Getting your backyard ready for summer doesn’t have to be hard or expensive. There are many great DIY ideas that you can try to improve your outdoor space without breaking the bank. Here are 17 DIY projects that will take you less than a day to complete and some may not cost you anything at all if you have a few basic supplies on hand. Enjoy!
1. Giant Outdoor Chalkboard
Give kids a place to create and share their outdoor artwork on this weatherproof chalkboard. (Tutorial via Love and Renovations)
2. Stepping Stones
Garden stepping stones will add a unique touch to your garden and serve as practical steps to keep your feet clean and dry. (Tutorial via Dream a Little Bigger)
3. Glass Pebble Lanterns
Looking to light up your outdoor spaces? These glass lanterns will create glamorous lighting, either inside or out. (Tutorial via Everyday Dishes)
4. Rope Swing
Wonderful DIY project the whole family can enjoy. (Tutorial via White Tulip Designs)
5. Wooden Bench
This stylish and comfortable outdoor bench is great for gardens, patios, walkways or just about anywhere. (Tutorial via Bob Vila)
6. Giant Jenga
Turn wood scraps into an oversize Jenga game. (Tutorial via Used.ca)
7. Fold Up A-Frame Tent
Make an outdoor play tent, great for reading, eating lunch, or just a spot of shade. When not in use, it folds up flat for easy storage. (Tutorial via Farm Fresh Therapy)
8. DIY Toddler Sand and Water Table
Bring a slice of the beach into your backyard with this fun sand and water play table. (Tutorial via Boxy Colonial)
9. Wine Barrel Fountain
Create your own oasis in your backyard with a wine barrel water fountain. (Tutorial via A Lo and Behold Life)
10. Glowing Outdoor Orbs
This DIY project takes just three minutes to do, costs just $3, and uses only two materials – glass shades and mini lights. (Tutorial via The Art of Doing Stuff)
11. Fence Table
Build a great table on the fence that will work perfectly for outdoor cookouts or putting your indoor plants out in the sun. (Tutorial via Sensibly Sara)
12. Outdoor Seating
With a few long pieces of wood and cinder blocks you can create an impromptu couch. (Tutorial via Lena Sekine)
13. Build Your Own Backyard Smoker
It will be a wonderful way to cook during the summer months. (Tutorial via Instructables)
14. Chair Planters
If you have some old wooden chairs that can’t be used any longer, remove the seat and turn them into adorable planters. (Tutorial via Wonderwoman Creations)
15. Multi-Towel Rack for the Pool Made of PVC Pipes
If you have a swimming pool, this towel rack is a must for summer. (Tutorial via eHow)
16. Key Wind Chime
Add personality to your outdoor space with a creative DIY wind chime made from old keys. Great activity for the whole family. (Tutorial via Inner Child Fun)
17. Outdoor Science Lab
Upcycle a giant spool into a super fun outdoor science lab for your kids. (Tutorial via TPcraft)
