I have always been interested in D.I.Y. My dad showed me how to paint and how to wall-paper a room. Over the years I have learnt how to put tiles on walls but I have never had to cut them.. someone else has always done that for me! I have learnt how to do simple things like change a fuse, or put in new light bulbs but have not yet learnt how to do make things out of wood although I always watched my dad do that. I make my own curtains, and although I used to make my own clothes I have not done so for years now. I have woven a rug before and am at present working on a latch-hook rug
Here are some books we have in our own "library" that we find useful.
Reader's Digest 101 Do-It_Yourself Projects. You want a brick drive way or patio? The book explains how. How about a bathroom vanity unit? Or cafe table and chairs? These projects and many more are explained here, with step by step instuctions, and illustrations to help along the way. (1983 editon! but still looks used and useful! I can see things in it that I would like made!)
Reader's Digest Fix-it-yourself manual. This book shows you how to repair, clean and maintain anything and everything in and around your home. Need new padding on your chairs? This book explains how to do it. Need to repair a favourite book that is losing it's binding? This book explains how. I see the book was published in 1978!!!!! so it is likely that many of the things in here are out of date. However I am sure there must be a modern equivalent! This book woudl have been used when needed and stayed on the shelf at others. A reference book for emergencies I guess!
Reader's Digest Complete Do-it-yourself Manual. This is the 2005 edition. Much more colorful than the previous book mentioned! Covers things like ceramic tile and stone, insulating walls, wallpapering and stipping (I used this section last year when I began stipping the walls in the lounge, dining room, bedroom and needed to repair the walls after!!! ), water garden and much much more. A really useful book!
Orthos guide to Decks & Patios. This book has all the ins and outs for things to look for before you have your patio or deck made and then talks you through how to do it. It has some great ideas in it.