How to Build a DIY Rope Swinging Bench (Porch Swing Style) If you’ve ever wanted one of those cozy porch swings you see in magazines—but didn’t love the price tag—this DIY rope swinging bench might be your sign to build one yourself. I wanted something that felt sturdy, timeless, and actually comfortable, while still being simple enough to build with basic tools. This swinging bench checks all of those boxes and has quickly become one of our favorite spots to sit, swing, and just slow down. Right up there with my Outdoor Modern Couch Builds from a couple years back! 👉 You can watch the full build video here: Click…
DIY Projects
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How to Turn an Old Shed Into a Brand-New Storage Space (Step-by-Step DIY Guide)
Sheds are meant to be those catch-all storage spaces for garden tools, equipment, sports gear, and seasonal décor—but let’s be honest, they’re usually the most neglected spot on the property. An old, worn-out shed can turn into a total storage nightmare fast. The doors don’t work right, things get damaged, and before you know it, you’re avoiding the shed altogether because it’s more frustrating than helpful. A lot of people are in this same spot and don’t know where to start. Replacing a shed can feel expensive and overwhelming—especially if you’re new to DIY—so it often just gets ignored. In this article, I’m walking you through 10 simple DIY steps…
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DIY Rocker Balance Board for Kids – A Christmas Surprise for My Boys!
I’ve been on a mission this year to give my boys more gifts that spark imagination instead of clutter — and if you’re a parent, you know the toys that actually last are the ones the kids can climb on, jump off, flip over, and somehow turn into six different things by dinner. So for Christmas, instead of my usual holiday craft projects like my Advent Calendar or DIY Christmas bells, I decided to build them each a wooden rocker balance toy — part seesaw, part balance board, part indoor energy-burner for rainy days. And honestly? It was WAY easier to make than I expected plus it can be accomplished…
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1959 Kencraft Vintage Trailer Renovation: Full Budget Breakdown & Sources
1959 Kencraft Vintage Trailer Renovation Full Budget Breakdown by Nailgun Nelly After months of sanding, sealing, and second-guessing every design choice, my 1959 Kencraft vintage trailer renovation is finally complete—and I’m breaking down every dollar I spent. Whether you’re dreaming of restoring your own vintage camper or just curious what a full renovation really costs, this post covers it all. From structural repairs and new appliances to decor and finishes, I’m sharing where I splurged, where I saved, and how I kept this project within budget without cutting corners on style. Find other RV Renovation Budget Breakdowns below: 1970 Ideal named “Archie” 1968 Prowler named “Daphne” Van Conversion named “Avangelina”…
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DIY Spray Paint Storage Wall Using a Leftover Door
DIY Spray Paint Storage Wall Lately I’ve been challenging myself to stop running to the store everytime I start a new project, or need to build something. Something I was forced to do during the pandemic when I made this Modern Coffee Table. Instead I look around at what I have already and see what I can create. This spray paint storage wall was the first result of that mindset shift — and honestly it turned out way cooler than I expected and was FREE! I had removed my sons bifold doors from his closet about a year ago when I did a makeover on his room. It just so…
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Planning the Renovation of My 1959 Kencraft Vintage Trailer
If you’ve been following me for a while, you know I love a good renovation project. I have done so many different themed trailers like this Mediterranean style or the girly pastel camper. And this time, I’m taking on something a little different—a 1959 Kencraft vintage trailer! I’ve been dreaming of fixing up this classic camper for a while now, and so happy it is finally time to start. So, let’s talk about the history of Kencraft trailers, the plan for this renovation, and what’s next! A Bit of Kencraft History Kencraft trailers were built in the late 1950s and early 1960s, known for their sturdy aluminum frame construction and…
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DIY Terrazzo Tile Patio Table with Built-in Ice Chest
There’s nothing better than hanging out on the patio with friends and family—unless you’re constantly running back and forth to grab drinks. That’s exactly why I decided to build a DIY tile-topped patio table with built-in drop-in sections for an ice chest (or a planter if you’re feeling fancy). I wanted something stylish, functional, and easy to clean—because let’s be real, spills happen. This project is perfect if you want to upgrade your outdoor space without spending a fortune. Just like my DIY Outdoor Modern Sofa Plans. (PDF Digital plans here) The tile top makes it super durable, and the built-in sections add that extra wow factor. Whether you’re chilling…
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DIY Bathroom Renovation Cost Breakdown: Budgeting for an Affordable Remodel
When we initially moved into our home back in 2015, this bathroom was one of our very first huge renovations we tackled together. Needless to say we have learned a TON since then! So many mistakes were made but that is the beauty of DIY. Over the years we learned more and more and this time around the bathroom renovation was completed so much quicker and efficiently. Original Bathroom After the 1st Renovation The Problem and the Plan Although this bathroom functioned great for us at first, we quickly outgrew it. This is not only our guest bathroom but also our two boys bathroom. With a pedestal sink we had…
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DIY Projects of 2024: Creative Builds with Nailgun Nelly
This year has been one for the books…..literally! Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined I would be able to say I was a published author, BUT here we are! It is truly a dream come true and I appreciate all of you being here to support me more than you know. I have had immense growth this year and I want to thank you all for sticking around as I navigate my way through turning Nailgun Nelly into what it is today! When this year started I was smack dab in the middle of a huge project. Not only was I renovating Archie, the vintage trailer but…
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1970 Vintage Travel Trailer Renovation Budget Breakdown and Sources found in this Camper
You all wanted a budget breakdown of my latest RV renovation so I have rounded up everything I used, as best I could to give you an idea! If you want to see another example from my prior renovations, check out the Cost Breakdown from my 1968 Prowler here. So lets gets down to business and break it up into systems. Many do not know this, but Archie was actually purchased and restored to document detailed tutorials on how to complete RV renovation projects. You can find all of them in my book DIY Camper & RV Reno: Restoring and Designing Vintage, Retro, and Classic Trailers and RVs with Nailgun Nelly. Table of…
