In Family Handyman’s series DIY Diaries, real DIYers share the projects they’re most proud of. They describe the full journey — from initial plans and unexpected setbacks to the moments that made the effort worthwhile. These candid stories offer practical tips and honest perspective that can give you the confidence to tackle your next project.
Sandy Lin is a creative DIYer who moved from the beauty world into home projects. In 2025 she decided to make her apartment feel more like a home and began experimenting with small renovations and decor updates. Rather than replace items, she prefers to adapt and repurpose what she has. “DIY lets me create pieces that are unique and budget-friendly,” she says.
Lin draws inspiration from everyday moments and objects. For this bathroom makeover, a scented candle sparked the initial idea: the scent evoked a lush garden, and she wanted to translate that feeling into the room. She waited until she found the right mural-style wallpaper and then combined the two sources of inspiration. Her aim was to give the space the whimsical, overgrown-garden atmosphere of the movie The Secret Garden, while keeping the project practical and renter-friendly.
The Project Stages
How long did it take you?
The bathroom updates are still a work in progress. Lin plans to address the ceiling, install door trim, and choose a shower curtain before she calls it finished. So far, the work has taken about six days spread over multiple sessions. The wallpaper installation alone consumed roughly 15 hours over three days. Other tasks ranged from a few hours to a full day each, depending on complexity.
Were there any setbacks you had to overcome?
The wallpaper introduced the biggest challenge. Lin had never installed a full-room mural before, only simpler patterned papers. The first day took longer than expected, and fitting the mural around permanent fixtures added time and frustration. Still, she learned as she went and adjusted her approach.
What’s one aspect of this project that intimidated you until you tried it?
Working with a mural that covers the entire room felt intimidating at first. Aligning the pattern from top to bottom and matching seams across corners seemed daunting. Once she started, however, Lin found the process more manageable than she feared. With careful measuring and patience, the alignment came together.
Are there any budgeting hacks you used in this project?
To keep costs low, Lin relied on creative, budget-friendly solutions. Instead of replacing the vanity to get a new finish, she covered the cabinet with contact paper — a renter-friendly option that achieved the look she wanted for a fraction of the cost. She also replaced a traditional towel bar with wall hooks. Hooks are less expensive, easier to install, and can offer more flexible storage options in a small bathroom.
Was there a specific moment during the project where you felt the most proud or accomplished?
The glass shelves installed above the toilet were a turning point. Mounting them required precise measuring and leveling, and the provided instructions offered no measurements, so Lin had to calculate placement herself. There were moments she considered hiring a professional, but she persisted. When the shelves finally clicked into place and sat perfectly level, she felt a real sense of accomplishment.
If you could have a do-over on this project, what would you change?
Lin would research mural wallpaper installation more thoroughly before starting. A bathroom presents more constraints than a single living-room wall — fixtures, tight clearances, and moisture considerations all complicate the job. That said, she values the learning process: “The challenge means you get to experiment and learn on the go.”
Advice for Aspiring DIYers
Where would you tell someone to start if they want to learn how to DIY their own projects?
Lin emphasizes the importance of the right tools. “A basic kit with quality essentials makes all the difference,” she says. When she began, she wished she’d invested in a good drill and a few reliable drill bits. Starting with a small, well-equipped tool set reduces frustration and speeds progress.
What project is next for you?
Next up is the guest bathroom. Lin has already sketched ideas and plans to use paint for an affordable refresh. Painting will let her experiment with color and finish while keeping the renovation budget-friendly. You can follow her process and progress on Instagram under the handle @heysandylin.
Do you have a DIY project you’d like featured on Family Handyman? Email your submission to [email protected].