9 West Virginia DIY Projects That Are Practically A State Hobby
West Virginians have always been masters of making something beautiful out of what’s right around them. From the rolling Appalachian Mountains to the cozy front porches, DIY culture isn’t just a hobby here, it’s practically woven into the state’s DNA.
Whether you’re a mountain native or just love that country charm, these homegrown projects capture the spirit of West Virginia. They showcase the kind of ingenuity that transforms everyday materials into something truly special.
1. Barnwood Accent Walls
Ever notice how a room feels completely different with just one standout feature? Old barnwood from Appalachian structures makes for walls with stories to tell. The weathered planks bring warmth that no store-bought decoration ever could.
Collecting barnwood has become something of a treasure hunt across West Virginia’s countryside. Folks swap tips about abandoned structures and carefully salvage each board, preserving both history and craftsmanship in their homes.
2. Mason Jar Light Fixtures
Where others see ordinary canning jars, West Virginians spot potential chandeliers! Those blue-tinted Ball jars that grandma used for preserves transform into stunning pendant lights with just a few simple modifications.
Mason jar lighting fixtures have illuminated country kitchens and covered porches across the Mountain State for generations. The soft glow filtering through glass creates an ambiance that fancy store-bought fixtures just can’t match, especially when hanging from reclaimed wooden planks or antique pulleys.
3. Quilted Wall Hangings
Though modern fabrics might find their way in occasionally, traditional Appalachian quilt patterns still reign supreme on walls throughout the state. Geometric stars, wedding rings, and log cabin designs showcase both mathematical precision and artistic flair.
Quilting circles continue meeting in church basements and community centers across West Virginia. The craft passes from generation to generation, with grandmothers teaching nimble-fingered grandchildren how to create these textile masterpieces that warm both homes and hearts.
4. Appalachian Herb Gardens
How many times have you walked through a West Virginia yard and smelled that wonderful mix of mint, thyme, and rosemary? Growing useful plants isn’t just gardening here, it’s creating living pantries and medicine cabinets.
Appalachian herb gardens typically feature both culinary and medicinal varieties arranged in creative containers.
Old washbasins, cracked crocks, and even worn-out work boots find new purpose housing everything from common basil to herbs. Traditional healing plants like echinacea and goldenseal have been trusted by mountain folks for generations.
5. Hand-Built Porch Swings
This might be the most quintessential West Virginia DIY project ever conceived! Nothing says mountain hospitality like a sturdy swing hanging from chains on a covered porch, inviting folks to sit a spell.
Hand-built porch swings require careful measurement and solid joinery to ensure they last through seasons of use.
West Virginians typically craft these beloved pieces from oak, hickory, or cedar harvested locally. They often finish them with multiple coats of exterior varnish to withstand mountain weather while providing the perfect spot for evening conversation.
6. Rustic Stone Fire Pits
When summer evenings cool down in the mountains, West Virginians gather around handcrafted stone fire pits that seem to emerge organically from the landscape. Using rocks collected from creek beds and hillsides, these outdoor gathering spots become the heart of family properties.
Building fire pits has become something of an artistic expression throughout the state. Some creators incorporate local river stones in intricate patterns, while others use larger sandstone pieces to create seating areas around the flames.
7. Repurposed Antique Décor
Did you know that old coal mining tools make stunning wall art? West Virginians have elevated repurposing to an art form, transforming everything from antique farm implements to industrial remnants into conversation-starting décor.
Repurposed items hold special significance in Mountain State homes. Vintage washboards become bathroom organizers, while grandfather’s hand drill might find new life as a coat rack.
These transformations honor the state’s industrial heritage while giving practical new purpose to items that might otherwise be forgotten.
8. Pallet Wood Furniture
If you’ve driven past a West Virginia home with a perfectly rustic coffee table or bookshelf, chances are good it started life as a shipping pallet! The humble wooden transport structure transforms into everything from outdoor seating to indoor statement pieces.
Pallet furniture building has practically become a competitive sport in some mountain communities. Neighbors share techniques for breaking down the sturdy structures without splitting the wood, then proudly display their creations on front porches where evening conversations happen.
9. Homemade Canning Shelves
When harvest season hits the mountains, kitchens across West Virginia transform into preservation headquarters! Custom-built shelving designed specifically for displaying colorful jars of home-canned goods becomes both practical storage and kitchen artwork.
Canning shelves showcase the state’s self-sufficient spirit. Typically built from local pine or poplar with reinforced supports to hold the weight of dozens of filled jars, these structures often feature decorative routing along edges or special corner brackets.
The real masterpiece comes when the shelves fill with jewel-toned vegetables and fruits preserved for winter enjoyment.
