28 One-Day Backyard Projects
Andi • June 8, 2018
Save $100’s and update your outdoor spaces instantly with these easy and inexpensive one-day backyard projects!
- Fold-Up Grill Table
After building this collapsible cedar table, your family will wonder how they ever grilled without it. The legs nest under the top for quick storage or carrying to all kinds of other jobs, indoors or out. Learn how to build this handy companion for your barbecue that collapses for easy storage. - Simplest Bench in the World
Need outdoor seating in a hurry? This simple bench, based on author and ecologist Aldo Leopold’s classic design, and can be constructed in a couple of hours. All it takes is two boards and 18 screws, for a cost of less than $25. Best of all, this outdoor project is amazingly comfortable, and perfect for birdwatching—even for two people. Learn how to build this solid, durable, inexpensive bench in a couple of hours here. - Hose Reel Hideaway
This latticework structure was designed as a hideout for clunky plastic hose reels—but it can turn into a fun shady hideout for kids and pets as well. In a few years, the lattice will be covered with a dense mound of vines, and you’ll be the only person who knows there’s a hose hiding underneath. Learn how to build this home for your watering equipment here. - Storage Bench
This outdoor storage bench is a place to tuck a bag of charcoal, stick a pair of work shoes, hide an extension cord or watering can and hey, you can even sit and take a breather on it, too. Even if you’ve never taken on a woodworking project, you can build this bench. You can never have enough storage space, especially on a deck or patio, so learn how to build this outdoor project storage bench. - A-Frame Picnic Table
Here’s a great-looking, sturdy picnic table that’s strong enough to support eight or more bulky NFL linemen, even after a pregame feast. This A-frame picnic table is easy to build and inexpensive because it’s made from construction-grade Douglas fir lumber. And this isn’t a project that’ll take weeks to build. You can buy the lumber, build the table, and apply the finish all in one day. Learn how to build this outdoor project dining table. - Space-Saving Tool-Holder
If you are constantly contending with backyard-tool clutter, this handy holder is just the ticket. It’s a great way to organize your rakes, shovels and other long-handled tools. Organize your gardening tools in an afternoon ! - 3-Hour Cedar Bench
The beauty of this cedar bench isn’t just that it’s easy to assemble and inexpensive—it’s that it’s so doggone comfortable. You can comfortably sit on your custom-fit bench for hours, even without cushions. We’ll show you how to build the bench and how to adjust it for maximum comfort. - Stone-Top Patio Table
Tile makes an instant tabletop that’s easy, inexpensive and durable. This project is simple enough for a beginner to build and costs less than $30! Tile stores carry a wide selection of beautiful stone tile. And that’s the inspiration for this table. We chose a slate tile ($7), but you’ll also find granite, limestone and marble tiles costing anywhere from $5 to $20 each. You could also use manufactured tile, though the edges may not match the face of the tile. - Build this Soothing Fountain in an Afternoon
This soothing fountain is a “disappearing fountain” so there’s no exposed standing water. This means there’s less maintenance since there’s less chance debris and critters will wind up in the water. Yet it provides the soothing sight and sound of running water people love. Another bonus—since birds love moving water, there’s a chance you’ll attract some of these outdoor friends. This quaint fountain is proof that good things come in small packages. You can build it in an afternoon for under $80. - Build a Spring in Your Backyard
If you’ve ever been to Yellowstone, you probably remember the magic of the natural springs. Water bubbles out of the ground from seemingly nowhere. We can’t promise you the grandeur of our national parks, but in less than half a day you can build a small spring that will spark a similar sense of wonder. You can build this backyard spring in less than half a day ! - Recipes for Perfect Flower Containers
Make planting easy. Plant large flower containers at their growing location to eliminate excess lifting. A picnic table, bench or other elevated surface make container planting easier on your back. Plus, learn what flowers go well together for perfect and healthy flower containers. - Stair-Step Plant Display
If you’re as hungry for spring as we are, maybe this simple plant stand will help. You build it from boards that are cut into just two lengths, stacked into squares and nailed together. You’ll only need seven 8-ft. long 1x2s, exterior wood glue and a few dozen galvanized 4d finish nails. We used cedar for its looks and its longevity outside, but any wood will do. Build this handsome, durable plant stand in one morning. - Pint-Sized Water Gardens
These pint-sized water gardens are extremely low maintenance. Top them off with water before you go on vacation, and they’re still beautiful when you come home. Container water gardens are inexpensive and easy to build, too. So here’s how to get into the swim of things with a container water garden. - Sturdy Deck Planter
This sturdy deck planter has a clever design so it can rest securely on a 2×4 or 2×6 deck railing or sit on a patio, porch or deck floor without tipping. Plus, it can be made just about any length you want. If that’s not enough to get you building, it’s easy to make, even for first-time woodworkers. Learn how to build this outdoor project here. - Flower Recipes for Mini Gardens
These quick-to-plant beauties will bright up your yard. So learn what flowers grow well together in both sun and shade and in window boxes and pots! Learn how to make planting easier. - Rot-Proof Window Box
Window boxes will bring a splash of color to the front of your home. Plant perky pansies or cascading flowers such as petunias. You can even use the boxes to grow herbs. Learn how to make this window box here. - Path in a Wheelbarrow
This garden path is as easy to build as it is to look at and walk on. A bundle or two of cedar shakes, a roll of landscape fabric, a few bags of mulch and a couple of hours are all it takes to build it. No heavy lifting, no fancy tools and really, really cheap ! - Simple Deck with Bench
Since this deck is at ground level and is freestanding, you don’t have to fuss with challenging railings or footings. All you need are basic carpentry tools and a relatively flat area in your yard or garden. The foundation is nothing more than 4×6 treated timbers buried in the soil, with decorative treated joists and construction-grade cedar decking and a bench. We can’t promise you a beachfront view but we know you’ll enjoy relaxing on this simple deck wherever you choose to build it. - A Paved Path that Grows
Weave this Trustone paver path just about anywhere in your yard. There’s no thick base to install or difficult cutting and fitting; you just lay the stone over a simple dirt bed and lay sod squares. This easy-to-build paver path will last a lifetime and looks great too ! - Add Color to Treated Wood
If you want to apply a colored finish to new furniture, choose one that you can renew fairly easily, because no finish is likely to last more than three to five years. We recommend either a semi-transparent or a solid exterior stain. The solids will protect the wood longer than the semi-transparent stains. Here’s how to decide if you’d prefer a solid color or semitransparent color. - Back-Stoop Boot Scraper
In most parts of the country, spring is a time of fresh lovely blossoms—and deep gooey mud. Store-bought doormats look nice, but it can be hard to find one that can actually clean out deep, zigzag boot treads. Here is a plan for the ultimate boot scraper/doormat that will keep the mud outside. - Dazzle with Dragonflies
This project, which captures the delicacy and color of dragonflies in a simple garden ornament, is a real attention-grabber. Let your imagination take off… copper wire and beads give this fun project wings. Children may enjoy making these fun dragonflies or bugs, so it’s a great DIY project to do on a rainy day. - Build a Compost Bin
Why not turn your yard waste into yard gold by building this compost bin? You can build it now, then start your compost pile this fall with leaves, end-of-the-season garden plants and some grass clippings. (Leave most of the clippings on the lawn to return nitrogen to the grass as they decompose.) This “log cabin” bin will keep your compost pile from becoming an eyesore. - Classic Copper Plant Markers
Finding plant markers that can withstand sun, wind and rain is a challenge. And you want them to be attractive, easy to make and reusable year after year. These cheap, durable plant markers are the perfect solution. Don’t limit yourself to the shapes shown here. Be creative! See how to make classic plant markers. - Rustic Rebar Plant Cage
Covered with vines, this rustic metal plant cage makes an attractive addition to your flower garden. In the vegetable patch, it’s a great support for peppers or tomatoes. It’s built from inexpensive concrete reinforcing steel (rebar) connected by twisted wire. Learn how to make this rustic rebar plant cage ! - a Gazebo for the Birds
This fly-through gazebo-style bird feeder has a simple yet attractive “hatbox” design. The materials for the gazebo for the birds cost under $20, and all of them are available at local home centers. It only takes part of an afternoon to build, without any fancy tools. If you want, you can build several assembly-line style - Entertaining Squirrel Feeder
This feeder provides an unusually clear view of the squirrels that frequent it, because the bold critters actually climb inside the feed jar to eat! This entertaining squirrel feeder requires only a minimum of materials. All that’s needed is a 6-ft. fence board, a handful of screws and a 1-gallon glass jar. If you don’t have the glass jar, or don’t want to eat a year’s supply of pickles to build this feeder, ask local restaurants, schools or other establishments that buy food in bulk if they have a jar to spare. - Build a Bluebird House
Bluebird populations declined during the first half of the last century as habitat loss and the introduction of “pest” bird species claimed many of the bluebird’s natural nesting sites. Now, however, bluebirds are making a dramatic comeback, thanks to thousands of dedicated folks who have put up bluebird nesting boxes. Here’s how to build one for your yard.
I will be a guest speaker on Friday, October 17, from 10:00 to 11:30 AM . Where: Virtual—watch from the comfort of home or on the go! Hosted by: Aging Well Whatcom, an initiative of the Chuckanut Health Foundation. What to expect: a clear snapshot of senior housing in Whatcom County—what’s working, where the gaps are, and where the opportunities lie—plus a panel discussion on progress and next steps. Click the button to register! Aging Well Whatcom works to ensure our community has the culture, infrastructure, and support for all of us to age well.
Learn how to invest in Bellingham real estate without getting overwhelmed. Discover expert tips on zoning, rentals, and ROI in Whatcom County.
If you’ve been refreshing rate trackers over your morning Woods Coffee, good news: Whatcom County mortgage rates just slid to a new 2025 low after a softer-than-expected U.S. jobs report. Translation? The bond market is betting the Federal Reserve will trim short-term rates multiple times, and that’s putting downward pressure on home loan costs here in Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden, and Birch Bay. Why rates dropped this week (in plain English) When the monthly jobs report comes in weak, investors get cautious and shift money into safer assets like U.S. Treasurys. That pushes Treasury yields down—and mortgage rates often follow. You may hear chatter about “basis points” and “Fed cuts.” Don’t stress the jargon: the big picture is that borrowing just got a bit cheaper. Jobs report → bond yields → mortgage rates Slower hiring = lower expectations for inflation and growth Lower expectations = lower bond yields Lower bond yields = more favorable mortgage rates for homebuyers What lower rates mean in Bellingham, Ferndale & beyond Buyers: more purchasing power (but move fast) A small rate dip can boost your budget by tens of thousands over a 30-year loan. In neighborhoods like Barkley, Lettered Streets, and Cordata—where updated homes under $700K still draw weekend traffic—expect renewed competition. Get pre-approved and rate-locked so you can tour on Saturday and write on Sunday. Sellers: more showings, smarter pricing Falling rates wake up sidelined buyers. That can mean stronger open house turnout in Ferndale’s newer plats and quicker activity on well-prepped listings near Lake Whatcom and Meridian. Price with the market (not last spring’s wish list), and lean on fresh staging and pro photos to ride the momentum. Should you refinance now or wait? Have a rate starting with 7 or 8? Run the numbers now. Even a 0.5% drop can pay for itself quickly. Locked recently in the mid-6s? Keep an eye on the next Fed meeting. If the trend continues, a “float-down” with your lender could be your friend. Jumbo or VA/FHA loans? Program-specific pricing moves differently—let’s audit your scenario before you jump. Local lens: Whatcom County micro-trends we’re seeing Bellingham real estate market: Nicely updated, move-in-ready homes under the county median still draw multiple offers when priced right. Lynden: Tight inventory for single-level homes; rate drops amplify demand from downsizers. Birch Bay/Blaine: Waterfront and view condos perk up quickly when rates ease—watch HOA dues and special assessments in your math. Ferndale: Newer construction with energy-efficient features is benefiting as monthly payments dip. Action plan: 3 quick steps to capitalize Get a same-day pre-approval refresh. Rates shift. Make sure your letter and payment estimates reflect today’s pricing. Request a “payment-first” search. Tell me your ideal monthly payment; I’ll reverse-engineer neighborhoods and property types that fit. Plan your lock strategy. Consider a lock-and-shop or float-down option, especially if you’re 30–45 days from closing. FAQ Will lower mortgage rates drop home prices in Bellingham? Not automatically. Lower rates often increase demand, which can support or nudge up prices—especially for well-located, move-in-ready homes. Is it better to buy now or wait for more Fed cuts? If the right home shows up and the payment works, waiting can cost you in competition. We can structure contingencies and a lock strategy to manage risk. What about first-time buyers in Whatcom County? Here’s the bonus: I’m a certified Washington State Housing Finance Commission instructor , which means I can connect you with programs that unlock up to $40,000 in down payment assistance . If you’re starting out, this can be a serious game-changer. Call me today to start a conversation, Andi Dyer, 360.734.6479
Bellingham SeaFeast: Save the Dates! SeaFeast is back on the waterfront Saturday–Sunday, Sept 27–28 , 10 am–5 pm at Squalicum Harbor, and general admission is free . It’s a two-day celebration of our working harbor, maritime heritage, and (of course) incredible local seafood. What to expect Local seafood vendors (yes, the food court is your oyster), a beer/wine/cider garden, and Lummi Nation’s traditional salmon barbecue. Hands-on maritime fun: kids boat-building, “meet your fisherfolk,” a Coast Guard rescue demo, a family parade, and a waterfront 5K, Live music, arts vendors, education booths with a prize “passport,” and more. Plus, you can level-up your day with ticketed experiences like San Juan Cruises harbor rides, an All American Marine tour, a VIP Lounge with raw oyster bar, and crafty workshops. Plan your visit : Explore the overview and reserve ticketed add-ons in advance so you can spend less time in line and more time on the docks with your favorite fisherfolk.
21 Projects That Will Actually Hurt Your Home Value
LAST CHANCE: First-Time Homebuyer Class — Two-Night Series (Sept & October) Missed Tuesday’s class at Goods? You’ve got two more chances this year—each is a two-night event. Pick one month and plan to attend both nights to complete the series at Movement Mortgage: 2200 Rimland Dr, Suite #250, Bellingham, WA 98226. Choose your series: * September: Sept 15 and Sept 17 at 6:00 pm * October: Oct 20 and Oct 21 at 6:00 pm Why join us: Unlock up to $40,000 in down payment assistance through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (eligibility applies; this class is required to qualify). Whatcom County market snapshot: what’s moving, what’s sitting, and why. Clear, step-by-step game plan: financing → offers → inspections → keys. Live Q&A with local pros. Bring your questions (we’ll translate the acronyms). Space is limited—these are our final classes of the year. P.S. Assistance programs have eligibility requirements and limited funds. We’ll walk you through the details so you know exactly where you stand.
LAST CHANCE: First-Time Homebuyer Class — Two-Night Series (Sept & October) Missed Tuesday’s class at Goods? You’ve got two more chances this year—each is a two-night event. Pick one month and plan to attend both nights to complete the series at Movement Mortgage: 2200 Rimland Dr, Suite #250, Bellingham, WA 98226. Choose your series: * September: Sept 15 and Sept 17 at 6:00 pm * October: Oct 20 and Oct 21 at 6:00 pm Why join us: Unlock up to $40,000 in down payment assistance through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (eligibility applies; this class is required to qualify). Whatcom County market snapshot: what’s moving, what’s sitting, and why. Clear, step-by-step game plan: financing → offers → inspections → keys. Live Q&A with local pros. Bring your questions (we’ll translate the acronyms). Space is limited—these are our final classes of the year. P.S. Assistance programs have eligibility requirements and limited funds. We’ll walk you through the details so you know exactly where you stand.
If you know Bellingham, you know 1107 Railroad Ave. This is the building that grew up with Boundary Bay Brewery from its early days in the basement to the bustling beer garden and stage that became a heartbeat of downtown. Now, this iconic property is officially back on the market . 3 connected buildings (1103–1107 Railroad Ave) Prime .55 acre lot across from Depot Market Square 10,599 sq. ft. of historic commercial space Zoned Commercial with endless potential Whether you see the future as a brewery, event space, or another community-minded hub, opportunities like this don’t come around often. Reach out today to explore this rare piece of Bellingham’s history and future. Andi Dyer Real Estate Real estate with care, respect, and vision Andi: 360.734.6479 | Katie: 360.820.3065
Tuesday evenings now through Aug 26th from 6–8 PM , depart from the Bellingham Cruise & Ferry Terminal for a bay tour with local legend Kolby LaBree plus select trivia and family nights. Tickets $55 (or $45 for Museum members); kids 5 and under sail free . Proceeds support Whatcom Museum programs. Grab your spot before they sell out. P.S. I did the history tour with Kolby a few weeks ago and it was terrific, I learn something new each time with her!
Join us and our guest Amy Baker to learn about first-time home buying on Tuesday, August 19th, at Goods Local Brews (2620 Northwest Ave.) at 6 pm. Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, and we’re here to help make the process simple and stress-free! Join us for our First-Time Home Buyer Seminar, where we’ll break down everything you need to know—from understanding mortgages and down payment assistance programs to navigating the home-buying process with confidence. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or ready to take the next step, this seminar will provide expert insights and practical advice to help you make informed decisions on your journey to homeownership. Questions? Call/text: 360.734.6479
