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Home DIY & decorating

DIY & DECORATING

Small changes. A home that feels more you.

A wallpapered nook, a panelled wall or new cupboard handles can give a familiar room a fresh feel. Find a project, work out what you need and get a little closer to the finish you have in mind.

Practical ideas, clear measurements and a little help getting started.

  • Choose a look that suits your room
  • Measure before you buy
  • Do it yourself, or find help fitting it
A welcoming British room with sage wall panelling and simple white coving
Illustrative room inspiration; products and finishes will vary.

What would you like to change?

Start with the part of the room you notice most. You can read the advice first, or follow clearly marked shopping links when you are ready.

WALLPAPER

A wall with a little personality

Choose wallpaper by room, finish and pattern, then browse designs.

MAKE YOUR CHOICE

Wallpaper or paint?

Compare preparation, upkeep and the look you want.

HOW TO

Ready to hang your first drop?

A practical route from a sound wall to a neat finish.

WALL PANELLING

Give a plain wall some character

Compare panel styles and plan a layout that fits.

FREE CALCULATOR

Take the guesswork out of spacing

Estimate equal panel openings and a strip cutting list.

COVING

Finish the room at the ceiling

Choose a profile, check the size and plan the corners.

CUPBOARD HANDLES

A smaller kitchen refresh

Measure existing holes and choose comfortable replacement handles.

CUPBOARD KNOBS

A fresh little finishing detail

Check single-hole fixings, grip and clearance before choosing a set.

TOOLS

Buy the tools you actually need

Build a useful starter kit around your next job.

A good result starts before the shopping

  • Choose one change. Put samples beside the furniture and flooring you are keeping, and check them in your room’s daylight and evening light.
  • Measure the awkward bits. Record doors, sockets, radiators, corners and existing handle holes. A quick sketch can save a second order.
  • Count the finishing items. Allow for suitable adhesive, preparation, tools and delivery as well as the main materials.
  • Decide what you want help with. Accurate cutting, high ceilings or damaged walls can make fitting help worthwhile.

Shopping links, explained

Some guides include links marked “Ad”. We earn commission on qualifying purchases through those links, at no extra cost to you. Our room images are illustrative inspiration, and the shopping sites show their own current products, prices and delivery terms.

Prefer a hand with the finish?

Find help with decorating, carpentry and other home projects, then compare quotes for the work you need.

Reviewed 2 October 2026. These guides provide general project information. Follow the instructions for the products you choose and ask a suitable tradesperson when the work needs specialist skills.