What is DIY? Everything you need to know

If you've ever wondered what DIY is and how it can help you improve your home with your own means, you've come to the right place.

At Brikum, we provide a clear explanation of the concept, examples of basic tasks to get you started, and some essential tools and equipment .

What does DIY mean and what is its origin?

The term bricolage comes from the French word bricoler, which originally referred to manual work done by oneself, without the need for professionals.

In Spanish, this word was adopted to define those small maintenance, repair, or home improvement tasks that anyone can do with a little skill.

Understanding DIY involves knowing that it ranges from hanging a picture or putting together a shelf to more elaborate renovations, such as replacing a faucet, painting a room, or even building furniture from scratch. The key is to do it yourself, learning in the process.

Why DIY is worth learning

Understanding DIY also means knowing all the benefits you can gain from this practice. The benefits are both practical and personal:

• Cost savings : you don't need to hire a professional for simple tasks.
• Autonomy and personal satisfaction : There's a special feeling in seeing something working thanks to your own hands.
• Developing useful skills : Improve your manual dexterity, planning, and problem-solving.
• Creativity : You can customize your home with your own projects, according to your preferences.

Types of DIY

For those wondering what DIY is, it's worth considering the diverse fields it covers. Some of the most common are:

• Carpentry : cutting, assembling, and treating wood to create furniture or structures.
• Basic plumbing : changing taps , unclogging pipes, installing a sink.
• Domestic electricity : replacing plugs, switches or hanging a lamp.
• Painting and decorating : renovating walls, applying wallpaper, restoring furniture.
• Minor repairs : fixing squeaky doors, installing shelves, installing baseboards or skirting boards.
• Each of these fields has its own set of tools, techniques, and materials, but they all share the same philosophy: doing things yourself, with care and a desire to learn.

First DIY tasks to start from scratch

Now that you know what DIY is and you want to get started but don't know where to begin, here are some of the simplest tasks you can do at home:

• Hanging a picture or a lightweight shelf : You'll learn how to use a drill, choose the right anchors, and level it with measuring tools .
• Assembling kit furniture : Assemble furniture that requires screwing and following instructions.
• Seal joints with silicone : in the bathroom or kitchen, to prevent water leaks.
• Replacing a light bulb or socket : safe tasks if you follow some basic rules.
• Painting a wall : choosing the right roller, protecting sensitive areas, and applying evenly.

These activities will not only give you confidence, but will also allow you to expand your toolbox and knowledge.

Basic tools to get started in DIY

Talking about DIY and its benefits also relates to the tools you need to get started. You don't need to start by buying everything at the beginning. Once you have the basics, you're good to go.

A good hammer, Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, and a hammer drill that also drives screws will get you out of many tight spots. This way, everything is measured correctly and straight.

It's also helpful to have a wrench and pliers, especially if you're doing any plumbing or need to hold parts together. And don't forget a box cutter or sturdy scissors, which are always useful for cutting things like cardboard, plastic, or tape.

Ideally, you should keep everything in a well-organized toolbox. Later, if you're feeling adventurous, you can upgrade to power tools like a chainsaw , but this should be more than enough to start with.

Safety first: protect your health while you work

One of the main aspects you should keep in mind if you're new to DIY is safety. Even for simple tasks, it's a good idea to take precautions and wear appropriate protective equipment :

• Prepare your work area : clear the space, protect the floor, and have good lighting.
• Wear gloves, goggles, and a mask if necessary —especially if you're working with dust, paint, or chemicals.
• Follow the instructions for the tools : especially if they are electric.
• Don't improvise : If you're unsure about something, seek information before acting.

Ways to continue learning DIY from home

Today, learning DIY is easier than ever thanks to online resources. You can learn how to do it yourself with:

Videos and tutorials on platforms like YouTube

Videos are one of the best ways to learn DIY visually. You can see step-by-step instructions for a specific task, follow the tutorial, and repeat it as many times as you need.

Free or low-cost online courses

There are an increasing number of platforms offering online DIY courses, some even with certificates. They're perfect if you prefer a more organized and progressive structure. You can find everything from basic tool courses to complete carpentry or decorating projects.

DIY books and magazines

Books and magazines are a very useful resource. They explain DIY in detail, provide detailed techniques, include illustrations, and often come with ideas for home use. Plus, you can consult them anytime, offline.

What is DIY and how to start from scratch?

At Brikum, we believe you don't need to know what DIY is to be able to do a little DIY from time to time. Plus, anyone can get started with DIY, regardless of previous experience. It's about losing your fear of tools, learning with each project, and enjoying the process.

From hanging a shelf to assembling furniture or renovating bathrooms and kitchens , there are a thousand ways to get started. The important thing is to take that first step, even if it's something simple. With basic tools, a little patience, and the desire to do things yourself, you'll see how rewarding it can be.