For more than 25 years, my heart has belonged to the art of thrifting and upcycling. Now, I've poured every bit of that passion and experience into my debut book, Dream Home DIY.

It’s a comprehensive room-by-room guide to upcycling your dream home for less, featuring 35 innovative upcycling and DIY projects that bring elevated style and sustainability into your space. Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, I will guide you through the art of finding value in what others might overlook, from revamping old mirrors with styrofoam details to using PVC piping to craft a unique dining table. With my step-by-step instructions by your side, you’ll learn how to navigate thrift stores like a pro, master new tools, and turn everyday materials into extraordinary pieces.

In a world where the cost of living is rising and the allure of high-end interiors seems out of reach, Dream Home DIY offers a refreshing approach. It's about making the most of what you have, embracing sustainability and designing a space that’s truly yours. Dream Home DIY is available worldwide, including Australia, USA, UK, Canada and New Zealand!

DREAM HOME DIY

Get Dream Home DIY here:

Australian and NZ readers:

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What’s inside…

  • Toolkits, checklists, printables, project planners and practical how-to guides that give you all the hands-on skills you need for thrifting and upcycling.

  • How to source second-hand pieces that have potential and discover creative ways to use unexpected materials in unexpected ways.

  • Master the art of creating project mood boards and become confident using different colours and power tools.

  • Hundreds of upcycling techniques and ideas, including how to clean, sand, paint, tile, stain, reupholster and restore, plaster and render second-hand furniture and decor.

  • 35 elevated, sustainable and affordable upcycling projects for every room in your home, including a materials and tools list and step-by-step instructions.

  • Time estimate, recommended skill level, and approximate cost to help you choose which upcycling projects fit your lifestyle, budget and schedule.

  • List of resources from my little black book of inspiration, thrifting and upcycling.

  • And more exciting surprises!

Please note that some links on this page are affiliates. Your support through these links enables me to continue bringing you great projects. Thank you so much!

A special mention…

Thank you to my wonderful community of creative and inspiring readers. My dream has always been to inspire and empower you to go thrifting, learn how to use power tools confidently, and fill your home with sustainable, upcycled touches you’ve made with your own hands. With your constant support, encouragement, tips and advice – helping me choose paint colours, hardware and fabric – I’ve never felt more determined to bring my ideas to life and share my love of upcycling with you. Especially in this exciting format!

They say it takes a village to raise a family, and let me tell you, it’s the same for writing a book. I’ve been dreaming about this book since high school, and I can’t believe it’s come true! I’m incredibly lucky to have a brilliant, creative team behind me every step of the way, and I’d love to say a huge thank you to my publishing team at Hardie Grant - Alice, Ana, Celia, Martine and Tahlia. I also want to extend my thanks to Grace, Alex, Aimee, Samantha, Ashleigh, Ness, and Jason. I couldn’t have brought this book to life without you all by my side.!