DIY Blog Posts

Between my vision & Ryan's engineer background, we truly are the "dream team" when it comes to DIY. There really isn't anything that we can't build together. You'll find everything here from predator proofing a chicken tractor, how to build a toxin-free raised bed and more!

DIY doesn't stop at building things, though. There are many household projects that you can make yourself! Follow along to learn how to make your own chapstick and tallow balm.
4 tins of chickweed salve on a wooden table with fresh chickweed nearby
DIY

Soothing Chickweed Salve Recipe

This soothing chickweed salve recipe is an absolute staple on our homestead. Insect bites, rashes, cuts, and burns are common occurrences around here and my chickweed salve always saves the day! It’s a great addition to any herbal first aid kit. The best thing about using chickweed is that it’s a common “weed” that grows

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A photo of our finished covered chicken run with chickens running around outside of it
DIY

How to Build a Covered Chicken Run (Step-By-Step!)

Building a DIY chicken run can feel really daunting, but this project is easier than you may think! Plus, your chickens will love having a safe outdoor space to run around in while you’re at work or off on vacation.  If you’ve been considering a covered run, then this tutorial is perfect for you! A

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A bottle of homemade mosquito repellent laying on a blue towel along with some essential oils, a paper flower, and a succulent
DIY

Essential Oil Mosquito Repellent Recipe (that WORKS!)

Living in Minnesota’s north woods, mosquitoes are quite literally our state bird. It’s a DAILY battle not to be eaten alive from spring to fall. I grew up using the typical DEET mosquito spray and thought nothing of it until I started to pay attention to the after-effects. The plants near my spray site nearly

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A close-up photo of an empty raised bed
DIY

DIY Toxin-Free Raised Bed Liner

Raised garden beds are excellent to grow vegetables in, however, finding inexpensive and toxin-free materials can be a real challenge. You’re probably thinking about using a raised bed liner to create a safe barrier, and you’re onto something there! I’ve been experimenting with different raised bed materials for years and have finally landed on the

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3 tallow candles in 8 oz glass containers sitting on a wooden cutting board
DIY

How to Make Tallow Candles

Making tallow candles is seriously SO easy, and inexpensive, supports local farms, and provides a toxin-free alternative to modern candles. Both beef and venison tallow work great for making these candles! I love a true nose-to-tail strategy so that nothing goes to waste. These homemade tallow candles are wonderful to have on hand in case

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DIY

DIY Whipped Tallow Balm (Only 3 Ingredients!)

My whipped tallow balm recipe is a staple on our homestead and I know you’ll LOVE it, too! It’s inexpensive, easy to make, toxin-free (unlike most lotions at the store), and can be whipped up using local ingredients. Wahoo! Tallow balm has been prized for skincare for centuries because it’s highly compatible with our skin

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