Backyard projects can vary from landscaping to building. Do-it-yourself projects require little professional expertise and can be accomplished by just about anyone, including those with no background in building or landscaping.
A backyard project can consist of redesigning the landscaping. With advice from your local nursery about which plants to choose for your climate zone, you can redesign your entire yard in a few days. Research on soil amendments and fertilizer is necessary for a successful garden.
Pathways designed with paver stones or decomposed granite are an excellent project for do it yourselfers. Decomposed granite is a simple material to work with and requires few tools -- typically only a wheelbarrow and shovel. Paver stones can also be used for a pathway and can be designed for a loose wandering path surrounded by ornamental plants.