether you occupy a historic building or reside in a brand new structure, your home is bound to challenge you with pesky maintenance and cosmetic issues. Much of these homeowner ailments are quick and easy to repair, as long as you do a little research first.

How to Upcycle a Bookcase into a Kitchen Island

How to turn a bookcase into a kitchen island with fresh paint and a new top.

Metal Nesting Table Makeover

Nesting tables are the perfect addition to any space—they provide table space when you need it, and floor space when you don’t. Read on on to see how easy it is to give old metal nesting tables a makeover in a snap.

How to Get a Sparkling Clean Microwave

It’s super easy to clean this gadget, no matter the level the filth. Follow these easy directions for getting your microwave sparkling clean.

How to Build a Wood Hamper

Ditch the tacky plastic bin for a more grown-up laundry container

How to Make a Towel Rack With Vintage Taps

Get creative and mount an old set of porcelain taps on a board to use as hooks for towels and robes

How to Build a Reclaimed Wine Rack

Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O’Connor build a wine rack out of a reclaimed beam.

How to Make a Desk With Storage Cubbies

How to use stock materials and a cabinet to build a nifty workstation.

How to Build a Small Bookcase with Moldings

Assemble a custom storage piece with plywood and moldings, or select a ready-made option.

How to Hang a Hammock

Tips on how to choose and install a little shaded relaxation

How to Paint a Dark Accent Wall

Create a dramatic accent wall with a deep color.

It’s Time to Wash Your Pillows

Cleaning pillows at home is quite easy; it’s basically like doing a standard load of laundry, just make sure to wash two at a time to keep the machine balanced. The following instructions for how to wash your pillows are for washing natural fiber (down) or synthetic pillows.