Tag Archive for: how to

change-ugly-recessed-lights

Do you have those old discolored recessed can lights in your home that use big hot flood bulbs? If so, it’s time for an upgrade!

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED
How to Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED Lights

Today I want to show you how to update ugly recessed can lights with energy saving LED recessed lights. This process is quick and easy, not to mention the new lights will look better, last longer, and save you money on your energy bill! What more could you want? Change out all your ugly recessed lights in no time by following this simple tutorial.

Materials:

(I’ve included affiliate links for your convenience. I earn a small percentage from a purchase using these links. There is no additional cost to you. You can read more about affiliate links here.)

Instructions:

Here is what my old lights look like. Not only are they ugly, but they use the large flood light bulbs that use too much energy, radiate heat, and burn out quickly. I don’t know about you, but I am tired of changing these burned out bulbs.

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Want to see how quickly you can change out your lights? Here’s a one minute video (that’s how fast you can do it):

The first step to replacing these recessed lights is to remove the light bulb by simply unscrewing it from the socket. Unless you’re extraordinarily tall, you’ll probably need a step ladder for this project.

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Next, find two small springs inside the baffle, as shown in photo below. They look like a wire with a loop in the center. Pull up and out on the springs to release the baffle inside your can light.

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Remove the trim by simply pulling it off the ceiling.

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Grab your new retrofit LED recessed light and screw the adapter into the light bulb socket, exactly as you would screw in a light bulb. It’s that easy!

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Inside the opening, find two metal clips. Squeeze the spring hinges on your LED light and insert them into the clips inside the old recessed can. These will hold the light in place.

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Finally, gently push your light up into the ceiling. Believe it or not, you’re done!

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Now you have a beautiful, white, and energy-efficient LED recessed light. Take some time to admire it.

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Now you can easily change out all the can lights in the room and voila, your lighting is upgraded! This is such a quick, easy, and inexpensive project. There is no point in putting it off any longer.

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial. Feel free to share any questions or thoughts in the comment section below. Thank you for reading!

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Liked this project? I know you’ll love these other lighting upgrades:

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

Change Out a Dated Hollywood Strip Light

 

Update Ugly Recessed Can Lights with Energy Efficient LED

How to Convert a Recessed Can Light to Accept a Hard-Wired Light

DIY Firepit and Seating | Pretty Handy Girl

46 Awesome DIY Projects for Outdoor Spaces Pinterest image

Awesome DIY Projects for Outdoor Spaces

One great way to enjoy more time outdoors is to make your outdoor spaces useful, attractive, and functional! Here are 46 Awesome DIY Projects for Outdoor Spaces that will help you to create a personalized oasis on your property. Some are so simple you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of them.


Diy living wall planter by pretty handy girl
Make a beautiful Living Wall Planter on a fence or porch wall.

 


How to Build Rot Resistant Raised Planter Bed
Rot-Resistant Raised Planter Beds are a great way to get your garden started!

 

How to Build a Scalloped Planter Box Centerpiece

A Scalloped Planter Box Centerpiece would be a beautiful addition to a patio table.

 

Outdoor Planter From an Ice Bucket

Make your own Planter from an Ice Bucket to display beautiful flowers on your porch.

 

DIY Patio Umbrella Utensil Station

 This Utensil Holder for patio umbrella is a great addition when hosting a party!

 

DIY mini PlantersThese Mini Planters would work on any table or small outdoor shelf.

 

How to Build a Beer GardenMake an Outdoor Beer Garden to add some fun to your next party!

 

How to Build a Wood Storage Shed

Build a Wood Storage Shed and enjoy s’mores around your fire pit without looking for more wood.

 

DIY Marble Toss Game

This Marble Toss Game would entertain the kids during your next outdoor party!

 

Dressing up a Patio TableDress Up a Patio Table for your next brunch.

 

Turning a Bed Frame into a Patio Bench

Turn a Bed Frame into a Patio Bench and curl up with a good book outside.

 

DIY Firepit and Seating

Create an amazing Firepit and Outdoor Seating space to entertain all year long.


DIY Fence Trellis

A Fence Trellis is a gorgeous way to turn those climbing plants into art.

 

DIY Giant Mandala Tattoo for Deck

This Giant Mandala Tattoo is a unique way to beautify your deck.

 

How to Build Adirondack Chairs from Scratch

Use these Adirondack Chair Plans for more outdoor seating.

 

DIY Gravel Patio

Install a Gravel Patio for a great seating spot!.

 

Build a Porch Swing with Pallet Wood

This Porch Swing from Pallet Wood is a perfect spot to enjoy the beauty of every season.


Install Concrete Paver Edging

Install Concrete Paver Edging around your flower beds.

 

Create Living Wall Lattice Privacy Screen

A Living Wall Lattice Privacy Screen provides beauty and some privacy from your neighbors.

 

How to build a Raised Garden with Cucumber Trellis

Build Garden Bed with Cucumber Trellis to keep your plants healthy and productive.

 

Air Conditioner Screen from Pallets

An Air Conditioner Screen from Pallets will hide that hideous—but oh so necessary—appliance.

 

How to Install Low Voltage Landscape lights

Learn how to Install Low Voltage Landscape Lights along your walks for nighttime lighting.

 

How to Install your own Sprinkler System

A DIY Sprinkler System can keep your landscaping thriving.

 

DIY Washer Toss Game

This Washer Toss Game would be fun at your next barbecue!

 

Little Red Wagon Planter

A Little Red Wagon Planter is a cute feature in any garden.

 

How to Tile a Small TABLETOP

Tile a Small Tabletop to add a pretty table to your patio.

 

Painting Metal Patio Chairs

Re-Painting Metal Patio Chairs handles rust and keeps them fresh and new.

 

No Sew Patio Tablecloth with Umbrella Hole

A No Sew Tablecloth for Table with Umbrella will come in handy every night of the week.

 

Scrap Wood Planter Box

Scrap Wood Planter Boxes are quick and easy projects to make for your flowers.

 

Repurpose Vintage Milk Jug into Side Tables

Repurpose Vintage Milk Jugs into Side Table for a farmhouse addition to your porch.

 


Tips to Create Knock Out Container Gardens | Pretty Handy Girl

Tips for Creating Knock Out Container Gardens will come in very handy this year.

 

DIY Yard Dice

Make DIY Yard Dice and have fun rolling them with the kids.

MORE DIY projects for outdoor spaces

How to Build a Solid Gate

Learn How to Build a Rock Solid Gate and keep the dogs in or people out.

 

Tall Cedar Planter by Jaime Costiglio

Make some DIY Tall Fence Planters for just $10 each, they’ll look modern and sleek in your landscaping!

 

How to Fix Window and Door Screens

Knowing How to Fix Window and Door Screens will save you lots of money.

 

Inspiration for Backyard Landscaping

Check out this post for Inspiration for Backyard Landscaping this year.

 

DIY Large Farmhouse Planter by PinSpiredto DIY

Create a gorgeous Large Farmhouse Style Planter  for your back deck.

 

Make a Grown Up Swing Set

Kids grown up? Make a Grown Up Swing Set and have more fun than the kids.

 

Marimekko Decorative Tin Can Planters by Pillar Box Blue

Add some gorgeous color to your patio by making these Easy Upcycled Marimekko Tin Can Planters.

 

Build a pergola with Trellis Screens

Build a Pergola with Trellis Screens to hide your trash cans and add beauty to your walkway.

 

Easy Solar Light Stand DIY

Easy Solar Light Stands creates an inviting spot and they will keep those solar lights from falling over.

 

DIY Rolling Plant Caddy Tutorial

Build a Rolling Plant Caddy so you don’t have to lift your heavy planters.

 

DIY Recover Outdoor Pillows

Save money by learning how to Recover Outdoor Pillows and add some comfort to your outdoor space.

 

DIY Concrete Wood Planter

A DIY Concrete and Wood Planter is a modern and sleek way to hold succulents for your porch or deck.

 

DIY Outdoor Dining Bench

This Indoor/Outdoor Dining Bench is perfect for some quick and easy seating.

 

DIY Hose Hiding Planter by Jaime Costiglio

Make a DIY Hose Hiding Planter to keep your landscaping looking sharp.

I hope you loved this roundup of DIY Projects for Outdoor Spaces! Which was your favorite? Share in the comments!

Pin the image below for reference and show all your friends these great ideas!

46 Awesome DIY Projects for Outdoor Spaces Pinterest image

If you liked this list of outdoor ideas, you’ll love these beautiful Dreamy Screen Porches:

DIY Screen Porch Makeovers

50 plus pallet wood projects you can make Pinterest Image

50 plus pallet wood projects you can make Pinterest Image50+ Pallet Wood Projects You Can Make!

Do you have a spare pallet lying around from that last large shipment? Or maybe you know somewhere to get free or inexpensive pallets? If you do, here are more than 50 Pallet Wood Projects that you can make with your own two hands!

 

Bread Crate Cubby Display Shelves

Create Bread Crate Cubby Display Shelves for any room in the house.

 

How to Create a New Tabletop from Pallet Wood by Shoppe No 5

How To Create A New Table Top instead of throwing out a table.

 

DIY Pallet Bookshelf by LollyJane

Make a DIY Pallet Bookshelf for your kids’ bedroom or an office.

 

DIY Wine Glass Carrier by Art is Beauty

Make this gorgeous rustic DIY Wine Glass Carrier to use when serving your guest a glass.

 

DIY Worm Compost Bin by SweethingsHave you ever tried composting? This DIY Worm Compost Bin For Vermicomposting is an awesome idea.

 

Pallet Potting Table by Refresh RestyleBuild this Pallet Potting Table to help you complete your gardening goals this year.

 

How to Build a Wood Deck Cooler by Fox Hollow CottageMake a Wood Deck Cooler before your next outdoor party.

 

Super Easy Pallet Couch DIY by Boondocks BlogKeep your pallets mostly intact and make this Super Easy Pallet Couch for some cozy outdoor lounging.

 

How to Make a Pallet into a Round Circle Shape by Fox Hollow CottageLearn how to Make Pallet Wood Into A Round Circle Shape that can be used to decorate any room.

 

Build this clever DIY Pallet Shelf to help turn your house into a HOME.

 

Coastal Whale Palette Art by Fox Hollow CottageCreate this DIY Whale Silhouette Coastal Pallet Art if you love bringing the feel of the beach into your home.

 

Before December arrives make this festive Scrap Wood Christmas Tree.

 

Start Being Awesome Typography Art by House of HepworthsCreate a “Start Being Awesome” Typography Art for your home as a motivating reminder to all.

 

DIY Coastal Whale Coat RackThis DIY Coastal Whale Coat Rack would be perfect for a beach home.

 

DIY Nautical Pallet Wood Coat Rack by Artsy Chicks RuleAn alternative option for a beach-themed home would be this gorgeous DIY Nautical Pallet Wood Coat Rack.

 

DIY Rustic Pallet Frames by Little House of FourDisplay your favorite photos with these beautiful DIY Rustic Pallet Frames.

 

Rustic Wooden Advent Calendar made from Pallets by Hazel + Gold Designs

Another holiday project, this Customizable Rustic Wooden Advent Calendar is a great way to countdown in December.

 

Reclaimed Wood Wall Hook Vase by Pretty Handy GirlBuild this Reclaimed Wood Wall Hook & Vase to add some functional beauty near your door.

 

Rustic Wood Bathtub Tray by Pretty Handy GirlA Rustic Wood Bathtub Tray would be the perfect luxurious addition to your bathroom.

 

How to Make a Vintage Rustic Sleigh Ride Sign by Pretty Handy GirlDecorate your holiday mantle with a DIY Vintage Rustic Sleigh Ride Sign.

 

DIY Farmhouse Sign by Making ManzanitaDIY Farmhouse Sign With Pallet Wood And Repurposed Lug Wrench

 

Build a Vintage Produce Crate Centerpiece without Power Tools by Pretty Handy GirlLearn how to Build A Vintage Produce Crate Centerpiece full of rustic beauty for your tablescape.

 

How to Make a Driftwood Gift Crate by Pretty Handy GirlMake A Driftwood Gift Crate to take your next gift to a whole new level.

 

Painted Wood Pallet Garden by Pillar Box BlueHow To Make A Beautiful Painted Wood Pallet Planter for your yard or porch.

 

Install Pallet Bookshelves by Where the Smiles Have BeenHow To Make And Install Pallet Bookshelves With Knobs to organize your kids’ books and toys.

 

Pallet Art Shark by Sand and SisalAdd some edgy Shark Pallet Art to your wall.

 

Printed Map Pallet FrameMake A Stunning Printed Map Picture Frame to display your ever-changing family photos.

 

Pallet Blanket Ladder by Farmhouse Made Store and display your favorite blankets on this Easy Pallet Blanket Ladder.

 

DIY Potting Bench by Amber OliverCreate an amazing DIY Potting Bench like this to work at every year when springtime arrives.

 

Pallet Planter Privacy Screen by Designers Sweet SpotA Pallet Planter And Privacy Screen is a fun way to block others’ view to your patio.

 

How to Make Farmhouse Style Pallet Wood Frames by Create and BabbleHow To Make Farmhouse Style Pallet Wood Frames for a rustic and colorful touch to your decor.

 

DIY Outdoor Couch Pallet Project by Amber OliverAdd some comfort to your patio with this modern style DIY Outdoor Couch.

 

Flower Planter Box from Pallets by A Turtle's Life for MeMake a huge statement on your front porch with these Flower Planters using Free Pallets.

 

Create Rustic Wood King Headboard by Pretty Handy GirlUse a few pallets to Create A Rustic Wood King Headboard for your bedroom.

 

DIY Nautical Towel Rack by Pretty Handy GirlIf you have a pool, make this DIY Nautical Towel Rack to keep things organized poolside.

 

DIY Feather Art by Pretty Handy GirlCreate some rustic and beautiful DIY Feather Art. 

 

DIY Framed Pumpkins by Pretty Handy Girl

Make these DIY Framed Pumpkins, perfect for Halloween and Thanksgiving!

 

How to Install a Scrap Wood Wall by Pretty Handy GirlLearn How To Install A Scrap Wood Wall to create a gorgeous accent wall in your home.

 

pallet love - pallet wood ideasHere are a bunch of DIY Pallet Projects By East Coast Creative.

 

Building Porch Swing with Pallet Wood by Pretty Handy GirlCreate a DIY Porch Swing Using Pallet Wood for your outdoor oasis.

 

DIY Pallet Slat Bin by Pretty Handy GirlCreate a DIY Pallet Slat Bin to hang on your door or use as a centerpiece.

 

rustic pallet serving tray by pretty handy girlCreate this gorgeous Rustic Pallet Serving Tray for your next brunch or party.

 

Make an Air Conditioner Screen with Pallets by Pretty Handy GirlMake An Air Conditioner Screen From Pallets to hide that ugly beast of an appliance.

 

DIY Pallet Plaques by Oh My CreativeThese cute DIY Pallet Plaques are perfect for displaying photos.

 

DIY Pallet Coffee Table by The Merry ThoughtBuild this stunning and rustic DIY Pallet Coffee Table for your living room.

 

Tropical Pallet Living Wall by A Piece of RainbowLove vertical planters? Make this DIY Tropical Pallet Living Wall.

 

DIY Pallet Wood Hose Holder with Planter by DIY CandyBuild some beautiful storage with this DIY Pallet Wood Hose Holder With Planter.

DIY Distressed Headboard How To Make A DIY Distressed Headboard for a beautiful rustic addition to your bedroom.

 

Super Easy Pallet Sofa Table by Twelve on MainMake A Super Easy Pallet Table for a huge conversation piece in your living space.

 

Pallet Wood Wall Hooks by Love and RenovationsThis DIY Kids Wall Hooks From Pallet Wood would be great, much-needed storage for any kids room!

 

DIY Rustic Pallet Wood Flag

Show your patriotism this July by making a DIY Rustic Pallet Wood Flag.

Now that you’ve been inspired, here’s how to harvest that pallet wood:

How to Salvage Wood From Pallets How To Salvage Wood From Shipping Pallets.

I hope you got some great inspiration from all of these pallet wood creations. Re-using pallet wood is a great way to save money and get a unique rustic feature for your home that you built yourself! Which is your favorite? I’d love to hear in the comments. Thank you for reading and feel free to share this post! Pin this image so you can refer back to this post!

50 plus pallet wood projects you can make Pinterest Image

Liked this collection of ideas? If so, you’ll love this round up of Scrap Wood Projects:

71 Practically FREE Scrap Wood Projects

cut off old hose end

how to fix a leaky garden hoseHow to Easily Fix a Leaky Hose

A garden hose is a valuable tool around my yard in the summertime. It’s vital to keep my yard looking beautiful, keeping plants watered, and occasionally for a fun water fight with my kids. But what happens when that very useful hose springs a leak? Not only is it frustrating to use but it is a complete waste of water (not to mention that you get wetter than the person you intend to soak in a water fight.) It may be tempting to throw it out and buy a new one, but did you know it’s fairly simple to fix a leaky garden hose? It is! I have the solution for you in this tutorial on How to Fix a Leaky Hose!

Ready to save money and water? Great! Let’s get to it!

Materials:

(I’ve included affiliate links for your convenience. I earn a small percentage from a purchase using these links. There is no additional cost to you. You can read more about affiliate links here.)

Instructions:

The first step is to cut off the leaky end of the hose using your heavy duty snips. Be sure to cut perpendicular to the hose.

Remove the two screws from the hose repair coupling clamp using your screwdriver.

Insert the threaded coupling piece into the cut end of your hose.

Have patience, this can be the hardest step. Push it down against a hard surface until the coupling is completely inserted into the hose.

Next, take the two parts of the clamp and put one piece behind the hose, as pictured. Hold it in place while you add the second clamp piece. Line up the screws with the holes on the back piece.

Tighten the screws. It may be easier to set it on a hard surface, as shown here.

Now connect your sprayer to the end and give it a test try!

Hooray! No more leaky hoses. Now where are those crazy boys of mine? Time to start a water fight on this hot summer day. ;-D

This was a simple fix to a frustrating problem and it only cost a few dollars. Definitely worth it! I hope you liked this tutorial and it comes in handy should you need it. Do you have a leaky hose you need to fix? Or have you repaired a leaky hose with this method?

If you liked this post, you’ll love:

How to Install Sprinkler System

How to Install a Sprinkler System

 

Tips to Create Knock Out Container Gardens | Pretty Handy Girl

Tips to Creating Knockout Container Gardens

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer- finished photo horizontal

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer

Hi! It’s Sheri from Hazel + Gold, and I’m excited to share this DIY Concrete Desk Organizer tutorial with you! This organizer was born from necessity.  Do you have a jar or cup-like pen holder? Have you ever knocked it over reaching for a pen or pencil? I did this all the time!

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer- old pen jar tips over

One reason they tip is because they aren’t big enough to hold all my items. The other reason is these containers aren’t weighted enough. I knew there must be a better way and I’ve been itching to use concrete for a project. It dawned on me I should make something out of concrete to store my pens, pencils, and paintbrushes. Fellow pen and utensil tippers, want to learn how to create this awesome DIY concrete desk organizer? Then let’s do it!

Materials:

(I’ve included affiliate links for your convenience. I earn a small percentage from a purchase using these links. There is no additional cost to you. You can read more about affiliate links here.)

Instructions:

Cut scrap wood to create the box mold for the organizer. A rectangle is space saving and easy to create.

Use three pieces at 8 ½” x 4 ½” and two pieces  5″ x 4 ½”.

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer - cut two pieces 5" long

The longer pieces will make the bottom and sides, while the two smaller pieces create the ends. Spread wood glue along the joints. (Wood glue holds great but allows the box to be easily removed later on.)

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer - use wood glue to assemble box mold

Use clamps to assemble and secure the mold while the glue cures.

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer - use wood glue and clamps to assemble box mold

Let the glue dry for an hour. Then your box mold is ready for casting!

Prepping Mold and Adding Concrete:

To prevent the concrete from adhering to the wood, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly on the inside of the box mold.

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer - use petroleum jelly

Collect your wine tumblers, concrete mix, water, and stir sticks. (I used large plastic cups to mix the concrete and ended up having to mix three different batches. If you have a larger container you can make one large batch.)

Mix the concrete according to the instructions on the package. You may have to do a bit of math because people typically use larger quantities of concrete and every concrete is different. I mixed it to a milkshake consistency and it came out perfect.

Pour the concrete into the mold, allowing room for the wine glasses.

Set the wine tumblers into the concrete. Make sure they are level, then use masking tape to hold them in place. Pour in more concrete until it reaches the height that you desire. Make sure the widest part of the glasses are submerged in the concrete to hold them securely.

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer - use tape to secure the tumblers in place then pour concrete around them

Remove the mold:

Once the concrete cures (mine only took one day) remove the box mold. Use a knife to pry the sections apart at the joints.

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer- use a knife to pry the wood apart

They should come apart easily.

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer- remove all sides of the mold

The sides may still look dark, but it will lighten up.

Clean up and Paint:

Clean off all the splatter marks from the glasses. Use a retractable knife to lightly scrape the residue off. Follow up with a soft cloth to clean the glasses. They should clean up easily!

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer- use retractable knife to clean off glass

Time to make it pretty! Use some masking tape to mask off a line.

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer - use masking tape to mark where to paint

Paint the bottom section (or wherever you prefer) with metallic copper paint.

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer- paint bottom section with copper paint

Add a piece of felt to the bottom to prevent your organizer from scratching the surface it sits on. 

Your modern DIY Concrete Desk Organizer is finished!

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer- finished photo in the shop

You can use it in your shop, the kitchen, your office, or anywhere you desire!

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer- finished photo horizontal

Wait until you see the huge number of supplies it will hold without tipping over!

DIY Concrete Desk Organizer- finished photo from right side

What do you think? Would you make one of these DIY Concrete Desk Organizers? Share your thoughts in the comments below and remember to pin this image to Pinterest so no one has to suffer with tipping containers ever again!

Thanks for reading! Come on over to Hazel + Gold and say “Hi!”

Hi, I’m Sheri from Hazel + Gold Designs. Here are a few fun stats about me: I like love chocolate and peanut butter (together of course.) If you like stats, I have been crocheting for about 16 years, crafting for 20, and woodworking for about 4 years. I found a passion in making and being creative and began documenting my projects online at Hazel + Gold Designs.

When not working on projects, I enjoy spending time with my husband, four children, perfect dog, and ornery cat. You can find me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.

Read all of Sheri’s tutorials.

~Find more of Sheri’s projects here ~