DIY Home Decor
Best DIY Wall Art Ideas That Look Expensive (But Aren’t)
Staring at her huge blank living room wall, Sarah despaired over the cost of large art. Inspired online, she bought a large canvas from a craft store (using a 40% off coupon) and created a simple abstract painting using just three complementary colors and bold brushstrokes. She then framed it with inexpensive lumber stained dark walnut. The result looked like a high-end piece for under fifty dollars. Techniques like large-scale abstract painting, framing fabric remnants, or creating geometric designs with painter’s tape offer impactful, sophisticated looks without the gallery price tag.
Best Way to Paint Furniture for a Professional Finish
Mark found a dated wooden dresser at a thrift store. To give it a modern, professional look, he meticulously followed key steps: thorough cleaning, light sanding to scuff the surface, applying a quality primer (essential for adhesion and covering stains), then painting two thin coats of durable enamel paint using a good brush, lightly sanding between coats. Finally, he added a clear protective topcoat. Proper preparation—cleaning, sanding, priming—is non-negotiable. Thin coats and patience prevent drips and create a smooth, lasting finish that rivals store-bought pieces.
Best DIY Headboard Ideas on a Budget
Lisa’s bedroom felt incomplete without a headboard, but store options were pricey. She decided to DIY one. She bought a piece of inexpensive plywood cut to size, covered it with foam padding, wrapped it tightly with stylish fabric found on sale, and secured it with a staple gun on the back. It cost under sixty dollars and transformed the room. Other budget ideas include using reclaimed wood planks mounted horizontally, painting a headboard shape directly on the wall, or repurposing old doors or screens for unique, affordable style.
Best Ways to Upcycle Old Picture Frames
Finding a stack of mismatched, ugly picture frames at a garage sale for five dollars, Chloe saw potential. She spray-painted them all a cohesive matte black. Some she used for photos, others she transformed by adding corkboard backing for a mini bulletin board, chalkboard paint for labels, or removing the glass and backing entirely to frame small decorative objects directly on the wall. Paint is transformative; think beyond photos—frames can become mirrors, jewelry organizers, chalkboards, or purely decorative architectural elements.
Best DIY Shelving Ideas for Small Spaces
David needed storage in his tiny apartment bathroom but had no floor space. He created simple floating shelves using stained pine boards and hidden brackets screwed directly into the wall studs. This provided storage for towels and toiletries without visually cluttering the small room. For tight spots, vertical space is key. Consider narrow ladder shelves, corner shelving units, shelves mounted above doorways, or using decorative brackets with reclaimed wood for functional storage that maximizes wall space stylishly and affordably.
Best Way to Create an Accent Wall (Paint vs Wallpaper vs Other)
Wanting to add drama to her dining room, Maria weighed accent wall options. Paint was cheapest and easiest to change later. Peel-and-stick wallpaper offered bold patterns but required careful application. She ultimately chose board and batten wood trim painted a contrasting color, creating texture and architectural interest. The “best” method depends on budget, desired impact, and DIY comfort level. Paint is simplest, wallpaper adds pattern, while wood trim, shiplap, or stenciling offer texture and custom looks, each varying in cost and effort.
Best DIY Throw Pillow Covers (No-Sew Options Included)
Ken loved changing his decor seasonally but hated buying expensive new pillows. He learned to make simple envelope-style pillow covers using fabric remnants – requiring only basic straight-line sewing. For a no-sew option, he discovered techniques using fabric glue or iron-on hem tape on folded fabric. DIY covers are incredibly cost-effective. Envelope closures are beginner-friendly sewing projects, while no-sew methods using fusible bonding tape or fabric glue allow anyone to create custom pillow covers easily, perfect for refreshing a room’s look affordably.
Best Way to Style Bookshelves Like a Pro
Sarah’s bookshelves looked cluttered and chaotic. She learned styling tricks: varying book orientation (some vertical, some stacked horizontally), grouping items in threes or odd numbers, incorporating decorative objects (vases, photos, small sculptures) alongside books, leaving some empty space (“breathing room”), and sticking to a cohesive color palette. Effective bookshelf styling balances storage with visual appeal. Mix textures and heights, create vignettes, use bookends creatively, and step back often to assess the overall composition for a curated, intentional look.
Best DIY Lighting Fixtures (Pendant Lights, Lamps)
Finding unique pendant lights expensive, crafty Ben decided to make his own. He purchased a simple pendant light kit (socket and cord) for fifteen dollars and created a shade using geometric shapes cut from thin wood veneer glued together. DIY lighting adds personality affordably. Options range from repurposing baskets or wireframes as shades for pendant kits, upcycling old lamp bases with new paint and shades, or even creating concrete lamp bases. Always ensure wiring is done safely following kit instructions or consulting an electrician if unsure.
Best Ways to Hide TV Wires and Cords
Lisa hated the messy tangle of wires snaking down from her wall-mounted TV. She opted for a paintable cord cover raceway that stuck directly to the wall. It neatly concealed the cables and blended in once painted the same color as the wall. Hiding cords creates a clean, polished look. Solutions include adhesive cord covers, in-wall cable management kits (more involved), using furniture strategically (like consoles with back panels), or bundling cords neatly with zip ties or Velcro straps behind furniture.
Best DIY Plant Hangers (Macrame and Other Styles)
Wanting to display her growing plant collection without using shelf space, Chloe learned basic macrame knots from an online tutorial. Using simple cotton cord, she crafted several stylish hangers for under five dollars each. DIY plant hangers are trendy and save space. Macrame is popular and requires minimal supplies. Other ideas include repurposing leather scraps or belts to create slings, using simple loops of rope, or building small wooden platforms suspended by cord for a different aesthetic, all easily customizable.
Best Way to Create a Gallery Wall Layout
Mark wanted a gallery wall but felt intimidated by arranging the frames. He traced each frame onto kraft paper, cut out the shapes, and taped them to the wall, easily rearranging the paper templates until he found a layout he loved before making any nail holes. Planning is key for a successful gallery wall. Use paper templates to experiment with spacing and balance. Start with the largest piece, build around it, maintain consistent spacing between frames, and vary frame sizes/orientations for visual interest.
Best DIY Mirror Frame Ideas
Finding a large, plain mirror cheap, Sarah wanted to give it a custom look. She created a frame around it using small, rustic wood pieces glued directly onto the mirror’s edge. Other ideas include framing with mosaic tiles, seashells, rope glued around the perimeter, or intricately cut wood trim painted a bold color. Adding a custom frame instantly elevates a basic mirror. Choose materials that complement your decor style – from rustic wood to glamorous tiles – for an affordable, high-impact upgrade.
Best Ways to Use Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper Effectively
Renter David wanted to add pattern to his bedroom but couldn’t use traditional wallpaper. He chose a quality peel-and-stick wallpaper. Success came from meticulous prep: cleaning the wall thoroughly and using a level to ensure the first panel was perfectly straight. He overlapped panels slightly and used a smoothing tool to eliminate bubbles. Proper application is crucial. Start with clean, smooth walls, use a level for the first piece, overlap slightly, smooth carefully, and choose thicker, quality brands for easier installation and removal.
Best DIY Entryway Organizer Ideas
Tired of coats and bags cluttering the entryway, Lisa created a simple organizer. She mounted a painted board to the wall with several sturdy hooks for coats and bags, and added a small floating shelf above it for mail and keys. A functional entryway sets the tone. DIY solutions include wall-mounted hook racks, entryway benches with built-in shoe storage (using crates or modifying furniture), floating shelves, or wall organizers combining hooks, shelves, and even small mirrors, customized to the space available.
Best Way to Stencil a Floor or Wall Pattern
Wanting the look of expensive patterned tiles in her bathroom without the cost, Maria decided to stencil her existing vinyl floor. She thoroughly cleaned the floor, applied a durable porch and floor paint as a base coat, then used a large tile stencil and contrasting paint color, carefully applying paint with a stencil brush or roller, ensuring clean lines. Stenciling requires patience. Choose durable paints (floor paint for floors), secure the stencil firmly, use minimal paint on the brush/roller to prevent bleeding, and plan the pattern layout carefully.
Best DIY Curtains and Window Treatments
Finding custom curtains prohibitively expensive, Ben decided to make his own simple panels. He bought inexpensive cotton fabric, hemmed the edges using iron-on hem tape (no sewing required!), and attached curtain ring clips to hang them from a basic rod. DIY curtains offer huge savings. Simple hemmed panels are easy using fusible tape or basic sewing. Other ideas include using drop cloths, stenciling patterns onto plain panels, or creating Roman shades from fabric and mini-blinds for a more tailored look, all customizable to window size.
Best Small DIY Projects That Make a Big Impact
Wanting a quick decor refresh, Chloe spent a weekend on small projects. She spray-painted old lamp bases gold, replaced boring cabinet knobs with unique ceramic ones, and framed a striking piece of wallpaper remnant as art. Small changes yield big results. Updating hardware (knobs, pulls), painting outlet covers to match walls, framing mirrors, adding trim to basic shelves, or creating a new centerpiece can instantly elevate a room’s style with minimal time and cost investment. Focus on details.
Best Way to Choose Paint Colors for Your Home
Overwhelmed by paint chips, Mark learned a better approach. He considered the room’s lighting (natural and artificial), existing furniture/decor colors, and the desired mood (calm vs. energetic). He bought sample pots of his top three choices and painted large swatches on different walls, observing them at various times of day before committing. Don’t rely on small chips. Test large samples directly on your walls, consider undertones, lighting, and existing elements. Start with a neutral palette if unsure, adding color through accents.
Best DIY Room Divider Ideas
Needing to separate her living and dining areas in her open-plan apartment, Sarah created a divider using tall IKEA KALLAX shelving units placed back-to-back, providing storage and separation. DIY dividers add function and style. Consider using tall bookshelves, hanging curtains from ceiling tracks, building simple frames with stretched fabric panels, repurposing folding screens, or creating macrame or hanging plant dividers for visual separation without permanent construction, adaptable to various styles and budgets.
Best Way to Refinish Kitchen Cabinets on a Budget
Dated oak cabinets made Lisa’s kitchen feel old. Instead of replacing them, she refinished them herself for a fraction of the cost. The key was thorough prep: removing doors/hardware, cleaning rigorously with TSP substitute, sanding lightly, priming with a high-adhesion primer, and applying multiple thin coats of durable cabinet paint, allowing proper dry time. Refinishing is labor-intensive but highly cost-effective. Meticulous prep work and using paint specifically designed for cabinets are crucial for a smooth, durable finish that transforms a kitchen affordably.
Best DIY Coffee Table Ideas (From Crates, Pallets, etc.)
Finding coffee tables expensive, David built his own unique one. He cleaned and sanded four wooden crates, arranged them in a square with the openings facing out for storage, screwed them together, and added caster wheels underneath. DIY coffee tables showcase creativity. Use stacked wooden crates, repurposed pallets (ensure they’re heat-treated, not chemically treated), old suitcases on legs, large tree trunk slices, or even concrete pavers topped with wood for unique, budget-friendly centerpieces tailored to your style.
Best Ways to Decorate with Thrift Store Finds
Thrifter Chloe loves finding unique decor affordably. Her strategy involves looking for items with good “bones” (shape, material) regardless of current color or finish. She spray paints lamps, mirrors, and frames, reupholsters simple chair seats, groups similar items (like milk glass vases) for impact, and repurposes items creatively (like using old bowls as planters). Look past surface flaws. Focus on shape and potential. Paint, simple repairs, and creative grouping can transform thrifted items into stylish, personalized home decor pieces.
Best DIY Doormat Designs
Wanting a unique welcome, Maria personalized a plain coir doormat she bought for ten dollars. Using exterior paint and a stencil she created with painter’s tape, she added a witty phrase. Personalizing basic doormats is easy and fun. Use stencils (bought or homemade) with durable outdoor paint, create geometric patterns with tape, or even try simple freehand designs. It’s an inexpensive way to add personality to your entrance and make a great first impression before guests even step inside.
Best Way to Create Faux Built-Ins
Ken loved the look of built-in bookshelves but renting prevented major changes. He achieved a similar effect by placing standard IKEA Billy bookcases side-by-side, securing them together, anchoring them safely to the wall (using removable anchors if needed), and adding trim molding along the top and bottom painted to match the shelves. Faux built-ins offer high-end style affordably. Use standard bookshelves, paint them the same color as the wall for integration, add trim/molding for a custom look, and ensure they are properly secured for stability.
Best DIY Organization Hacks for Closets
Struggling with a messy closet, Sarah implemented simple DIY hacks. She added a second tension rod below the existing one to double hanging space for shirts, used shelf dividers to keep sweaters stacked neatly, and hung jewelry on a small corkboard attached to the inside door. Maximize vertical space with extra rods or shelf inserts. Use drawer dividers, repurpose magazine files for small items, add hooks to walls or doors, and utilize clear bins for easy visibility. Small DIY adjustments significantly improve closet organization and capacity.
Best DIY Decor Ideas Using Natural Elements (Wood, Stones)
Wanting a calming, organic vibe, Ben incorporated natural elements. He created wall art using interesting driftwood pieces mounted on a board, filled glass vases with smooth river stones, and used cross-cut wood slices as coasters or chargers. Bringing nature indoors adds texture and tranquility. Collect driftwood, interesting stones, shells, or branches. Use wood slices for various projects, create pressed flower art, or fill bowls with natural finds. These elements add unique, budget-friendly beauty and connect your space to the outdoors.
Best Way to Make Your Own Candles (Scents & Styles)
Lisa enjoyed candles but found boutique ones pricey. She started making her own using soy wax flakes, essential oils for custom scents, pre-waxed wicks, and thrifted teacups or jars as containers. DIY candle making is relaxing and customizable. Melt wax gently (double boiler method), add fragrance oils at the correct temperature (check wax instructions), secure the wick centrally, pour carefully, and let cool completely. Experiment with scents, colors, and unique vessels for personalized, giftable, and affordable home fragrance.
Best DIY Bathroom Storage Solutions
Dealing with limited counter space, Mark built narrow floating shelves above the toilet for toiletries and rolled towels. He also added small baskets to the inside of the vanity door using command hooks to hold hair tools. Maximize vertical and hidden space in bathrooms. Utilize over-the-toilet shelving (bought or DIY), add shelves inside cabinets, use wall-mounted baskets or spice racks, hang organizers over the door, or build simple ladder shelves for stylish, functional storage in typically small spaces.
Best Way to Age or Distress Wood Furniture
Chloe wanted her new pine bookshelf to look like a vintage find. She used several techniques: lightly sanding edges and corners where wear would naturally occur, hitting the wood gently with chains or screws for dents, applying a dark wax or stain and wiping most of it off to settle into crevices, and sometimes dry-brushing a lighter paint color over a darker base. Distressing adds character. Combine physical distressing (sanding, denting) with paint/stain techniques (layering colors, using wax resists, applying glazes) to create convincing, time-worn finishes on new or existing furniture.
Best DIY Projects Using Concrete
Intrigued by concrete’s industrial look, David experimented with small DIY projects. He used plastic containers as molds to create simple planters, candle holders, and coasters, mixing quick-setting concrete according to package directions. Concrete is surprisingly versatile for DIY. Start with small items using simple molds (food containers, silicone molds). Ensure proper mixing consistency, consider adding color pigment, and allow adequate curing time. Projects can range from small decorative objects to larger pieces like side tables or stepping stones.
Best Way to Create Large-Scale Budget Art
Finding oversized art unaffordable, Sarah got creative. She bought a large, inexpensive canvas drop cloth from a hardware store, painted a simple, bold graphic design on it using black acrylic paint, and stapled it tightly around a basic wooden frame she built herself. Large art makes a statement affordably. Options include painting drop cloths, framing large fabric panels or shower curtains with interesting designs, creating oversized geometric art using painter’s tape on canvas or wood, or blowing up personal photos into engineer prints.
Best DIY Decor for Renters (Damage-Free Ideas)
Wanting to personalize her rental without losing her deposit, Maya focused on damage-free decor. She used peel-and-stick wallpaper on an accent wall, hung art using Command strips instead of nails, utilized tension rods for curtains and room dividers, and relied heavily on freestanding furniture like bookshelves and leaning mirrors. Renters can decorate stylishly. Prioritize removable solutions: Command hooks/strips, peel-and-stick products, tension rods, freestanding furniture, floor coverings (rugs), and plants to add personality without permanent alterations or wall damage.
Best Way to Update Old Vases and Planters
Finding plain terracotta pots boring, Ken updated them easily. He used painter’s tape to create geometric patterns and painted sections with bright acrylic paints, sealing them afterward. He also wrapped some plain glass vases tightly with jute twine for a rustic look. Simple updates transform basic vessels. Techniques include painting (spray paint, acrylics, chalk paint), wrapping with rope/twine/fabric, adding texture with concrete finishes or decoupage, or applying mosaic tiles or mirror pieces for a completely new style, rescuing old items affordably.
Best DIY Kids’ Room Decor Ideas
Decorating her son’s room, Lisa wanted fun, personalized touches. She painted mountain shapes on one wall, created animal silhouette art using felt cutouts in simple frames, and made a book sling shelf from fabric and dowel rods. Kids’ room decor should be playful and functional. Consider DIY wall murals, custom artwork featuring their interests, fun storage solutions (like painted crates), homemade mobiles, personalized growth charts, or themed accessories that are easy to update as they grow, adding character affordably.
Best Way to Use Fabric Scraps for Decor
With a growing box of fabric scraps, Chloe looked for ways to use them. She cut squares to make a colorful patchwork pillow cover, braided strips together to create trivets, and used smaller pieces for applique designs on plain tea towels. Fabric scraps offer endless possibilities. Use them for patchwork projects (quilts, pillows, bags), fabric-covered buttons, small applique details, braided rugs or coasters, fabric-wrapped wreaths, or even framed as small pieces of textile art, reducing waste creatively and adding texture.
Best DIY Outdoor Decor Ideas (Patio, Balcony)
Wanting to spruce up his small balcony, David built simple planter boxes from cedar fence pickets, strung solar-powered fairy lights along the railing, and painted some plain terracotta pots with bright colors. Outdoor DIY enhances curb appeal and enjoyment. Consider building simple planters or benches, creating stepping stones, painting outdoor furniture, making wind chimes, stringing lights, or crafting weather-resistant art using materials like treated wood, concrete, or exterior paints to personalize outdoor living spaces affordably.
Best Way to Create a Cozy Reading Nook
Bookworm Sarah carved out a reading nook in her living room corner. She placed a comfortable armchair, added a soft throw blanket and plush pillow, positioned a small side table for her tea, and ensured good lighting with a dedicated floor lamp. Creating a cozy nook involves layering comfort and function. Choose a quiet corner, add comfortable seating, soft textiles (rug, blanket, pillows), task lighting (floor or wall lamp), and a small surface for essentials. Personal touches make it an inviting escape.
Best DIY Coaster Ideas
Tired of water rings, Mark made unique coasters. He cut squares from scrap wood, sanded them smooth, and sealed them with clear varnish. He also glued interesting fabric scraps onto cheap cork coasters using Mod Podge. DIY coasters are simple and practical. Use materials like wood slices, ceramic tiles (add cork backing), cork sheets cut into shapes, felt, rope coiled and glued, or even concrete poured into small molds. They make great gifts and protect furniture stylishly.
Best Way to Dye Fabric for Custom Decor (Pillows, Curtains)
Unable to find curtains in the exact shade she wanted, Lisa bought plain white cotton panels and dyed them herself using fiber-reactive dye. Following the package instructions carefully, she achieved a vibrant, even color that perfectly matched her decor. Fabric dye allows full customization. Choose the right dye type for your fabric (fiber-reactive for cotton/linen, acid dye for silk/wool). Follow instructions precisely regarding water temperature, dye concentration, soaking time, and rinsing for best results. Test on a scrap piece first.
Best DIY Wainscoting or Board and Batten Techniques
To add architectural interest to his plain hallway, Ben installed simple board and batten wainscoting. He used inexpensive MDF boards, carefully measuring and cutting them to create vertical battens over a horizontal baseboard and top rail, caulking seams, and painting it all crisp white. DIY trim work adds character. Measure meticulously, use a level for straight lines, cut accurately (miter saw helps), secure boards firmly (nails/glue), caulk gaps for a seamless look, and finish with quality paint for a professional appearance.
Best Way to Display Collections Creatively
Maria’s collection of vintage teacups sat hidden in a cabinet. She displayed them creatively by installing narrow picture ledges on her dining room wall, arranging the teacups artfully along them. Creative display turns collections into decor. Think beyond cabinets: use floating shelves, picture ledges, shadow boxes, arrange items under glass cloches, group similar items together on trays, or hang them directly on the wall (like plates or small mirrors) for visual impact, showcasing passions personality.
Best DIY Projects Using Rope or Twine
Looking for rustic decor accents, Sarah used jute rope. She tightly wrapped it around an old tire to create a pouf ottoman base, coiled and glued it to make placemats, and wrapped it around plain glass jars to turn them into textured vases. Rope and twine add natural texture affordably. Use them to wrap lamp bases or mirror frames, create woven baskets or mats, make plant hangers, craft coasters, or even create large-scale wall hangings for a nautical or bohemian touch, adding tactile interest easily.
Best Way to Make a Statement with Ceiling Decor (Beyond Paint)
Wanting drama overhead, Ken decided against just painting his ceiling. He installed lightweight faux tin ceiling tiles directly onto the existing drywall using construction adhesive, instantly adding vintage charm and texture to his study. Ceilings offer untapped design potential. Consider applying beadboard paneling, faux tin tiles, reclaimed wood planks, interesting wallpaper, or even creating geometric patterns with thin wood lattice for visual interest that draws the eye upward and adds significant character beyond a simple coat of paint.
Best DIY Key Holder Ideas
Always losing keys, Lisa made a simple key holder near her entryway. She painted a small piece of scrap wood, screwed in several small decorative hooks, and mounted it to the wall. A dedicated spot prevents lost keys. DIY options include using framed corkboard with push pins, attaching hooks to interesting pieces of driftwood, repurposing old cabinet hardware on a board, or even using strong magnets glued behind a decorative plaque for a minimalist look, combining function and style easily.
Best Way to Update Hardware on Furniture and Cabinets
Mark’s kitchen cabinets looked dated, but the boxes were solid. He instantly modernized them by simply replacing the old brass pulls with sleek, matte black bar handles. Swapping hardware is one of the easiest, highest-impact DIY updates. Unscrew the old knobs or pulls, ensure the new hardware fits the existing holes (or fill old holes and drill new ones), and screw in the new pieces. This quick change dramatically updates the look of furniture or cabinetry with minimal effort and cost.
Best DIY Seasonal Decor Ideas (That Don’t Look Tacky)
Wanting festive fall decor without clutter, Sarah focused on natural elements. She arranged small pumpkins and gourds in a wooden bowl, filled a vase with colorful autumn leaves and branches from her yard, and swapped her regular throw pillows for covers in warm, textured fabrics like velvet or cable knit. Tasteful seasonal decor often uses nature and subtlety. Focus on natural elements (branches, leaves, pinecones, seasonal produce), incorporate seasonal colors and textures through textiles (pillows, throws), use candles for ambiance, and avoid overly themed or plastic decorations for a sophisticated look.
Best Way to Make Floating Shelves Sturdy
David worried his DIY floating shelves would sag. He learned the key was secure mounting. He used specialized hidden floating shelf brackets designed to screw directly into wall studs, ensuring the metal rods extended well into the shelf itself for maximum support. Sturdy floating shelves require proper hardware and mounting. Use brackets specifically designed for the shelf’s weight and depth, locate wall studs using a stud finder, and secure brackets firmly into the studs, not just drywall, for reliable, long-lasting support.
Best DIY Bench Ideas (Entryway, End-of-Bed)
Needing seating in her entryway, Maria built a simple bench using stained 2×4 lumber for the top and pre-made hairpin legs ordered online. It was stylish, functional, and cost less than seventy dollars. DIY benches add seating and style affordably. Options include using upholstered plywood tops on simple bases, repurposing sturdy wooden crates, modifying old coffee tables, or building simple designs from dimensional lumber with various leg styles (hairpin, square wood). They offer customizable solutions for various spaces.
Best Overall Strategy for DIY Decorating an Entire Room on a Budget
Redecorating her living room on a tight budget, Chloe strategized. She focused on paint first (biggest impact, lowest cost), thrifted key furniture pieces (sofa, coffee table) and updated them (new covers, paint), DIYed art and accessories (pillows, curtains), shopped sales for lighting, and layered existing items with new finds. Budget room makeovers require prioritizing. Start with paint. Thrift or DIY major furniture. Focus DIY efforts on high-impact items like art, textiles, and accessories. Shop strategically for remaining pieces, mixing old and new creatively.