your DIY and budget-friendly partner-in-crime

Hi, I'm Haley!

Hi, I’m Haley Orrock, the hands and heart behind Bones and Builds. I’m a Medicolegal Death Investigator and a mom of two, sharing practical, budget-friendly DIYs as I renovate our home in real time.

Between night shifts and nap times, I believe anyone can create a home they love, no contractor required. My goal is to help busy moms and everyday homeowners feel confident picking up the tools and getting started.

In a Nutshell: DIY, Death Investigations, and Diapers...

About me

MY STORY

View my Projects

It all started when the bathtub plumbing broke and I had no way to give my baby a bath. Calling a plumber wasn’t in the budget, so I rolled up my sleeves, watched a few tutorials, and figured it out myself—with a baby monitor nearby and a lot of trial and error. That one fix sparked something in me. I realized I didn’t have to wait for help, money, or the “right time” to take ownership of our home. I could learn as I went, build as I needed, and create something better for my family with my own two hands.

Since then, DIY has become my way of making our home both beautiful and functional, even in the chaos of motherhood and night shifts. I share these projects to empower other women—especially moms—to believe they can do the same. Whether it’s a lighting upgrade during nap time or a full room renovation over weekends, I’m here to show that with a little grit and creativity, you can build a home that feels like yours.

My DIY journey began with a broken bathtub...

This isn’t a highlight reel—it’s real life, real tools, and real transformation. Every project I share is tested in the chaos of motherhood, budget constraints, and a full-time job. I’m not a contractor. I’m a mom with a drill, a vision, and a deep belief that you can create a home you love with what you have, right now.

Here, you’ll find tutorials, tips, and inspiration designed to help you take the first step—and the next one—with confidence. Because this isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress, creativity, and building something meaningful.

What you'll find here

paint brushes

power tools

thrifted find

brand new splurge

demo day

design mood board

clean modern

cluttered cottagecore

This or that

Things i like

Shop Now

From my favorite DIY tools to the budget-friendly decor I actually use in our home, you can find it all in one place.

Head to the shop page to explore my go-to links, sources, and must-haves for creating a home you love, without the guesswork.

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