Happy New Year! As we step into a new decade, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey of 2019. Before fully immersing in all that 2020 promises, I wanted to take a moment to celebrate the past year by sharing my 19 favorite moments and projects. More than just a recap, this is a heartfelt thank you to my amazing community of readers.
The past year brought an astounding surge in engagement and growth, making it truly unforgettable. Witnessing so many of you join our newsletter family in recent months has been incredibly motivating, culminating in November and December being my best traffic months ever! On Pinterest, I was thrilled to reach an all-time high of 4 million monthly viewers in December. While these statistics are wonderful, what truly fuels my passion are the genuine connections we’ve built. Over the years, blog comments have largely shifted to social media, and I embrace this change because it has deepened our interactions, putting faces to usernames and transforming blogging from a one-sided endeavor into a vibrant, ongoing conversation. I still cherish every comment and email, but social media has forged bonds that make this journey feel truly collaborative. I embarked on this blogging adventure to connect with fellow DIY enthusiasts and budget-conscious home decor lovers, and with your incredible support, it has blossomed into a fulfilling, full-time passion. I am eternally grateful for each one of you.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the highlight reel of 2019! This list comprises a blend of your top favorites, based on page views, and some of my personal picks. Your feedback is invaluable, so please don’t hesitate to leave a comment if there’s specific content you’d love to see more (or less!) of in the future.
Crafting a Unique DIY Ice Dye Throw
As a passionate DIY enthusiast, nothing brings me more joy than sharing creative projects that inspire and empower. This past year, the **DIY Ice Dye Throw** project truly encapsulated the spirit of hands-on creativity and the importance of embracing the process. My goal is always to provide useful content, whether by teaching a new skill, unveiling a novel idea, or elevating existing concepts. With the ice dye throw, the real value lay in the journey itself – a transparent look at experimentation, setbacks, and ultimately, triumph.
Initially, the results weren’t quite what I envisioned. Yet, instead of giving up, I viewed it as an opportunity to delve deeper into various ice dyeing techniques and material interactions. This iterative approach allowed me to transform what might have been a ‘failed’ attempt into a stunning, unique creation that I absolutely adored. More importantly, it offered readers a firsthand glimpse into how perseverance and slight adjustments can yield dramatically different and beautiful outcomes. This project wasn’t just about creating a beautiful blanket; it was a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most rewarding DIYs are those that challenge us to adapt and innovate. (For those intrigued by textile arts, I also explored a fascinating shibori pole dyeing tutorial in 2019, but my heart truly belongs to the vibrant, unpredictable magic of ice dyeing!) This project remains a top favorite for its vibrant aesthetic and the valuable lessons it offered in embracing the imperfections of the creative flow, making it a must-try for anyone looking to add a personalized touch to their home decor.
The Adventures of Getting Backyard Chickens
Without a doubt, welcoming **backyard chickens** into our lives was the most “eggciting” development of 2019! This adventure, while undeniably challenging at times – from re-homing roosters to navigating unforeseen health issues with chicks – has been immensely rewarding. The sheer joy of discovering those first two unexpected turquoise eggs at the end of November was an unforgettable highlight, especially since I was convinced they wouldn’t lay until spring. Since then, our new pullets have also joined in, providing a delightful supply of 1-3 fresh eggs daily, a number that’s sure to increase with longer daylight hours. Caring for these feathered friends has brought a unique rhythm to our home and a deeper connection to nature.
If you’re considering embarking on your own chicken-keeping journey or simply curious about the daily life in a backyard flock, you can follow all our backyard chicken adventures by clicking here. It’s an honest account of the learning curve, the surprising joys, and the occasional dilemmas that come with raising chickens, offering valuable insights for aspiring poultry enthusiasts.
Innovative DIY Kitchen Cubbies
If getting chickens was the most exciting personal event, then having Better Homes & Gardens come to photograph my kitchen for their magazine was an incredibly close second! This once-nutty idea of swapping out standard open shelving for these custom-built **DIY Kitchen Cubbies** proved to be wildly popular, capturing not just your attention but also the discerning eye of a BH&G editor. The anticipation for the issue’s release is palpable, and I’m a mix of nervous and thrilled!
These cubbies weren’t just a stylish upgrade; they were a testament to creative problem-solving and maximizing storage in a visually appealing way. They provide both functionality and a unique design element that truly personalizes the space. For those who loved this concept, we also crafted a more mid-century modern-inspired version of these DIY storage cubbies for our bunkie bath, showcasing the versatility of the design. You can explore that project here for more inspiration on how to integrate custom storage solutions into various rooms. This project underscored how thoughtful DIY design can elevate a space and even attract national attention.
Transformative Teal Kitchen Cabinets with Paneling
Last year, I bid farewell to my bright turquoise kitchen cabinets, embracing a moodier, inkier teal hue that completely transformed the space. This color shift brought a more sophisticated and contemporary feel to our kitchen, moving away from the previous brighter aesthetic. Beyond the fresh coat of paint, we also undertook the project of installing elegant paneling on the dining room side of the cabinets. This addition was strategic, designed to introduce subtle textural interest and seamlessly tie into the existing paneling on our fireplace wall, creating a cohesive design narrative throughout the open-concept space.
While I still dream of a full-scale kitchen renovation – it’s been nearly six years since we gave it a “temporary” budget-friendly makeover – these updates have made the waiting game much easier. Our unexpected exterior renovation spiraled, consuming all our allocated funds, meaning we need to patiently save up again. These impactful, budget-conscious changes demonstrate how a thoughtful paint refresh and a few clever DIY additions can revitalize a space, maintaining its charm and functionality while awaiting a larger overhaul. It’s all about making the most of what you have and infusing it with personal style.
Building a Modern DIY Chicken Coop
Although this post technically squeezed in right under the wire on December 31st, the journey of building our **Modern DIY Chicken Coop** was a continuous saga throughout 2019. I extensively shared the progress on Instagram (look for my “Coop” story highlight!), carefully documenting each step. My decision to hold off on a full “how-to” post stemmed from wanting to thoroughly test its design and functionality, ensuring no major flaws emerged over time. I’m thrilled to report that the coop has stood strong and performed admirably since July, providing a safe and comfortable home for our flock.
This stability finally gave me the confidence to compile a (super long!) detailed post about how we constructed this modern DIY chicken coop and integrated its run, particularly challenging given its placement on a hill in our backyard. The project involved careful planning, material selection, and custom solutions to adapt to the landscape. It’s a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to build a stylish, functional, and durable coop that merges modern aesthetics with practical poultry-keeping needs. This project truly showcases how DIY can combine passion with thoughtful design and robust construction, even for something as practical as a chicken coop.
Mastering the DIY Pom Pom Tutorial
Sometimes, it’s the simplest, most delightful projects that capture the most attention, and my post on how to create bigger, denser pom poms was one of the most popular posts of the year! While I occasionally wonder which topics will resonate most, the popularity of this tutorial isn’t entirely surprising. Making pom poms is an inherently fun and incredibly relaxing craft, easily becoming an addictive hobby. I thoroughly enjoyed the process of experimenting to achieve those perfectly dense and full results.
In the detailed tutorial, I meticulously break down my techniques, guiding you through each step to ensure your pom poms are plump and luxurious. I even go a step further, demonstrating how different types of yarn can influence the final look and texture of your pom poms, empowering you to choose the perfect material for your projects. This post is a fantastic resource for anyone wanting to elevate their crafting game and create professional-looking pom poms for various decorative applications, from home accents to festive embellishments. It’s a testament to how small, seemingly simple crafts can bring immense satisfaction and popularity.
Creating a Charming DIY Pom Pom Wreath
Once I unlocked the secret to crafting superior pom poms, my creative energy was immediately channeled into a series of exciting pom pom projects. Among them, the **DIY Pom Pom Wreath** stands out as a personal favorite. This project was not only incredibly easy to assemble but also brought immense joy in the making. I had always envisioned hanging a trio of wreaths on a door, and the man door of our chicken coop – inspired by our own mid-century modern style front door – proved to be the absolute perfect canvas for this idea.
The result was a whimsical yet stylish seasonal decoration that added a touch of cozy charm to our backyard space. Looking ahead, I’m eager to expand my pom pom repertoire by creating a long, festive pom pom garland and perhaps even a wreath made entirely of pom poms. The only challenge lies in amassing enough thrifted yarns in my preferred color palette to bring these larger-scale visions to life. This project exemplifies how a newfound crafting skill can inspire endless creative possibilities, transforming simple yarn into delightful home accents. It’s a sustainable approach to decor, making use of found materials and infusing them with personal artistry.
A Daring Turquoise and Copper Powder Room Makeover
In 2019, I finally took the plunge and participated in the One Room Challenge for the very first time, completely transforming our powder room. The finished product, a space bursting with color and texture, is something I truly adore. Despite turquoise being my absolute favorite color, this makeover pushed me far beyond my usual comfort zone. I deliberately challenged myself by selecting a bold pattern for the walls and confidently opted for a mix of metals, primarily copper, to create a dynamic and richly layered aesthetic.
Beyond the design choices, this challenge also provided a fantastic opportunity to learn a new skill: installing wallpaper. For a first-timer, it was an educational experience, and I documented my journey, offering insights in my DIY wallpaper for the first time post. This powder room makeover exemplifies how embracing new techniques and daring design decisions can lead to a stunning and highly personalized space. It’s a vibrant blend of favorite hues with unexpected elements, proving that even small rooms can make a huge statement through thoughtful design and DIY effort.
The Full Scoop on Our Extensive Exterior Renovations
Remember how our exterior renovation seemed to stretch on forever? It certainly felt that way! Believe it or not, some minor elements are still awaiting completion. While the bulk of the work took place in 2018, the project paused around Christmas, making 2019 the year I could finally reveal some much-anticipated before-and-after transformations. After so many delays and unexpected problems, it was a genuine treat to finally start blogging about the extensive changes to our home’s facade.
Throughout the year, I shared detailed posts about our stunning (painted) copper roof and the eye-catching sparkly metal siding, which has a unique character. Additionally, I provided progress photos and compelling before-and-after shots of our newly installed, larger windows. For anyone contemplating exterior work on their own home, these posts are a treasure trove of valuable tips, realistic progress documentation, and honest insights designed to help prepare you for the considerable scope and potential challenges of such a large-scale project. It’s a comprehensive look at how an exterior renovation can dramatically enhance curb appeal and home value.
The Dramatic Black Deck & DIY Modern Vertical Slat Deck Skirting
While the initial steps of staining the deck black and installing charming copper deck caps technically occurred in late 2018, renovation delays (a familiar refrain, right?!) meant I didn’t get to share the stunning results until 2019. This transformation gave our outdoor space a dramatic and sophisticated edge. However, the most impactful change to our deck came this fall when we finally addressed the crumbling lattice deck skirting. Instead of merely replacing it, we embarked on a DIY project to create our own contemporary vertical slat deck skirting.
The effort was undeniably worth it! The new skirting provides a clean, modern aesthetic that perfectly complements the overall exterior renovation, giving the entire house a polished and updated look. This project truly exemplifies how thoughtful design, even in seemingly minor elements like deck skirting, can significantly elevate a home’s curb appeal. The combination of the dark deck, radiant copper accents, and sleek vertical slats has made our home’s exterior truly gorgeous, if I do say so myself!
Crafting a Statement: DIY Live Edge Patio Table
With our house exterior finally perfected, our excitement naturally turned towards enhancing our outdoor living spaces. We invested in some new outdoor chairs and accessories, but the true centerpiece of our patio became a bespoke creation: our very own **DIY Live Edge Patio Table**. I had envisioned this unique table, complete with welded chain legs and a stunning live edge top, for quite some time, so finally finding the dedicated time to bring this vision to life was incredibly thrilling. Seeing my detailed concept materialize into a tangible piece of furniture was immensely satisfying.
This project was more than just building a table; it was about injecting personal style and craftsmanship into our outdoor decor, creating a truly one-of-a-kind piece that doubles as a conversation starter. Currently, it’s safely tucked away for winter storage, and I simply cannot wait for spring to arrive so we can once again enjoy alfresco dining and entertaining around this beautiful, handmade table. It stands as a testament to the power of DIY in creating custom pieces that perfectly fit your aesthetic and functional needs, turning an outdoor area into a cherished extension of your home.
The Inviting DIY Ombre Adirondack Chair & Firepit Makeover
Our fire pit area received another refreshing makeover in 2019, breathing new life into this beloved outdoor gathering spot. The gravel from our original welded DIY fire pit had settled over time, prompting us to undertake a strategic redesign. We began by giving the fire pit itself a fresh coat of shimmering copper paint, instantly revitalizing its appearance. Next, we expanded and reshaped the area into a more accommodating hexagonal layout, creating ample space for our newly painted ombre-painted Adirondack chairs and complementary turquoise outdoor tables. The ombre effect on the chairs adds a playful yet sophisticated touch, transitioning beautifully between shades. Finally, we brought in another truckload of fresh dolomite gravel, ensuring a crisp, clean foundation for the entire space.
This fire pit makeover was all about enhancing comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, transforming a well-loved spot into an even more inviting oasis for relaxation and entertainment. It proves that even established outdoor features can be refreshed and reimagined with a bit of DIY creativity and a few key updates, creating a perfect setting for evening gatherings and star-gazing.
The Popular DIY Sinus Clearing Shower Melts
It’s often a delightful surprise to see which DIY projects truly take off and become reader favorites. While I tend to think my larger, more complex endeavors – like major exterior renovations or building intricate patio furniture – will garner the most attention, it’s often the simplest, most accessible projects that win hearts. This was certainly the case with my **DIY Sinus Clearing Shower Melts**!
These essential oil shower melts became an instant sensation on Pinterest, and I’ve received countless messages from readers who have made and loved them. And I couldn’t be happier! They are incredibly handy during cold and allergy seasons, providing soothing relief and a spa-like experience right in your own bathroom. Beyond their practical benefits, they also make charming and thoughtful handmade gifts, perfect for sharing a little comfort with friends and family. This project beautifully demonstrates how easy-to-make, natural remedies can be incredibly effective and widely appreciated, proving that sometimes, less truly is more in the world of DIY.
Elegant Cascading Ornaments for the Holidays
This past holiday season, I delved into some truly cute and remarkably affordable DIY holiday decor (you can explore all my festive creations here), but my absolute favorite was the captivating display of **Cascading Ornaments** flanking our TV. I had been envisioning this unique installation for quite some time, and seeing it finally come to fruition was incredibly rewarding. Instead of traditional, singular ornaments, this cascading effect created a dynamic and artful display that added a touch of subtle glamour to our living space.
My approach to holiday decorating often veers towards a “wintry” aesthetic rather than overtly “Christmassy,” focusing on elegance and natural elements that can be appreciated throughout the colder months. This ornament display perfectly embodied that philosophy, offering a creative and sophisticated alternative to conventional festive decorations. It’s a prime example of how thinking outside the box can lead to breathtaking holiday accents that feel both personal and timeless, proving that festive decor can be artful and integrated into everyday living.
Versatile Colorblocked Velvet Pillows
To maximize the utility and refresh the look of my throw pillows, I conceived an ingenious idea: **two-sided, colorblocked velvet pillows**. This clever design allows me to simply flip them over to instantly change the aesthetic of a room, offering incredible versatility and ensuring maximum mileage from each pillow. It’s a fantastic way to introduce subtle variations in decor without needing an entirely new set of accessories. While I’ve previously shared comprehensive tutorials on how to sew various types of pillows – including my popular DIY zippered pillow tutorial here and a guide on how to sew a round pillow here – this particular post focused primarily on the innovative concept of the two-sided design and showcasing my carefully curated color pairings.
The beauty of this project lies in its simplicity and adaptability, allowing you to customize color combinations to perfectly match your home decor scheme or seasonal changes. It’s a testament to how small, thoughtful DIY details can have a significant impact on the overall feel and flexibility of your interior styling, making your home decor more dynamic and expressive. These velvet pillows add a touch of luxury and personalized charm, demonstrating how smart design can enhance both function and aesthetics.
An Effortless DIY Canvas Frame
My blogging philosophy often revolves around blending high-impact, complex projects with equally rewarding, yet incredibly simple, DIYs. While some of our creations can be quite advanced, I always strive to maintain a balance by sharing projects that are super accessible for all skill levels. The **Easy DIY Canvas Frame** is a perfect example of this approach.
This tutorial offers a straightforward and budget-friendly method to frame canvas art, instantly elevating its appearance without the need for specialized tools or extensive experience. It’s about making art feel finished and integrated into your home decor with minimal fuss. For those looking for a slightly different, yet still easy, framing technique, I also have a popular tutorial on how to create an inexpensive float frame for canvas art. Both options provide fantastic ways to enhance your artwork and bring a custom, polished look to your walls, proving that sophisticated finishes don’t always require complex processes. These frames are quick projects that deliver maximum impact, making them ideal for a weekend refresh.
Showcasing Our Home: The Spring Home Tour
Historically, I hadn’t made a habit of doing seasonal home tours. However, in 2019, I decided to join forces with some incredibly talented friends for a spring home tour blog hop and later a summer tour blog hop. This decision proved to be an excellent motivator, providing the perfect impetus to re-photograph our entire home and showcase its seasonal transformations. I’m so glad I participated in these tours, as they offer a wonderful opportunity to look back and appreciate how our home evolves – what changes, and what enduring elements remain.
Furthermore, these tours finally spurred me to undertake a major overhaul of the comprehensive lakehouse tour page on my website. It was updated with fresh photos and new links, offering a more current and immersive experience for visitors. If you missed out on the seasonal blog hops, be sure to check out the updated lakehouse tour to get a full glimpse into our home’s evolving style and design. It’s a fantastic way to see how different seasons inspire subtle shifts in decor, and how a home truly lives and breathes with its inhabitants.
The Elegant DIY Beaded Table Runner
2019 was a year rich with sewing tutorials, from how to sew a round pillow and a luxurious silk sleep mask to a cozy felt coffee cup sleeve. However, the one that stands out as my personal favorite is the tutorial for how to sew an elegant silk table runner with delicate beaded trim. This project, though simple in its execution, yields a remarkably pretty and refined piece that beautifully catches the light, adding a touch of understated glamour to any dining setting.
Initially created for the spring home tour, I quickly discovered its incredible versatility. It has since found a permanent home on my dining room table, effortlessly complementing various decor styles throughout the year. While many bloggers produce DIYs simply to generate a constant stream of content, my approach is rooted in sustainability and genuine enjoyment. I truly shudder at the thought of bloggers having to declutter piles of discarded DIYs. Instead, I am committed to sharing tutorials for items that I genuinely love, use, and proudly keep in my own home, ensuring that every project shared offers lasting value and authentic inspiration.
Choosing just 19 favorites from a year where I published nearly 100 posts was an incredibly challenging task! If I inadvertently missed one of your personal favorites, or if you’re ever searching for a particular project, remember that all my past work is readily available in the Renovating Archive or the Craft/DIY Archive. Additionally, by clicking on the keyword labels at the top of each post, you can easily navigate to more content within that specific category. For a more direct search, simply utilize the search bar at the bottom of the page; type in terms like “ice dye,” and all related posts will appear for your convenience.
I would love to hear from you – which posts were your absolute favorites from 2019?
P.S. You can explore previous annual round-ups and reminisce about past projects by clicking on the year: 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 (DIY) 2012 (Misc) | 2011 (or see them all by clicking here).
