10 backyard DIY ideas that are so clever, your neighbors will copy them

When the weather gets warm and summer rolls around, nobody wants to stay indoors. So set up your backyard as the most fun place to be using some creative ideas you and your family will love.
You don't have to spend hundreds on oversized outdoor toys or chairs to enjoy the warm weather. Just get creative with these ideas!
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1. DIY outdoor movie screen (h/t The Merry Thought)
There's nothing like watching a movie on the big screen, drive-in style — especially when you can do it right in your own backyard. Set up some chairs, pop some popcorn, and enjoy your own private cinema with this fun DIY.
2. DIY firepit & curved bench (h/t A Beautiful Mess)
Grab cinderblocks to make a cute, casual fit pit for the entire family to gather around. The curved bench below only cost $125 to make with a single trip to Home Depot.
3. DIY bar cart (h/t Love & Renovations)
Upgrade an old rusty bar cart into chic, functional backyard decor. Entertain guests with drinks and show off your silverware!
4. DIY patio (h/t Lovely Indeed)
Does a section of your backyard need a major makeover? Is it bothering you? Need no worry anymore as it's easy to save a ton of money and make your own Instagram-worthy patio. Style with your favorite lounge chairs, rocks, and plants.
5. DIY hammock (h/t The Sorry Girls)
Skip buying overpriced hammocks at retailers; make your own custom napping spot and hang it under a cool, shady tree for warm-weather naps.
6. Garden patio table
When the weather turns warm, everyone wants to head outdoors to enjoy the sunshine. To make your time outside the most enjoyable, you want to have a comfortable place to hang out, including a place to kick up your feet or to set down your drink. This DIY, made from an old tire, is the perfect solution. Get the full tutorial here.
7. Pergola (h/t The Created Home)
Love the look of a pergola but don't have the money to buy one? Craft your own, and relax under a lighted canopy that's great for summer meals al fresco.
8. Outdoor waterbed (h/t Just Another Utah County Mom)
A fun alternative to the outdoor pool, this huge outdoor waterbed is a blast for kids to slide around on, lay on, and simply have a great time playing on. Cheap and easy to make, this backyard DIY will be a huge hit with little ones.
9. Wallpaper an ugly chair
When guests come over during the summer, you typically pull out old chairs to accommodate everyone. Let's face it: They're ugly! Give them a makeover with some wallpaper. Get the full tutorial here.
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10. DIY outdoor checkers game table (h/t Simply Designing)
Everybody loves checkers, and it's a great game for all ages. Instead of bringing the board outside, build it directly into your backyard table. It's functional and fun!
11. Chair with built-in cooler
Feeling handy? Tinker with tools and create an outdoor chair that features a built-in cooler. Not only is it the perfect outdoor decor piece, but you also can keep beer, soda and water cold inside the integrated cooler. Get the full tutorial here.
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DIY Everywhere