Taking an online class to sharpen your do-it-yourself (DIY) skills has never been easier. Whether you’re a homeowner who wants to tackle home improvement projects or a creative soul interested in learning a new craft, these courses can transform your skills for little to no cost. In this guide, we’ll tell you all about cheap and easy online DIY classes, the different types available, and how to choose the right one for you.
Why Take Online DIY Classes?
Gone are the days when you had to leave the comfort of your own home to receive professional training to learn a new skill. Online DIY classes are accessible and flexible, bolstering your skills while you work your way through the course at your own pace. Some programs even allow you to revisit lessons after you’ve completed the class if you need a refresher. You’ll save money on repairs, improve your self-confidence, and have a sense of accomplishment.
Types of Online DIY Courses
If you hop online to find a DIY course, you’ll be met with many options, catering to various interests and skill levels. Below are some popular categories.
Craft and Decor Classes
If you have a creative flair, you can take craft and decor classes to learn skills, such as macrame, brush lettering, and furniture refinishing. You’ll discover how to create beautiful items while also learning how to personalize your home décor to match your style and personality. Skillshare, for example, teaches you how to create macrame hanging planters. You’ll gain some crafting experience while also adding a touch of greenery to your home.
Gardening and Landscaping Classes
Does your outdoor space need a little TLC? Gardening and landscaping classes share information about soil preparation, plant selection, and garden design. Platforms, such as Coursera and Udemy, have classes for homeowners who want to create the garden of their dreams, whether they want to learn how to grow vegetables or plan a decorative landscape.
Home Improvement Classes
Home improvement classes teach DIY enthusiasts the skills to maintain and upgrade their living space. You’ll find everything from basic plumbing to electrical work to general home repairs. For example, the curriculum from ITU Online provides video coursework with corresponding test questions on everything from power tools to installing a new toilet.
Woodworking Classes
Woodworking courses teach you how to work with wood to build functional and decorative items. These classes can be challenging but rewarding and often start by teaching students basic tool use and safety before moving on to more complex projects. Beginners can take a course through Craftsy, which covers basic tutorials to get you started in woodworking.
Top Free Online DIY Classes
Learning new skills doesn’t have to break the bank. You can find free classes by performing a quick online search, but here are some top-rated free online DIY classes:
- Explore furniture refinishing: If you sign up for the 30-day free trial, Creativebug offers a free course on furniture refinishing. These videos teach you methods for prepping, sanding, painting, and more so that you can breathe new life into old furniture pieces or thrift store finds.
- Learn sewing machine basics: If you’ve always wanted to master the sewing machine, Craftsy offers a free course that includes videos you can use at any time to practice your skills. This course provides beginners with basics to help them learn all about the world of sewing.
- Master polyvinyl chloride (PVC) projects: Instructables has a free program that teaches you how to work with PVC. PVC is a versatile material that you can use for various home improvement projects, from plumbing to furniture building and agricultural design.
Best Budget-Friendly DIY Courses
For those who have some money to invest in their skill development, here are some affordable DIY courses that offer great value:
- Basic car maintenance: If you’re interested in learning some automotive DIY skills, Udemy offers affordable courses on basic car maintenance. You’ll learn how to repair your car and save some money on vehicle upkeep, such as oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations.
- Brush lettering basics: CreativeLive offers a series of 13 in-depth videos teaching the craft of brush lettering. You can apply this skill to various creative projects, from card-making to home decor.
- Improve your digital photography skills: Nikon offers budget-friendly courses on digital photography basics. The class options cover everything from camera settings to composition that any beginner is sure to appreciate.
- Woodworking for beginners: Another organization that offers woodworking basics is the WoodWorkers Guild of America. Learn how to work with live edge slabs, build a little library, and more when you sign up for their programs.
How To Choose the Right DIY Class for You
There are so many online DIY courses that you may find it hard to pick the right one for you. You can narrow your options by finding courses with clear objectives, positive reviews, and a curriculum that matches your goal. From there, consider the following factors when you choose a program:
- The projects you want to tackle
- The teaching style that suits you best
- The time you can commit to learning
- Your budget
- Your current skill level
Tips for Successful Online DIY Learning
Consider the following tips to make the most of your online DIY learning experience:
- Create an appropriate workspace for practicing your new skills.
- Join online communities related to your DIY interests.
- Practice patience and celebrate small victories.
- Set aside dedicated time for learning.
- Take notes and screenshots so you can revisit important points.
If you get discouraged because your work isn’t perfect, keep in mind that learning a new skill takes time and practice.
You might also consider joining online communities for support. Seek out other DIYers who share your interests and connect with them for valuable support and inspiration. Platforms such as Reddit, Facebook Groups, and specific course forums give you an online space where you can ask questions, share your progress, and learn from others. You might find that these communities can be particularly helpful if you run into an issue and need help troubleshooting or are looking for some inspiration.
Turning DIY Skills Into a Side Hustle
If you’re highly motivated and looking for some extra cash, you might want to turn your new skill into a side hustle. Here are a few popular ways to monetize your newfound talent:
- Offer online workshops: If you’ve developed a significant skill set in a specific area, you might want to host your own group workshops or personal coaching. There are platforms, such as Zoom or Teachable, where you can offer this service. This goal isn’t for the faint of heart and requires quite a bit of patience and a lot of planning.
- Sell handmade items online: Once you’ve perfected your crafting skills, you can sell your homemade items on an online platform, such as Etsy. You can also join local craft fairs where you can sell your handmade creations. Consider taking additional courses on product photography and marketing to boost your sales potential.
- Start a DIY blog: Why not share your DIY journey through a blog? It can be rewarding to show off your skills while earning some money through affiliate marketing, sponsored content, etc.
