The Busy Nearlywed's Guide to DIY Wedding Resources

Ready to get your DIY on in preparation for the big day? Since you're probably knee-deep in planning these days, we've put together a handy list of craft-focused stores and sites will help set you on the right path for all of your projects. Photo via Lover.ly

WHERE TO SHOP

Michaels This chain of craft stores has just about everything you could possibly need! From paint and fabric to silk flowers and colorful ribbon, chance are, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Michaels. And with locations across the country, you should have no problem locating one nearby. Hobby Lobby Like Michaels, you can find just about anything at Hobby Lobby (and they've got stores across the country). Fair warning: These stores are usually HUGE, so avoid the inevitable overwhelming feeling by asking someone exactly where to find what you need. Otherwise, you may be roaming up and down aisles endlessly. Etsy While Etsy's claim to fame is selling finished crafts, you can actually buy materials on the site, too. Check out the “Craft Supplies” section for fabric, beads, ribbon, yarn, and pretty much anything else you can think of. Jo-Ann Fabrics Need lace for a DIY table runner? Some colorful fabric for decorative bunting? You’ll have no shortage of patterns to choose from at Jo-Ann’s. Don’t let the store’s name fool you, though — you can find more than fabric here. Materials for scrapbooking, floral design, and other crafts are all for sale, too. Department Stores If you’re looking for a specific item that’s not exactly a household item, you’ll want to stick to craft stores. But for more common materials (think: scrapbook paper, markers, mason jars), check your local Target, Wal-Mart, K-Mart, or other department stores. Dollar Stores Half the reason for tackling DIY projects is to cut down on your wedding budget, right? Don’t bust your budget with expensive materials! Dollar stores often sell what you need for cheap. Look for materials like safety pins and scissors or decorations like favor containers, twine, and vases. Local Shops Support your local indie shops! Most independent craft stores stock wedding DIY materials like fabric, yarn, wood, and of course all the tools your projects require.

WHERE TO LEARN

So you’re anxious to complete a wedding DIY…but have absolutely no idea how to start. Unless you have a talented friend who can teach you some new skills, there are some great options for picking up the techniques you need to know. In-Person Classes The most classic way to learn the tricks of a new trade? A group class taught by an expert instructor. Stores like Michaels and Jo-Ann’s, and even local craft shops, often host beginner classes. If the session fits in your schedule, these are a great way to practice and get in-person feedback before starting your wedding project. Online Classes Don’t have time to get to a class during the day? An online crafting class lets you learn the same skills at your own speed (i.e. in between appointments with vendors). Sites like Craftsy, CreativeLive, and Creativebug offer classes in paper crafts, sewing, jewelry making, drawing, and more. Photo by Krista Mason on Inspired by This via Lover.ly

WHERE TO FIND INSPIRATION

What’s the use of buying craft supplies and learning new skills if you don’t have a project in mind?! Luckily for you, there’s no shortage of DIY wedding ideas for you to browse for some serious inspo! All of the above resources are great for inspiration, too. Whether you’re browsing the site or wandering the aisles of a craft shop, something is bound to pique your interest and spark your creativity. But there are a few more inspiration outlets we just had to mention. Loverly Here at Loverly, we're all about wedding inspiration! Search the site for big ideas for your big day, or take a peek at DIY dos, don'ts, and how-tos over in News & Tips. Pinterest Um, duh! Pinterest is kind of a given. Just be prepared to get totally sucked in—you might spend hours finding (and falling in love with) tons of wedding DIYs. Craft Gawker This site is all about inspiration. Craft Gawker is like Pinterest but only for crafts. Sort by “weddings” to see the ones that’ll be perfect for your big day. Looking for more ideas and inspiration? Made With Love: 60 Wedding DIY Ideas that Will Make You Want to Get Crafty How to Make Your Wedding DIYs Look Perfectly Polished