A grandmother from Kent has explained how she pulled off complete transformation of her patio for less than £50.
Tanya Knight, a 52, was set on updating her garden, but decided to do it on a budget during the lockdown.
In total, she spent just £44 changing the look of her patio into a modern grey space, and received thousands of likes when she shared the photo online.
"I’m a key worker and mother of a disabled son who I have been shielding since March. I have two protective bubbles for him as he needs 24-hour care," Tanya, who works as a trainee counsellor, told money-saving community LatestDeals.co.uk.
"I find switching off difficult, so I set myself a project to transform the garden and patio."
"The patio idea came from Facebook groups and after I accidentally dropped paint on my patio. I sponged it and it had a lovely effect.
"I repointed the patio using cement and sand mix and washed. I painted the lot in Dulux masonry paint slate grey and went over the gaps twice for coverage.
"I then used black masonry paint, one part paint to 15 parts water, and sponged over, carefully avoiding the edges. For the darker bits, I used two parts paint to six parts water.
"I sponged and allow the sponge to run dry as this gives a great pattern. I then sealed to protect it.
"It cost £44 in total and I managed to get grey paint in lockdown. I got it delivered as I try not to shop due to the risk to my son.
"I paid £22 for the paint and the rest was spent on sealer, sponges and jugs for mixing black paint and water in."
Tanya made up by how her project turned out, and found extra benefits too.
“It took just under 10 hours,” Tanya added.
"I was amazed at how good it looked! After I painted the slabs light grey I was terrified. My husband said 'you have to sort that out'.
"I was so relieved when I did phase three and could see the plan come together!
“The renovation has given me so much joy in such a bleak time. I hope it will help others transform their patios on a budget.
"It was a great project for me in lockdown as I work in mental health as a trainee child counsellor.
"I am working with children who have been affected by Covid-19. Plus, my home life is hectic. It was a great focus.
“I’m a 52-year-old grandmother - if I can do it anyone can!”
