Blog

The backyard is certainly one of the most useful and versatile parts of your home – the possibilities are endless when it comes to decorating, renovating or remodeling it! You can add an artificial pond, a pool or a tanning bed if you aim to make it as comfortable as possible, or you can add an outdoor oven, a barbecue grill, a gardening shed to store all your gardening tools and equipment or even a small playhouse where your children can play safely. Nonetheless, it is essential to organize your backyard efficiently and to make the best of all the available space, and here you will find 40+ backyard ideas that you can try!

40+ Outstanding DIY Backyard Ideas That Will Make Your Neighbors Jealous

1. Add A Mirror Duo To Your Garden Shed

Add A Mirror Duo To Your Garden Shed

This is a great backyard decoration idea, especially if you like to recycle “junk pieces” and to turn them into magnificent works of art. All you need is two old and shabby window frames (preferably rusty and with chipped paint, as that makes them look even older) and two mirrors. Incorporate the two mirrors into the window frames, then carefully hang them onto one of the sides of your garden shed, so that they reflect the woods, the corn field or the plain valleys. The view is outstanding!

UPDATE: “We don’t think that this is a good backyard idea at all. The main reason is that birds will see the reflection of your garden and have no way of knowing that a solid surface – the mirror – is present. They will fly straight at it and, at the very least, be stunned but many may die from severe injuries such as broken necks sustained on impact.”

Source – thebrambleberrycottage

2. DIY Outdoor Bench

DIY Outdoor Bench

If you are feeling crafty today and you want to create something that will really come in handy, then you should have a look at this DIY outdoor bench. You will be amazed to see that you do not need to invest in an expensive, high-end bench to enjoy a truly comfortable and enjoyable time in your backyard – you can make your own bench from scratch, with several pieces of plywood, a few nails, a hammer and some paint. Place it in a location where it oversees the forest and enjoy the sound of the birds chipping!

Source – creatingreallyawesomefreethings

3. Outdoor Chalkboard

Outdoor Chalkboard

The outdoor chalkboard is definitely one of the most versatile backyard ideas you can opt for. Easy to make and very creative and aesthetically appealing at the same time, the chalkboard can be used in countless different ways: you can use it as a reminder or a memo, you can write all sorts of inspirational quotes on it to get you through the day, you can display the daily menu for your husband and your kids and so forth. Besides, it costs you little to nothing to create this lovely chalkboard – all you need is some inspiration, and you will find plenty of it in this tutorial!

Source – tinysidekick

4. DIY Wine Bottle Torches

DIY Wine Bottle Torches

Wine lovers, this is specifically designed for you! Wine is one of the greatest alcoholic beverages one can have – healthy (when consumed in moderate amounts), delicious and easy to pair with just about any type of food, wine is great to have around the house. However, if you are an aficionado and you have an extensive collection of bottles, then you should definitely check out these super creative DIY wine bottle torches that you will instantly fall in love with!

Source – whenthepigsfly

5. DIY Glass Marbles For Your Fence

DIY Glass Marbles For Your Fence

Garden art will never go out of fashion – however, if you have decided to add a couple of creative decorations to your backyard, then you should know that you do not need to invest a small fortune in them, when you can make your own DIY glass marbles for your fence. Here is a super creative tutorial that will teach you how to do just that – and you will certainly love the fact the marbles are reflected in the summer sun!

Project Source – gardendrama

6. DIY Planting Board

DIY Planting Board

Do you have a small vegetable garden in your backyard, or perhaps a small rose garden that you hold very dearly to your heart? Gardening is a great hobby that will not only stimulate your creativity, but also serve as a great cardiovascular exercise to keep you healthy and fit. However, managing your seeds and your planting pots can be more difficult than you have thought, this is why you could certainly use a DIY planting board that will help you make the best of what you got!

Source – pittypatpages

7. Take Your Kids By Surprise With This Rope Swing!

Take Your Kids By Surprise With This Rope Swing

Kids are super energetic and they are always looking for different ways to let all that energy out – however, as parents, we are naturally concerned about the safety and security of our children whenever we go out to play. Here is the solution for that – you can now take your kids by surprise with a creative and super crafty rope swing that you can hang from one of the trees in your backyard. Cost-effective, durable and super entertaining at the same time!

Source – dukesandduchesses

8. Outdoor Candle Lantern

Outdoor Candle Lantern

You do not have to wait all the way until Halloween to get yourself a creative outdoor candle lantern! All you need is some cheap thrift store products and a few decorative candles – let your imagination roam freely, and you can get yourself a lovely candle that will certainly brighten up your nights, literally! If you use to invite your friends over for an outdoor dinner or a drink, then they will definitely appreciate just how creative you can get with this simple and affordable outdoor candle lantern.

Project Credit and Tutorial – inmyownstyle

9. Make A Giant Decorative Xylophone

Make A Giant Decorative Xylophone

If you have a few extra pieces of wood on your hands, then do not throw them away – grab a saw and cut them in different lengths so that they resemble a xylophone, get some different paint colors and start playing! Are you looking for a cheap outdoor decoration that will add to the curb appeal and the aesthetics of your house? Do you want a creative and entertaining weekend craft project that you can enjoy with your kids? Then check out this great, giant xylophone – and you will be happy you did!

Project Credit and Tutorial – lifestyle.yahoo

10. Backyard Ideas On A Budget

Backyard Ideas On A Budget

Are you running low on inspiration and you want some creative decoration ideas that will make your backyard as comfortable and enjoyable as possible? Do you want to keep your spending to a minimum, but you are not willing to make a compromise when it comes to the quality and aesthetics of your backyard decorations? If so, then you should certainly check out these lovely and innovative decorations that will definitely change the way you look at backyard pieces!

Source – daisymaebelle

11. Canning Jar Lights!

Canning Jar Lights

These jar lights are great for those lovely, warm summer nights when you feel like spending your entire evening outdoors, with your friends! Check out this tutorial and see just how easy it is to make them, then hang the jar lights from the branches of your garden trees and let them work their magic on your backyard. Your neighbors will definitely feel like stealing this creative decoration idea from you!

Project Credit and Tutorial – michelesapples

12. Recycled Wine Bottle Torch

Recycled Wine Bottle Torch

If your home is decorated in a shabby chic or a rustic way and you want to add some warmth and light to your backyard, then you should definitely consider these recycled wine bottle torches. Cheap, efficient and durable, these wine bottle torches can be places all over your backyard and they will lighten up your garden.

Project Credit and Tutorial – designsponge

13. Tin Can Lanterns!

Tin Can Lanterns

Have you ever thought that tin cans can actually benefit you from many points of view, other than serving as storage cans for your nails, pins and screws? Here is a lovely tin can lantern tutorial that will teach you how to “upgrade” your backyard lighting system in an instant. Grab a few old tins and get started on this creative project today!

Project Credit and Tutorial – growcreative

14. Hanging Jar Lanterns

Hanging Jar Lanterns

Jar lanterns are certainly very sought-after this summer, apparently! The best thing about them is that they require a minimal investment, and you can easily make your own jar lantern with basic pieces that you have around your house. Here is a tutorial that everybody can follow – simple, descriptive and very insightful, this tutorial will guide you through every step. You can also involve your children in this project, as it is entirely safe and it will help them develop their motor skills!

Project Credit and Tutorial – craftynest

15. Make Yourself A Hula Hoop Chandelier!

Make Yourself A Hula Hoop Chandelier

We all had hula hoops as kids, as they are super playful and easy to use – however, have you ever thought about recycling a few old hula hoops and turning them into outstanding pieces of art? Here is how you can do just that! This tutorial will certainly make you regret that you have thrown your other hula hoops away – check out this tutorial and put your creative skills to good use!

Source – sarahontheblog

16. Make Your Own Glowing Orbs!

Make Your Own Glowing Orbs

Backyard lighting is essential, especially if you have a small firepit or a gazebo where you love to gather with all your friends. The good news is that there are many different lighting options you can choose from: you can opt for the classic lightbulbs, you can choose torches, eco-friendly lights that recharge themselves during the day, or you can go for these lovely, creative and cost-effective glowing orbs that will certainly redefine the way you see backyard lighting! Have a closer look at this tutorial and let yourself be impressed.

Project Source – theartofdoingstuff

17. Spruce Up Your Mailbox!

Spruce Up Your Mailbox

It often happens that whenever we try to give our backyard a makeover, we often overlook the mailbox, when the truth is that this is usually the first thing people notice about your house. Located right at the entrance, your mailbox can make or break the look of your entire home – and here is an outstanding idea that will help you give your current mailbox a full facelift!

Project Credit and Tutorial – beneathmyheart

18. Outdoor Vintage Flower Buckets

Outdoor Vintage Flower Buckets

Flower vases and pots can be quite expensive nowadays, but do not despair – you can now get some lovely outdoor vintage flower buckets that all your guests and neighbors will envy! All you need is three silver buckets and some fresh paint to color-code or number them. Then plant your favorite flowers (perennials usually work best in this case) and place them right at the entrance. They will add color and joy to your home before you even know it!

Project Credit and Tutorial – mywonderfullymade

19. Globe String Lights

Globe String Lights

String lights are a relatively modern invention, and they are exclusively designed for futuristic homes – however, the good news is that you can easily make your own globe string lights from scratch, lights that will certainly add comfort to the overall ambiance in your living room or bedroom. Here is a tutorial that will show you how to quickly do just that!

Source – thegardenglove

20. DIY Auxiliary Drawer For Your Backyard

DIY Auxiliary Drawer For Your Backyard

Have you ever had a hard time storing your gardening tools, your barbecue utensils or any other tools? Are you looking for a practical, safe, durable and efficient way to store all of them, without having to spend several minutes looking for your tools next time you need them? If so, then this DIY auxiliary drawer project was specifically designed for you – check it out.

Project Credit and Tutorial – decomanitas

21. DIY Toy Storage For Your Kids

DIY Toy Storage For Your Kids

Kids love to play, and that is a fact nobody can deny. However, it often happens that kids “forget” to put the toys back to their storage bin, and they usually end up thrown all over the living room or backyard. Summer is close, and your kids will certainly want to play outdoors – this is why you should come up with a crafty, creative, practical and useful outdoor toy storage idea that will save you some time and trouble. Check this one out and see for yourself.

Source – mooshagirl

22. Landscaping Tips For Beginner

Landscaping Tips For Beginner

If you are just getting started in landscaping, then this small guide will certainly come in handy for you as here you will find a collection of useful and practical decoration tips and hints. You will certainly be amazed to see just how much you can accomplish, by simply placing your flower pots in the right places! Check out this landscaping guide and let it work its magic on your backyard.

Source – seasonedhomemaker

23. Make Yourself A Cool Rustic Cooler!

Make Yourself A Cool Rustic Cooler

Nobody likes hot drinks, and hot beer in particular! Here is a very simple and inspired tutorial that will show you just how easy it is to make yourself a really cool rustic cooler that will keep your drinks cool throughout those hot summer days. Enjoy your favorite cold beverage!

Project Credit and Tutorial – killerbdesigns

24. DIY Key Wind Chime

DIY Key Wind Chime

Wind chimes are great, but who said that you can only hang them around your doors or windows? You can now get yourself a mini key chain wind chime that will boost your mood and make your day happier – besides, this recycled craft for kids is also a great opportunity to bond with your children and to stimulate their creativity and their imagination at the same time.

Project Credit and Tutorial – giving.innerchildfun

25. Crafty DIY Bottle Opener

Crafty DIY Bottle Opener

You can never have too many bottle openers, and that is a fact! Practical, small, lightweight and very easy to carry with you, this small DIY bottle opener will certainly come in handy whenever you want to open that cold bottle of beer, without having to go all the way to the kitchen to grab an opener. Here is how you can make your own bottle opener from scratch!

Project Credit and Tutorial – shanty-2-chic

26. Hose Holder For Your Garden

Hose Holder For Your Garden

A garden is just as beautiful as its flowers, and there is nothing more appealing that a properly-mowed, green and beautifully maintain lawn! However, storing your garden hose can be quite challenging, as you cannot leave it on the ground otherwise the water leakage can drown your plants. Here is how you can make your own hose holder for your garden!

Project Credit and Tutorial – shanty-2-chic

27. DIY Barn-Inspired Table Pottery

DIY Barn-Inspired Table Pottery

This is yet another lovely and creative idea for those who have a rustic home, and who want to make sure that their backyard is on the same wavelength as the décor of their house. This is a creative and beautiful barn-inspired table pottery project that will save you lots of time and money, while adding a lot of style and visual aesthetics to your backyard.

Project Credit and Tutorial – shanty-2-chic

28. Birds Bath

Birds Bath

If there is one thing that is cuter than a birds feeder, that is certainly a birds bath! Small and super adorable, this birds bath is certainly very welcoming to all the ever-singing sparrows that come to your backyard for some bread crumbs. This tutorial will show you just how easy it is to make your own DIY garden planter birds bath, with some basic tools, utensils and materials – your sparrows will certainly be grateful for this little gift, later on!

Project Source and Tutorial – homestoriesatoz

29. Old Tire Turned Into Rope Ottoman Chair

Old Tire Turned Into Rope Ottoman Chair

Who does not like those big, puffy Ottoman pillows? If you do not have the pillows though, then the Rope Ottoman chair is certainly a great alternative for your outdoor living space. Here is a crafty tutorial that will teach you how to turn an old and unused tire into an outstanding chair that you can use in the long run – however, make sure to place it under your gazebo or in some other place where it is shielded from the harsh weather conditions, as the rope is prone to rotting if you expose it to moisture and direct sunlight.

Project Credit and Tutorial – handimania

30. Turn Your Old Chandelier Into An Awesome Hanging Planter

Turn Your Old Chandelier Into An Awesome Hanging Planter

If your old chandelier no longer rises to your expectations, or if you feel that it looks and feels a bit too old for the 21st century, then do not throw it away – turn it into an awesome hanging planter instead. This is a simple two-step process that will help you make the best of your old chandelier, without too much effort. Check out this tutorial and you will see just how easy it is to do so.

Project Credit and Tutorial – handimania

31. Brick Edging For Your Flower Beds

Brick Edging For Your Flower Beds

This is a great tutorial to follow if you want to encase your flower beds and to make them look as aesthetically pleasant as possible. All you need is a few red or brown bricks that you will place strategically one next to the other one, so that you will end up with a beautiful, complementary brick edging that will shield your flower beds and add to the general curb appeal as well. Creative and super chic at the same time!

Project Source – world-of-lush-gardens

32. DIY Pallet Planter

DIY Pallet Planter

This is another great and crafty way to use your old pallet! For years, people have been recycling and repurposing old pallets in countless different ways: some turn them into coffee tables, others turn them into sofas, while gardeners prefer to turn their old pallets into a crafty and beautiful planter. Here is how you can easily do the same thing – hanging your colorful flower pots on the pallet has never been easier or more beautiful! Besides, you can easily move the pallet flower planter from one spot to another – it does not have to be stuck in one place!

Source – kellymoorebag

33. Succulent Flower Dresser

Succulent Flower Dresser

Do you have an old dresser that you no longer use? Great, then you have all it takes to make yourself a beautiful and “succulent” flower dresser – just check out this amazing outdoor decoration idea and you will certainly feel like adapting it to your backyard as well. In a nutshell, all you need is an old, dark-shade dresser and a few colorful flower pots. Carefully place the flower pots inside the dresser, one next to the other one, for an outstanding visual effect that all your guests will appreciate – besides this, it will also be a lot easier for you to water your plants and to care for them this way!

Project Credit and Tutorial – grizzlybearmodern

34. Add A Fancy Tic Tac Toe Board To Your Backyard

Add A Fancy Tic Tac Toe Board To Your Backyard

Although this may not be the most practical and functional idea out there, it is certainly one of the cheapest and most aesthetically pleasant one. All you need is some old, perfectly round rocks and some black and white painting. Dye the rocks pitch-black and then draw the “X” and “O” on them, alternately – add them to a cute old pottery vase and then place them randomly across your backyard, and the visual effect is guaranteed.

Project Credit and Tutorial – nwedible

35. Mini Charcoal Grill

Mini Charcoal Grill

If you love to cook, then this is certainly the best backyard decoration to try – check out this outstanding, easy to make and super cost-effective mini charcoal grill that will certainly serve as the centerpiece for your next summer party. No matter if you love to roast marshmallows, or if you are a bit fan of sausages, barbecues and steaks, this mini charcoal grill is a great addition to your backyard. Crafty and highly functional at the same time, this grill requires minimal maintenance, it is super easy to clean and you can use it for years to come, if you manage it properly!

Project Credit and Tutorial – blog.hwtm

36. Build Yourself A Tree House

Build Yourself A Tree House

Who said that tree houses are exclusively designed for children? Adults need a safe haven where they can retreat when life gets too hard, too! Here is an outstanding tutorial that will teach you how to build your own tree house apartment, even if you have never done this before. The healing power of having your own little tree house cannot be overstated: it is super relaxing to have your own little corner where you can go with your favorite book and just sit for hours, away from the eyes of the world. With a bit of effort and all the right tools, you can build your tree house within a few hours.

Project Credit and Tutorial – apartmenttherapy

37. Child-Friendly Cement Stepping Stones

Child-Friendly Cement Stepping Stones

We have all seen the traditional cement stepping stones, and they are certainly a great choice for your backyard – however, how about some brightly colored, shiny stepping stones that will certainly draw the attention of all your guests? Here is a tutorial that will show you how to make some colorful, bright and child-friendly cement stepping stones that your little ones will certainly adore. Make sure to collect a few perfectly round river stones to start with!

Project Credit and Tutorial – pinkandgreenmama

38. Super Creative Garden Markers

Super Creative Garden Markers

Have you ever thought about painting stones and turning them into exquisite garden markers? If not, then now is the right time to do so! Have a look at this crafty and imaginative tutorial that will show you how quickly you can turn plain rocks into “delicious looking veggies”. With the right paints and colors and some creativity and skill, you can make lovely garden markers that you can spread across your fruit and veggie garden. This way, you will never forget where you’ve planted raspberries, strawberries or cucumbers ever again.

Project Credit and Tutorial – adventure-in-a-box

39. DIY Bird Feeder

DIY Bird Feeder

Is there anything more relaxing than listening to the birds sing freely on a cool summer morning? If you love to attract sparrows and other birds to your backyard (and to make them eat seeds from the feeder, as opposed to destroying your crops and eating your strawberries!), then look no further than this simple and creative DIY bird feeder that will certainly benefit you on many levels. This is a great weekend craft that you can try with your spouse and children, it requires minimal effort and little to no investment and the success is guaranteed. The birds will always keep coming back for more seeds!

Source – plumadorable

40. Creative Design Plans For Raised Bed Gardens

Creative Design Plans For Raised Bed Gardens

Have you ever considered making your own raised bed gardens? One of the many benefits of having such a garden is that you will not have to worry about most pests and rodents that lurk around, on the soil – it is not uncommon for snails or mice to destroy your fruit and vegetable crops, if you let them. Fortunately, this will never be the case with these creative and useful design plans that will help you come up with your own raised bed gardens. Regardless of whether you plan on planting vegetables or if you only want to plant some roses or tulips to add brightness and color to your garden, these raised beds are undoubtedly a great choice. Source – isavea2z

41. DIY Golf Ball Ladybugs

DIY Golf Ball Ladybugs

Golf balls painted as ladybugs. A cute idea for a kid’s garden! Instructions: cutediyprojects

42. DIY Rock Covered Bucket

DIY Rock Covered Bucket

Totally adding this to my TO DO list! I can’t wait! Very natural, pretty and simple! Instructions: centsationalgirl

43. Pallet Wood Garden Walkway

pallet wood garden walkway

What a terrific way to upcycle those old pallets!. We love before and after pictures. Instructions: funkyjunkinteriors

44. DIY Bird Bath

DIY Bird Bath

You’ll need the following to make the bird bath:

  • 17-inch urn
  • 12-inch poly urn
  • 10-inch terra-cotta saucer
  • Spray paint
  • Flowers
  • Potting mix

Instructions: mamitalks

45. How to Make a Rain Barrel

How to Make a Rain Barrel

Best looking DIY rain barrel I’ve seen. Love this one! Build Your Own Rain Barrel!

Tutorial: hgtvgardens

To sum it all up, these creative backyard ideas are really great for every homeowner who is tired of seeing the same old and plain backyard, and who wants to make the best of the available space. You do not need a large budget to turn your backyard into your own little piece of Heaven or oasis where you can relax with your friends and family – all you need is some spare time, creativity and the right tutorials and DIY projects to inspire you. All the 40+ projects mentioned above are very easy to follow, and they will undoubtedly make your garden or backyard stand out from all the rest. Dare to be different and aim to impress!

Source: http://cutediyprojects.com/garden/40-outstanding-diy-backyard-ideas-that-will-make-your-neighbors-jealous/