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Home / Alex Shoemaker

Author: Alex Shoemaker

Alex Shoemaker is an experienced journalist and DIYer. He started shoemakesnew.com in 2020 with his wife, Emma. He loves making his house more functional for his family.
What to Do After Closing on a Home: A New Homeowner Checklist
All Posts

What to Do After Closing on a Home: A New Homeowner Checklist

Learn exactly what to do after closing on a home with our comprehensive guide for new homeowners. From changing locks to transferring utilities, we cover essential next steps.

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Murphy Bed vs Sleeper Sofa: Which is Better for Guest Rooms?
All Posts | DIY Projects

Murphy Bed vs Sleeper Sofa: Which is Better for Guest Rooms?

Trying to make the most of a small guest room?…

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rubber mulch vs. wood mulch
Products

Rubber Mulch vs. Wood Mulch: Which Is Better for Your Garden?

Explore the pros and cons of rubber mulch vs. wood mulch for your landscaping needs. Compare durability, cost, maintenance, environmental impact, and more to make the best choice for your garden.

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What to Do Before Closing on a Home
All Posts

What to Do Before Closing on a Home: Including FREE Checklist

Discover what to do before closing on a home, including inspections, final walkthroughs, closing costs, and essential paperwork to ensure a smooth buying process.

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cozy breakfast nook bench
All Posts | DIY Projects

Comparing Drawer vs. Flip-top Storage for Breakfast Nook Benches

Discover the best storage options for breakfast nook benches in small kitchens. Compare drawer and flip-top storage, learn pros and cons, and choose the perfect solution to maximize your space. Whether for easy-access, hidden storage, or child-safe options, find out which storage style fits your needs and budget.”

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Electric vs Gas Fireplaces
DIY Projects

Why We Chose Electric Over Gas For Our DIY Fireplace

Discover the pros and cons of electric vs gas fireplaces for DIY home renovations. Learn about cost, heating efficiency, installation, and which option is best for your project.

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Composite Wood Fencing vs. Traditional Wood: What’s the Best Choice for You?
DIY Projects | Products

Composite Wood Fencing vs. Traditional Wood: What’s the Best Choice for You?

Discover the true differences between composite wood fencing vs. traditional wood. Compare costs, durability, and maintenance requirements to make the best choice for your home. Expert insights on materials, installation, and long-term value.

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Pros and Cons of a Washer/Dryer Combo
All Posts | Products

Pros and Cons of a Washer/Dryer Combo

Wondering if a washer/dryer combo is right for you? Discover the pros, cons, drawbacks, and maintenance tips to decide if it fits your lifestyle.

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DIY Renovations That Added the Most Value to Our Homes
All Posts | DIY Projects | Renovations

DIY Renovations That Added the Most Value to Our Homes

Discover the best DIY renovations that add value to your home. From kitchen remodels to bathroom updates, learn which projects offer the highest ROI and transform your space with these expert tips.

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Pros and Cons of Butcher Block Countertops
All Posts | Renovations

Pros and Cons of Butcher Block Countertops

Discover the pros and cons of butcher block countertops in this comprehensive guide. Learn about durability, installation tips, and creative uses beyond the kitchen. Perfect for DIY enthusiasts and home renovators looking for a warm, budget-friendly countertop option.

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shoemakesnew

shoemakesnew

A thrifty Aussie mum with the audacity to DIY anything. Old house, new projects, & life back home after a decade abroad 🛠️
✉️: emma@shoemakesnew.com

Every house has that one sad little spot you avoid Every house has that one sad little spot you avoid eye contact with. Ours was this one: a patch of bark, old concrete, and so much potential if you could see beyond the spider webs. 
 
We measured the space, opened the Bunnings Decking Planner, and played around until it looked like the cozy sitting area we’d been imagining. We chose the Ekodeck Designer Series because they’re beautiful of course, but also they’re composite so won’t warp or need much upkeep and they’re BAL19-rated for bushfire season. We could also add furniture straight into the planner and generate a shopping list of everything we’d need (even little things like screws and clips) and have it all delivered right to our door. 
 
The build wasn’t glamorous (is it ever?), but the moment we laid the last board, it felt like this corner finally matched the life happening around it. 
 
10/10 recommend fixing the spots of your house you’re tired of ignoring. 
 
@bunnings #backyardmakeover #patiomakeover #diyhome #FriendsofBunnings #Bunningsinspo
I can’t stop adding built-ins and colour to my h I can’t stop adding built-ins and colour to my house it’s my favourite addiction 🥲
Just reminiscing on some finished spaces while my house is once again torn up and I’m trying to battle the never-ending smaller house problem of no storage.
We’ve been through kitchen renovations where we We’ve been through kitchen renovations where we spent way too much on take-away or were so overwhelmed trying to even make toast so this time (as a self proclaimed DIY kitchen reno expert now) I have a plan. Save this one for next time your house is torn up and also if I missed anything give me all the tips!
Coffee? Iced. Audiobook? Loaded. Paint? Bold. Peop Coffee? Iced. Audiobook? Loaded. Paint? Bold. People? Not talking to me.
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