Ideas For DIY
Need a little inspiration? Or maybe you’re just like me… You know your bathroom will never look like this, but it’s totally fun to look anyway. House Beautiful takes you through this stunning bathroom which boasts “an antique chandelier, a burnished cast-iron tub, silver decor, and a vintage pharmacy cabinet”. This bathroom lives in the home of designer Betty Lou Phillips. Take the photo tour yourself.
Have you noticed how the world is embracing homesteading more than ever? People are looking for ways to live sustainably, be more self-sufficient, and make the most of the space they have—whether it’s in the countryside or the heart of the city. The homesteading movement is in full swing, and it’s not just a passing trend. From growing your own food to harvesting rainwater and even living off the grid, more and more people are taking matters into their own hands to create a sustainable lifestyle.
So, why is homesteading booming right now? With the rising cost of living, environmental concerns, and a desire for a simpler, more meaningful life, people are seeing the value in being more self-reliant. The good news? It’s not too late to join this movement, and it’s easier to start than you might think. In fact, getting in on the homesteading action right now could change your life for the better.
Let’s break down what’s driving the homesteading craze, why it’s becoming so popular, and how you can start homesteading today—before the world catches on and it gets even harder to dive in.
Rising Costs of Living
One of the biggest drivers behind the homesteading movement is the rising costs of food, utilities, and everyday essentials. With inflation, supply chain issues, and climate change affecting crop yields, many families are feeling the pressure. Homesteading offers an opportunity to reduce those ongoing expenses, especially when it comes to food. Growing your own veggies, raising chickens for eggs, or even raising livestock for meat can be a game-changer.
Eco-Conscious Living
Homesteading isn’t just about self-sufficiency; it’s also about living in a way that benefits the planet. From growing food without pesticides to harvesting rainwater and relying on renewable energy like solar panels, homesteading allows people to reduce their carbon footprint. In a world increasingly concerned about climate change, sustainable living is no longer a niche—it’s the future.
The Desire for Freedom and Independence
There’s something incredibly empowering about being able to rely on yourself. Many people are tired of being tied to the 9-5 grind and the constant need to depend on large corporations for their needs. Homesteading gives people a chance to break free from that dependency and create a life where they are in control. Whether it’s producing your own food, having energy independence, or being prepared for emergencies, homesteading offers freedom and peace of mind.
The Influence of Social Media and Online Communities
Social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube have made homesteading more accessible than ever. There are thriving communities of homesteaders sharing their stories, tips, and advice for beginners. Watching someone transform their backyard into a self-sufficient farm or seeing people raise goats and chickens can be incredibly inspiring. Plus, the wealth of information available online makes it easy to get started—even if you live in a city.
Now that you know why homesteading is booming, let’s dive into how you can start your homesteading journey today. Whether you have acres of land or a small backyard, there are plenty of ways to get involved in the movement.
Before you start planting gardens or collecting chickens, it’s important to have a plan. Think about what kind of lifestyle you want to create. Are you looking to grow your own food? Collect rainwater? Generate your own energy? Having a clear idea of what you want to achieve will make your homesteading journey much smoother. Start small and build up over time—don’t try to do everything at once.
Growing your own food is the cornerstone of homesteading. Even if you don’t have a lot of space, container gardening, vertical gardening, and raised beds can make it possible to grow vegetables and herbs in small spaces. Start with easy-to-grow plants like tomatoes, lettuce, carrots, or peppers. If you have more space, you can also look into growing fruit trees or even creating a small orchard. Growing your own food not only saves you money but also gives you the satisfaction of knowing where your meals come from.
If you have a bit more space or are interested in a more involved homesteading lifestyle, raising small livestock like chickens, ducks, or even goats might be the right choice for you. Chickens are especially popular because they are relatively easy to care for and can provide fresh eggs. Keep in mind, though, that raising animals does require time, space, and effort. If you’re just starting, consider learning about animal husbandry before diving in.
Going off-grid doesn’t mean you have to give up modern comforts. Renewable energy sources like solar panels, wind turbines, or even micro-hydro systems can help you reduce your reliance on the grid. Many people are starting with solar panels to power their homes, and it’s easier than ever to install these systems, even if you’re on a budget. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it also contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle.
Water is one of our most precious resources, and harvesting rainwater is an excellent way to reduce your environmental footprint. By installing a rainwater collection system, you can capture rainwater from your roof and use it to water your garden, wash your car, or even for household use. It’s a simple but effective way to make your homestead more self-sufficient and eco-friendly.
Homesteading and sustainability go hand in hand. Whether it’s composting food scraps, making your own cleaning supplies, or using natural, non-toxic materials, zero-waste living is an integral part of homesteading. The goal is to reduce your reliance on plastic, store-bought products, and chemicals. Small changes like switching to reusable bags, bottles, and containers can make a big difference.
Homesteading doesn’t have to be a solo journey. Building a supportive community of like-minded individuals can help you stay motivated and learn from others. Join local homesteading groups, participate in online forums, or start a social media account to connect with others on the same path. Sharing tips, ideas, and resources can make the journey much easier—and more enjoyable!
Homesteading is growing in popularity, but it’s still possible to get in on the ground floor. The earlier you start, the more time you have to learn, experiment, and adjust your approach. The homesteading movement is all about taking control of your life, reducing your reliance on outside sources, and creating a sustainable future for yourself and your family.
So, whether you’re planting your first vegetable garden, learning how to preserve food, or just considering adding a few chickens to your backyard, now is the perfect time to start. Don’t wait until everyone else catches on—begin your homesteading adventure today and start building a more sustainable, self-sufficient life for tomorrow.
Are you ready to take the plunge? Start small, stay focused, and enjoy the process. The homesteading movement is waiting for you!
It is gorgeous! Can you imagine a bunch of kids barreling through there though? That mirror is messed up! It’s pretty, but very impractical.