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Over the past decade, social media has witnessed a remarkable surge in DIY content, ranging from brief clips demonstrating how to repair wall cracks to elaborate tutorials on crafting custom alcove seating. This wave of home improvement inspiration has traditionally skewed male, but increasingly, female influencers are reshaping these perceptions and encouraging women to embrace hands-on projects themselves. Alongside this cultural shift, there is a growing demand for female tradespeople, with some women transitioning into skilled trades they view as more resilient against automation than conventional office roles.
One standout example is Jasmine Gurney, a DIY influencer from Bedfordshire who has taken on a myriad of challenging home projects, including removing walls, laying new flooring, constructing fences, insulating lofts, and even building bespoke cabinetry. Remarkably, Jasmine is currently eight months pregnant while racing to complete a fitted wardrobe before her baby arrives. She reflects on her motivation: “I like proving people wrong,” and notes that despite facing online criticism about her methods, such responses only fuel her determination. By sharing her experiences—even while pregnant or carrying her child—Jasmine aims to empower women to take the initiative rather than waiting on others to handle household repairs.
Young women from Generation Z are also playing a pivotal role in overturning gender stereotypes related to DIY. A 2024 B&Q report reveals that approximately 75% of Gen Z women enjoy DIY activities, compared to 60% of women overall. Moreover, 82% of Gen Z respondents said being inspired by women undertaking complex home improvement on social media motivated them to engage more actively themselves. While not all projects lend themselves to DIY, this enthusiasm marks a significant change in attitudes toward self-sufficiency and skill-building in traditionally male-dominated domains.
The professional trades sector similarly shows signs of change. Bliss Cunneen, who left an Anthropology degree program in 2020 to train as a plumber, describes the move as “the best thing I’ve ever done.” Though she sometimes encounters skepticism from clients—once even mistaken for the receptionist—her confidence and competence quickly win them over. Platforms like TaskHer, founded by Anna Moynihan to connect female tradespeople with customers, are experiencing rapid growth, with inquiries doubling and tradeswomen registering at quadruple the previous rate. Anna highlights ongoing challenges women face, such as being overlooked or having their role minimized, but also notes that increasing visibility and support are critical: “You can’t be what you can’t see, and anything that shows women and girls that they can do something is fantastic.
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