DIY Projects: Wood crafts for beginners

by Jennifer Johansen 12/10/2023

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

Jennifer Johansen

Jennifer is passionate about the Real Estate business, and has been involved in related family businesses in construction, architectural millwork, and finance for 20 years. She and her husband relocated to Naples, from New York, 10 years ago, although her family has owned property on Marco Island since the 1980's. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Dual Master's Degree in Counseling and Education. She has acquired many necessary skills that are useful in Real Estate from being in the field of Counseling for many years. She holds the belief that building rapport is vital to helping her clients have a positive experience, while achieving their goals. She is very thorough and detail oriented, and has formed many close relationships with professionals in related fields, such as law, title insurance, home inspectors and other contractors. She aims to offer concierge- level service to her clients at every price point. When time permits, she enjoys spending time with family and friends. Having grown up on the South Shore of Long Island, and enjoying her summers on Fire Island, she loves any activity related to salt water, boating and the beach. Additional hobbies include gardening, art, and studying nutrition, wellness and naturopathy. She is knowledgeable about Naples and Marco Island Real Estate, in estate areas, golf/gated communities, and waterfront properties. She is a member of The Naples Board of Realtors and Marco Island Area Association of Realtors.