About a month ago I wrote a post called 25 DIY Ideas For Bloggers. It was basically a post that gave you 25 DIY ideas that bloggers (both crafty and non-crafty) could make for there blog. Well, that post became really popular so I thought that it would be fun to give you my top three tips when writing an actual DIY post. 

Link Previous Product Reviews In Your Supply List

Tip 1: Link Up

I know what your thinking, ''how can linking be helpful when writing a DIY post''? Well, I personally think that by taking the time to link certain products (let say in your supply list) or video techniques (let say in your instruction) really makes your reader feel like you care. You've taken the time to find alternative supplies or helpful videos, that can make your readers feel like the project is truly makeable. 

This is also a get way to share your past blog content with a potential new follower. For example, did you write a review on Mod Podge and now are using it in a DIY post? Well in your supply list, link that Mod Podge review. Most of time (especially in crafting) readers come across products that they never even heard of, so linking your review posts are a great way to really get that reader engaged with your blog. 

On a side note, I also think by linking to other bloggers content (that you like) creates good blog karma. For example, if your writing a DIY post about how to make a tassel garland (lets say your showing your technique in pictures) and you know of a ''how to video'' that might make the process (like learning how to make your basic tassel) easier to understand, then link it. 

Some many not agree with this idea but I think if your DIY post is unique and creative, that linking a video or post to another blog won't take away from your ''readership''. I think it will show your readers that you are really thinking about there needs and (again) are trying to show that the project is truly makeable (no matter what your crafty skill level).

Find your inner director when writing DIY directions.

Tip 2: Learn How To Give Direction 

Writing directions for a DIY post can be a little bit intimidating. You don't know whether to write a whole bunch or just a few sentences. In all honest, the best tip I can give you is to write directions the way you would want to read them. 

Most likely your readers are going to be very ''similar'' to you which means they will probably like reading directions the same way you do. So think about the way you like to read DIY directions and apply that to your writing. If your having trouble, think about what DIYer/craft bloggers you gravitate towards to and see if the way they write (DIY directions) is something that you would like to apply to your post. For example, if you like Erica Domesek (from P.S I Made This), then you may like writing short and sweet DIY directions. On the other hand if you like A Beautiful Mess, then you might like writing directions with a little more DIY meat in them. 

With that in mind, there are going to be those time when you need to explain something more. So when those times come, just say what you need to say and move on to the next step.  All in all, just test out your writing skill and over time you will see what you like and what your readers response to. 

1 / 2 / 3

Tip 3: Clear Photos

Nothing is worst then an amazing DIY idea with lousy pictures. This is an area that I'm constantly improving on because I cringe every time I go back through my own archives and look at previous DIY post. 

I'll be honest I don't have a fancy DSLR camera but that doesn't mean I can't take good photos with a point and shoot camera. In my experience I found that it not necessarily the camera but its the background, lighting and surroundings that make a good, clear photo. For example, in the beginning I would take DIY pictures in my poorly lit, closet (which was my craft room). Then I realized nature light was important, so I moved out of my closet and to the kitchen table (where there is a nice big window). Finally, I realized that a white background really makes DIY steps look more clearer, so I bought a cheap .50 white poster board (from the Dollar Tree) to use as a background.

Having a clear photos is so important because it can really make or break your DIY post. You need to put in as much effort into taking good photos as you do in creating an awesome DIY. All you need to do is experiment and find out what photo techniques work for you.

To find some inspiration, look at some of your favorite DIYs (from other crafters/bloggers) and see what you like about there photos. Personally, I love the way Jenni Radosevich (from I SPY DIY) does her photos because they are full of bright colors. I also love photos from StudioDIY's because they always include interesting backgrounds or props. These types of techniques would be great to use not only for step by step photos but for that one photo which shows off the completed project.

Also (on a side note) I've learned that clear pictures not only make your DIYs easier to understand but can get your work noticed by readers, websites and brands.


So those are my three simple tips for writing a DIY post. What tips do you guys have for writing a DIY post? Leave your comments below or on the blog's facebook page!

xo Katie