The Cambridge/Somerville area is a haven for DIYers. There are so many great DIY home improvement resources in these two cities–here are just a few to get you started on your next (or first!) project.

Artisan’s Asylum – Living in an urban area, dedicated workshop space is often an unattainable luxury. Artisan’s Asylum, a 40,000 square foot warehouse in Somerville, provides space and equipment rentals so you can truly do it yourself. They also host events and offer classes for people interested in different aspects of DIY culture. You can learn how to use a table saw and eventually sign up for the popular Build a Chair course.

Longleaf Lumber – This place is a wood lovers paradise. Whether you’re looking for 500 feet worth of pine flooring or a giant slab of redwood, Longleaf Lumber most likely has what you need. When I set out to build a desk, I knew I wanted some special wood. With the help of their knowledgeable staff, I picked out a gorgeous piece of reclaimed oak from a barn in Maine to use on the top of the desk.

Anderson & McQuaid Co. – Anderson & McQuaid in Cambridge is simply the best place to buy crown moulding and other trims to enhance a room. When I installed bead board wainscoting in my hallway, I had to rip out some of the original baseboard and it could not be salvaged. The staff at Anderson & McQuaid helped me find a baseboard trim to match the original. They offer a huge variety of stock mouldings and are a valuable resource for both pros and DIYers.

Sunshine Lucy’s – In an age of cheaply made goods and disposability, Sunshine Lucy’s repurposed furniture is the chic and green way to furnish your home. This shop specializes in customized refurbishing. You can browse the ever-changing inventory of the store or bring in your own piece of furniture for a colorful face lift. While it’s not technically “DIY,” the store is a wonderful source of inspiration if you want to eventually refinish a piece of furniture on your own.

The Somerville Tool Library – What can you do if you don’t have your own tools? Many home improvement projects require tools that the average DIYer may not have the budget or space to own. The Somerville Tool library is a tool lending library you can join for a yearly membership fee of $50. Rent a sledgehammer or rent a soldering iron through this helpful DIY resource.

Craigslist – Once you’ve been inspired by Sunshine Lucy’s refinished furniture pieces, start your own refurbishment project! You can find pieces of well-made furniture on Craigslist for a fraction of the cost of retail stores. The furniture may be dated or a bit damaged, but with a fresh coat of paint and new hardware, you’ll have a customized and original piece that you can be proud of. Refinishing your own furniture is an excellent DIY project.

Restoration Resources – Cambridge and Somerville boast many historical residences. Victorian and Georgian architecture abound here and homeowners often want the interior of the house to match the period in which the home was built. Even if you don’t live in grand estate on Brattle Street, you can replicate the antique feel yourself through the architectural salvage showroom, Restoration Resources. Install your own early 20th century lighting to add some unique history to your space.

Home Depot, Somerville – Of course, a home improvement resource list would not be complete without Home Depot. Stock up on “do it yourself” essentials (nails, drop cloths, sandpaper, etc.) so you’re not left scrambling in the middle of a project.