Being a plumber, carpenter, barber, or tailor for a day could save you hundreds. These ideas can kick-start a DIY lifestyle while you watch the savings add up:

• Prepare yourself. Learning as you go is generally not a good strategy when tackling a job yourself. Find a teacher: Many home improvement centers, craft stores, or sewing shops offer free or low-cost courses for newbies. You could also read a how-to book or watch an online tutorial first to see how it’s done.

• Put your toe in the water. Don’t be afraid. Even the experts started somewhere. What’s the worst thing that can happen? The lamp will still be broken, or you’ll have to buy a shirt. Some risks are worth it.

• Go smaller. Replacing a roof can be pricey and dangerous — and if it goes wrong, the stakes are high. But learning how to change the oil in your car, drywall a bathroom, or landscape your lanai might be just the level of ambitious you need.

Are you ready for a project?