In celebration of Women’s History Month, and building upon the spirit of International Women’s Day on March 8th, we are thrilled to spotlight the incredible women who form the backbone of the Family Handyman team. These talented individuals bring their diverse backgrounds, unique perspectives, and profound passion for all things DIY to our readers every day. Join us as we delve into their personal journeys, explore their most cherished projects, and uncover the exciting new skills they aspire to master next. Their stories are a testament to the power of hands-on creativity and the fulfilling world of home improvement.
How Did You Get Into DIY?
Nicole Doster (Content Director): “While my professional role often involves shining a light on the expertise of others, DIY is fundamentally woven into the fabric of my daily life. For many years, I navigated the world as a renter, but it was the momentous step into homeownership that truly immersed me in the DIY lifestyle. The moment you own a home, the responsibility shifts; when something breaks, there’s no landlord to call. This realization spurred my partner and me to always assess if there’s a safe and reasonable way for us to tackle a problem ourselves before resorting to professional help. Over time, this proactive approach has led to a myriad of successful projects, including the intricate repair of various appliances—I distinctly recall a dramatic morning spent coaxing life back into my espresso machine. We’ve also undertaken more substantial tasks such as installing and patching drywall, upgrading numerous electrical outlets, and implementing countless smaller enhancements throughout our home. Beyond the sheer necessity, I view DIY as one of the most potent avenues for personalizing a living space. The act of swapping out builder-grade finishes or updating choices made by previous owners doesn’t merely elevate a home’s aesthetic appeal; it imbues it with a profound sense of ownership and personal identity. And, quite honestly, you tend to overlook minor imperfections with a smile when you’re the one who created them.”
Noelle Devoe (Deputy Editor): “I’d be less than honest if I claimed to be the most naturally handy person around, but I certainly possess a strong inclination to attempt tasks myself before reaching out to a professional whenever the opportunity arises. Before I embarked on the journey of homeownership, my DIY endeavors primarily manifested in creative crafts, such as meticulously sewing my own journal covers or independently printing, cutting, and binding my own books. These early projects instilled a foundational confidence in my ability to create. Once I acquired my own home, my focus naturally shifted towards the realm of home improvement. I’m incredibly proud to say that I am now quite comfortable wielding an electric drill, which means hanging curtains, artwork, and various decor items is no longer a daunting task for me. Furthermore, the world of peel-and-stick products might as well flee when they see me coming; I’ve mastered their application to achieve stunning and cost-effective transformations!”
Carmen De La Paz (Supervising Project Editor): “I am a firm believer in the adage that what is meant for you will ultimately find its way to you. My entry into the vast and rewarding DIY space was initially driven by a very practical motivation: a desire to save money. This economical approach soon evolved into a passion, enabling me to not only undertake but successfully flip houses for my own benefit. As my skills and reputation grew, people began to seek me out, commissioning me for their own unique projects. This organic progression led me to an exciting career, where I’ve had the distinct pleasure of creating and hosting numerous shows for esteemed networks such as HGTV, the Oprah Winfrey Network, Roku, and others. My work in this field has even garnered several Emmy nominations, a testament to the dedication and creativity I pour into every project.”
Rebecca Wright (Associate Editor): “From the moment I was old enough to competently grasp a tool, I officially became my dad’s trusty home repair assistant. According to his fond recollections, my earliest and most beloved DIY tasks involved painting and drywalling—activities that, even then, sparked a sense of accomplishment. One of my most vivid childhood memories is helping my dad construct a swing set in our backyard. While I was too young to operate the power tools for the actual cutting, that minor limitation certainly didn’t deter my enthusiastic participation. I keenly assisted him in assembling the individual components, meticulously holding onto hardware and tools as needed. As I grew older, my involvement expanded to more intricate and challenging projects, granting me the exciting opportunity to safely operate more advanced power tools under his guidance. A couple of summers ago, for instance, I played a significant role in redoing a substantial portion of our backyard. We meticulously installed planking for a new deck, integrated an elegant fountain for which I skillfully handled the electrical wiring, strung up charming lights to create an inviting ambiance, and dedicated considerable effort to new planting. Beyond our family home, I’ve also earned the informal title of ‘designated DIY emergency person’ for many of my friends. Whether it’s a sudden power outage or the inconvenience of a flat tire, when I receive that call, I make every effort to arrive and help them effectively solve the issue at hand, demonstrating my versatility and readiness to assist.”
Christine Campbell (Editor): “My very first memories connected to DIY are deeply rooted in the influence of my grandpa, who was truly an avid whittler, a skilled woodworker, a passionate gardener, and an all-around exceptionally handy individual. Decades later, the tangible items he crafted by hand—charming dollhouses, intricate clocks, whimsical figurines, sturdy furniture, and a host of other treasures—are still cherished heirlooms within our family. These pieces are not just objects; they carry the warmth of his love and dedication. Now, one of the most fulfilling aspects of my current role at Family Handyman is hearing from our readers about their own personal builds and the family heirlooms they create, often inspired directly by the advice and guidance we provide. It is incredibly rewarding to know that I am part of a tradition that encourages creativity, craftsmanship, and the creation of lasting memories across generations.”
What’s Your Favorite DIY Project You’ve Done?
Doster: “Without a doubt, renovating our primary bathroom stands out as my favorite DIY project. It represented the first truly major undertaking my fiancé, Michael, and I tackled in our 1970s home. While I held a certain affection for the original tilework, the space was undeniably craving a lighter, more airy, and contemporary update. I found myself completely engrossed and delighted by every single phase of the renovation process. From the initial design conceptualization to the cathartic demolition, and then moving onto the meticulous obsession over every minute detail—the perfect grout color, the precise placement of a shower niche, the intricate tile pattern, and even the surprisingly satisfying selection of the ideal drain cover. This project was more than just a renovation; it was the pivotal moment that truly began to make our house feel unequivocally like our own, a space reflective of our shared vision and effort.”
Devoe: “I was incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to purchase my childhood home from my parents. While the underlying structure of the house was undoubtedly solid and well-maintained, the interior design, as one might expect, was conspicuously outdated. Rather than embarking on a costly and disruptive complete kitchen gut renovation, which featured what I affectionately dubbed ‘McDonald’s red’ countertops, I opted for a creative and budget-friendly solution. I utilized peel-and-stick vinyl to ingeniously convert these vibrant red surfaces into elegant white marble countertops. While it’s true that they won’t possess the same longevity as genuine marble, they offer a remarkably beautiful aesthetic, cost next to nothing in comparison, and provide me with the ultimate flexibility to change them whenever I desire a fresh look. Plus, my mom, who still holds a fondness for those original red countertops, takes comfort in knowing they are still perfectly preserved and hidden underneath!”
De La Paz: “My absolute favorite projects involve creating tiny houses; I’ve had the pleasure of constructing several, each infused with a distinct style, including charming Spanish designs, sleek mid-century modern aesthetics, and even imaginative kids’ playhouses – which often double as large-scale dollhouses that adults can comfortably fit into. The beauty of tiny houses lies in the boundless potential for thematic exploration and ingenious space utilization. You can design a sofa that seamlessly converts into a bed, or craft a cozy loft with integrated book storage underneath, maximizing every square inch. I immerse myself fully in every aspect of these builds; from digging the footing and handling the precise cement work to erecting the sturdy frame, installing durable roofing, and meticulously setting up the water, air, and electrical systems. The typical footprint of 12×12 feet makes these projects perfectly manageable for a ‘one-person band,’ allowing for a comprehensive, hands-on experience. Building these homes is essentially about combining a collection of basic, fundamental skills in an elevated and creative manner. They feel sophisticated and custom, yet remain entirely achievable. I deliberately strive to keep the underlying skills very basic, avoiding complex techniques like miter cuts unless absolutely essential, and minimizing layering to simplify the process. When I build, my intention is always strategic: to teach, to inspire, and to ensure the project is highly accessible to an audience, empowering them to develop these same versatile skills for themselves.”
Wright: “When I was just eight years old, I finally received the incredible gift of my very own room. My parents, in a brilliant move, granted me complete creative control over its design. As part of this exciting deal, I was expected to actively participate in whatever creative choices I made. So, I enthusiastically crafted my own curtains and diligently helped my dad prime and paint the space. I distinctly remember choosing a soft lavender for the walls, envisioning a ceiling that resembled a vibrant sunrise, and dreaming of whimsical decals adorning every surface. It was a true reflection of my childhood imagination. Years later, as a teenager, I was given the green light to redecorate again. With renewed enthusiasm, I ripped out the old carpet and repeated all those fundamental DIY steps. This time, my vision leaned towards a tranquil beach theme. I swapped out the floral curtains for fresh green ones, once again making them myself, and selected soothing blues and greens for the walls. I sourced a wealth of charming decor elements from our memorable trips to various beach towns, bringing the essence of the coast right into my personal sanctuary. By the time I was preparing to move out and witness my cherished room transform into a guest room, I eagerly rolled up my sleeves for its third makeover. Gone were the bright, bold hues my teenage self had chosen; the room now boasts a serene, soft blue with crisp white trim, reflecting a more mature and calming aesthetic. Each transformation was a journey of self-expression through DIY.”
What’s Your Dream DIY Project?
Doster: “My ultimate dream DIY project would be to completely transform our front yard through the implementation of native, pollinator-friendly landscaping. Living here in Florida’s exquisite tropical climate is an unparalleled gift, as it grants us access to an astonishing array of incredible plants that not only thrive naturally in this environment but also significantly contribute to the local ecosystem. I envision a vibrant, low-maintenance landscape that supports local wildlife, requires less water, and bursts with natural beauty year-round. It would be a true blend of aesthetic appeal and ecological responsibility.”
Devoe: “A project I would absolutely adore tackling is the installation of brand-new kitchen cabinets in my home. However, the reality of that dream project is that it typically comes with a hefty price tag, easily running upwards of $15,000 for quality materials and installation. In the interim, while I save and plan for that significant undertaking, open shelving will have to skillfully serve its purpose, offering both practical storage and a stylish, airy aesthetic.”
De La Paz: “I recently had the profound privilege of completing two truly impactful art installations: the deeply moving Waukesha Christmas Parade Memorial and the collaborative Waukesha Strong Community Tile Project. My ultimate dream for the future is to undertake more large-scale public art installations of this nature. I am deeply drawn to the comprehensive, long-haul process of bringing a grand vision to life—from the meticulous initial planning of the timeline and sourcing of materials to coordinating transportation and installation. The sculpture memorial itself took an entire year to complete, while the community tiling project spanned two and a half years of dedicated effort. What I find most profoundly rewarding about public art installations is their incredible ability to impact people on a broad scale; they are inherently more accessible than a private gallery show or a secluded collection, allowing individuals from all walks of life to organically encounter and experience their transformative power.”
Wright: “Currently, I’m still renting an apartment that has been painted in the most generic, ubiquitous shade of white. My dream DIY project would be to embark on a complete repainting of the entire space, allowing myself the freedom to playfully experiment with vibrant pops of color and introduce abstract shapes and patterns directly onto the walls. Every time I stumble upon a video of someone doing precisely that—transforming a bland space into a lively, personalized environment—I find myself generating even more innovative ideas and creative strategies for how I would infuse my own rental with life and character, making it truly feel like my own.”
Campbell: “As someone whose apartment is characterized by teetering piles of books in every conceivable corner and a charmingly eclectic collection of trinkets that currently lack a proper display space, my ultimate dream DIY project is to create a dedicated home library. I envision a room lined with beautiful built-in bookshelves, offering ample space for every volume and curio. Complementing this, I would include a cozy fireplace to imbue the space with warmth and atmosphere, alongside a comfortable window seat—the perfect nook for curling up with a good book. After years of living with the ubiquitous beige walls of various rental properties, I would fully embrace a maximalist approach with the styling, layering textures, colors, and cherished objects to create a truly rich and inviting sanctuary dedicated to reading and contemplation.”
What’s Your Biggest DIY Fail?
Doster: “My biggest DIY ‘fail’ is undeniably a relatable one: attempting to achieve perfectly crisp paint lines after indulging in one too many glasses of Sauvignon Blanc. The precision required for cutting in paint demands a steady hand and keen focus, qualities that are, let’s just say, significantly compromised after a relaxed evening. The result was less than perfectly straight, teaching me a valuable lesson about timing and sobriety when tackling delicate painting tasks!”
De La Paz: “From my perspective, there can genuinely never be a true ‘fail’ in DIY if you possess the willingness and determination to learn how to rectify the situation. It’s an undeniable truth that you will inevitably make mistakes or ‘mess something up’ at some point; there is always an inherent learning curve with any new skill or project. If you succumb to the initial frustration of your failures and simply give up, you will never progress or discover the solutions. I have absolutely encountered my share of significant challenges and missteps in projects, but I steadfastly refuse to abandon them at that point. Instead, my unwavering approach is to always dedicate myself to finding a way to fix it, to learn from the error, and to improve. At the end of the day, it’s not the initial mistake that defines the experience, but rather how you choose to handle and overcome it. I firmly believe that the fundamental difference between a reproducible technique and a genuine mistake lies in this: a technique is something you can consistently repeat with the same outcome, whereas a mistake is an anomaly, something you strive to avoid repeating, and from which you gain valuable insight.”
Campbell: “The intense East Coast snowstorms we experienced earlier this year brought back vivid memories of my very first winter living in Boston after college. I distinctly recall walking out of my apartment one morning to discover my car completely buried under a foot of heavy snow. In an attempt to be efficient and quickly clear it off, I made the rather regrettable decision to use a metal-tipped shovel. While it certainly got the job done in terms of moving the snow, it unfortunately scratched up both my car’s hood and roof in the process, leaving visible damage. That experience was a clear, albeit costly, lesson. Now, I’m much wiser and always stick with a proper snow brush specifically designed for vehicle clearance, preventing any repeat of that particular DIY ‘fail’!”
What’s a DIY Skill of Yours You’re Really Proud Of?
Doster: “I am particularly proud of my ability to clean and maintain our AC drain line. It might not sound like the most glamorous or exciting DIY skill, but in the intensely humid climate of Florida, the buildup of gunk and ‘pink slime’ in these lines is a very real and persistent issue. Learning how to effectively maintain it myself has not only saved us numerous costly service calls from professionals but has also instilled in me a small yet incredibly mighty sense of independence and self-sufficiency when it comes to home maintenance. It’s a practical skill that provides tangible benefits.”
Devoe: “My personal DIY pursuits tend to lean more towards the decor and crafty side of things, rather than heavy construction. Because of this, I am especially proud of the expertise I’ve developed with both a sewing machine and my Cricut cutting machine. These tools have opened up a world of creative possibilities, allowing me to accomplish a wide array of projects, from precisely hemming my own curtains to designing and cutting my own unique wall decals. The versatility these skills offer in personalizing my space is something I truly cherish.”
De La Paz: “The two DIY skills I am genuinely most proud of are wood turning and welding. Both disciplines share a remarkably steep learning curve; one needs to dedicate a substantial amount of time and effort just to reach a basic proficiency level. And once that foundational understanding is achieved, it then requires countless hours of practice and dedication to truly develop the finesse and precision required for masterful work. For instance, woodturning can demand hundreds, if not thousands, of hours of hands-on experience before you can confidently and efficiently create any desired shape well, without it taking days to complete a single piece. Welding, on the other hand, presents a dual challenge: the welds must not only be structurally sound and functional but also possess a clean, aesthetically pleasing appearance. The mastery of both the practical and artistic aspects of these crafts is deeply satisfying.”
Wright: “I definitely consider myself very much a ‘jack-of-all-trades’ kind of person when it comes to DIY. I truly love having such a diverse range of practical skills at my disposal, allowing me to tackle various projects. However, my absolute favorite and the one I’m most proud of has to be crocheting. While I certainly appreciate and enjoy being able to take on larger-scale home improvement projects, there’s a unique satisfaction in creating smaller items, such as decor pieces or even practical tools, for my own space through crochet. What I particularly love about crocheting is its incredibly hands-on nature combined with its remarkable portability. I can take my project anywhere—whether I’m at home, commuting, or relaxing outdoors. It’s the kind of versatile skill that serves me well, whether I’m enhancing my own living environment or crafting thoughtful, handmade gifts for friends and family. This year, I’m dedicated to making a beautiful granny square blanket for my apartment, a project that embodies both comfort and personal creativity.”
What’s One DIY Skill You Still Want to Learn?
Doster: “The DIY skill I am most eager to learn next is woodworking, with a particular focus on mastering joinery techniques. I am utterly fascinated by the incredible precision and inherent strength behind various types of joints, such as dovetails, box joints, biscuit joints, and dados. There’s a true artistry in understanding how different cuts and shapes can interlock to create incredibly stable and beautiful structures. Watching skilled craftspeople—a privilege I am fortunate to experience regularly at Family Handyman—seamlessly bring two pieces of wood together with such elegant strength and precision genuinely inspires me to delve deeper into this craft.”
Devoe: “I would absolutely love to master the art of leveling someday. It sounds deceptively simple, something everyone should be able to do easily. However, achieving perfect straightness and true level in any installation or construction task is an entirely unique skill that requires a keen eye, patience, and precise execution. It’s much more challenging than it appears, and it’s a foundational skill that elevates the quality of almost any home improvement project.”
De La Paz: “My dream DIY skill to learn is glass blowing; to me, it feels akin to alchemy, transforming raw material into beautiful, fluid forms with heat and breath. It’s a craft that shares similarities with welding or woodturning in terms of the dedication required. You truly have to commit years to fully mastering the intricate techniques, understanding the material’s properties, and achieving the delicate balance between control and the organic flow of molten glass. The artistic and technical challenge of it is incredibly appealing.”
Wright: “I would genuinely like to become more proficient and ‘handy’ with car-related maintenance and repairs. I can confidently change a flat tire without any issues, which is a practical skill I’m grateful to have. However, I’d love to feel equally confident in handling more routine maintenance tasks and tackling a wider range of minor repairs under the hood or elsewhere on the vehicle. Developing this skill would not only enhance my self-sufficiency but also provide a greater sense of preparedness and understanding when it comes to vehicle upkeep.”
The stories shared by the women of the Family Handyman team powerfully illustrate that the world of DIY is incredibly vast, deeply personal, and continually evolving. From the initial spark of saving money or the necessity of homeownership, to the creative freedom of personalizing a space or the profound impact of public art, each journey is unique and inspiring. Their experiences underscore the immense satisfaction derived from learning new skills, overcoming challenges, and transforming ideas into tangible realities. Whether it’s mastering complex joinery or simply hanging a picture perfectly straight, DIY offers endless opportunities for growth, empowerment, and making your surroundings truly your own. We hope their insights motivate you to pick up a tool, tackle that project you’ve been dreaming about, and embrace the rewarding adventure of DIY.