The Thrift Diving Podcast: Recent Episodes
Serena Appiah
Inspiring you to decorate, improve, and maintain your home with DIY, without compromising your wallet, the environment, or style.
Do you need a kick in the DIY pants? Then you should join my 30-Day DIY Challenge! Recently I shared with you the "BEFORE" and "AFTER" of my friend's home office makeover that I did for her. (If you haven't seen it, you can read the blog post HERE and watch the video tutorial HERE).
I also told you about the $1,000 giveaway I'm doing in partnership with Arrow Tool Group. Did you enter yet?! (ENTER HERE!)
(If not, you should, because there are only 216 people entered at the time of this publishing, so your odds are better than Power Ball! HA! You'll win a $500 AMEX gift card and a $500 ArrowToolGroup.com gift card. Free money for your next project!)
But did you know we're also doing a 30-day DIY challenge to give you a kick in the DIY pants during the month of September? SIGN UP HERE!
MENTIONED:
- BEFORE & AFTER: My Pretty Laundry Room Makeover! (Blog post)
- Home Office Makeover (Blog Post)
SIGN UP!
- Enter the Arrow Tool Group $1,000 Giveaway!
- Enter the 30-Day "Fall Overhaul" DIY Challenge!
- Join the WAITLIST for my EmPOWER Tools 101 online course!
Support the show
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Don't forget to enter my $1,000 giveaway with Arrow Tool Group! ENTER HERE!
Be sure to sign up for the 30-Day DIY Challenge, too! JOIN HERE!
I just got done doing and epic home office makeover with my best girlfriend in her home! What started as a disorganized, uninspiring "catch all" room, became a colorful, layered room full of second-hand furniture and DIY projects that turned it into a room she loves!
In this episode, I'm sharing with you 10 tips on doing your own room makeover on budget--what to expect, what to do, what NOT to do, and some behind-the-scenes chit-chat about working on this room!
Got a question? Send me an email.
MENTIONED:
- BEFORE & AFTER: Colorful Home Office Makeover! (YouTube)
- Home Office Makeover (Blog Post)
SIGN UP!
- Join the WAITLIST for my EmPOWER Tools 101 online course!
Support the show
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Did you know that women make up only about 3% of the home appliance repairers, but they excel in this field? In this episode, I sit down with Mona Sims, the inspiring owner of SSG Appliance Academy. She shares her journey of starting and growing a business that empowers individuals (with a focus on women women re-entering society from incarceration or being victims of domestic abuse and sex trafficking) to learn how to repair appliances and start their own appliance repair businesses.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a DIY enthusiast, or someone curious about exploring a new industry, Mona’s story is full of valuable insights and encouragement. Got a question?? Send me an email.
MENTIONED:
- SSG Appliance Academy
- Watch my vintage dresser makeover on YouTube!
SIGN UP!
- Furniture Painting Classes!
- Join the WAITLIST for my EmPOWER Tools 101 online course!
Support the show
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
I don't know about you...but in this economy, I need a side gig! Have you ever considered selling your refinished furniture on Facebook Marketplace? I've started dipping my toe into selling furniture online, and although it hasn't been very long, I've learned a few important things that you've got to keep in mind before you start selling on Facebook Marketplace! It's a great way to bring in another stream of income in this tough economy, while allowing you to exercise your creative muscle. Let's talk about how to do it right! Have you ever sold your refinished pieces of furniture on FB Marketplace? I'd love to hear your how it's going for you! Send me an email.
MENTIONED:
- Watch my vintage dresser makeover on YouTube!
- ChatGPT
- Facebook Marketplace
SIGN UP!
- Furniture Painting Classes!
- Join the WAITLIST for my EmPOWER Tools 101 online course!
Support the show
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
In this episode, I’m sharing my recent struggles with feeling uninspired and disconnected from the projects that used to spark joy for me. Life has been “lifin’,” and honestly, social media hasn’t helped.
I’ll talk about how anxiety that social media creates shuts down creativity, why taking a step back from social media might be exactly what you need, and the small changes I’m making to protect my creative spark. Let’s take back our creativity, ditch the pressure to "measure up", and create for the love of creating again.
Don’t forget to check out the blog post! Want to share your thoughts on this episode or have a question? Email me serena@ thriftdiving.com or on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
MENTIONED & RESOURCES
- Why We Lose Our Creative Spark - Episode #147
- Join the WAIT LIST for my EmPOWER Tools 101 online course!
RESOURCES
- Beyond Anxiety - Curiosity, Creativity, and Finding Your Life’s Purpose by Martha Beck (Buy on Amazon)
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
I have a confession: I haven't been feeling very creative lately. I've been working on projects behind-the-scenes, but I haven't felt that same creative spark and excitement. I've felt stuck and absorbed in other things, particularly family matters. It made me wonder if you've felt this way at times, too? What can we do to reignite our creativity? Listen in as I share personal stories on why I think we temporarily lose our creativity and how we can try to bring it back.
Want to share your thoughts on this episode or have a question? Email me serena@ thriftdiving.com or on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
MENTIONED & RESOURCES
- Console Table I Built with a Friend! (YouTube)
- My Son Left for College (blog post)
- BEFORE & AFTER: Hakimah's Bathroom Makeover (blog post)
- Workbench Makeover (Youtube)
- Wiring the Electricity in My "She Shed" (Video)
RESOURCES
- Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
I talk a lot about power tools, but I often don't mention all the hand tools that are most important for your DIY toolbox! Join me and listener, Elizabeth, who is a former shop teacher, as we talk about all the hand tools that you should put on your list to invest in for your workshop!
Want to share your thoughts on this episode or have a question we didn't answer? Email me serena@ thriftdiving.com or on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
MENTIONED & RESOURCES
- BEFOER & AFTER Bathroom Makeover! (YouTube)
- Watch all of Bathroom Week! (YouTube)
- Woodpecker Tools
- Festool Tools (affiliate link)
- Rust-Oleum rust remover
- Back saw
- Nail set
- Tape measure with auto-lock and fractions
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
In this episode, my friend and I discuss how I got started with Thrift Diving, the evolution of my brand, and the challenges and rewards of running a DIY blog and YouTube channel. From thrift store finds to major brand partnerships, we cover it all. I'm chatting in this episode with Laura Rudder, a loyal Thrift Diving reader turned dear friend. Laura originally interviewed me about personal topics in Episodes #113 and #114, and now she's back to dive deep into the business side of Thrift Diving.
We discuss Tune in to learn more about my journey, get inspired, and hear some behind-the-scenes stories that shaped Thrift Diving. Don't miss this insightful and fun conversation!
Want to share your thoughts on this episode or have a question we didn't answer? Email me serena@ thriftdiving.com or on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
PODCAST EPISODES MENTIONED
- Getting to Know the REAL Serena Appiah - #113
- Getting to Know the REAL Serena Appiah - #114
- How $400,000 in Habitat ReStore Sales (and Volunteers, Sweat Equity!) Fuels Affordable Homes for Families! - #107
MENTIONED & RESOURCES
- Building a Floating Deck - YouTube
- How to Insulate Your Windows with Plastic - YouTube
- Diary of a CEO Podcast with Stephen Bartlett
- Diary of a CEO: 33 Laws of Business and Life - Amazon
- Haven Conference
- Workbench Con
- Brianna Shelko on Instagram
- How to Use a Jigsaw - YouTube
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:
Support the Show.
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
It's hard to believe, but you can get almost anything done if you focus on it for 5 minutes at a time. I've been using this strategy this week to knock out some of my most stressful "MUST DOs" that I have been ignoring. But I'm finding that by setting a time for 5 minutes at a time, and "habit stacking" the chore with something that I am already doing, I've been able to make a ton of progress--all in 5 minutes increments! Listen to see how you can use this strategy to knock out your "To Do" list! Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Email me serena@ thriftdiving.com or on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
MENTIONED
- This Is Why I Haven't Been Posting Much - #143
RESOURCES (contains affiliate links)
- Habit Stacking - (Amazon)
- Atomic Habits - (Amazon)
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the Show.
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
As we approach mid-2024, I've been wrestling with late-night anxieties about unmet goals, unfinished DIY projects, health and family concerns, and more. Today, I share with you why I haven't been posting much, including why things feel like their moving at the pace of molasses! :)
As I share with you my personal thoughts that reads more like a journal entry, I'd love to know if you have (or are!) struggling with some of these concerns, too! Share your own story and thoughts by reaching out to serena@ thriftdiving.com or on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
Now that I've gotten over this hump, it's time to start creating, inspiring, and teaching again! Let's gooooo!
MENTIONED
- What It's Like For a Newbie to Do Their First DIY Room Makeover - #140
- When a Blogger Loses Her Job - (blog post)
- Getting to Know the REAL Serena (PART 1) - #113
- Getting to Know the REAL Serena (PART 2) - #114
- Join the WAIT LIST for my Power Tools 101 Course!
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the Show.
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
When we spend too much time around something (or someone!) we stop noticing all the things that make them special and unique, and we start taking it for granted. The same can be true for our home, as well. After living in your home for awhile, you stop noticing and appreciating all the things that you originally loved about your space. You start taking it for granted. Let's talk about how we can fall in love with our home again, and it doesn't have to cost a lot of money!
MENTIONED
- Are You Embarrassed of Your House, Too? (blog post)
- The Story of Thrift Diving - (Podcast Episode #1)
- Painting My Kitchen Cabinets White (blog post)
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
I know that home maintenance sucks, and it would be nice to hire someone else to take care of all of it for you. But most of us can't afford that or don't have the expertise. But there are some things we can do ourselves and we should do right now! Including:
- Cleaning your dryer vent.
- Changing your HVAC filter.
- Checking for leaks and using leak detectors.
- Getting an annual termite inspection.
- Getting an annual roof inspection
- Gutter cleaning and why it's so important
- Checking smoke detectors!
RESOURCES
- WATCH on YOUTUBE - 7 Most Important Home Maintenance Tasks
- LISTEN: Podcast on termites! - Episode #9
MENTIONED
- Order your filters from Filterbuy HERE. (affiliate link)
- Dryer vent cleaning tool - Home Depot (look at the video on this page and you'll see my product video listed on the product page!) :)
- Drain tool with metal 3-prong tool I mentioned
- Leak detectors (Leak Bug brand)
- "Smart" leak detector - Amazon
- Leak detectors - Leak Bugs - https://amzn.to/49MJpXD
- Fire blankets - Home Depot
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
We're going behind-the-scenes to hear the complete story of that epic bathroom makeover that I just finished in my best girlfriend's bathroom! What makes this an inspiring episode is that my friend and I get vulernable about what it was really like to tackle a DIY project together. She lacked interest and confidence because she was a "DIY newbie," and I lacked confidence because I had never done a project in someone else's house before (only my own house).
Listen as she and I share the inside scoop on navigating this project to turn out as amazing as it did, and how we filled our "confidence buckets" for what we are capable of achieving!
//LINKS//
- See the "BEFORE" and "AFTER" pictures.
- HomeStyler - The online platform to create a free 3D model of your room online.
- Pfister Colfax sink faucets
- Pfister Colfax shower faucet handle
- Edmundo - For all your stone needs for your home improvement projects, contact Edmundo (E & C Granite and Stone at 301-968-5738)
- 3 themes I talked about for the beginning of last year, 2023. - Episode #97
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
I love hearing from other women who decided to make the leap and buy a "she shed" to turn it into a workshop! Reader and fellow DIYer in the Thrift Diving community, Diane Dains, did that very thing: she bought a huge 16' x 28' shed to use as a workshop, but she decided that she would finish off the interior herself. She even hired an electrician to be her "teacher" to oversee her interior wiring (and she had never done interior wiring before!)
Listen to this conversation about all the things to keep in mind when finishing off your own shed interior, including tips and tricks, and most importantly, how to speak up for yourself when dealing with contractors who think they know more than you do. Great episode you don't want to miss!
See pictures of Diane's shed here on Instagram!
Follow Diane on Instagram and Facebook for updates!
Want to see pictures of my epic bathroom makeover? Sign up for my email list to see "Sneak Peek" photos! https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
In this episode, I dive into an exciting new challenge: renovating a friend's bathroom. This project is an exciting new path from my usual DIY projects in my own 1973 home! I partnered with BathWorks for this extensive makeover, facing unexpected challenges like COVID interruptions and the challenge of coordinating such a big project in such a small space!
This project has been stressful, but soooo rewarding--from refinishing the tub and tile to choosing the right paint colors, to reconnecting my friendship with my friend! The process wasn't just about the physical transformation of the space but also about strengthening my friendship and pushing personal boundaries in DIY.
I wrap up the episode by reflecting on the emotional journey and how we can all learn from this project that stepping out of your comfort zone is not an option, but mandatory, in order to move forward.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
I'm sharing my personal journey of giving back with Habitat for Humanity. I reflect on my early desire to volunteer, the challenges of balancing work and family, and the fulfilling experience of joining Habitat. As a crew leader, I contribute to building homes for low-income families and highlight the impactful programs supporting new homeowners. I also share my participation in a fall festival, where I painted and donated a desk that was later sold for $175, contributing to Habitat's fundraising. Join me in exploring passions and embracing meaningful callings!
Read this blog post HERE!
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
I tend to DIY everything in my life, even my health and workouts in order to lose weight and get mentally stronger. I told you in a recent episode that I am doing the 75 Hard Challenge, which is a mental toughness challenge that requires you to do the following things every single day for 75 days, and if you miss ANY of these daily, then you must start over at Day 1:
- Read 10 pages in a non-fiction self-improvement book
- Two workouts each day, 45 minutes each, one of which must be outdoors.
- Follow a diet, any diet. But no cheat meals, and NO alcohol!
- Drink 1 gallon of water daily.
- Take daily progress pictures of your body.
I'm on Day 54 as of the publishing of this episode! It's not always been easy. In this episode, I'm sharing with you how the challenge is going so far, along with some health challenges I recently faced that caused me to question if I am doing the right thing or not for my health.
Send me an email (serena@thriftdiving.com) or DM me @ ThriftDiving on Instagram if you've got a question!
RESOURCES
- Read more about the 75 Hard Challenge HERE.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
This is my favorite time of year! I love setting goals for the new year. Last year, though, I didn't set goals, but rather, set "themes" for how I wanted my life to go in 2023:
- Flow
- Connection
- Simplicity
In this episode, I share with you how those goals went for 2023 and what I'll be focusing on for 2024! I want to hear what YOUR goals are, too! Send me an email (serena@thriftdiving.com) or DM me @ ThriftDiving on Instagram to share your goals with me!
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Not everyone is a DIY'er....and not everyone can afford thousands of dollars to rip out their bathroom and start over! So I'm teaming up with a good friend who has wanted to make over her bathroom for YEARS, but she has felt stuck: it's too expensive to gut her bathroom, and she has zero confidence on how to do a makeover like this on her own. So I'm teaming up with her to make over her entire bathroom with paint, power tools, and thrift stores! And the whole process is being captured on camera. Listen as I share with you behind-the-scenes details about this epic bathroom makeover! Click here to see the "BEFORE" of the bathroom I'm making over in my friend's house!
Send me an email (serena@thriftdiving.com) or DM me @ ThriftDiving on Instagram if you've got a question!
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
‘Twas the night before thrifting, when all through the house
Not an outfit needed washing, not even a blouse;
The laundry was folded by the dryer with care,
In hopes that tomorrow I’ll buy more things to wear;
My husband was nestled all snug in our bed,
Asleep after accusing that I’m hoarding again;
And my boys in their jammies, asleep in a snap,
“Finally! I’m free!” I whisper and clap,
When out in the garage there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.
Down the stairs I flew like a flash,
I had to make sure nothing was wrong with my stash!
The garage was stacked with furniture I stow
How many pieces, I don’t even know.
When what to my wondering eyes did appear,
But a mid-century mod chair that I bought last year!
With a vintage old fabric so awesome and chic,
How dare someone say I’m a hoarder and freak?!
More pieces than I need, all ready to be reclaim,
And sometimes I buy several versions of the same,
Blues! Reds! And greens! Chalk paint I’m a’ mixin’!
Stripping! And sanding! Just needs a little fixin’!
To the top of the ceiling! and from wall to wall!
Now stash away! stash away! stash away all!
As piles spill and crash around my feet, I sigh,
Restacking the junk ‘till it’s ceiling-height high.
So back to my bedroom I once again flew,
With a closet full of clothes, most thrifted, some new
And then, with an inkling, I saw the real truth:
“I don’t need all this stuff!!” And then–poof!
As I drew in my breath, and was turning around,
Down came hangers with a deafening sound.
I was drenched all in sweat, from my head to my foot,
This crap needed to go, so all night I stayed put,
A bundle of dresses I had flung in a sack,
Tomorrow to the thrift store these clothes are going back!
Keep reading the entire poem on the blog post HERE.
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
If you're a DIYer, then you'll want to buy a paint sprayer for your DIY toolbox, but what kind should you buy? There are 3 types, but for DIY projects, there are only two you really should consider: an HVLP paint sprayer and an airless paint sprayer. I'll share with you in this episode for which projects (and!) why you should consider one over the other (or buying both!) Send me an email (serena@thriftdiving.com) or DM me @ ThriftDiving on Instagram if you've got a question!
PRODUCTS MENTIONED (contains affiliate links)
- Finish Max by HomeRight HVLP paint sprayer (Home Depot)
- Super Fine Finish Max by HomeRight HVLP paint sprayer (Home Depot)
- Wagner Control Pro 130 airless paint sprayer (Home Depot)
RESOURCES
- How to Use a Paint Sprayer (YouTube)
- How I Painted My Fence with an Airless Paint Sprayer (YouTube)
- How I Painted My Fence with an Airless Paint Sprayer (Blog Post)
- How to Thin Paint for a Paint Sprayer (YouTube)
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Last month I asked you on YouTube to ask me ANYTHING, and today, I answered them! Got a burning question about DIY or something person? Send me an email (serena@thriftdiving.com) or DM me @ ThriftDiving on Instagram to get your question included in the next "Ask Me Anything"!
- What is your routine to keep you motivated, healthy, and cute?
- Brutally honest, what are the pros and cons of your job?
- Is it best to spray paint the cabinet doors or use a roller?
- I am in the market for a small, light-weight drill (mostly for crafting). Any brand suggestions?
- What are some of your next projects gonna be?
MENTIONED:
- 75 Hard Challenge
- Diary of a CEO: The 33 Laws of Business and Life (affiliate link)
- Diary of a CEO podcast
- Use my referral link on Stitch Fix to save $25
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
In this episode, I share with you how the tenant that just moved out of my rental townhouse caused me to spend over $8,000 on new carpet due to dog urine, including other damage that she left behind without telling me. In this episode, I'll share with you:
- Tips on the best place to get affordable new carpet and how much cheaper and faster it was to get installed instead of using Lowe's carpet installers.
- How and why we bought a rental property in the first place.
- Who's going to be renting the townhouse next.
- The reason why I am NEVER renting my home again after the next tenants move out!
MENTIONED:
- Empire Today Flooring Installation - Get a quick quote and fast install. Use my referral link and save $350 off your flooring install. Click here for the referral.
- KILZ Restoration primer to block stains and pet odors.
- American Home Shield - Home warranty company I use.
- 75 Hard Challenge
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Several years ago I decided to go back to school for a Carpentry program at my local community college. I learned so many things but these 20 things about construction, building trades, and more were the most surprising bits of information learned! Which one did you find most surprising? Also, please take a moment to leave a review for The Thrift Diving podcast wherever you listen to podcasts!
Read the blog post that goes with this post HERE.
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Don't believe furniture paint brands that claim you can always skip sanding and priming before painting. I think that's a gimmick to get more people to think their product is the easiest to use for painting furniture. In truth, there are times when you CAN skip sanding and priming, and there are time when you MUST sand and prime first. In this episode, we will talk about when you can jump right into painting wood and projects, and when you have to do more prep work!
Projects Mentioned
- My Painted Dresser
- 10 Common Mistakes When Painting Furniture - YouTube
- What's the Best Paint for Furniture?
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
We tell ourselves that if we just had the time to declutter a room, we would get it done this weekend....right?? The problem isn't time, though. The problem is that we don't want to face the unpleasant emotions surrounding the decluttering: self-doubt, boredom, confusion, and frustration. We just don't know where to start, either! Well, committing to 60 minutes per day, it is possible to tackle an overwhelming declutter project in a space. Listen in as I share with you how I'm decluttering my garage now, and how I'm using a "60 minutes per day" declutter trick to make progress! Want to join in on the challenge??!
WATCH THIS PODCAST EPISODE HERE on YOUTUBE
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Not every project is as easy as DIYers make them appear to be! Sometimes they're quite scary because you're afraid you'll ruin it....you're afraid you don't know what to do... you're afraid that you'll not know where to start...And all of these fears can prevent you from taking a step forward to complete your DIY projects! In this video, I'll share with you the 5 projects that scared me to death and almost never got done because I was sooooo afraid I would ruin them! Let's talk about them!
WATCH THIS PODCAST EPISODE HERE on YOUTUBE
PROJECTS MENTIONED
- Scary Project #1 - Painting my shower
- Scary Project #2 - Building my bathroom vanity
- Scary Project #3 - Building my closet organizer
- Scary Project #4 - Reupholstering a complicated wingback chair
- Scary Project #5 - Building a deck on the front of my "she shed."
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
It's been 2 years since I bought my 16' x 26' "she shed" for my backyard that I use for office space and a creative workshop! What are the things I regret now that I've been using the shed for 2 years? What are the things I absolutely would do again in a heartbeat? Let's talk about it! Email me serena@thriftdiving.com!
WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE
PROJECTS MENTIONED
- I Ran My Own Electrical Wiring in My Shed - (YouTube - Part 1 of 2)
- I Ran My Own Electrical Wiring (PART 2 of 2)
- Pouring a Concrete Pad for My Shed (YouTube)
- How to Insulate a Shed (YouTube)
RESOURCES MENTIONED
- TuffShed Premiere Pro Tall Shed
- xTool P2 Engraver
- Arkansas Blue Star plant on the side of my shed
- Marie Kondo The Magic Art of Tidying Up
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
Support the show
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
It's been a few weeks since I uploaded a new episode, but there is good reason! In today's episode, I share with you where I have been and what I have been working on behind the scenes! What have you been up to?! Send me an email and share your own updates! Email me serena@thriftdiving.com!
PROJECTS MENTIONED
- How to Refinish Your Shower with Paint
- Half Bathroom Makeover with Stencils!
- 5 Budget Friendly Bathroom Makeover Tips
- Create Your Own Floral Wall Art
- Make a DIY Shower Curtain
PAGEANT VIDEO CIPS
- See my official pageant pictures!
- Check out my thoughts about how the pageant went on my Facebook.
- Watch my opening number dance routine at the pageant on YouTube. (I'm in the light pink dress to your left of the stage).
- Watch me wear my $50 Marketplace dress evening gown on the runway. LOL
- Watch our pageant intros in the "Classic" Woman division.
- Watch me win "Best Personality" Award at the pageant!
- The crowning of Ms. Classic Woman (I won 1st runner up).
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Bathroom remodeling can cost a whopping $11,000 or more. But who has that kind of money to spend?? In this episode, I'm sharing some inexpensive tips for transforming your bathroom on a budget! Email me serena@thriftdiving.com!
PROJECTS MENTIONED
- How to Refinish Your Shower with Paint
- Half Bathroom Makeover with Stencils!
- 5 Budget Friendly Bathroom Makeover Tips
- Create Your Own Floral Wall Art
- Make a DIY Shower Curtain
RESOURCES
- Bathworks Tub Refinishing Kit
- Pretty stencils for bathroom walls!
- Make your own DIY chalk paint with this powder.
- What's the best paint for furniture?
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
We all procrastinate on projects, whether they're DIY projects or other types of projects that we've never tried before. But you don't realize this: if you can work through that angst of starting a new project you've never done before, the next time you tackle that same project, you'll be so much faster, neater, and cleaner! You will learn so much that you will apply the next time you do that same type of project. That is where the learning takes place, and the self-confidence blossoms. Listen in as I explain how I came to realize this important lesson this week as I started working on building my second deck ever! Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Email me serena@thriftdiving.com!
EPISODES MENTIONED
- The Real Meaning of "Home" (My Ghana, Africa Trip) - #121
- I'm Building a Deck - Lessons Learned So Far - #117
RESOURCES
- Linkedin Learning
- SketchUp
- Tuff Blocks foundation system
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
My family and I just returned from Ghana, Africa after a 3-week vacation to visit family. I left America with a mindset of showing my kids how much "better" their home in America was; I wanted them to see others "struggling" and how much "privilege" they had living in America. But I got it all wrong. "Home" is so much more than just how it looks. The lesson I learned was much more poignant. Read the blog post HERE.
EPISODES MENTIONED
- I've Got Pre-Diabetes - #115
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
As much time as I have spent at The Home Depot (and Lowe's, for that matter), I have learned a few things along the way. In this episode, I'm sharing with you some of the things I discovered along the way!
Got a DIY question? Email me with your question and get it featured on The Thrift Diving Podcast!
BLOG POST
- 5 Truths Learned at The HomeDepot
MENTIONED
- How to Install Garage Door Screens
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Not every piece of furniture needs to be completely stripped and stained, or painted. Sometimes, it's only superficial scratches that need to be removed or disguised. In this episode, I'll walk you through how to easily properly restore the furniture to hide the scratches.
Got a DIY question? Email me with your question and get it featured on The Thrift Diving Podcast!
MENTIONED
- BLOG POST: How to Remove Scratches from Wood Furniture
- Mid-Century Modern Dresser Makeover
RESOURCES
- Wood Repair Markers
- Lemon Oil
- Cabinet & Furniture Restorer Kit
- Roll o' Rags Lint-free
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
I sat down to chat with master gardener Stephen Dubik to talk about how to tackle pesky weeds, invasive plants, and successful fruit and vegetable gardening!
Stephen Dubik is a Professor and the Program Coordinator of the Environmental Horticulture and Sustainable Agribusiness Program (HORT) at Montgomery College since 1988.
Mr. Dubik also works part-time for the University of Maryland Extension where he serves as the Coordinator for the Montgomery County Master GardenerProgram. Manages over 400 active volunteers who provide professional assistance in the area of environmental/ornamental through a telephone hotline, plant clinics, demonstration gardens and a speakers group.
Resources:
- Home and Garden Information Center
- Montgomery County Pesticide Law
- Montgomery County Master Gardeners MD on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram , and YouTube
Products Mentioned:
- Safer Play Pre-emergent for weeds: - https://greenearthagandturf.com/products/branch-creek-10-0-2-pre-emergent-weed-killer
- 45% Vinegar (horticultural vinegar) - https://amzn.to/3CCrLY6
- Avenger Weed Killer (non-toxic) - https://amzn.to/3qHZBIu
- Fabric bags for gardening - https://amzn.to/3pbxcu1
- Learn about cover crops - https://www.sare.org/resources/cover-crops/
- Row Cover: - https://amzn.to/3NyFgyq
- Preen Pre-Emergent Week Preventer for Vegetable Garden - https://amzn.to/3NCGnxd
- Create your own leaf mold - https://thriftdiving.com/recycle-leaves-mulch/
- Raised Garden Beds Plant Based Wood Sealant - https://amz
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
This month I have been working on building a floating deck for my "she shed" using a foundation system called Tuff Block. I've been feeling some fears and challenges, along with important lessons learned.
Episodes Mentioned:
- 7 Reasons You're Struggling to Get Started on Your DIY Projects - #109
- How to Start Finishing Projects w/Guest Charles Gilkey - #2
Resources
- Tuff Block
- Similar deck blocking available at Home Depot
- LinkedIn Learning
- SketchUp
- Trex decking
- Azek decking
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
It's not easy to get started on a new DIY project. I've been struggling to finish a recent DIY project that I started. I share with you why it's been difficult to start (and to finish!) this project, and how I am planning to move forward!
Episodes Mentioned:
- 7 Reasons You're Struggling to Get Started on Your DIY Projects - #109
- How to Start Finishing Projects w/Guest Charles Gilkey - #2
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
You don't have to be overweight to have the metabolic disorder known as "pre-diabetes." The truth is that, because of my genetics, my body doesn't process carbs very well, which over time, can lead to sickness and diabetes. I've decided to take my health into my own hands and wear a continuous glucose monitor. And what I tested and found out during this week of wearing one was shocking!
When you're not taking care of your health, you're risking health conditions that will affect your ability to live a happy life. Health problems can prevent you from enjoying your hobbies, leaving you unable to do the amazing DIY projects that you want to do. Without your mental, physical (and fiscal) health, you're not able to enjoy the creative side of life.
In this episode, I'll share what I'm doing to make sure I can reverse pre-diabetes and prevent full-blown diabetes, so that I can live my best live for years to come! Do you have pre-diabetes, too? How are you helping yourself?
Mentioned
- ZOE program
- The Glucose Revolution book on Amazon
- Is Reheated Pasta Really Healthier?
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
In Part 2 of 2 of getting to know me, I share with you how I lost my job--the job I was doing prior to becoming a full-time blogger and YouTuber, including sharing with my my 2 biggest fears, what's on my bucket list, and more!
As much as we all love to talk about ourselves, I never thought I would actually do an entire episode about the real Serena behind Thrift Diving. My friend, Laura Rudder, a fellow Thrift Diving reader and listener, asked to interview me to dig a little deeper into who is the real face behind Thrift Diving. She wanted to know more about who I was, where I come from, what I studied in college, how I met my husband, what jobs I did prior to starting Thrift Diving, and more. She and I delve into my family dynamics, as well. Follow along as Laura and I go deep into who Serena Appiah really is....Episodes
- PART 1/2 - Getting to Know the REAL Serena Appiah - #113
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
In Part 1 of 2, as much as we all love to talk about ourselves, I never thought I would actually do an entire episode about the real Serena behind Thrift Diving. My friend, Laura Rudder, a fellow Thrift Diving reader and listener, asked to interview me to dig a little deeper into who is the real face behind Thrift Diving. She wanted to know more about who I was, where I come from, what I studied in college, how I met my husband, what jobs I did prior to starting Thrift Diving, and more. She and I delve into my family dynamics, as well. Follow along as Laura and I go deep into who Serena Appiah really is.... Resources
- Elin Hilderbrand Nantucket fiction author
- Article on how pets may not be as happy as you think.
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
What you do to your body today determines what your body will allow you to do tomorrow. Without good health, you can't do your favorite DIY projects or hobbies ....you can't chase your kids or grandkids.... and you may not even be able to properly care for home or yourself without assistance. That is NOT the type of life you want. In order to continue to live your best creative and independent life in your own home and on your own terms (without assistance), you need to make your body, your health a priority today!
I talk with a long-time friend, Chad Smith, (owner of Five Lions Marketing, a former professional wrestler, a former fitness coach and fitness facility owner) about how sedentary folks can get started with setting health goals for themselves.
Be sure to check out Chad and his new podcast Life, Love, and Hustle.
Resources
- Life, Love, and Hustle podcast (drops May 15, 2023)
- Five Lions Marketing
- Diary of a CEO podcast episode with the Glucose Goddess
Episodes Mentioned
- 5 Things You Didn't Know About Insurance - #6
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Earth Day was this past weekend, and it got me thinking about thrift store shopping and how buying used can help with cutting environmental costs that come with buying "new." But before you hit the thrift stores to find furniture and such, what are some things you should know before going? Here are my 10 tips!
**NOTE: The free 50-page book I referenced in the podcast is no longer available, unfortunately!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Resources
- 10 Things You MUST Know Before Hitting the Thrift Stores - blog post
- ABC News South Sudan Flooding
- Earth Day Tips and Suggestions
Projects Mentioned
- Mid-century Modern Dresser Makeover
Episodes Mentioned
- Toxic Effects of Buying New - #3
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Just when the interior of my she-shed is "done" and ready to be turned into pretty office space with a workshop area, it's become invaded by clover mites! These little red bugs aren't harmful to humans, but are a major nuisance. They're super tiny and can barely be distinguished between flecks of normal dust and actual clover mites (they're part of the spider family). It's been a bit traumatizing! That's what I've been battling this week, including building a gazebo and finishing up a utility room makeover where I added more storage space between exposed studs. Let's jump into it!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Resources
- Clover mites
- Exclusive Tech Repairs
Projects Mentioned
- BEFORE & AFTER: Utility Room Makeover
- How I Built My Gazebo
- Changing Table Repurposed Into a Desk
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
When I ask readers, "What's your biggest DIY challenge?" one of the biggest challenges mentioned is GETTING STARTED. This is a challenge for me, too, even after all these years of experience. There are so many reasons why that happens, but I think it boils down to these 7 reasons. Let's figure out solutions to these problems with procrastinations so that we can be productive and get our DIY projects done!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Projects Mentioned
- Walk-in closet organizer that I built
- My latest project: BEFORE & AFTER: Metal Cabinet Makeover
Episodes Mentioned
- How to Start Finishing Projects! (with Charles Gilkey) - #2
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
There's a saying: "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail." While that definitely puts fear in us to plan, a lack of planning doesn't necessary lead to complete failure. Rather, it makes us frustrated, can cost extra money, and waste time. However, your project may still turn out spectacular! :) The problem is that all that extra work makes DIY projects take so long and can suck the joy out of the creative process. Here are some questions to ask yourself before starting on a project so that you can reduce the time and frustration on those projects!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Projects Mentioned
- Metal Cabinet Makeover (Blog Post)
- Metal Cabinet Makeover (YouTube)
Episodes Mentioned
- How to Plan Out Your Projects From START to FINISH! - #68
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
How does a non-profit like Habitat for Humanity do such incredible work to provide affordable housing to families? Through its volunteers, donations, and the money raise through its awesome ReStore thrift shops sales, of course! This week I sat down with Jeff Dee, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity Metro (the local affiliate here in Maryland, DC, and Virginia) to talk about how Habitat for Humanity got started, how they design their homes for maximum efficiency, how it selects families to buy a Habitat home, the nurturing provided for these homebuyers, why volunteers are the lifeblood of this non-profit, and how and why you should consider volunteering with Habitat (even if you have no building experience).
LINKS:
- Jeff Dee, President & CEO, Habitat Metro (Bio)
- Habitat for Humanity (find your local affiliate)
- Habitat for Humanity Metro (Maryland, DC, Virgina affiliate)
- Email Habitat Metro to sign up as a volunteer!
- See the current and completed projects for Habitat Metro!
MENTIONED
- $500 designer chair I bought from ReStore (Galanter & Jones Kosmos Chair)
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
This week was physically and mentally exhausting. I was on set most of the week in Baltimore, Maryland for a photoshoot for Great Stuff, a brand that makes spray foam insulation. I was hired as an actor to be on set for video and photography, as a "pro" who was comfortable using the spray foam, only to completely mess up my one of my shots on the first day. In this episode, I'm sharing with you what happened, how it felt to feel like others would think I was a fraud, and how I recovered. Do you ever suffer from "imposter syndrome," too?
Email me at serena@thriftdiving.com if you have any questions, or just want to share with me your thoughts or feedback on The Thrift Diving podcast!
Connect with me on Instagram@ThriftDiving.
ACTORS & PRODUCTS MENTIONED:
- Jason Berry
- Camilo Linares
- Great Stuff spray foam insulation
MENTIONED
- Walmart "How We Home" video on set where I started to lose my voice
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
If you find old metal furniture at the thrift store (or you might have some in your garage!), you might be wondering if you can paint over metal furniture with rust. The answer is YES, but you have to follow a few important steps first! In today's episode, I'll share with you how I found these two cool vintage metal cabinets at an online auction and am in the process of removing rust and painting them for my "she shed"! Email me at serena@thriftdiving.com if you have any questions, or just want to share with me your thoughts or feedback on The Thrift Diving podcast!
Connect with me on Instagram@ThriftDiving.
PRODUCTS MENTIONED:
- Metal Rescue Rust Remover Gel (I love this one this most!)
- Rust-oleum Rust Dissolver Gel
- Wire brush set for removing rust flakes
PROJECTS MENTIONED:
- BEFORE and AFTER: Bar Cart Makeover
MENTIONED:
- The McGuire Group online auctions (if you live in Northern VA, MD, or DC)
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
People think that journaling has to be writing pages and pages of long paragraphs, but it doesn't have to be! While that's how I personally love to journal, for you it can be whatever you would like it to be. And it doesn't have to be a deep dive into your emotions. You can journal to document your home and its transformation, including documenting your DIY projects! Journaling is a way to think through your thoughts and feelings, as well as way to track change over time. In this episode, I'll share with you the reasons why you should be journaling, including how I got started and what I discovered about myself recently while reading over my old journals! Do you love to journal? Share your journaling story with me! Email me at serena@thriftdiving.com and tell me about what journaling means to you! Connect with me on Instagram@ThriftDiving.
KEEP READING:
- How to Start a Journal (Even If You Hate Writing)
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
In this episode, we're taking an honest look at our spending habits, exploring the reality of where our money is going, and how it affects our lives. From tracking expenses to discovering unexpected expenditures, we're taking a deep dive into our financial realities. And it's pretty shocking. Join me as I examine our relationship with money and share with you how I learned to make better financial decisions over the past month, thanks in part to our 30-Day DIY "Money Makeover" Challenge!
Got a question? Email me at serena@thriftdiving.com! Connect with me on Instagram@ThriftDiving**.
JOIN THE CHALLENGES!**
- Join the Waitlist for the 30-Day DIY "Money Makeover" Challenge!
- Ready to learn to use power tools? I'll be launching The Power Tools 6-Week Challenge very soon! Sign up for the wait list now!
EPISODES MENTIONED:
- What Does "Home" Mean to You? One Woman's Surprising Journey - #85
- ChatGPT - Artificial Intelligence resource by Microsoft that everyone is talking about right now because it is about to "chat" with you and provide answers to your questions. Kind of similar to Siri, but in a more robust way.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
I thought we were done with avocado green toilets and powder blue vanities, but apparently, the 70's are back when it comes to bathroom design! Last week I attended the National Hardware Show (NHS), International Builder's Show (IBS), and Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) in Las Vegas, Nevada. Let's recap some of the highlights, including the 70's bathroom displays.
- Watch my YouTube video recap of all the cool tools and designs I saw at the NHS, IBS, KBIS.
- Read the House Beautiful article on Kohler's Summer 2023 Heritage Colors.
Got a question? Email me at serena@thriftdiving.com!
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
I ran into Demetric West by accident and found out she is a rug weaver! I decided to sit down and pick her brain on how she got started, why she loves thrift stores for finding materials for weaving, and what tools and materials you need for this hobby! What's most inspiring is how she pulled from her childhood experiences to rediscover a passion for weaving. If you're someone who is feeling like you'd like to be creative, but aren't sure what to try, listen to Demetric West explain how she re-discovered her own passion for the arts.
Got a question? Email me at serena@thriftdiving.com!
LINKS & RESOURCES
- Link to the handcrafted wooden loom Demetric bought on Etsy.
EPISODES MENTIONED
- The Wasteful Effects of Buying New - #3
- 7 Categories of Clothing to Purge Today! - #99
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
In today's special #100th episode, I sat down with Matt Ellison, Director of Marketing for EstateSales.net. He and I talked about building your own backyard shed, must-haves for a successful day of estate sale shopping, how to score valuable finds at estate sales, and more! Be sure to listen to the end of the episode for a special chance to win for my 100th episode giveaway!
Got a question? Email me at serena@thriftdiving.com!
LINKS & RESOURCES
- EstateSales.net
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
January is the next best time to clean out your closet and drawers (December is the best because you can donate them and get a tax deduction!). Half of the month is already over, and if you're like me, you're still cleaning and decluttering your home. One of the most cluttered spaces is where you store your clothing. It's time to let it go! Here are 7 categories of clothing (or 7 types of clothing) that you might be holding on to. I'm here to give you permission to let go of them!
Pssst!....JOIN THE WAITLIST! Want to join my 30-Day DIY "Money Makeover" Challenge? We started on January 10, 2023, but may be running another group soon. Sign up for the waitlist if you feel:
- Stressed because you don't know where your money is going?
- A budget is necessary, but you're not sure how to create a realistic budget without feeling deprived?
- You could be saving more money if you made it a priority?
- Investing is important, but you have no idea how to get started?
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE "MONEY" CHALLENGE WAITLIST!
Got a question? Email me at serena@thriftdiving.com!
EPISODES MENTIONED
- How to Sand Wood Properly with an Orbital Sander - #58
LINKS & RESOURCES
- See the thrifted dresser I found for $60.
- Marie Kondo's The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up(Amazon)
- How to Keep a Clean House (Blog Post)
- The 12 Week Year Book (Amazon)
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printa
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
This past weekend I went to a woodworking show in Baltimore, MD and learned some game-changer sanding and finishing tips from a professional finisher named Bill Bush from Lake Shore Hardwoods. These tips will definitely help you get more professional results!
Pssst!....Want to join my 30-Day DIY "Money Makeover" Challenge? We're starting January 10, 2023! Space is limited to 10 challengers. Sign up if you feel:
- Stressed because you don't know where your money is going?
- A budget is necessary, but you're not sure how to create a realistic budget without feeling deprived?
- You could be saving more money if you made it a priority?
- Investing is important, but you have no idea how to get started?
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE "MONEY" CHALLENGE!
Got a question? Email me at serena@thriftdiving.com!
EPISODES MENTIONED
- How to Sand Wood Properly with an Orbital Sander - #58
LINKS & RESOURCES
- The Woodworking Shows
- Paint scraper I bought - Amazon
- Sanding Mouse Mini
- Stick-on Hand Sanding Pad
- National Hardware Show
- Starrett Jigsaw Blades that I love!
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
I have always loved this time of year, when people reflect on what they achieved (or didn't) and what they will achieve next year. But honestly...a lot of time, it feels like a bummer to realize you didn't actually achieve any of those specific goals. I have decided that instead of beating myself up about what I did or didn't achieve in 2022 (and instead of setting specific goals in 2023), I'm going to try something a little different. Come have a conversation with me to learn what might be a better way to consider how best to make changes in our life in 2023.
Want to join my 30-Day DIY "Money Makeover" Challenge? We're starting January 9, 2023! Sign up if you feel:
- Stressed because you don't know where your money is going?
- A budget is necessary, but you're not sure how to create a realistic budget without feeling deprived?
- You could be saving more money if you made it a priority?
- Investing is important, but you have no idea how to get started?
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE "MONEY" CHALLENGE!
Got a question? Email me at serena@thriftdiving.com!
EPISODES MENTIONED
- Finding Your "Happy" with Rachel Jimenez - #91
LINKS & RESOURCES
- Flow: The Secret to Happiness
- The ONE Thing (Book) by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan - Amazon
- See the silk brocade handbag that I sewed! - Facebook
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable,
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Today's episode is sponsored by GoodwillFinds.com - a new secondhand marketplace where you can find great values on top quality clothing, tools, jewelry, home items and one-of-a-kind gifts online from select Goodwills across the country, all without having to leave home! And, in addition to great values, you can feel great about shopping on the site as all of the net proceeds fund local Goodwill community programs! Go see the cute Elie Tahari designer wool top that I found at GoodwillFinds.com on my Instagram HERE!
In this episode, I'm excited to be teaming up again with Krista Edwards from Ready to Roth to bring you the newest challenge starting on January 9, 2023! We are kicking off the 30-Day DIY "Money Makeover" Challenge!!
Ask yourself the following questions:
Do you ever feel:
- Stressed because you don't know where your money is going?
- A budget is necessary, but you're not sure how to create a realistic budget without feeling deprived?
- You could be saving more money if you made it a priority?
- Investing is important, but you have no idea how to get started?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then the 30-Day DIY "Money Makeover" Challenge is for you!
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CHALLENGE!<<<<<
Got a question? Email me at serena@thriftdiving.com!
PROJECTS & BLOG POSTS MENTIONED
- What Does Home Mean to You? One Woman's Surprising Journey w/Krista Edwards - #85
LINKS & RESOURCES
- Paying Cash Hurts More Than Credit Cards
- Death of Stephen "tWitch" Boss
IF YOU'RE FEELING LIKE HURTING YOURSELF
- Call 988 for the Suicide Prevention Line
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks,
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Today's episode is sponsored by GoodwillFinds.com - a new secondhand marketplace where you can find great values on top quality clothing, tools, jewelry, home items and one-of-a-kind gifts online from select Goodwills across the country, all without having to leave home! And, in addition to great values, you can feel great about shopping on the site as all of the net proceeds fund local Goodwill community programs! Go see the cute Elie Tahari designer wool top that I found at GoodwillFinds.com on my Instagram HERE!
In my opinion, people that have hobbies (especially creative ones!) are the happiest people. We don't need research to tell us that (it's pretty obvious if you're a crafter!), but there was a 2009 study that found that people who had hobbies (for example, hobbies, sports, socializing, or spending time in nature) are more likely to have lower blood pressure, lower levels of cortisol, which is a stress hormone), and lower levels of depression. Individuals who engaged in more frequent enjoyable leisure activities had better psychological and physical functioning.
With those kinds of results, why aren't more people engaging in hobbies? It could due to lack of time, health issues, lack of money, etc. But our physical and mental health are dependent on us engaging in some of these fun activities! And some of the best hobbies don't cost very much to get started, if you're strapped financially. Here are some ideas for hobbies to add to your list in 2023!
Got a question? Email me at serena@thriftdiving.com!
PRODUCTS AND LINKS MENTIONED
- Ravelry.com for knitting (Let's connect there! Look for "thriftdiving")
- Very Pink Knits for knitting help
- Woodcraft woodworking classes
- Canva for scrapbooking
- Duolingo for learning a foreign language
PROJECTS & BLOG POSTS MENTIONED
- Watch my Family Video that I made after learning some videography and filmmaking techniques!
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checkli
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Today's episode is sponsored by GoodwillFinds.com - a new secondhand marketplace where you can find great values on top quality clothing, tools, jewelry, home items and one-of-a-kind gifts online from select Goodwills across the country, all without having to leave home! And, in addition to great values, you can feel great about shopping on the site as all of the net proceeds fund local Goodwill community programs!
Don't go broke during the holidays! In this episode, I'll share with you some money-saving ideas, including gifts you can make, gifts that are memorable and affordable, and other helpful tips.
Got a question? Email me at serena@thriftdiving.com!
EPISODES MENTIONED
- 5 Wasteful and Toxic Effects of Buying "New" - #3
PRODUCTS AND LINKS MENTIONED
- Builder's paper
- Sanding block for pedicures after you soak your feet
- Free coupon templates (on Canva)
PROJECTS & BLOG POSTS MENTIONED
- How to Make a Gift Box Out of Scrapbook Paper
- Throw a Scavenger Hunt
- DIY Foot scrubber
- How to Make a DIY Giant Jenga Game
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- Pi
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Guess what?! Farmhouse decor is outdated. Gray is being replaced by bold colors. And minimalism has been kicked to the curb! While I'm definitely not someone who follows trends, I decided to find out what "the experts" are saying is outdated in 2022 and won't see much of in 2023. Are your favorite decorating trends on this list? (Psst--many of my favorites are on this list!). Let's discuss!
Got a question? Email me at serena@thriftdiving.com!
PROJECTS MENTIONED
- How to Make Wooden DIY Word Art
- Black Accent Wall in Kids Bedroom
PRODUCTS MENTIONED
- Peel and stick wallpaper I just ordered - Garden Party - very pretty!
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Sometimes my DIY projects get a lot of flack and are controversial because I skipped a step, did something unconventional, used a certain product (or simply because some people just love to complain, right??). However, what happened to these 7 most controversial projects once the camera stopped rolling? Were the "naysayers" right that the project would end in failure, or did they turn out, after all? Let's talk about them!
Got a question? Email me at serena@thriftdiving.com!
PROJECTS MENTIONED
- DIY Fire Pit
- Running My Own Wiring in My "Shed Shed"
- Pink Vanity Makeover
- Painted Stairs Makeover
- Spray Painted Welcome Mat
- Painted Shower Stall
- Drywall Installation in My "She Shed"
EPISODES MENTIONED
- Creating a Cozy DIY Fall Fire Pit - #88
- Termites, Bed Bugs, and Carpet Beetles - OH MY! - #9
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
When you're feeling unsettled, down, or restless on the inside, it feels impossible to tap into your creativity to tackle your next DIY project or room makeover. How do we work through these negative feelings to start bringing more positive feelings into our life so that we can start living the creative life we want? In this episode, I talk with Rachel Jimenez from Money Hacking Mama for advice on how to move forward when we seem to be stuck and not feeling our best emotionally, so that we can spend more time doing the things that bring us joy (like being creative and crafty!).
ENROLL IN RACHEL'S COURSES
- Watch Rachel's FREE webinar, How to Be Confident
- Enroll in Rachel's Optimize Your Life Academy online course (save $700 off).
- Learn more about the eBay course that Rachel took.
- Get Rachel's Etsy tips.
EPISODES MENTIONED
- Creating a Cozy Home by Changing Your Thoughts - #90
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
"Cozy" is a buzzword we use to describe everything from warm, soft sweaters...to quaint neighborhoods... to a fresh, new comforter for a bedroom makeover...to holiday lights on a cold winter night. But in the book Cozy: The Art of Arranging Yourself in the World by Isabel Gillies, she redefines what is meant by "cozy." In this episode, I share intimate thoughts about why I have felt very unsettled lately and how I realized how important being "cozy" is for my own mental well-being. If you're feeling unsettled lately, or unmotivated, uninspired, and stressed, sit back and let's talk about how feeling "cozy" is the root of happiness in your home and life.
Get the book on Amazon (affiliate link) - Cozy: The Art of Arranging Yourself in the World by Isabel Gillies
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! ...
Don’t let anyone tell you that they don’t have any DIY fears because they’d be lying to you. The truth is that DIY is wrought with fear because there are so many things that can go wrong. Last time I checked, HGTV magazine doesn’t tell you that part when you see its brightly colored collections of prettiness splashed all over the pages. Everything looks doable. Easy. Affordable.
But what about when you’ve never tackled a project before? What if you’re a total newbie? What if you’ve got a limited amount of money or materials and YOU.CANNOT.MESS.THIS.UP?
So how do you learn not to be scared of DIY? That’s what we’re going to talk about in this episode!
Let’s jump right in!
Read the blog post that goes with this episode!
PROJECTS MENTIONED
- Wingback Chair Makeover Tutorial
- Mid-Century Modern Dresser Makeover
- Laundry Room Makeover
- How to Use a Jigsaw
- Building My Own Bathroom Vanity
- Building My Own Custom Walk-in Closet Organizer
RESOURCES
- Take online classes with Craftsy.com
- Woodpeckers measuring tools
MATERIALS MENTIONED (may contain affiliate links)
- Dewaxed shellac
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! ...
Fall is here! I don't know about you, but I don't use my outdoor space much. Fall is a great time to get out to your yard, though. The bugs are disappearing, the temperatures are cooling, but aren't freezing yet. And it's a cozy time to sit around an outdoor fire with friends and family! Why not build your own cozy DIY fall fire pit? Here are some tips for creating your own.
Check out the blog post on how to build you cozy fall fire pit with a walkway:
https://thriftdiving.com/build-diy-fire-pit/
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! ...
Have you wondered whether you should paint a piece of wood furniture? We all have that questionable piece of furniture that we think we would like to paint, but we're not sure if it will be ruined or not. Here are my guidelines for when to paint furniture and when you should step away from the paint brush! Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
EPISODES MENTIONED
- What's the Best Paint for Furniture? - #73
PROJECTS MENTIONED
- BEFORE & AFTER: Sewing Cabinet Makeover
- When Should You Not Paint Wood Furniture?
- Drafting Table Makeover
- I Built My Bathroom Vanity with Red Oak
- How to Dye Wood and Use Liming Wax on Red Oak
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the showClick to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! ...
I can’t start this episode without acknowledging the people who recently lost their homes or have damage to their home from Hurricane Ian in FL or the Carolinas. Right now there are people who are lamenting about their home, when there are other people who don’t even have a home, due to a recent loss because of that Hurricane, or for any other matter, even financial. So I do understand that this conversation is all relative. And I hope that anyone who has lost their home or who is dealing with a serious issues related to their home, finds the help they need.
This conversation is related to those who are struggling to love their home; they might even hate their home.
Keep listening to hear more about my 90-day challenge, called the "Love Your Home Challenge"! Together, you and I are going to declutter and find ways to bring more joy into our homes so that we can fall in love with our homes again!
PROJECTS MENTIONED
- Drafting Table Makeover
- My Thrifted China Cabinet Makeover
- My Dining Table FAIL
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving**.
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS?** I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Imagine that you decided you were going to put all of your possessions into storage (and I do mean ALL of them), except for ONE outfit….maybe a sleeping bag, a tent, a bit of food….And that literally everything that you’d use for the next 5 months, you had to carry on your back for 12 hours a day.
Krista Edwards (founder of Ready to Roth blog and podcast), did that very thing: she left her job, home, and possessions to hike the Pacific Crest Trail for just over 5 months, recently returning, and had some surprising revelations about what "home" really meant to her. Her change of perspective even affected what she decided to spend money upon her return.
In Episode #85 we dig into how difficult or easy it can be to give it all up and what "home" means when you finally return. Krista and I also talk about the importance of getting started with investing in a Roth IRA to build tax-free income for yourself and your kids.
MENTIONED
Open a Fidelity Roth IRA account HERE.
Click to send me an email to share your thoughts with me on this episode! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving.Find Krista on Instagram. WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Don't you love repurposing things for your DIY projects, too?? It's been a while since I've been able to repurpose something because I've been so busy working on getting my "she shed" completely! I wanted to talk about some of my favorite repurposing ideas so I can inspire you (and myself!) to incorporate some fun ideas into your next project! What are your favorite things to repurpose? Have you ever repurposed something cool and unexpected? Click to send me an email to share your own repurposing pics with me! Connect with me on Instagram @ThriftDiving **to share your repurpose project!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS?** I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
PROJECTS MENTIONED
- Repurposed Fish Bowl
- DIY Ghosts for Your Front Porch (Using Tomato Cages)
- Changing Table Repurposed Into Desk
- Toddler Bed Gardening Bench
- Turn a Dresser Drawer Cavity into a Book Shelf
- Repurpose Cabinet Doors
- Add Legs to a Drawer to Make a Table
- Repurposed Wire Basket
- Leather Belts Repurposed
TOOLS MENTIONED (affiliate links)
- xTool Engraver
- Dremel Rotary Tool
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
This week I spent time at the FinCon 2022 financial blogging conference in Orlando, Florida and walked away understanding more about what Thrift Diving does well and what I would do differently if I were starting a blog and YouTube channel from scratch. I walked away from FinCon feeling motivated, inspired, and energized, ready to tackle the more valuable projects that I have been shying away from, as well! In this episode, I'm sharing with you 3 things I would change if I were starting from the beginning and the things I wouldn't dare change. Let's chat about it!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com. Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving **to share your story!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS?** I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
LINKS MENTIONED
- FinCon Conference for financial niche content creators.
- Yanely Ispinal - MissBeHelpful.com - FinCon speaker on "Me, We, and Legacy Partnerships
EPISODES MENTIONED
- How Bloggers Make Money - #19
- How to Start a Blog in Just 1 Day or Less - #31
- How to Embrace Your Authentic Self - #82
- I've Been Using Toxic Chemical Stripper! - #49
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
How do we move forward with our DIY projects, decorating our house (or even the choices we make with our appearance!) without worrying how it's perceived by others? In today's episode, you're going to talk about the poignant experiences that happened this week to me and how I came to the realization that we must embrace our authentic self, no matter whether its the decisions we make when decorating our house or how we move about in the world.
Have you ever felt the need to explain away or make excuses for your decisions, whether it was the way you decorated your home...the way you dressed or styled yourself...or any of the decisions that you've made? What happened? I want to hear all about it! Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com. Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to share your story!
PROJECTS MENTIONED
- BEFORE & AFTER: French Provincial Vanity Makeover
- How to Make DIY Roller Shades
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
If you've tried to do a DIY project or home improvement project, you probably have noticed the massive delays with sourcing materials, tools, and products (or even being able to find a contractor to do the work)! Today we're talking about some tips on navigating these massive delays in DIY and home improvement projects post-COVID.
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
This week I pulled out spray paint for a metal file cabinet makeover I'm refinishing and I was experiencing some runs in the paint. It reminded me that working with spray paint has a set of tips and tricks for getting better results so that you get a smooth surface, less runs, and better adhesion. In this episode, I'll share with you why I don't prefer to use spray paint, but when I do use it, what I do for better results. Let's jump into it!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
PRODUCTS MENTIONED (includes affiliate links):
- Spray shelter tent
- Comfort grip
- Lazy susan turntable 6"
- Wooden pine for lazy susan
PROJECTS MENTIONED
- How to Make a Lazy Susan (example)
- How to Spray Paint Furniture Outside (YouTube)
- Mailbox Makeover (YouTube)
EPISODES MENTIONED
- What's the Best Paint for Furniture? (podcast)
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
I have a confession: I have been very unmotivated lately to do many DIY projects. But the lack of motivation has extended to other personal projects, as well. The reason is because I have so many things I want to get done, but I don't know which one to focus on at any given time, that it ends up creating a lot of anxiety and stress, resulting in me doing nothing. Does this happen to you, too? Well, I may have found a great way this week to get unstuck and to move all your projects forward. In this episode, I'll share with you what I have tried this week to get myself unstuck. You'll find this helpful if you're experiencing this same lack of motivation and direction. Let's dig in!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
BOOKS MENTIONED ( affiliate links):
- Getting Things Done: The Art of Stree-free Productivity by David Allen
- Do Nothing: How to Break Away from Overworking, Overdoing, and Underliving by Celeste Headlee
EPISODES MENTIONED
- How to Plan Out Your DIY Projects from Start to Finish - #68
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Disappointment is a part of life, but it doesn't make it any easier to deal with, especially when it comes to things you were hoping would turn out (yes, this includes DIY projects!). So how then do we deal with disappointment so that we aren't discouraged or lose our confidence? How do we manage our expectations so that we're realistic and practical instead of non-sensible? This week I experienced my own major disappointment and had to find a way to recover and learn from it. Let's chat about it!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
PROJECTS MENTIONED
- DIY Shade Canopy
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Recipe of the Day
Awarded Top 10 Cooking Podcast by Popsugar! Listen to have your dinner decisions solved.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
It's been 8 months since we made our 2022 goals together in Episode #43. Where are you with those goals? You either haven't started, are making progress, or have completed a goal. In this episode I'll share with you where I am with my 2022 goals, and together we can make a plan for what we need to do going forward to make sure we hit our targets!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
EPISODES & PROJECTS MENTIONED:
- Let's Make Our 2022 Goals Together - #43 (Podcast)
- DIY Canopy with Mosquito Netting - (Blog post)
BOOKS MENTIONED:
- The One Thing by Gary Keller
- Goals! How to Get Everything You Want Faster Than You Ever Thought Possible - Brian Tracy
- Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
- Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
- Finding Me by Voila Davis
- Three Women by Lisa Taddeo
- Summer People by Elin Hilderbrand
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
This week I'm fielding questions from readers Gretchen, Elizabeth, and Sveltana, who wanted to know how to stop bleed-through on an old Hoosier cabinet, which paint and topcoat to use for bedside tables in her 5-year-old's room, and what are the "must have" tools for DIY projects for basic home improvements? Listen to my answers in this episode!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
EPISODES & PROJECTS MENTIONED:
- Ombre Mid-Century Modern Dresser (that was bleeding through)
- Which Furniture Paint to Use? - #75 (Podcast)
- Which Furniture Paint to Use? (Blog post)
TOOLS MENTIONED:
- Power Tools 101: What to Buy and How to Use Them
RESOURCES:
- Polycrylic vs. Polyurethane (Bob Villa)
- How to Use a Jigsaw (YouTube)
- How to Use a Circular Saw (YouTube)
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
I'll be honest with you: I used to not pay attention to my local elected officials. I didn't realize how they affected everything from the amount of property taxes I paid, to how I can use my land and property due to zoning laws, to creating affordable housing, to how parks and forests, etc., are protected and used.
But lately, because of Primaries taking place in Maryland right now, I have been researching to death all of the candidates and what they stand for. I'll share with you why this matters so much to not just homeowners, but renters, too.
I'll also share with you a scary shooting that happened outside of a grocery store near my home (I was yards away from the shooting!) and how I learned of what my local county council is doing to address gun control.
After listening to this podcast, I challenge YOU to find out how your county council is addressing local issues related to your home, neighborhood, and safety! Be involved and make sure your voice is heard.
Click here to see when your own state primaries are taking place this year!
*Maryland, Montgomery County, Prince George's County, and Washington, DC Voters* Download the Black Voters Guide for where candidates stand on issues that affect Black and brown voters.
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
How do you teach the next generation of kids, grandkids, nieces, and nephews the DIY skills, life skills, home improvement, home maintenance, etc. that they need? I've started something this summer with my three sons (ages 16, 12, and 10) called the Summer Life Skills Camp, where I'm teaching them all the important things I want them to learn: how to use tools, how to understand a paystub, how to properly vacuum the house, how to write a courteous email, how to read a tape measure, and more. While they can't learn everything in just one summer, this checklist gives me a structured list to use to begin teaching my kids some of the most important life skills they'll need, even if we only cover a fraction of the list this summer! What essential skills are you teaching your kids? Let's chat about it!
Download my Summer 2022 Life Skills Camp checklist HERE! (Make a copy of it for your own Google Doc in order to edit it).
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
I'll tell you the secret: there IS no "one" best paint for furniture. There are only brands you've tried that has features you love and don't love, depending on the project you're working on. So don't get caught up in making sure you only use one particular brand that is deemed "the best." Find what you like based on genuine recommendations, try samples, and see what works best for YOU! Here's what I have tried and like, or what was highly recommended to me.
Read the blog post for this episode, and find links to products discussed HERE.
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Episodes & Posts Mentioned
- How to Properly Prep Furniture Before Painting - #52
- Is Furniture Painting Dead? (See how I met Amy Howard)
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
In this episode, I was able to pick the brain of a professional furniture refinisher with over 24 years of experience! I asked him questions about his process from start to finish on how to safely and properly refinish wood furniture. Gary LeClerc from StripWell shared so many great tips and tricks for getting the best results, including products he uses in his refinishing shop, what to do and what NOT to do when stripping furniture, and more.
Read the blog post for this episode, and find links to Gary's product recommendations over in the blog post HERE.
Find Gary and QCS at StripWell and on YouTube.
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Episodes Mentioned
- I've Been Using Toxic Paint Stripper for Years!
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Gary LeClerc knows is a passionate artisan and skilled craftsman. He grew up watching and learning from his father who taught him from a very early age what makes a great piece of furniture and how to renew it back to a beautiful and functional state of being. Gary's reputation spread throughout the Northeast as he became known for his ultra-creative and collaborative spirit which would consistently yield showroom quality Mid Century Modern and Scandinavian furniture for his clients.
In 2021, Gary launched his new company, Stripwell, and released Stripwell's flagship product QCS Vintage Finish Remover after several intense months of development and testing. QCS stands for Quick, Clean and Safe and it offers refinishers and restorers at any skill level a safe and effective alternative to dangerous stripping chemicals that they would normally use for their projects.
Gary hopes to use his nearly 24 years of furniture refinishing and restoration experience to help others and that begins with QCS and making the stripping process a step that no longer has to be scary or intimidating.
Follow Stripwell on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.
Support the show
Getting started with learning to sew doesn't have to be expensive or difficult! I've been sewing for 22 years now after I was inspired one day back in 2000 after eavesdropping on coworkers' conversation. Years later, I have sewn so many things for myself and for my home! You might think it's hard to get started, or expensive, but it's actually not very expensive to add "sewing" to your list of hobbies so you can sew pillows and do reupholstery projects with ease. Here is how and why you should get started with learning to sew!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Learn to Sew
- Creative Bug (online sewing classes)
- Craftsy (online sewing classes)
Projects Mentioned
- Velvet Chairs Reupholstered
- Garage Door Screen
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
After being COVID-free for two years, it finally sunk it's claws into me this week! I apologize in advance for a horribly scratchy voice, but I couldn't NOT publish to share with you how I'm doing! Thankfully, I'm recovering! Here's a quick update!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Imagine the horror of spending $50....$75....even $200 on a DIY project and it doesn't turn out. It's emotional and financially painful when that happens and it literally happened to me this week as I worked on building a shade canopy with mosquito netting for my patio. Despite planning, part of the project was a complete bust and I wasn't sure how to turn it around or how much more money it was going to cost me. These things happen sometimes, but they're not reasons to beat yourself up. Rather, they're great lessons on what NOT to do next time! Have a listen to hear why my project didn't turn out as expected!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Episodes & Projects Mentioned
- How to Plan Out Your DIY Projects From Start to Finish - #68
- How to Make a DIY Garage Door Screen
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
I struggle with getting started with DIY projects, too. But then I realized that there is actually a process that I use to complete a DIY project from start to finish. You might be surprised to learn that a lot of that process boils down to either research or planning or sketching out what I plan to do before I even touch the tools and materials! Let's talk about how to go from start to finish on getting projects done. Do you struggle with getting your DIY projects done? Let's chat about it!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Episodes Mentioned
- Termites, Carpet Beetles, Bed Bugs--OH MY! - #9
- Do You Struggle to Get Started on Projects, Too? - #30
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Smart Passive Income Podcast
Weekly interviews, strategy, and advice for building your online business the smart way.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
This week I discovered a bean weevil bug infestation in my pantry--GASP!--thanks to a bad batch of beans given to us. Unfortunately, I didn't discover the bugs until they took over my pantry! In this episode, I'm talking about bug infestation prevention and clean-up! How do YOU prevent bug infestations? Have you ever discovered an insect infestation in your home? What happened and how did you get rid of it? Let's chat about it!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Bean Weevils Pests
- Video of what a bean weevil looks like.
Episodes Mentioned
- Termites, Carpet Beetles, Bed Bugs--OH MY! - #9
Products Mentioned
- Diatomaceous Earth (food grade)
- Oxo food storage containers
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
Spring is here and summer is on the way! In this episode, I'm walking you through how to easily make a "Truth or Dare" giant Jenga game set, which can be played indoors or outdoors! Grab your 2'x4' pieces of wood, a jigsaw, vinyl, Cricut machine, and some fun "truth" questions and "dares"! I'll share with you how to add a little twist to a conventional Jenga game. :)
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Blog post and YouTube tutorial: COMING SOON!
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- Blog
- YouTube
- TikTok
Support the show
It doesn't matter if you're a renter or a homeowner: water leaks can cause damage to your personal property and your home! Sometimes we overlook the severity of water leaks for several reasons, but they're too important not to address. In this episode, we're going to talk about why people ignore water leaks, where they come from, and how to prevent or minimize damage from water leaks.
Listen to Episode #15: MOLD! Is Your Home Making You Sick?
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Products Mentioned:
- Leak Bugs
- Honeywell Lyric (and related products)
Articles Referenced:
https://ipropertymanagement.com/research/water-damage-statistics
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show
I had a thought this week, "It would suck to get old and not be able to DIY anymore." It got me thinking about why home and garden companies don't market very much to Gen X'ers and Baby Boomers (especially women!), when the groups are more likely to have the time and income to afford to buy the tools and materials needed for DIY and home improvement projects. If we're not being marketed to, does that also mean that we're not in mind when they design these tools and products? As we age, if we have more physical limitations, will there be tools and products that can accommodate our arthritic hands, bad eyes, and achy knees and back? In this episode, I'll also share some of my favorite tools and products that are easier to use if you have any of those physical limitations!
Read the blog post: 10 Pain Free Tools for the DIY Baby Boomer.
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Articles Referenced:
https://bobcutmag.com/2022/03/26/home-depots-target-market-demographics/
https://querysprout.com/home-depot-target-market-demographics/
https://nypost.com/2019/06/06/millennial-dads-have-pathetic-diy-skills-compared-to-baby-boomers/
https://www.businessinsider.com/typical-home-depot-shopper-demographic-middle-aged-white-man-2021-8
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
What happens when you hire a professional to do a job for you and they--GASP!--make a mistake?? Well, professionals are human, too, and they make mistakes, just as a novice DIYer can make a mistake. But there are some things you should do and should not do once a professional you hired has made a mistake. Here's now not to freak out.
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Links Mentioned:
- Watch my entire "she shed" series on my YouTube channel HERE.
- See how I installed my own electrical wiring.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Got any money-saving gardening tips? In this episode, I'm sharing a few tips on gardening (things I've learned along the way during my few short years of gardening), including talking about how much money I've spent building a garden in the front of my "she shed." (HINT: It hasn't been cheap!).
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Links Mentioned:
- Join the Troy-Bilt #YardGames Challenge! Sign up here to win prices for doing yard work! Enter your name and email to participate.
- Plant I mentioned: Creeping Phlox
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
While most of us aren't true hoarders with a legit mental illness, many of us have "hoarding tendencies." And it's usually one of these 5 excuses that we tell ourselves to give ourselves permission to hold on to things we no longer really need. Here's your homework this week: Listen to this episode and then get rid of THREE things that you've been holding on to because you have been making excuses for holding on to it. Snap a picture of what you're getting rid of and email me to share your success!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
I have so much respect for contractors, but in every group, there are bad actors. How do you ensure that you aren't ripped off? Let's talk about how to make good choices in who we hire for repairs and home improvements, and what we can do to protect ourselves!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Water leaks were the highlight of my week, thanks to a busted pipe in the kitchen, along with leaking in my "she shed," including a fridge in my kitchen that needed a little TLC, too. In all that stress, I questioned whether it's worth to pay for a home warranty or not. Do you have a home warranty that covers your appliances, or do you choose to pay for every repair or appliance repair/replacement out of pocket? Here are my thoughts on home warranties, including more details about what happened this week in my home with water leaks and broken appliances!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
If you love refinishing old furniture like I do, I can guarantee that you'll need to sand down a piece of wood furniture to strip it before re-staining it. You'll need an orbital sander, but you'll also need a variety of grits of sandpaper so that you sand it down properly to accept new stain or a topcoat, without all the scratches left in the wood. Let's talk about how to do right so you get the best results on your refinished furniture!
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
PROJECTS & TOOLS MENTIONED:
- How to Sand Wood with an Orbital Sander - WATCH THE VIDEO
- RYOBI Orbital Sander (tool only) - Be sure to buy batteries!
- Fiddes & Sons wax (Amazon)
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
When we moved into our old 1973's home back in 2010, I quickly realized that I didn't love our "new" purchased home. It needed upgrades, repairs, and it was dark and dreary. Over the years, I poured time and lots of DIY hours into improving and decorating it on a budget. While it has improved a lot, I still have my moments where the clutter, disorganization, and lack of "flow" in the decor. And I realized that I am still quite embarrassed of my home sometimes. Do you ever feel embarrassed by your home, too? Let's chat about why we need to be thankful for what we've got, instead of feeling embarrassed.
Click to send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
PROJECTS MENTIONED:
- Termites, Bed Bugs, Carpet Beetles, Oh My! - #9
- My Dining Room Makeover
- Gorgeous Purple Velvet Chair Makeovers
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Have you ever hired professional contractors and have been afraid to speak up and ask questions, especially when you didn't understand how or why they were doing what they were doing? If so, you're not alone. Speaking up and asking questions when you think someone knows more than you isn't easy. But it's important that, from here on out, we start speaking up and speaking out.
Send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
PROJECTS MENTIONED:
- See my drywall installation here on YouTube!
- "She Shed" concrete pad installation.
- "She Shed" day of construction shed build and gap mentioned.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
This has been an insane week, from finding a mouse in my bathroom (EEK!), to finally getting drywall installed! Here's what's been going on this week! (Click here to see the drywall installation!)
Send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
When asked what their biggest challenge is when it comes to using power tools, most people will answer using terms like "fear" and "scared." While it's true that each tools have their own nuances to how to use them, there are some common safety tips that are true for ANY tool you'll ever pick up. In Episode #54, we're going to go through each of the 12 tips for how to safely use any power tool, which will help you feel more confident that you won't lose an eye, finger, or limb!
Read the blog post: https://thriftdiving.com/power-tool-safety/
Send me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
If you're always feeling like you have to do something with perfection, whether it's a DIY project, losing weight, working out, etc., then this episode is for you. This week I realized an important lesson about what matters most when it comes to being successful in life (psst!....it's not at all about perfection!).
Have you been struggling with letting go of perfection? Share your thoughts about this episode by sending me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
PROJECTS MENTIONED:
- Facebook Reel: See how difficult it is to install insulation yourself in the ceiling.
- Facebook Reel: Watch how I am adding insulation in the ceiling!
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Painting furniture isn't tough once you've got a little experience under your belt. But if you're a newbie, getting started can be overwhelming because you're not sure how to prep your furniture for painting! In this podcast (and blog post), I'm digging into how I typically prep my furniture pieces for painting. After listening to this episode and reading the blog post, you'll be more comfortable tackling the prep work for painting furniture!
READ THE BLOG POST: https://thriftdiving.com/prep-furniture-before-painting/
Share your thoughts about this episode by sending me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
PRODUCTS MENTIONED - Find the products in the blog post!
PROJECTS MENTIONED:
- BEFORE & AFTER: Closet Organizer I Built From Scratch
- Facebook Reel: See how I added 2" soffit vents to my she-shed!
- Facebook Reel: Watch how I am adding insulation in the ceiling!
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
This week was a terrible week for DIY: I hit a snag in a project and literally felt helpless as to how to move forward. It was a very lonely feeling that made me feel lost, frustrated, and anxious. It made me wonder if YOU have ever felt like this, too? Hear about what happen and what I think the solution is to this problem.
READ THE BLOG POST: Coming Soon!
Share your thoughts about this episode by sending me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
PROJECTS MENTIONED:
- Watch this week's video about these ventilation issues: https://youtu.be/1RI1Pgn8Xzk
- How to Fix Big Holes in Your Drywall
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
When working with power tools and wood, the number one most important thing is to get a straight cut. (Of course, the next most important thing is that your cut is actually cut to the proper length!). Without a straight cut, you're spending more time, more money replacing materials you screwed up, and overall, simply getting frustrated that it's not working out well for you. That is not going to inspire you to keep going in your woodworking journey!
You might be someone with a little experience with power tools, such as a jigsaw and a circular saw, or you might be a complete newbie. I think this post will have some solutions for both of you, regardless of your level of experience.
READ THE BLOG POST: https://thriftdiving.com/straight-cut-jigsaw-circular-saw/
Share your thoughts about this episode by sending me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Have you ever used toxic paint stripper or learned the truth about a product that wasn't quite what you thought? Listen to hear how I discovered that my favorite paint stripper gel is actually quite toxic (and I had no idea!)
Share your thoughts about this episode by sending me an email or send the email to serena@thriftdiving.com.
Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
PROJECTS & EPISODES MENTIONED
- Read the blog post that goes with this podcast episode for all the links discussed.
- How Bloggers Make Money - Episode #19
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Recently I shared some details on Facebook Reels about my electrical wiring project in my "she shed," only to be trolled by electricians and wanna-be electricians telling me that I did it all wrong, violated code, and am going to burn my shed down. Here how it went down and what I learned from this experience.
Have you ever been trolled or bullied online? Share your own story with me by sending me an email.
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
PROJECTS & EPISODES MENTIONED
- PART 1 - See how I ran my own electrical wiring in my shed - (YouTube)
- PART 2 - See how I ran my own electrical wiring in my shed - (YouTube)
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
In this episode, we're going to explore all these questions and I'll share with you my own answers and insight for 2021 and beyond! :)
- What was my biggest achievement this year?
- What were my biggest weaknesses?
- What lessons did I learn this year?
- What skills did I learn/acquire?
- What skills would I like to learn next year?
Let's jump into this discussion! Share your own answers with me by sending me an email and telling me what YOU achieved this year!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
PROJECTS & EPISODES MENTIONED
- See how I ran my own electrical wiring in my shed (YouTube)
- I built my own walk-in closet.
- Episode #2: How to Start Finishing, with Charles Gilkey
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
I've learned a few things along the way when it comes to finding good deals at thrift stores! There are a few things you can do to make sure you're always saving money and buying quality stuff, and not wasting money on buying things that collect dust or that you don't really need!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
PROJECT MENTIONS
- My $60 Thrifted Dresser
- My $12 Dining Room Table
- See the sewing desk I lost at the thrift store!
- Hubby's Office Makeover (with thrifted file cabinet deal!)
- My Favorite Stencil for Furniture! (affiliate link)
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
The only thing worth giving and getting, in my opinion, are tools for the holidays! Here are 10 ideas of tools that you can either buy yourself or start dropping heavy hints that you want these things! ;)
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
TOOLS MENTIONED (contains affiliate links)
- RIDGID Job Max
- Milwaukee 4-in-1 interchangeable heads
- Track saws - Makita track saw and Kreg Adaptive cutting saw with track
- Kreg Portable Workbench
- Dremel Cordless Rotary Tool
- RYOBI Inflator/Deflator
- Bosch BLAZE laser leveler
- RYOBI Trim Router
- Leaf vacuum
- Ariat jeans with tons of pockets!
PROJECT MENTIONS
- How to Build a Walk-in Closet Makeover
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Imagine spending a weekend….or even months!….building a project or stripping and sanding a piece of furniture down to the bare wood….only to ruin the piece with the finish. Gah!
You didn’t get the results you were looking for….or maybe it started peeling or cracking….or maybe the color is all wrong and now you can’t figure out how to fix it. Then you end up having to sand or strip it back to bare wood.
It can be tricky to know what to do and how to achieve the look you’re going for. Here are a few important lessons and tips I’ve learned along the way!
Click here to read this podcast in blog post form!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
MENTIONS (contains affiliate links)
- Homestead TransFast Wood Dyes
- General Finishes High Performance Water-based Top Coat
- Spar Varnish
- Amy Howard Lacquer
- Sanding Sealer
- Briwax Liming Wax
- The New Wood Finishing Book
PROJECT MENTIONS
- How to Build a 60" Custom Master Bathroom Vanity
- How to Build a Walk-in Closet Makeover
- How to Dye Wood and Using Liming Wax
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
The new year is right around the corner and now is a great time to think about all the parts of your life that deserve your attention for 2022: Home, Money, Career, Self(Care), Marriage, Family, Health, Passion. In this episode, I'm sharing with you my 2022 goals in all these areas of life, and will hopefully inspire you to start thinking about what you'd like to achieve and focus on for next year! Let's plan our 2022 year together!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
MENTIONS (contains affiliate links)
- HD Piano
- Robinhood for investing
- Stockpile (for investing)
- Atomic Habits (recommended reading to prepare for 2022 goals!)
PROJECT MENTIONS
- Wheel of Life (blog post)
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
(PART 2 of 2) - Imagine you’re painting wood furniture: an amazing, gorgeous dresser that belonged to your grandmother….and only minutes after painting it a beautiful soft white paint, it starts to turn yellow. Or you’re about to finish painting your oak dining room chairs and realize that you have messy paint drips down the backs (and even worse–they paint has already dried!)
Painting wood furniture results in mistakes like these all the time. It’s happened to the best of us. Your goal is to replicate the the silky “brush-stroke free” surfaces you see splashed on the pages of HGTV magazine. But your painted furniture pieces always have streaks and paint drips; it looks like your 5-year-old grandson painted it. What gives?!
In this podcast (PART 2) I’m going to walk you through the other 5 mistakes from the total 10 common furniture painting mistakes you’re likely to encounter when painting wood furniture (and how to fix and prevent them!). Be sure to listen to PART 1 in Episode #41!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
MENTIONS (contains affiliate links)
- Polycrylic
- General Finishes High Performance Water-based Top Coat (my favorite!)
- Beyond Paint
- Mineral Fusion paint
- Annie Sloan Chalk Paint
- Black Dog Salvage
- Spray Shelter
PROJECT MENTIONS
- 10 Furniture Painting Mistakes and How to Prevent and Fix Them (Read the blogpost)
- 10 Furniture Painting Mistakes and How to Prevent and Fix Them (Watch the YouTube)
- Vanity Makeover
- 1980's Desk
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
(PART 1 of 2) - Imagine you’re painting wood furniture: an amazing, gorgeous dresser that belonged to your grandmother….and only minutes after painting it a beautiful soft white paint, it starts to turn yellow. Or you’re about to finish painting your oak dining room chairs and realize that you have messy paint drips down the backs (and even worse–they paint has already dried!)
Painting wood furniture results in mistakes like these all the time. It’s happened to the best of us. Your goal is to replicate the the silky “brush-stroke free” surfaces you see splashed on the pages of HGTV magazine. But your painted furniture pieces always have streaks and paint drips; it looks like your 5-year-old grandson painted it. What gives?!
Well, in this podcast (PART 1) I’m going to walk you through 5 of the 10 mistakes you’re likely to encounter when painting wood furniture (and how to fix and prevent them!). In the next podcast, we'll cover the remaining 6-10 common mistakes and how to fix and prevent them!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
MENTIONS
- The Story of Thrift Diving - Episode #1
- Read of blog post: 10 Furniture Painting Mistakes and How to Prevent and Fix Them
- Join my Challengers Facebook group to join the 90 Days to Neat Challenge!
- Join the waitlist! - Power Tools 101 Course
- My favorite brands of furniture paint
- How to Strip Furniture
PROJECT MENTIONS
- BEFORE & AFTER: Office Makeover
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Cleaning up a room is the easy part. Keeping the room clean feels nearly impossible, doesn't it?? But it's not impossible. In fact, over two years ago I discovered the most important question you should ask yourself in order to keep a room clean. I asked myself this question and since that time, my kitchen has remained cleaned. It's not rocket science. I'll share with you the secret in this episode so that you can start asking the question when tackling your rooms!
Be sure to join the 90 Days to Neat Challenge which just started on Monday, November 1, 2021! You've still go time to join!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
MENTIONS
- Join my Challengers Facebook group to join the 90 Days to Neat Challenge!
- The One Thing - Book that I absolutely love to get extraordinary results! (Affiliate link)
- Do THIS to Keep a Clean House - Read the blog post
- See my laundry room!
- My favorite Steam Machine for cleaning - Amazon affiliate link
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
This week I heard some friends on Facebook talking about how hard it was to get rid of sentimental clutter. It sparked a thought that this is something we should definitely be talking about as we're about to begin the 90 Days to Neat Challenge, which I introduced in Episode 38.
Have you ever thought about the advice that gurus give, telling you that you should "get rid" of things that are considered sentimental "clutter"? The word "clutter" itself is negative, making you feel bad about what you've collected over the years--things that are an extension of your life, your experiences, and your memories.
Is getting rid of it the best advice? Should we still be calling it "clutter"? Let's talk about it, along with some tips for what to do with our sentimental things!
Be sure to join the 90 Days to Neat Challenge which kicks off on Monday, November 1, 2021!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
MENTIONS
- Join my Challengers Facebook group to join the 90 Days to Neat Challenge!
- Learn more about the 90 Days to Neat Challenge in Episode #38
- Google Photos - for Cloud storage of photos
- IceDrive.net - Cloud storage for photos
- PCloud
- Apartment Therapy article
- Joyful Surroundings article
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Are you tired of your house being cluttered, too, and you just want a neat and tidy home?? Earlier this week, during my frustration with pockets of clutter around my home, I came up with a great idea for a challenge: the "90 Days to Neat" Challenge! If you're someone who keeps saying "I wish I had time to declutter this whole house," then this challenge is for you! In this episode, I'll share with you the 4 steps you need to do to come up with your own "declutter schedule" so that you can join in the challenge, which kicks off on Monday, November 1st!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
MENTIONS
- The Story of Thrift Diving - Episode #1
- Join my Challengers Facebook group!
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
I don't consider myself a decorator, but after living in an older 1973 home for nearly 11 years--a home that needed lots of fixing up and updating--I've done my share of room makeovers and have learned some things along the way about how to save money, how to get started, what you should consider while tackling the room, and more. Room makeovers can be frustrating and challenging, as they can still be for me. However, with these tips, it might make each room makeover a bit more fun, inexpensive, and unique. In Episode 37, I'll share these tips with you!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
MENTIONS
- The Story of Thrift Diving - Episode #1
- BB Frosch - Use this to make your own DIY chalked paint (affiliate link)
- BEFORE & AFTER: Kids Bedroom Makeover
- My husband's green desk
- Download the Capital One Shopping extension for Chrome
- How Bloggers Make Money - Episode #19
- Community Forklift - Great salvage spot in Edmonston, MD
- BEFORE & AFTER: My Half Bathroom Makeover (with DIY chalk painted vanity)
- How to Frame Fabric for Your Walls
- BEFORE & AFTER: My Oldest Son's Blue Accent Wall Room Makeover
- How Much Did My Shed Cost? Plus -- updates on wiring my shed for electric
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
If you've gotten a quote from a professional recently to do a project for you, or if you're considering doing it yourself, I've got 5 additional tips for you to consider before making your decision! In Episode 32, Should You DIY or Hire a Professional?, we covered when those times are that you might want to tackle a project yourself versus hiring a profession. But this week I've been struggling with this very question and had some eye-opening things happen that made me realize there were some additional tips you must know before making the decision to DIY or hire a professional!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
MENTIONS
- Should You DIY or Hire a Contractor? - #32
- Serena looking like a boy in 6th grade!
- Watch my shed being built on YouTube!
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
I've been planning for a 16' x 26' "she shed" in my backyard for 6 months. Finally, yesterday it was delivered and installed! This process of ordering a "she shed" has opened my eyes to things I didn't even consider before jumping into this process. In Episode #13, I shared with you 10 questions you must ask before buying a "she shed" for your backyard. Now that I'm in the thick of my own shed purchase and installation, there are 5 more important questions you must ask before you take the plunge. I'll also share with you how the installation went! Want to see the entire BEFORE & AFTER of the shed?? Watch it here on YouTube!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I've created an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
MENTIONS
- Take my survey to let me know what kinds of projects YOU want to see more of in 2022!
- How to Install Vinyl Plank Flooring
PRODUCTS MENTIONED (contains affiliate links)
- My favorite vinyl plank flooring at The Home Depot
- My favorite Lockley front door fingerprint lock.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Have you ever become defensive or felt you had to explain to your friends and family why you spent money on something for your home? Have you ever thought about what's most important to you about your home? Does your home really represent your core values?
In today's episode, I'm sharing with you my top 6 core values about "home" and why I feel you should never have to feel guilty or defensive about the choices you've made for your home.
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I've created an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
MENTIONS
- BEFORE & AFTER: Drafting Table Makeover
- BEFORE & AFTER: Vintage Chair Makeover from the Nursing Home
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Just recently I hit 400K subscribers on YouTube and to highlight this accomplishment, I asked my YouTube subscribers, "What's ONE thing you have always wanted to know, either DIY or personal?"
And the questions started coming in (be sure to click on the Chapters to jump around to get to each Q&A!
- What's an easy first project I can do with a nail gun?
- Do you ever suffer from burnout and want to quit blogging and YouTube?
- What part of a project do you least enjoy?
- How does your husband and kids feel to have an internet star in the house?
- Who showed you how to use your first power tool?
- Is there a room makeover that you aren't happy with? Which one is your favorite so far?
- Did your first project go as planned?
- Did your husband and family support your dream to become a thrift diver?
- What lessons did you learn the hard way?
- Will you do any collaboration videos with other DIYers?
- How did you plan and set up your workshop?
- What do you do with your kids for fun?
Today in this episode you are going to hear the answer to all of these questions and more!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I've created an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
MENTIONS
- Read the blog post that goes with this episode to see all the pictures and links.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
As much as I know we love to DIY everything, there are certain times when you should not DIY something yourself. Let's jump into the discussion with my points about when you might just want to pay a professional and the benefits of hiring out.
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I've created an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
MENTIONS
- Watch my concrete pad being installed for my "she shed"!
- Walk-in closet makeover
- Painting Your Shutters - Outdoor Refresh (where I hired someone to remove the shutters)
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Most people think it's difficult to start a blog, but it's an easy process that can literally be done in just 1 day or less! The difficult part is growing a blog to be a thriving collection of your projects and posts. However, getting a blog up and running is the easy part. I'll walk you through a very high-level overview on how it's done!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I've created an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
MENTIONS
- The Story of Thrift Diving - Episode #1
- GoDaddy.com
- Blogger.com
- Bluehost.com
- Wordpress.com
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
One of my biggest challenges when it comes to DIY is just getting started. Why is it so hard to move from "idea" to "done"? I believe it boils down to one of three reasons. And in this episode, we're going to talk about those reasons for procrastination, and some solutions to help us move forward, if you struggle like I do!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
WANT TO LEARN TO USE POWER TOOLS? I'm creating an online power tools 101 course to help you get over the fear and intimidating of using tools to become empowered with power tools! Sign up here for more info! https://thriftdiving.com/tools
SEE MY THRIFTED HEADBOARDS here on Facebook**.
JOIN MY FACEBOOK GROUP! 30-day Makeover Challengers**
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
In this episode, Eric Rochow, from Garden Fork, is teaching us how to get our gardens ready for the Fall. If you're a newbie to gardening, there are some guaranteed tips to help you have a successful garden this fall. He's also share the proper way to prepare and plant a garden bed. Catch Eric on the Garden Fork YouTube channel.
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
Projects Mentioned
- BEFORE & AFTER: Shady Side Yard Makeover
- I Planted a Blueberry Garden
Products Mentioned
- Row covers (for keeping plants protected from insects)
- BT (a natural caterpillar and worm killer)
- Fedco carrot seeds
- Geotextile fabric (for blocking weeds)
- Spade shovel
Podcasts Mentioned
- Successful Gardening Tips for Spring! - #4
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Upholstering furniture isn't rocket science. But there are definitely tips and techniques that the professionals use that beginners just don't know. In this episode, I'll share with you 10 upholstery tips that will set you up for success if you're a beginner upholsterer, as these tips were shared with me by my own upholstery teacher! Want to read the blog post that goes with this episode? Click here to read!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving **to stay connected!
Read the blog post for this podcast:* https://thriftdiving.com/upholstery-tips-beginners/
Projects Mentioned**
- How to Upholstery a Wingback Chair
- How to get a straight cut in a woven fabric (see my demonstration)
Products Mentioned
- Numax upholstery stapler
- Decorative furniture tacks
- Tack strip
Podcasts Mentioned
- DIY Beginners: How to Paint and Upholster Furniture - #11
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Do you feel overwhelmed when you think about doing your next room makeover? It doesn't have to be that hard! Today I'll walk you through the questions to ask yourself to get the creative juices flowing, and help you plan what needs to happen and when, what tools and materials you'll need, and how to make sure you complete it on time. If you're inspired after listening and want to join me for my own room makeover this month, and if you need some inspiration, email me your "BEFORE" pictures! You can do this!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
Projects Mentioned
- Download the FREE 30-Day Room Makeover Journal here!
- BEFORE & AFTER: Kids Bedroom Makeover
- BEFORE & AFTER: Tween's Bedroom Makeover
- Facebook 30-Day Challenger's Group (join for support and inspiration!)
- See one of my 30-day Makeover Challenge videos (featuring everyone's makeovers!)
- I Built My Closet Organizer (see how I built the dresser).
- HomeStyler.com (free 3D software to plan your next room makeover)
- HomeStyler Tutorial (see how I use this to plan room makeovers)
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
It's easy to get discouraged when you're working on projects: things take longer than expected, the project is not moving quickly enough, or people are disappointing you. But there are 6 questions you can ask yourself to get yourself back on track and feeling more encouraged about how to move your project forward.
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
Projects Mentioned
- 10 Questions to Ask Before Installing a "She Shed"
- Interview with Wendy Conklin of Chair Whimsy.
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
If you've ever thought about quitting your "day job" and doing something creative and crafty, then this episode is for you. I chatted with Wendy Conklin, owner of Chair Whimsy, who took an upholstery class in 2012 that changed her life: she quit her job and started doing custom upholstered chairs for clients in vibrant, happy colors! She shares so many tips for success when making that transition, including the importance of getting a coach, consistency, and investing in yourself and your education. She also shares great tips on what to do and what not to do when refurbishing a chair! !!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
Links and Products Mentioned (may include affiliate links)
- JB Weld - (Recommended instead of wood glue).
- Etsy
- Tobi Fairley
- Selena Soo
- Julie Stoian
- Create Academy
- Fiverr - For hiring hourly contractors for tasks
- UpWork - For hiring hourly contractors for tasks
- Schumacher Fabrics
- Thibaut Design Fabrics
- Fabricut
- Kai Scissors
- Quiet Compressor (this is the one I own)
Projects Mentioned
- How to Reupholster a Wingback Chair (10 Video Series)
- How to Paint a Fireplace (my first YouTube video)
- Reupholstered Dining Room Chairs (purple velvet)
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
My home was looking very tired and worn out! If you've been wanting to update a few things on your home's exterior, here are 5+ things you can easily do in a weekend! To read the blog post that goes with this podcast, and to see the DIY stenciled projects mentioned in the podcast, read the blog post HERE.
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
Links and Products Mentioned (may include affiliate links)
- Wagner Flexio 3000 HVLP Paint Sprayer
- New lights I used on my exterior
- 30-Second Outdoor Cleaner
- Blue Bear Cleaner and Degreaser
- Bondo Rotted Wood Restorer
- Bondo Wood Filler
Projects to Check Out
- How to Build and Install a New Mailbox Post
- How to Paint Your Mailbox
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
I absolutely love using stencils! They bring charm to boring pieces of painted furniture, walls, and more. But where can you find larger, chic stencils and what are some tips for using and cleaning them? To read the blog post that goes with this podcast, and to see the DIY stenciled projects mentioned in the podcast, read the blog post HERE.
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
Links and Products Mentioned (may include affiliate links)
- Royal Design Studio
- Cutting Edge Stencils
- Floral Damask Stencil (my favorite stencil!)
- Mansion House Grille Stencil (same stencil used in my powder room)
- Cricut machine - for making custom stencils and more
- Stencils sheets to make your own stencils
- Stencil cutter
Stenciled Projects to Check Out
- BEFORE & AFTER: Colorful Powder Room Bathroom with Stenciled Walls
- Laundry Room Stenciled Table
- BEFORE & AFTER: Stenciled Jewelry Box
- Painted Vanity with Stencil
- Stenciled Exterior Door
- Kids Nautical Play Sink with Stenciled Doors
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
It used to be that the only options we had for stripping wood furniture and re-staining it was to use toxic products. But over the past several years, finally some companies have started listening to what we want: safe, eco-friendly products that can be used indoors, clean up easily with soap and water, and won't hurt us. Let's talk about how to strip wood furniture using some of my favorite eco-friendly paint strippers and water-based wood stains!
Got a question or feedback? Email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
Links and Products Mentioned (may include affiliate links)
- Blue Bear Soy Gel Paint & Urethane Stripper
- Blue Bear Emerge Cleaner & Degreaser
- ECOS Paint - Water-based stain - Spiced Pecan
- ECOS Paint - Water-based stain - British Chestnut
- ECOS Wood Conditioner
- ECOS Interior Satin Clear Varnish
- CreativeBug Online Furniture Painting Courses for the Home
- Fiddes & Sons Furniture Wax
- General Finishes High Performance Top Coat
- Diablo Sanding Discs
Tools Mentioned
- RYOBI Orbital Sander at Home Depot
- RYOBI Multi-Tool with triangular sanding pads at Home Depot
Blog Posts and Projects Mentioned
- BEFORE & AFTER: Drafting Table Makeover
- $12 Dining Room Table Makeover
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
A lot has happened over these past 20 podcast episodes! But what happened after each episode? Did I take action on the information I learned? How about you? Let's talk about what actions I took after each episode and what the updates are! Want to share your own lessons learned and actions? Just email me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
Links and Products Mentioned (may include affiliate links)
- The McGuire Group LLC for online auctions in the Maryland, DC, VA area
- Makita Plunge Saw with Track
- Festool Track Saw
- Rust-Oleum Chalked chalk paint
- Thrift Diving Tees (these are the ones I like!)
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
I finally finished my custom walk-in closet makeover! My goodness, it took a long time, but I learned some things along the way that made a huge difference in how my project turned out and how much time it took. If you're getting into woodworking, here are some helpful tips that I learned or thought were most important in this DIY closet journey. Do you have a favorite woodworking tips? Email it to me: serena@thriftdiving.com. Remember to follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
Projects Mentioned
- I Built My Own Custom Walk-in Closet! (YouTube) - PART 2
- Building My Own Closet (YouTube) - PART 1
- How to Remove Wallpaper and Repair the Drywall (YouTube)
Links and Products Mentioned (may include affiliate links)
- Pony Jorgensen clamps
- Framing square
- Right angle clamps
- Edge banding
- Edge banding trimmer
- Wood conditioner by ECOS Paints (eco-friendly)
- General Finishes High Performance Top Coat Satin
- Ariat clothing - Save 10% off your first order
- My favorite Ariat composite toe boots and favorites
- My favorite tape measure
- Festool Domino
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Most people know that bloggers, YouTubers, Instagrammers, and content creators make money, but how?? In this podcast, let's talk about the 9 ways that creators use that platforms to earn a living! Follow me on Instagram @ThriftDiving to stay connected!
Links and Products Mentioned (may include affiliate links)
- Adsense
- Amazon Affiliate Program
- Impact Radius
- Gen.Video
- ShareaSale
- CJ
- HBO John Oliver Episode: How Sponsors are Advertising on Your Local News
- Ariat Clothing (see my favorites!)
- Arrow Fastener
- Etsy
- Order a Thrift Diving t-shirt
- Patreon
Projects and Blog Posts Mentioned
- The Home Depot Kids Workshops (Watch our videos!)
- Watch a product video I did for a Home Depot's product page (listed along the left side of the product).
- I Got Fired From My Job
- How to Make a DIY Wooden Notebook
Podcast Episodes Mentioned
- The Story of Thrift Diving - #1
- 5 Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Home Insurance - #6
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Have you ever felt like you're not as creative as your favorite DIY blogger or YouTuber? Do you struggle to come up with ideas for how to upcycle or repurpose your thrift store finds? Here are 10 questions that you can ask that will cause you to come up with tons of ideas! Download the free repurposing worksheet to keep track of all the new ideas you'll come up with after listening to this episode!
Download the FREE Repurposing Worksheet
- How to Repurpose ANYTHING! (Blog Post with pictures)
Links and Products Mentioned (may include affiliate links)
- Kreg Jig
- Jigsaw
- Nailer
Projects and Blog Posts Mentioned
- How to Upcycle Ceiling Fan Lights
- BEFORE & AFTER: Turn a Changing Table Into a Desk
- BEFORE & AFTER: Repurposed Toddler Bed Into a Garden Bench!
- How to Use a Jigsaw
- How to Paint Your First Piece of Furniture!
Podcast Episodes Mentioned
- How to Paint and Reupholster Furniture - #11
- 5 Power Tools You MUST Buy as a Newbie - #12
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Have you ever wanted to try a DIY project that you've never attempted before? Whether it's building a closet organizer or painting a piece of furniture, starting a new project can be absolutely intimidating! Not to mention frustrating when things don't go as planned or as quickly as you had hoped. In this episode, let's chat about 10 tips that will help you overcome the fear of getting started, deal with the frustrations, and learn to appreciate each and every mistake you'll likely make!
Links and Products Mentioned (may include affiliate links)
- SketchUp
- Linkedin Learning
- Festool Domino joiner
- Kreg Pocket Hole Jig
Podcasts and Projects Episodes Mentioned
- How to Start Finishing Projects - #2
- How to Remove Wallpaper - Part 1 of Closet Makeover (YouTube)
- DIY Closet Organizer - Part 2 of Closet Makeover (YouTube)
- How to Build a Bathroom Vanity From Scratch
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Connect!
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
It's thrift store, yard sale, and garage sale season! Here are 7 lessons I have learned at the thrift store--things you should keep in mind as the resume some of our favorite thrift diving activities while on the hunt for goodies this summer! What are your favorite lessons learned when buying used and vintage? Let's chat about it!
!!NEW!! Shop Thrift Diving's new merch store!Shop Now!
Podcast Episodes Mentioned
- Thrift Store Tips! w/ Jamala Wallace - #7
- Termites, Bedbugs, and Carpet Beetles! - #9
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Get Social
- YouTube
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Did you know that bleach doesn't kill mold? Did you also know that each home as 5-10 locations where mold can grow? Mold could be threatening the indoor air quality in your home and could be making you sick, even if you had water intrusion or a flood years ago. Learn about common "mold myths" and how to protect yourself and your family.
In this episode, I deep dive into the topic of mold with author Michael Rubino who wrote The Mold Medic: An Expert's Guide on Mold Removal (and is President of All American Restoration).
Links and Products Mentioned (includes affiliate links)
- The Mold Medic: An Expert's Guide on Mold Removal (AMAZON)
- National Air Duct Cleaning Association (NADCA) - Find an HVAC company
- Healthway Super V
- Basement Mold Clean Up - (VIDEO) - Thrift Diving YouTube
Podcast Episodes Mentioned
- 5 Surprising Things About Insurance - #6
- Termites, Bedbugs, and Carpet Beetles! - #9
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let’s Get Social
- YouTube
Support the show
In many parts of the nation, homes are flying off the market, with bidding wars. It's insane! Because of the competition, you might be at risk when buying in a seller's market. What can you do to protect yourself and to help find the right house? If you're selling in this market, we'll also share some tips on what to easily fix up in order to get top dollar. For more info about my guest, real estate agent Seth Haskins, contact him via email or 703-675-7660, or on Instagram.
HELP MY SISTER
My 46-year-old sister, Lynda, was diagnosed with a rare eye cancer that caused her to have her eye removed. She is a nurse who contracted COVID shortly after her cancer diagnosis. While recovering from COVID and preparing for surgery, her nursing home job fired her because she'd taken "too much" time off and they would no longer hold her position. She is about to start radiation for 6 weeks with no income coming in after short-term disability just ended. Every dollar helps and will be used to cover her rent, food, living expenses, medical expenses, and recovery time needed after radiation until she can find another nursing position and is able to learn to work again with one eye. We are grateful for your help!
- Donate via GoFundMe
- Donate via PayPal: ThriftDiving@gmail.com
- CashApp: $thriftdiving
SHOW NOTES
Projects and Podcasts Referenced
- How to Paint Your Shower
- How to Get Started with Power Tools
- 30 Questions You MUST Ask Before Buying a House
- Termites, Bedbugs and Carpet Beetles, Oh My! - Episode #9
Products Mentioned (contains affiliate links)
- BathWorks Shower and Tub Epoxy
- Binoculars to do roof inspections
- Moisture meter
- Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring
- Home Warranty
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Let's Get Social:
Facebook
Instagram
Pinterest
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Have you always wanted to get a "she shed" in your backyard? Then this episode is for you! There are some important questions you must ask yourself before you jump into the "she shed" crave. We're talking about foundations, locations for a "she shed", and extra costs you may not have considered when buying a "she shed" for your backyard. (And for you men, these same questions apply when getting a "man cave" for your backyard, too!). ;)
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
SHOW NOTES:
- Tuff Shed sheds at The Home Depot
- Customize your own Tuff Shed
- Amish Sheds in Maryland
- Montgomery County, Maryland Department of Permitting Services
- Ductless mini splits for heating and cooling
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Are you new to using power tools and not sure what to buy for your DIY toolbox? We're going to talk about them in Episode #12 of The Thrift Diving Podcast! Each of the tools have important accessories, too, which you can find down below. We'll talk about the tools you need to get started with power tools, the brands I recommend, safety, tips, and more!
Show Notes:
Read more about how to use these tools and accessories HERE in the blog post.
WATCH: How to Use a Jigsaw (30 minute free tutorial).
WATCH: How to Use a Circular Saw
DIY Projects Mentioned:
Family Sign (cut with a jigsaw)
Power Tools Mentioned (contains affiliate links)
- RYOBI Jig Saw (regular, without battery included)
- RYOBI Jig Saw (Brushless)
- RYOBI Circular Saw (6 -1/2" size, regular, no battery included)
- RYOBI Circular Saw 7- 1/4" size (brushless, no battery included)
- RYOBI 2-pack of 18V batteries
- RYOBI Nailer (without battery)
- RYOBI Power Drill (regular, no batteries)
- RYOBI Power Drill (brushless, includes 2 batteries and bag)
- RYOBI Orbital Sander and Jigsaw Combo
- RYOBI Multi-tool
- RYOBI Corner Cat Sander
- Corner Cat and Orbital Sander COMBO
- Kreg Plunge Cut Saw (similar to track saw)
- Makita Track Saw
- Festool Track Saw
Accessories Mentioned
- Starrett Dual Cut Blade (for straight jigsaw cuts)
- Starrett Dual Cut Blade (for scroll saw curvy cuts)
- Speed square
- My favorite safety glasses that don't fog up.
- Ear plugs
- Best dust masks
- Kreg Rip Cut (for circular saw straight cuts)
- Kreg Pocket Hole Jig
- My favorite tape measure
- Hole saws
- RYOBI drilling and driving bits set
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/user/thri
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Are you a beginner at painting furniture and reupholstering furniture? This episode is for you! In this podcast episode, we're going to cover how to get started with painting your very first piece of furniture, and upholstering it! We'll answer the questions: What paint should you use? Do you need to sand or prime first? What tools and supplies do you need to get started? Grab your paint brush and a cup of tea or coffee and let's chat about it!
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
SHOW NOTES:
Blog posts and videos mentions:
- When Should You NOT Paint Wood Furniture?
- Which Paint is Best for Furniture?
- How to Make Your Own Chalk Paint?
- 10 Common Furniture Painting Mistakes and How to Prevent and Fix Them
Tools and Materials Mentions(I participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com or affiliated sites).
- Fiddes & Sons Clear Wax
- Simple Green
- Oil-based primer to prevent bleeding through (by KILZ, not Zinsser)
- RYOBI orbital sander
- BB Frosch chalk paint additive
- 150-grit sandpaper
- 220-grit sandpaper
- 600-grit super fine sandpaper
- Arrow Fastener T50 Stapler
- T50 staples
- Wood filler
- Wood glue
Paints Mentioned
- Annie Sloan Chalk Paint
- Beyond Paint
- Fusion Mineral Finish
- Rust-Oleum Chalked
- Salvage Dog
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Choosing paint colors is one of the hardest parts of doing room makeovers! I feel your pain. In this episode, I'm talking about some tips for choosing the right paint colors and giving you permission to select the colors that speak to YOU!
Got a question about choosing paint colors? Email me! serena@thriftdiving.com
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe
Subscribe to my YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/user/thriftdiving
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
If you think your home is safe from termites, bed bugs, or carpet beetles, think again! In this episode, we're talking to Rory McCarty, owner of Bug Boys, a pest control company that services the Washington, DC, Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania area, to find out how to prevent and treat these nasty pests that can wreck havoc in and around your home!
Find Rory at Bug Boys Pest Control.
Email Rory your questions: bugboys316@gmail.com
Watch this episode on YouTube to see the video footage!
- Subscribe to Thrift Diving on YouTube.
- Sign up for my email list on the blog.
- Check out my DIY Project Gallery.
See all the YouTube "bug" videos Rory mentioned in the interview:
Termite Infestations
https://youtu.be/ZC95w-qeyqs
https://youtu.be/nx1ZVR5BAHg
https://youtu.be/XwxP0_ms8iY
https://youtu.be/Mbhdj0Zx-K8
Bed Bug Infestations
https://youtu.be/iriGvIRnqr8
https://youtu.be/z_btSybXoJY
https://youtu.be/HQF_wJHtEg8
https://youtu.be/a80qRToqLdQ
Termite Treatment videos
https://youtu.be/epe8h_B-XtU
https://youtu.be/pmS18tgGEwQ
https://youtu.be/8wgYqHfhTPE
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
DIY and home improvement isn't just about fixing up your own home or working in your garage on your own projects. It can actually be a great segue into making money on the side by finding good deals on old properties, fixing them up, and renting them for monthly income. You can also start a side business making extra money selling things you make. Consulting (for a fee or free) is also a possibility! In Episode 8, DIYer, designer, and antique expert Jamala Wallace (Viva La Vintage For Your Home) is sharing how she uses her love of thrift and DIY to make money!
Subscribe to my email list for 5 ebooks, printable, and checklists HERE.
Subscribe to my YouTube channel HERE.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
The hardest part of thrifting is knowing how to create a cohesive look with different styles that you find at the thrift store. Learn how to buy the right things from the thrift store, along with some tips for pulling it all together, with guest Jamala (AKA Kim) Wallace from the blog VivaLaVintageForYourHome.com and on Instagram.
Subscribe to Thrift Diving's blog for 5 freebie ebooks, printables, and checklists.
Watch Thrift Diving on YouTube.
Links mentioned in this episode:
- How to Strip Furniture and Stain Wood: A Complete Guide
- Horrible $12 dining room table I stripped.
- @casavilora designer on Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Whether you own your home or you're a renter, you're at risk if you haven't read or looked at your home insurance (or renter's insurance) policy. And if it's been years since you got that policy, you could be even more at risk. In today's episode, Sa El from SimplyInsurance.com breaks down the top surprising things most people don't know about their home insurance, including things that are covered, things that aren't covered, and how to properly protect your home, belongings, and family. Even though we're talking about insurance, this is a fun and lively conversation about a topic that many people find boring! :)
Find Sa El at https://www.simplyinsurance.com/.
65 Surprising Things Insurance Covers: https://www.simplyinsurance.com/
Subscribe to the blog for 5 freebies and printables: https://thriftdiving.com/subscribe.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Husband and wife Adam and Chelsea Gibson knew very little about DIY or carpentry, but successfully taught themselves how to upcycle an old school bus into a tiny house, which they now use to travel with their kids! Listen to their amazing story, full of struggles, successes, and determination!
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
In this episode, Eric Rochow, of Garden Fork, is teaching us how to get our gardens ready for the spring. If you're a newbie to gardening, there are some guaranteed tips to help you have a successful garden this spring and summer! Catch Eric on the Garden Fork YouTube channel or at GardenFork.tv.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
We're talking about the importance of renewing and reusing in this episode with Kaveri Marathe, a sustainability expert. She also shares how buying "new" is impacting the environment and the lives of our global neighbors, and some tips for what we can do about it.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
In this episode, Charles Gilkey, author of Start Finishing: How to Go from Idea to Done gives us creative souls some sound tips and tricks to start finishing our projects!
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)
Welcome to my new podcast! In this episode, I'm sharing with you how "thrift diving" the blog, podcast, and YouTube channel were born. I'm also sharing what we'll be talking about in this new podcast series!
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/ThriftDiving)