DIY Projects Give Millennials and Gen Z Joy and Confidence, Survey Finds

Forget a new haircut or favorite outfit — new research suggests the real confidence booster may come from rolling up your sleeves and tackling a home project.

A survey of 2,000 Gen Z and millennial homeowners and renters found that those who complete DIY projects report increased confidence, happiness, and satisfaction that lasts for about seven weeks. Nearly nine in 10 respondents (86%) said finishing a home-related DIY project makes them feel accomplished, while 83% agreed theres nothing more satisfying than completing one on their own.

The study, conducted by Talker Research for Dremel, revealed that Americans have finished an average of eight projects in their current homes, with homeowners averaging 10 compared to five among renters. Many recalled their first attempts at DIY, such as putting up a fresh coat of paint (21%), mounting a TV (13%), or hanging a picture frame (10%).

Confidence often grows from seeing others succeed. About 63% said watching a friend manage a tricky household task inspires them to try it themselves. But that confidence can falter when projects seem too advanced, particularly those completed by design professionals on social media (28%) or those suggested by AI (27%).

Despite the enthusiasm, barriers remain. Over half of respondents (55%) admitted they have projects saved for the future but dont yet feel capable of completing them, with worries about “messing it up” (27%) and lacking the right tools (27%) being the main obstacles. One in six said they dont even own a tool kit, citing cost (18%) or relying on others for tools (13%).

“We know that nearly a third of renters hesitate to start DIY projects simply because they dont have the right tools on hand,” said Eric Siegel, group segment owner of DIY at Dremel. “Our mission is to break down those barriers and show that creativity doesnt require a garage full of equipment. Multi-functional tools like the Dremel Blueprint Multi-Drill can help seasoned makers and first-time DIYers feel confident enough to bring their ideas to life by simplifying the process and taking away the hassle.”

The research also found that projects are often left unfinished. Respondents reported having two tasks incomplete on average, with painting a wall or room (23%), building furniture (19%), and installing flooring or carpeting (17%) topping the list. Many said theyve been putting these off for months, but most still aim to complete at least three DIY projects by the end of the year — with one in five setting a goal of five or more.

Some of the most celebrated “DIY wins” included building a simple bookshelf from scratch, creating a raised garden bed, crafting a backyard fire pit and pizza oven, building a large cat tree, and even making a movable ramp for a dog recovering from surgery.

“While many people are putting off their DIY projects, homeowners tend to be better prepared as 84% own a standard tool kit and 72% own a set of tools,” said Siegel. “Renters, on the other hand, are less likely to have those basic tools but still stand to benefit just as much creatively. Whether its saving money on small fixes, adding personal touches to make a space feel more homey or building confidence through hands-on projects, renters can unlock the independence and the feeling of accomplishment that comes with DIY.”