Recently bought a house. 1 floor with a basement built in '74. I have a big interest in starting various projects this summer, such as drainage, building a dog yard, putting up and taking down walls, changing windows, to name a few things.
I have a great interest in learning and doing most of it myself. What tips do you have? What did you do? Tips on good books, courses to attend?
I have a great interest in learning and doing most of it myself. What tips do you have? What did you do? Tips on good books, courses to attend?
I have attended vocational school but that is not where you learn things, it is by trying it yourself. You can start by reading, asking others for advice but in the end, you still have to roll up your sleeves and try it. There might be some learning expenses in the beginning.
If you google, you can probably find "do-it-yourself" stuff both in film form and text form. There are also some courses on how to do various things like repairing windows, etc., etc. I don't know any names or links because I've had quite a lot of people in different professions around me, but google and you shall find!!!
However, start with one thing at a time and complete each project before beginning a new one. Also, remember that everything takes at least twice as long as you think. But it's fun!
The best way is to just start and do a project. The more you do, the more you learn.
Some tips along the way:
Logistics greatly affect how long it takes to complete a project. Think about where you will place materials, tools, and waste. How do I ensure not to move things more than once?
Consider what materials you have, what you will need, and so on. Calculate carefully so that you don't have too much leftover that you have to return/store. But don't buy too little either. Always have some 45x45 studs, OSB boards, plasterboards, etc., at home. You'll use a tremendous amount of screws. Be sure to have a variety of screws; I have 16, 25, 30, 40, 50, 65, 80mm at home.
Also, think about what tools you will need and shop strategically. Jula, for example, runs many promotions.
Keep everything organized, put everything in its place, and label where the hammer should go, for instance.
Never skip on preparatory work, as it most affects the final finish. But don’t be too meticulous where it won’t be seen or noticed, as it just takes more time.
Buy a pair of real carpenter pants from, for example, Blåkläder, make sure you have hearing protection, a mask, and safety glasses.
Spend more money than you think is reasonable on tools you need, as with poor tools, you'll never be happy working. Spirit level, crowbar, hammer, folding rule, and measuring tape should not be skimped on; buy from, for example, Hultafors, Bahco, or better.
Some tips along the way:
Logistics greatly affect how long it takes to complete a project. Think about where you will place materials, tools, and waste. How do I ensure not to move things more than once?
Consider what materials you have, what you will need, and so on. Calculate carefully so that you don't have too much leftover that you have to return/store. But don't buy too little either. Always have some 45x45 studs, OSB boards, plasterboards, etc., at home. You'll use a tremendous amount of screws. Be sure to have a variety of screws; I have 16, 25, 30, 40, 50, 65, 80mm at home.
Also, think about what tools you will need and shop strategically. Jula, for example, runs many promotions.
Keep everything organized, put everything in its place, and label where the hammer should go, for instance.
Never skip on preparatory work, as it most affects the final finish. But don’t be too meticulous where it won’t be seen or noticed, as it just takes more time.
Buy a pair of real carpenter pants from, for example, Blåkläder, make sure you have hearing protection, a mask, and safety glasses.
Spend more money than you think is reasonable on tools you need, as with poor tools, you'll never be happy working. Spirit level, crowbar, hammer, folding rule, and measuring tape should not be skimped on; buy from, for example, Hultafors, Bahco, or better.
Learning by doing is best I think, it's important to start with smaller projects so that you gradually learn more and more. I have learned the most by asking those in the network who know for advice and sometimes also for hands-on help on site.
A perfect father-in-law and knowledgeable father have been worth their weight in gold too.
But most of all, it requires the courage to dare to try and the ability to handle when you've made mistakes
because mistakes happen
A perfect father-in-law and knowledgeable father have been worth their weight in gold too.
But most of all, it requires the courage to dare to try and the ability to handle when you've made mistakes
because mistakes happen 
One never becomes perfect. So just go ahead and learn from yourself.
The tip with a GDS subscription and access to their website is good, okay, everything they do may not be optimal, but they have much more right than wrong.
Personally, when I look back at all the things I've done, I see in hindsight that there are always things I should have done differently.
Then you need good tools, try to avoid buying just before the project because that usually leads to poor purchases.
The tip with a GDS subscription and access to their website is good, okay, everything they do may not be optimal, but they have much more right than wrong.
Personally, when I look back at all the things I've done, I see in hindsight that there are always things I should have done differently.
Then you need good tools, try to avoid buying just before the project because that usually leads to poor purchases.
Agree with most speakers. Good tools, with emphasis on a stable screwdriver, jigsaw & circular saw. Plan material consumption carefully and perhaps most importantly, have a buffer for unforeseen events, so the money doesn't run out in the middle of a project. Finish before the next thing so the whole house doesn't become a worksite. Learning by doing. If you encounter problems, there are plenty of skilled people here on the forum you can consult. Good luck!
Ask here on byggahus! You are likely to get quick answers....there is so much incredible knowledge here.