It looks so easy on Pinterest — a simple DIY project made with things you already have lying around the home, complete from start to finish in less than an hour. What could possibly go wrong?

Well, when working on something that's best left to a professional, it turns out the answer to that question is "a lot."

Here's a look at 5 DIY projects gone horribly yet hilariously wrong, proving that sometimes, it's just better to not do it yourself.

Plaid pile-o-cake

Planning a wedding must be a snap nowadays thanks to Pinterest, what with the pages upon pages of inspiration photos found on the Web. Unfortunately, not everyone is up to the task of re-creating those inspirations in real life.

Lynda learned this the hard way when her baker failed to deliver the plaid fondant cake she requested and instead showed up to her reception with what can only be described as a sloppy pile of cake.

Photo credit: http://www.uglydress.com/uglycakestory.html

Christmas card casualty

Family photo inspiration also abounds now that photography seems to be the hobby-turned-career of choice. And it's hard not to get all goo-goo-eyed at soft-focus photos of babies bundled in baskets and curled up on fuzzy blankets (or, inexplicably, awkwardly wedged into items as diverse as vintage suitcases and candy jars).

Though some photo re-creations are intentionally awkward for comedic effect, too many copycat pics end up unintentionally hilarious — like this unfortunate Christmas card photo and the unwitting baby who was subjected to it.

Photo credit: The Meta Picture

An electrocution waiting to happen

When it comes to home repairs, there are plenty of little projects that aren't too difficult for folks with common sense to tackle. However, risky areas like electrical and plumbing should only be worked on by those with experience and even then, great caution should be exercised. This guy should have learned to listen to his wife. Then there's Mr. Duct Tape — who is clearly lacking any sense at all — that went to town in the bathroom of all places.

Photo credit: http://hgdiy.com/2013/03/20-hilarious-diy-home-bathroom-remodel-fails/bathroom-electric-fail

At least it's not paint ... ?

You know the warning about not painting yourself into a corner? It's not just metaphorical, and it's not just about paint — or corners, as this hapless DIYer found out.

Photo credit: http://cheezburger.com/8456451584/funny-diy-fails

When crayons cry

Crayons have long been the artistic medium of choice for the youngest of DIYers and even some intrepid adults. This original artwork in all its melted rainbow glory has been circling Pinterest for some time, no doubt inspiring copycats to try their best along the way. It's unclear how many have succeeded, but this poor Pinner undoubtedly failed.

Photo credit: http://uptenlist.com/humor/10-epic-pinterest-fails/

The list goes on and on. Floors and carpets seem to be one area specifically in which people feel particularly brave. You know exactly what we're referring to; you've been in houses with crooked tile floors and funny looking carpets. You've seen hardwood floors with foreign stains and you've walked on uneven surfaces enough to know that while there's something admirable about learning a new skill and saving some money with a DIY project, there are also some things you may want to leave to the professionals.

Related topics