Spring tends to conjure up an image of cleanliness and rebirth in the world around us, and after a long winter, there's nothing better than opening up all the windows and fixing up the ol' homestead. However, those minor fix-ups are often transformed into full-blown projects by Spring's other treats – such as torrential rain, overnight cold snaps, and exposing the wear and tear of previous seasons.

You're not going to run out and buy a new house, but that doesn't mean you can't change the one you already have. Join the ranks of the growing percentage of women taking charge and doing it themselves!

To D.I.Y?
Before you begin choosing new wallpapers, tiles, and tearing the house apart, test your commitment to the project. It's very important to be realistic when considering home renovation, especially in terms of time and money.
While it's easy to plan the entire project, there are always other things going on in your life, so don't take on a project that will be halfway done for the next two years. Instead, start with something small to gauge how much energy you realistically have at the end of the day and on the weekends, as well as how much really needs to be done.
If one of your rooms is looking a bit small these days, try painting it a bright color rather than taking down an entire wall. Painting is a fantastic way to begin honing skills, as it takes the same amount of patience and attention to detail that other tasks require.
Even re-arranging furniture can be a huge help in these situations, and can do just as much to make a room feel new. Spend an afternoon moving small furniture, preparing the room with plastic and tarps, sanding, prepping the wall. Once you've spent the next few days applying coats of primer and paint, you'll have a good idea as to whether or not D.I.Y work is for you. If you're still gung-ho, try adding some stencils and sponging on some texture to personalize the look even more. Window treatments are also a quick and easy way to add warmth and personality to living spaces.

Choose a Project
If you feel ready, it's time to choose a project. While completely remodeling your entire kitchen might be what you have in mind, the best bet is starting slowly and working your way through one piece at a time, rather than tearing apart everything at once and being stuck eating breakfast in a construction zone.
Sometimes all it takes is a few new accessories to make the whole "outfit" feel fresh. Consider a room you'd like to remodel, and decide if it's a desire you could satisfy with something less involved, like a new faucet, chic appliances, light fixtures, or cabinets. New fixtures such as these are an incredibly easy way to update a room.
If you don't want to break the bank, refinishing cabinets is a task almost any woman can complete with some sanding and re-staining or painting. Not only is it a quick fix, you can really brighten or add some funky style to your kitchen by simply changing the color and handle hardware. More ambitious D.I.Y. queens might decide to partially tile the back splash beneath cupboards or behind the stove, but if you want to just leave the whole mess up to someone else, Formica countertops are a great way to give your kitchen some class.

Whether you're putting up wallpaper or adding a whole new room, adding to your home can be a great way to spend time with your family as well as a huge source of pride. Don't be afraid to jump right in and tackle your project, but always be sure to "measure twice, cut once" and be aware of safety precautions. And don't forget to skip the bigger picture - if you take it one step at a time, you'll be amazed how quickly a project can come to life. With a little bit of elbow grease, you could be installing your own hard wood floor in a matter of months, so be a fearless female and D.I.Y!

Raquella Hess is a staff writer for Rochester Woman Magazine.