I started about 5 years ago with my first project of removing wallpaper and painting. Though the real reason why I chose to do any kind of tile work was when my roommate offered to me that if I were to do the counters and the floors they would get me a motorcycle. A motorcycle -- how could I resist?! So I started by laying the countertops and then the floors. In the end, I got my motorcycle ('92 Yamaha) - it was old but good.

I quickly found out that laying stone countertops seemed like it would be easier than the floor, in the end I enjoyed and still prefer working on floors.

Tiling floors is my favorite home improvement project because to me it's a "salt of the earth" type of project. When you "create" the floor in a room is you're also creating the platform on how the rest of the room will feel. I also took to it in such a way that it feels quite natural when doing it. I am so comfortable and things seem to come automatic to me when I'm laying tile - it's a sensation I can't put down in words. The best way to describe it is that it feels like something very familiar; like I did it in a past life.

I am just starting to lay decorative patterns. The way I approach every project is that I do a great deal of research and know exactly what I am getting into before getting started. While I am looking forward to doing more decorative tile work, I haven't been able to find the kind of information I like to have before getting started.

I had bought that place to fix it up and sell it. I put it on the market and sold it just last month for more than I was asking for. Everyone who came in loved how it came out and I even got a job offer from one of the contractors as a tile setter! I've since bought another place that I am focusing my interest on now--though in this one I will get to do some masonry. I can't wait to try that out!

It's kind of like building my own nest. I can make it as comfortable and peaceful as I want. I don't have any kids, just critters. For me it's about making my house my own. The most inspiring part to me is that now each project I take on gets more difficult and that way I know I'm growing as a true Do It Yourselfer.

It's made homeownership so much more of a pleasure. I'm not intimidated by the projects I have to get done with contractors. I don't have to worry about warranties or if the person doing the work is cutting corners. I get to really enjoy where I live because I did it. It has become a big part of my life and personality as well as a part-time job that has enabled me to increase the value of my homes.

Be brave! There are so many things out there that can help you. While I hadn't had a great deal of luck finding good DIY content online, I was pleasantly surprised when I found it on Be Jane. If you need something specific and you can't seem to find it online, then there is a great deal of literature out there that can help you. If you want to try it, the worst thing that can happen is that you have to call a contractor but most of the time you'll finish it yourself and save money, too.