Every DIYers must have list....

So I have had many friends comment on how much they want to become a DIYer and really it's not difficult.  It honestly just takes a little creativity and a whole lot of patience.  But to start, every DIYer should have the right materials on hand for whenever life throws a good project your way.  My top must have list includes:

Small pieces of scrap fabric: even a single yard can be a part of something fabulous whether it be a front end to a pillow, an addition to the bottom of plane curtains, or the cushion to a beat up chair.  I like to hunt the remnant pile at craft stores and the clearance rack for table clothes with great patterns.  All of these are always on hand for my next big idea.

Oops or leftover paint: whether you painted a bedroom or your parents have cans of paint circa 2000.  Leftover white trim paint is my favorite because you can tint it any color you like with a little inexpensive craft paint.  There are times that I do buy new cans of paint but I always buy a full gallon because A) it's not that much more than a quart and B) you never know what you can do with the left over paint.

The trimmings: you can add a bit of pizazz to anything with a little extra trimming, whether it be leftover ribbon or wrapping paper.  I love lining the backs of bookshelves with a cool wrapping paper or craft paper or adding ribbon to the bottom of a lamp shade

The right tools: for me this includes good scissors for both fabric and paper, a glue gun, a staple gun, and an array of paint brushes in various sizes.  You can also add an advanced sewing kit which always includes a good sewing machine (now I'm not talking top of the line budget killing machines but something that is made well and in your budget....if you think you are going to sew up a storm why not invest a little more?)

Patience: Rule #1 of thrift hunting is that you NEVER find what you're looking for when you're looking for something in particular.  Just keep your eye out at all times for things that inspire you.  Even if you don't know what you will use it for now just start a bin and collect things that you can come back to.  And when you have been slaving away on your project of choice and you start getting tired and frustrated remember patience.....it will all be worth it in the end when you get tons of comments on your fabulous new piece!!

Hope this helps those wanting to start their own DIY journey!