As homesteaders, we do a lot ourselves – DIY is just how things are done. Not to mention the feeling of creating something of your own – that sense of accomplishment and fulfillment is pretty hard to match.
This time of year we are dreaming and planning next year’s garden. Will we build more raised beds? Last year we repurposed a shelf with 9 cubes, arranged 3×3, as a planter for mint. Laid on its back it gave each variety a nice space and allowed us to keep them somewhat separated. There are so many different types of mint and now we want more!
Do you grow vertically? A hoop trellis is easy to set up. Simply take a cattle or hog panel and secure the ends with T-posts. Set this on the short sides of the panel, not the length. The distance you set the “feet” apart will determine the height of the hoop (the middle of the panel). We have one set with the ends in the middle of two rows (with a row in between. This allows for easy access underneath, a few of us can pass without needing to duck. This is my favorite spot to plant trombonccino zucchini squash. The fruits can grow nice and long – and straight.
Another recent DIY is our “duck pond”. We sank a large kiddie pool into the ground giving the ducks easier access. This was more work rather than building something. Still a DIY in my book. Water is important for our animals so we want to ensure all have free access. We use a variety of waterers spread throughout their area. It never fails that they seem to love the puddles the best though.
From our new chicken coop last summer to the in-a-pinch chick waterers a few months ago and so many little things in between, we have been making and building practical things. What I really enjoy though are the pretty things. Sewing some window coverings, painting bookshelves, or creating something beautiful for the walls of our home, that is the perfect blend of practical *and* pretty.
The great thing about DIY and crafting is that there’s so much to get involved in! You may have started with decorating, or creating gifts, or photography, but there’s this huge world of crafting opportunities out there, and you’ve probably only scratched the surface!
What is new on your homestead? What DIY projects are you planning or working on? I am currently researching an off-grid way to keep chicken waterers from freezing.