The biggest tip is to systematically plan your project (I know this sounds obvious, but I also know from personal experience by the many trips mid project to the DIY shops, that this is easier said than done).  The 6 main things to consider are:



• What do I want to achieve

• What do I need in order to achieve it

• How do I technically complete the task

• How do I safely complete the task

• How long will it take

• How much will it cost



It is always a good idea to sit down with a nice cup of tea and write it all down and cost it before starting anything.  For example if I used the above headings for painting the living room, I would write the following 

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What I want to achieve is to Paint the living room
 

To achieve this, I will need a list of the tools, i.e. paint roller, edging brush, masking tape etc.. The list of tools will depend on what whether you have wallpaper that needs stripping, if you are including skirting &/or ceilings, furniture that needs moving/covering (and where to move it), how much i.e. volume/type of paint or wall paper to achieve the best results for colour and hue etc..

To technically achieve the task, I have researched how to do it and have an understanding of the order of painting or wallpaper hanging​, where to start for the best results and how to use the roller or brush etc.  (don’t worry there are many videos on YouTube on how to plan and paint a room.​

To safely complete the task, always ensure the cat/dog & kids are out of the way, the furniture is covered, I am wearing appropriate clothing that won't get snagged etc..

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Always allocate yourself more time than you think it will take, that way if problems arise (and they probably will, maybe you forgot about drying time between coats etc) you don’t feel you are taking too long and get despondent.  I consider a good rule of thumb to be decide realistically how long I think it will take me and add 1/3 extra time for the unforeseen bits.



Costing is really important, if you know how much it will cost you can plan ahead and budget ahead by putting a little aside or buying things in different pay cheques.
 

There is nothing worse than leaving a project half done, it will play on your mind, make you feel low and stop you from starting another project, if you don’t finish it won’t look good.

 

And finally, good luck there is nothing more rewarding than walking round your house saying "I did that"