DIY is something we all desire to be better at and as such it can even be classified as something of a national obsession. Driven by DIY enthusiast, founder and artistic director of Branar, Marc Mac Lochlainn, this brand new 6-part series seeks to nurture viewers ‘can do’ attitude and give advice and tips about ‘the how to’ and ‘the when to’, when undertaking big and small DIY projects.
Marc says of Déan Tú Féin É, “Growing up on a farm teaches you to be creative and self sufficient. Each day new challenges need to be addressed with original idea and ingenuity. My dad, as a 4th generation Kildare farmer, always encouraged me and my siblings to find solutions to our DIY problems and to learn from our mistakes. I was always aware of his subtle guidance and mentoring and I hope to do the same on Déan Tú Féin É”.
Marc’s practical hands on approach and infectious enthusiasm for all things DIY, will inform, entertain and encourage six novice DIYers who wish to undertake, long avoided backyard projects. From squeeky gates and planter walls to milking parlour make-overs and sensory garden design, the series will see Marc (now living in Headford, Galway) roll up his sleeves to help make DIY projects a reality for the would-be DIYers. He will generously share his expertise to help develop untapped DIY skills.
Marc’s creative DIY tips and hacks are supplemented with insightful visits to some of Ireland’s DIY heroes. Bríd Treasa Ní Ghaoithín (Ceathrú Rua, Galway), the show’s curious reporter, will search the length and breadth of the country to showcase some of the best DIY projects completed in the last 12 months. From fire pits to hidden office space, the shows DIY heroes will offer viewers money-saving tips and share design inspiration.
Bríd Treasa comments; “I’ve always had a pasion for creativity and imagination… I love to see people using their talent to create a sustainable and self sufficient life and on this show I’ve been blown away by the DIY know how that exists”.
In the first episode (25/4/24) presenter Marc Mac Lochlainn will help young couple, Bríd Nic Risteardand Harry in Co. Limerick (Murroe) transform Bríd’s father’s old milking parlour into a workshop. This capable young couple want to create storage space and a workshop for themselves in this forgotten shed so they can tackle those DIY jobs around their home.
Our roving reporter Bríd-Treasa Ní Ghaoithín will meet 2 new DIY heroes; Meabh Cooney (Bulgan, Glynn) in Co. Wexford where she has brought Paris into her back garden through clever DIY design and also John O’ Connor (Newtown, Ballyvaughan) from Co. Clare who created a hidden office in his guest bedroom .
There will be something for everyone in this series, from the budding DIY enthusiast to the experienced DIY heroes all are united by one aim to improve their homes and living spaces for the better.
Each show, produced by TV production newcomers, Glór Media (Knocknacarra, Galway), under the guidance and mentorship of Tyrone Productions will chart the true and inspiring progression of these skills with a follow up visit and big project reveal.
Déan Tú Féin É will air over six weeks, starting on Thursday 25th April @ 8pm on TG4 and on the TG4 Player – TG4.ie.
