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50 DIY Home Improvement Projects to Tackle This Weekend
Take your home from builder-grade to custom-made with low-cost home upgrades you can tackle in a weekend or less.
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Paint the Front Door
The front door is usually the first thing people see when entering your home. Make a great impression with a bright, welcoming front door color. Not sure what hue to choose? Take our quiz , then follow the step-by-step instructions below for a total entry overhaul.
LEARN HOW: How to Paint a Front Door
Classic Carriage Doors (on the Cheap)
Carriage house garage doors are highly sought after in home design and renovation, but these charming additions quickly add up in cost. One carriage-style garage door can run upward of $1,400. Luckily there’s a budget-friendly alternative: these magnetic hinges and handles will take your door from drab to fab instantly for just $12 — no hardware required.
Buy It: Amazon, $11.68 (Originally $19.99)
Install a Shiplap Accent Wall
Do you love the look of old shiplap walls and ceilings, but live in a new(ish) home? Add a gorgeous shiplap accent wall in any space for $50 or less by trimming down plywood into planks, then attaching the boards to your wall using construction adhesive and nails. Finish it off by painting the panels, and admire your DIY shiplap on a dime.
Learn How: How to Install Shiplap
Set the Mood With String Lights
Hung over a patio, porch or backyard, globe cafe lights instantly turn any outdoor space into a gathering spot, increasing your usable square footage. This extra "room" comes in handy when entertaining or in the summer months when warm evenings are best spent outdoors, drink in hand. No fence or pergola to hang your lights from? Try this low-cost DIY .
Outdoor Globe Lights: Amazon, $15.99
DIY Glass Cabinet Inserts
Brighten up your kitchen and put that gorgeous wedding china on display by replacing interior wood cabinet panels with inexpensive glass sheets . Not brave enough to go totally open with your cabinetry? Try this project on just the set of cabinets flanking your stove or the cabinet over the coffee counter.
GET THE HOW-TO: Update Kitchen Cabinets With Glass Inserts
Stencil Your Patio
Has your concrete patio seen better days? You could cover it with an outdoor rug or try this long-lasting DIY. With a can of concrete stain, a plastic stencil, a high-quality stencil brush and a few hours of work, you can totally transform the look of a porch, sidewalk or patio with a stylish, custom tile design.
GET THE HOW-TO: How to Stain & Stencil a Concrete Patio
Fake the Look of Marble
Make a worn dining table or old countertops look luxurious by transforming them into chic (faux) marble focal pieces. This unique and crafty DIY combines leftover project paint, ultra high-gloss epoxy and basic craft supplies to recreate the veining lines and texture found in real marble. Patience and a designated project day will save you anywhere from $500 to $3,000 when dreaming of your very own marble furniture piece.
Learn How: How to Paint a Faux Marble Tabletop
Try Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper
Want to go bold without the risk? Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a temporary way to add a burst of vibrant color or pattern to a room without tearing up the walls. To keep this project affordable and doable, try papering a focal wall or a small, low-humidity space like a powder room or closet. Find our favorite, trendy removable wallpaper patterns here , then check out the link below for installation tips and tricks.
LEARN HOW: 10 Tips I Learned Hanging Removable Wallpaper in My Apartment
Hang Curtains the Right Way
Make your home look bigger and instantly more luxurious by hanging floor-length drapes 6" to 12" above the window frame or all the way to the ceiling, and extending your curtain rod out 3" to 6" on each side. For a pro look, curtains should puddle slightly or just kiss the floor.
MORE TIPS: Do's + Don'ts of Designer-Worthy Window Treatments
Remove a Popcorn Ceiling
Do you hate the look of your popcorn ceilings? Not only are they unsightly, but they're also unsanitary — a veritable landing pad for dust, dirt and cobwebs. Luckily, they're easily removed with the help of a wet/dry vac and a drywall knife. Note: If your home was built before 1979, test for lead and asbestos before starting this project.
LEARN HOW: How to Remove a Popcorn Ceiling
Update Ceramic Floor Tile With Paint
Give outdated floors a refresh with our step-by-step guide to painting and stenciling ceramic tile. All you need are a few basic supplies and a free weekend to totally transform the look of a laundry room, bathroom or anywhere in your home that's plagued by old or dirty tile. The best part? You can do it all for less than $50 and with no special equipment.
Learn How: How to Paint & Stencil Ceramic Tile
Paint Your Doorknobs
Is your home plagued by dated doorknobs? While swapping them out for new might be tempting, it can add up quickly — especially when one oil-rubbed bronze knob costs around $30 a piece. And that's not to mention the matching hinges and door latches. If you're looking for a cheap, long-lasting alternative, consider painting the knobs in your house for the cost of a can of spray paint and a weekend's worth of work. Learn How
Update Kitchen Cabinet Hardware
A simple white kitchen is made instantly glamorous by the addition of brushed gold knobs and pulls. Pro tip: Measure the width of your existing cabinet pulls before ordering. Also, be prepared to sand and touch up small dings and scratches that may occur while removing old hardware.
BRUSHED GOLD KNOBS: Wayfair, $5.55
Add Bling to Closet Doors
Make a small bedroom look larger by adding mirrors to plain closet doors or the back of a bedroom door. Simply pick up a couple of cheap, framed floor-length mirrors for less than $10 at your local big-box store, then paint the frame to match your space. Attach to your closet door with construction adhesive for a permanent look or use removable picture-hanging strips if you're renting. Feeling extra crafty? Glue thin trim pieces to the mirrors for a high-end look.
FLOOR MIRRORS: Target, $49.99
Whitewash a Brick Fireplace
Give your dated brick fireplace a cozy cottage makeover with a paint and glaze application that mimics the look of the classic German schmear seen here. Learn how at the link below.
LEARN HOW: How to German Smear a Brick Fireplace
Swap Your Shower Curtain
Your shower curtain takes up the single largest piece of real estate in the bathroom. So needless to say, swapping it out makes a huge impact for very little money. Choose a fringe-style curtain for a boho look, go bold with large, moody florals or opt for a soft, modern ombre like designer Kerra Michele Huerta did here. We also love how she upped the drama by installing a shower curtain on each side of the tub.
BUY IT: JCPenney, $34.99
Give builder-grade light switches a custom look with this hack. Pick a picture frame that's the same size and color as your switch cover, then attach the frame to the wall with adhesive putty. Pro tip: 3.5" x 5" frames will fit a standard 1-gang switch plate.
BUY IT: Michaels, $10.49
Give Your Fan a Makeover
Has your celing fan seen better days? Upgrade a boring, old fan by coating the blades and metal components with high-heat black spray paint.
LEARN HOW: Fake Fancy With These Easy + Cheap Home Upgrades
Try Peel-and-Stick Tile
If you're on the internet at all, you've likely seen these amazing, sticky vinyl tiles. They usually come in 12" x 12" sheets or a 9-foot roll in a myriad of styles from Moroccan to subway tile. So what's the catch? Well, they might not hold up in high-traffic areas like the bathroom or kitchen floor long-term and can have an adverse reaction to heat. But they're a great low-cost option in small spaces like a laundry room, den or as a kitchen backsplash. And because they're removable, you can play with trends without the commitment.
Buy It: Amazon, $9.98
Make an Old Couch New Again
Are you squeezing every last bit of life out of that couch from college? While you're saving up for your dream couch, there's no need to skimp on style. Give your sofa a mini refresh by draping it in blankets and loads of fluffy throw pillows, strategically placed to hide stains.
SEE MORE: 30 Sofas Made for Hours of Lounging
Frame the Bathroom Mirror
Could your bathroom use a little TLC? Add a quick and easy dose of style by framing a builder-grade plate glass bathroom mirror with decorative molding.
LEARN HOW: Bathroom Update: Add a Frame to a Mirror and Paint a Vanity
Build Wood Shelving
Break up endless cabinetry in the kitchen with a wall of open shelving you can make yourself. To pull off this lovely look, Jasmine Roth hand-charred pine boards, sealing the wood without the use of chemicals. Because this technique requires the use of fire, we recommend doing your research and buying proper safety gear before starting this project. Learn How
DIY Sliding Barn Door
Turn any door into a unique statement piece by taking it off the hinges and installing it on a sliding barn door track. Snag the hardware here for less than $40 , then learn how to hang it using our step-by-step instructions below. If you want to use your existing builder-grade door for this project, follow these instructions: Learn How
GET THE INSTRUCTIONS: How to Make a Sliding Barn Door
Wow With Window Boxes
Don't forget your exteriors! Add color and interest to the front of your home with DIY wood window boxes filled with overflowing, seasonal blooms.
Make It Rain
Turn every day into a spa day simply by swapping out your showerhead. For less than $50, you can recreate this high-end look at home with a matte black rain head and matching extension arm.
BUY IT: Amazon, $36.99
Go Antiquing
Want to add lived-in character to your builder-grade home? Swap your basic pantry door for a charming antique find like designer Jasmine Roth did here.
MORE IDEAS: 20 Old-Home Design Elements to Add to Your New Build
Make Planter Posts for String Lights
Want to add cafe lights to your outdoor space, but don't have a pergola or fence to hang them from? Try this budget-friendly project that turns wood planter barrels into stylish light posts.
LEARN HOW: How to Make Planter Posts for String Lights
Customize Your Cabinets
Make your standard kitchen cabinets look like built-in furniture pieces with the addition of furniture feet painted to match. Measure the height from the floor to bottom of the cabinet, then find unfinished "bun" feet online or at the craft store to fit your measurements. Pro tip: Take one of your kitchen drawers with you to the hardware store and a paint expert can mix the exact shade you need.
SEE MORE: Fake Fancy With These Easy + Cheap Home Upgrades
Double-Up on Porch Rugs
Pull your front porch together with this designer tip: Layer an outdoor area rug beneath a standard porch rug for an extra-luxurious look.
Give doors and windows a total overhaul by framing them in farmhouse-inspired trim. Not only is this project much easier to DIY than you think, but it's also surprisingly affordable, coming in at just $30 per door. Get the step-by-step instructions below.
Learn How: 5 Easy Steps to DIY Farmhouse-Style Trim
Stencil Stair Risers
Give your staircase a lift by stenciling risers to look like they've been adorned with vintage tile. The easiest way to get this look on a dime? Measure your stair risers, then find a stencil online (we've linked some low-cost picks below). Instead of stenciling directly onto your staircase, save your back by cutting plywood boards to size, painting and stenciling them at a work table, then installing directly to your stairs using a nail gun or removable picture hanging strips (great renter-friendly option).
Moroccan Stencils: Amazon, $11.99
Mailbox Makeover
Boost your curb appeal instantly by giving that old, tired mailbox a quick, inexpensive spruce. Eileen of Just Measuring Up updated her mailbox for just under $20 with some basic supplies from the hardware store and a fresh coat of paint. Pro tip: Before installing a new mailbox, remember to check with the postal service for current installation guidelines. Learn How
Jazz Up Kitchen Cabinets With Beadboard
Is your kitchen lacking charm? Add a major dose of it by installing beadboard around cabinetry, like designer Sarah Richardson did here.
Put House Numbers on the Front Door
Skip the standard kick plate and install chic house numbers on the bottom of your front door instead.
Modern House Numbers: The Home Depot, $8.23
Say "Buh-Bye" to Boob Lights
And "hello" to a profusion of new, trendy, flush-mount lighting designs like the pretty schoolhouse-style pick shown here.
Buy It: Amazon, $41.70
Replace Outdoor Lighting
If you've got 20 minutes and $40, you can totally transform your home's curb appeal with a new set of outdoor lights.
Buy It: Amazon, $39.89, 2-pack
Give Cabinets a Lift
Add height and interest to your builder grade cabinets without paying the hefty price tag of custom cabinetry. Interior designer Sarah Macklem from The Yellow Cape Cod achieved this rich, tall cabinet look in her own kitchen by adding pre-primed MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) and decorative crown molding to the tops of her cabinets. Learn How
Pretty-Up Your Pantry With Baskets
Do pictures of organized pantries bring you joy ... and jealousy? Give your messy closet a pretty, practical overhaul by placing pantry staples in dedicated bins. These woven beauties will only set you back about $8 each, leaving plenty of wallet wiggle room for the handy clip-on labels .
SNAG THESE WOVEN BASKETS: $7.99
Hide Outdoor Eyesores
If a vent pipe or meter is ruining your garden bed aesthetic, disguise it with an oh-so-natural-looking faux rock that fits perfectly over top.
BUY IT: Amazon, $46.90
Furniture-Saving Scratch Board
If you have a kitty that loves to use its little claws on your couch, then you’ll both dig this clever scratch pad project. Refurbish an old frame by giving it a fresh coat of paint, then replace the art with a patterned doormat trimmed to fit the frame. You’ll need a deep-set frame and heavy-duty tape to secure the mat inside the frame. Once completed, hang it with proper anchors and hardware so it’ll stay put during playtime.
More Ideas: 15 Adorable DIYs for Cats + Cat Lovers
Hang a Plant Shelf
Look up! A simple shelf overflowing with low-maintenance house plants acts as a second window treatment above this kitchen sink.
SEE MORE: 30 Indoor Plants for Low Light
Panel a Plain Door
The easiest way to make a designer-worthy impact in your space? Update the doors. If your home is plagued by one-dimensional doors, consider transforming them into gorgeous, Shaker-style doors with plywood panels and a fresh coat of paint. Since most Shaker varieties can retail for over $200, we’ll call this project a steal! Learn How
Just Add Plants
A cluster of lush, green plants adds instant style to any space, especially when potted in sleek containers and arranged on colorful, thrifted stools. Pro tip: This quick trick works great in a sunny bathroom where plants get plenty of light and humidity.
Under-Cabinet Lighting
Set the mood in your kitchen by installing soft, inexpensive lighting under the cabinets. A three-pack of LED puck lights costs around $30 and they're ultra-easy to install.
Buy It: The Home Depot, $27.99, 3-pack
Fake It Till You Make It
These containers are filled with faux flowers. You read that right! When arranged correctly, faux blooms can look and feel like the real thing, without the upkeep. If you struggle to keep plants alive, mix faux boxwoods and faux annuals with real, drought-tolerant (read: hard-to-kill) vines for a low-maintenance look that will last all summer.
More Tips: This Outdoor Planter Hack Will Save You Time, Money & Sanity
Washi Tape Accent Wall
This gorgeous accent wall was created with just two rolls of black washi tape. And since the tape is so easy to remove when the time comes, this beauty is a fabulous option for renters. Learn How
Glam Up the Grounds
Decorative fence post caps aren't just for looks — they add years of life to your fence by protecting the posts' end grain from the elements.
Buy It: The Home Depot, $3.97
Amp Up the Color With Shelf Liners
Self-adhesive shelf liner isn't just great for drawers — use it to give glass-front kitchen cabinets or open shelving a big (inexpensive) pop of color and vintage-style charm.
LEARN HOW: Give Your Kitchen a Colorful Makeover (Without Paint!)
Cheap + Chic Headboard
Who says a one-of-a-kind focal piece has to break the bank? Make your very own stylish, cane headboard with just a few simple supplies and basic tools. Follow the step-by-step instructions below, then get more DIY headboard ideas here .
Learn How: How to Build a Framed Cane Headboard
Create a "Built-In" Bathtub
Give a basic bathtub a cozy cottage makeover with charming beadboard trim. This project requires roughly one 4’ x 8’ sheet of beadboard (which comes in just under $20) and zero hardware (only glue!), making this thrifty upcycle ideal for moderate DIYers.
Learn How: Update a Bathtub Surround Using Beadboard
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24 Amazing Cheap DIY Projects for $10 and Under
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Lovely Indeed
Some bloggers have such a knack for wowing us with their innovative and inspiring DIYs . The problem, though, is that many of these ideas are incredibly difficult and expensive to replicate.
We've come up with a list of the best cheap DIY projects that are not only inexpensive, but they are easy to make. For many of these ideas to cost less than $10, make sure you use coupons for craft stores and shop the sales. A little planning as far as materials are concerned will save you a lot of cash.
Organize Craft Supplies in a More Stylish Way
To upgrade your craft supply storage, all you need are some glass jars, vinyl lettering, and the right kind of spray paint. If you don't have any jars yet at home, shop at the Dollar Store or some thrift shops.
Sea Glass Supply Jars from I Spy DIY
Upgrade Your Bathtub for Next to Nothing
Head to your local lumber yard and grab a bunch of wood for next to nothing for this bathroom project. The more aged and imperfect the wood is, the better this bath caddy will look.
DIY Rustic Wood Projects from Jenna Sue Design Co
Paint a Terracotta Pot for an Updated Look
Terracotta pots are pretty dull by nature, despite being ideal for a variety of indoor and outdoor plants. Get creative with some paint to better match the containers with your space.
DIY Painted Terracotta Flower Pots from The Spruce Crafts
Store Small Objects on This Inexpensive Shelving Unit
This shelving unit was made to house essential oil bottles, but it would work well to organize a lot of small household items. Consider placing it on vanity and displaying lipsticks or nail polish.
Easy Essential Oil Organizer DIY from A Beautiful Mess
Learn How to Make Reversible Placemats
Add some playful style to your dining room with this inexpensive DIY idea. If you can find remnant fabric, this simple project will cost you even less to make. The reversible function also makes this idea more cost-effective because you get two placemats in one.
How to Make Reversible Tassel Placemats from The Spruce Crafts
Make a Cheese Board Gift More Custom
It's easy to find inexpensive mini cheese boards at Ikea or online, so that part won't cost you a ton of money. From there, you can buy a wood-burning tool for under $20 that you can use time and time again.
Monogrammed Cheese Board DIY from Joanna Meyer
Update a Bathroom With Floating Shelves
Floating shelves make any space look more polished and luxurious, but they can be expensive to buy and difficult to install. Believe it or not, this blogger made both of these shelves for just about $10!
DIY Floating Shelves from Thrifty and Chic
Drink Hot Beverages Without Burning Yourself
This colorful DIY is perfect for regular coffee and tea drinkers that are on the run. Have fun mixing and matching different colors of felt and ribbon.
Boho Felt Coffee Sleeves from Dream A Little Bigger
Perfect the Marbling Technique Using Nail Polish
Marbling with nail polish is not a new concept, but it's one to try if you haven't already. Just about any ceramic item can be marbelized, but these coasters are an excellent place to start because they are flat and easy to work with.
Marbling DIY With Nail Polish from Fresh Crush
Give Your Plants a Little Extra Height
This cheap DIY project looks much more expensive than it is to make. The crafter took the time to find affordable hairpin legs and explains how to find wood slices for bargain prices.
DIY Rustic Modern Plant Stand from Mountain Modern Life
This Stylish Pedestal Bowl Is Easier to Make Than You Think
Add patterns to plain white dishware.
Ceramic paint and sharpies are all you need to transform otherwise boring dishes into one of a kind showpieces. If you plan on adding patterns to the inside of the object without a kiln, keep the piece out of the kitchen and use it to store items like jewelry instead.
DIY Japanese Printed Bowls from The Lovely Drawer
Make a Blanket Ladder for Under $5
Blanket ladders are everywhere, and so are the tutorials. However, not all blanket ladder tutorials are created equal. Some will end up costing you more than a ladder would reasonably cost in the store. This tutorial, however, will require just about $5 to make.
DIY Blanket Ladder from Hey There Home
Upcycle a Laundry Basket From the Dollar Store
The main cost in this DIY project is going to be the jute cord you use to wrap the basket. The basket can be found at the Dollar Store for a buck, but the jute might need to be purchased with a coupon to keep this under $10.
DIY Metallic Rope Throw Basket Tutorial from Lydi Out Loud
Give Your Plain Vases a Tattoo
All you need to tackle this DIY is a plain vase and some temporary tattoos. The great thing about this project is that it's both fun and temporary. If you get sick of the design on your vase, just use a little nail polish remover to get the tattoo off and start again.
DIY Temporary Tattoo Vase from The Crafted Life
Never Forget the Date With This DIY Calendar
This cheap DIY project is fun to make as a gift and can be customized with different fonts and colors. Remember, you can opt to stack the days of the week on the top or bottom for a slightly different effect.
How to Make a Perpetual Block Calendar from The Spruce Crafts
Stay on Trend With a Macrame Plant Hanger
There's one primary material for this project, and that's the macrame . The real challenge with this project will be learning how to do all the different knots and techniques to have your plant hanger stand out.
Easy Home-DIY: Macrame Plant Hanger Tutorial from Hey Lila Hey
Craft These Rosemary Candles With Care
Making candles is a relatively inexpensive craft project, especially if you buy the wax in bulk. This pressed herb candle is beautiful, but be sure to follow the instructions carefully to prevent it from being a fire hazard.
Rosemary Pressed Herb Candles from Garden Therapy
Update Your Mousepad With a Cosmic Scene
Even though some computers don't require mousepads, why not have one anyway when it looks this good? It's possible to either paint over an existing mousepad or create a new one using a thin sheet of cork. Either way, this cosmic scene will likely be a welcomed improvement on your desk.
DIY Cosmic Trend Inspired Mousepad from Passion Shake
Hand Paint Tea Towels for a More Elegant Look
Making tea towels is simple enough using flour sacks or scraps of linen. The challenge for most novice DIYers is how to embellish them to make them look expensive. Opt for simple stripes or get more fancy with stencils like the ones you see here.
DIY Flour Sack Towels from Twine & Braids
Keep Your Rings Safe in this Ring Holder
If you're able to find modeling clay on a discount, you could create multiple ring holders for less than $10, since there's not much to this project. The cactus design is easy to freehand, which makes this project much more manageable to replicate than some other ring holders out there.
How to Make a Clay Cactus Ring Holder from The Spruce Crafts
Create an Outdoor Tiered Planter Box
Believe it or not, the wood for this tiered planter box cost just about $10, which makes this an ideal project for a beginner woodworker. To add more character, consider staining the exterior with a plant-friendly stain.
DIY Tiered Planter Box Plans from Anika's DIY Life
Add Modern Whimsy to Your Space With a Dreamcatcher
Modern DIY decor projects tend to be less expensive because of the simple lines and minimalist feel. Since there isn't anything too intricate going on here, this wall hanging will be very easy to make.
DIY Modern Dreamcatcher from Almost Makes Perfect
Create Hanging Frames With Only a Few Materials
If you're looking to add family photos to the bedroom but want them to feel more like artwork, consider this project. Most hanging frames have a predominately vintage character to them, but these feel sleek and modern. To get the same look, print off your photos in grayscale or a high-contrast black and white.
DIY Hanging Frames from Homey Oh My
Personalize Your Bulletin Board Using Fabric
Bulletin boards can look bland, but this inexpensive DIY idea will turn this desk accessory into a functional piece of wall art. Instead of only using push pins on a bulletin board, consider wrapping some decorative ribbon around it for more versatility.
Quick and Chic DIY Fabric Covered Bulletin Board from The Creativity Exchange
Watch Now: This Paint Roller Instantly Gives You Custom Wallpaper
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- 14 DIY Planter Box Plans for Free
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- 7 Ideas for a DIY Hanukkah Menorah
- 25 DIY Ideas for the Best Dorm Room Decor
- 21 Completely Free Macrame Patterns
- Great Ideas for Inexpensive Homemade Gifts
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- More Than 90 DIY Projects to Upgrade Your Home
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- 12 Macrame Projects (That Aren't Wall Hangings)
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$100 DIY projects: 10 low-budget, high-impact ideas to slot into a weekend
They cost less than $100 to do and won't take up much of your time. Yes, even cheap DIY projects can have an awesome impact on your home surroundings
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If you're looking for a quick refresh but don't have a lot of cash to throw around, or time for that matter, then you'll want to get creative with cool but cheap DIY projects for your home.
Whether you are in your forever home and just feel like using up the remainder of your best paint for furniture from a previous project, or if you rent and want to make a minor edit to bring more of your personality to your space, rest assured, there's a DIY project or two within your reach, and more importantly, budget.
Simple to copy, and easy on the bank balance, these cheap DIY ideas are sure to add design interest to your surroundings in just a few painless hours. Most of these are power tool-free, so no matter what DIY skills you possess, you will be able to create something you love or upgrade a small pocket in your home.
1. Paint a polka dot wall
If you've got any leftover paint samples, like blogger Jo Lemos did, get creative and add a little detail to a neglected space by painting a polka dot wall . If you've got quite a large room, go all out to decorate every wall, while if you want to add interest to a small room, start off with a simple but effective solo feature wall .
Cost: Less than $10 (the cost of a basic round sponge from Amazon (opens in new tab) if you have leftover paint to hand!)
2. Warm up dead space with wallpaper
Blogger Ruth Jackson, added interest all over her home using cast-off wallpaper. The difference she made to her small entryway by simply investing in a single roll of leopard wallpaper by Schumacher on Ebay (opens in new tab) for a mere, $25, is impressive.
Choose a thrifted print you like and you could literally save up to 90 per cent on retail costs, then simply hang wallpaper in a neglected corner of your home to elevate the space without spending a ton of cash or time on a decent upgrade. There are plenty more wallpaper projects where that came from.
3. Add a unique finish to thrifted vases
Take basic (and fairly ugly) thrifted vases, then use either spray paint, chalk paint, plaster of Paris – or all three – to add a unique finish to this simple home accessory. These designer duped vases will not only add cool, contemporary appeal to a rented home but they make great gifts too...
4. Upcycle a vintage mirror
Brooke Waite's simple $50 mirror upcycle is definitely beginner DIYer-friendly and such a simple edit that's sure to add interest to a bathroom, lounge or bedroom space. You do need to use a wood stain or the best paint for wood , but you get into the swing of it pretty quickly and then within five hours, you'll have gorgeous results.
Cost : roughly $100 depending on the cost of your vintage mirror
5. DIY a bamboo blackout blind
Whether you've got a newborn or just can't sleep through the sun peeping through your drapes in the morning, follow in Jasmine Gurney's footsteps to create a DIY bamboo blackout blind and impress your entire household in less than an hour... You'll likely need a couple of must-have DIY tools for this one so get clued up on how to use them properly before you start.
6. Freehand a herringbone design on your stairs
Dori Turner decided to break up the white paint color on her staircase by painting a freehand wall stencil design . It took just an afternoon and cost next to nothing, as it only requires basic supplies – grey paint and tape – which you might even have to hand!
7. Refresh existing bathroom tiles
Painting tiles in a bathroom is super quick and a cheap DIY to do. Incorporate it as part of a bigger remodel to save on your overall budget and you're golden. DIYer Geri Alessi of @overatno18 (opens in new tab) used this trick and painted her tiles green to add more dimension to her small bathroom space and it worked a treat, for hardly any cash.
Cost: roughly $80
8. Make a bamboo headboard
Headboards are really grounding in bedrooms and some would say a must for a balanced sleeping space. Many DIY headboard designs come up so budget-friendly and simple to make. Fake it with paint or choose bamboo as your base material for a super cheap design that's simple to recreate in a day or two max.
Cost: roughly $100 depending on bed size/project
9. Create designer-esque oversized art
A gallery feel in a home is a surefire way to create a high-end, elevated space. Brooke Waite shows us how she custom-made extra-large pieces of art for a fraction of the cost of a store-bought piece. Learn to DIY oversize wall art in an afternoon, you will need some power tools for this but otherwise, it's a quick and cute project to take on.
Cost: $61 a piece
10. Give basic wall sconces a glow up
Waite again, shows us how to get a designer look for way less in your home by upgrading basic $35.08 wall sconces from Amazon (opens in new tab) for her kitchen. This 2-step wall sconce glow-up is stunning and so clever. Plus, if you have any spray paint leftover you can use it to finish so many drab pieces of furniture and home accessories around the home too.
Cost: $100
Hey there! I’m Cam, Deputy Editor of Realhomes.com. I’ve been here since early 2020 and I have the best job of working with a ton of different talented writers and creators to bring you the most inspiring home design content! As a renter myself, sharing a home with two friends (and my cat) in London, I know all too well the challenges that this can pose when it comes to creating your perfect setup. As someone who has always loved everything interior design-related, I cannot rest until a home feels right and I am really passionate about helping others get there too, no matter what their living situation, style, or budget may be. It’s not always the easiest to figure out, but the journey is fun and the results are so worth it.
After interior design, travel, art, and photography are my next big passions. When I’m not writing or editing homes content, I’m usually tapping into other creative outlets, exploring galleries in London or further afield, taking photos, scribbling, or drawing!
#CleanTok made me buy it
By Beth Mahoney • Published 7 March 23
Modern and classic designs await
By Humaa Hussain • Published 7 March 23
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40 Home Improvement Ideas for Those On A Budget
Need to do some updates around the house but think you lack the funds for any worthwhile home improvement projects? It is true that home repair and renovation can be expensive, but there are also some cool things you can do on the cheap. Check out these step by step tutorials for some inexpensive ways to update and improve your home, but on a budget. From DIY kitchen decor ideas to ways to update your bathroom on a budget , cheap living room decor to bedroom furniture, you are sure to find one or more projects to try out this weekend. Recently, I updated my bathroom vanity using the concrete countertop suggestion, and it looks so amazing. Trying to decide which easy home improvement project to tackle next, and super excited knowing I have some affordable options. Cheap home renovation projects and home improvement ideas that are sure to fit your budget, there is now no excuse for not having the home of your dreams.
DIY Home Improvement Projects
1. paint your cabinets.
younghouselove
Are you thinking about updating your kitchen, namely your kitchen cabinets? Repainting them is easy, but only if you know what you are doing. Proper surface prep is crucial if you want this home improvement project to turn out right. Learn how with this step by step tutorial with this DIY idea for kitchen cabinets .
2. Faux Shiplap Backsplash with Peel ‘n Stick Flooring
althingswithpurpose
Another easy home improvement project idea that you can make without spending a ton of money or time, this faux shiplap backsplash tutorial uses adhesive flooring to create an easy backsplash. No serious woodworking or carpentry skills required and of course, no tile cutter needed. If you love the look of a pretty tile backsplash, but can’t exactly lay tile yourself or afford it, try this cool tutorial. For DIY countertops you’ll love, look no further than this cool home improvement hack .
3. DIY Your Old Bathroom Cabinets
onegoodthingbyjillee
If you are suffering with dated looking cabinets in the bathroom or kitchen that look 80’s faux oak here’s a special DIY just for you! Of all the DIY home improvement ideas we’ve seen lately, this one is truly a standout. If you are going for a high impact DIY project for the bathroom, one that is cheap to do but worth your time and money, check out this step by step tutorial for a bathroom cabinet makeover . Make old cabinets look new with this cool technique. For the DIY bathroom of your dreams, this project will definitely have you on your way.
4. Easy DIY Window Trim
blesserhouse
No special fancy tools or hardware required for this easy DIY window trim. I really thought you needed a contractor to do anything remotely like this, or at least needed serious woodworking skills . Before you go thinking the same thing for any longer, go check out this easy step by step tutorial that should prove to you that installing a window frame yourself is totally doable. Home improvement DIY does not get any better than this, save money and get something that looks fantastic. Update your old windows now with this cool do it yourself project.
5. DIY Vanity Concrete Countertop Overlay
designertrapped
Nothing says modern chic decor like concrete austere fixtures. So if you have a totally outdated countertop that needs replacing, you could try some tarting up before you make a big investment by adding a DIY concrete countertop to the bathroom vanity and makeover that awful old counter you are so tired of looking at. With this easy step by step tutorial, you can learn how to make a concrete countertop the easy way. The outcome looks very Georgio Armani! 😉
6. Paint Tub & Tile
varietybyvashti
I moved into a 1950’s ranch style home that was packed full of old-world charm, but the bathroom was covered in pink ceramic tile. As you might know, ripping out ceramic tile can be a ton of work and/or costly. We don’t have the extra time or money to focus on this bathroom right now. I would rather have furniture and a new kitchen, so I started thinking up ways to just get by until we are ready to tackle it head-on. I figured I would stick to my paint everything method. Again, painting was just a temporary fix for us so that we could save up for two more years for something more long-term.
7. Dresser To Kitchen Island
dearcreatives
I absolutely love this DIY kitchen island for a fun and easy furniture makeover idea . I found an old dresser from the 1950s on Facebook Market Place and knew it would work perfectly for this idea. Because we are in the process of remodeling our kitchen . I have wanted an island or workspace since we have limited counter space and I love to craft, cook and bake. I decided with the help of my significant other to create a mobile kitchen island from a dresser. With his help this DIY island dresser was simple for me. As I worked up the idea and he used his wood working skills. Then I finished with my painting skills. I think we make a good team. We pulled a vintage dresser from the garage and decided to give it new life. First by re-purposing it and then making it pretty with Chalk Paint. This was my first time tackling a project like this and using Americana Chalky Finish Paints. If you love this chalk paint idea, be sure to check out our list of the best chalk paint furniture ideas . If you don’t have money to buy expensive chalk paint and want to try your hand at making your own, we have an easy chalk paint recipe , too, which can help save lots of money on a project like this!
8. Make A Pallet Wall
howtobuildit
Pallets are the ultimate useful item in the DIY repurposing arsenal. I love the look of rustic cabins, but I live in a 1970s condo in the middle of the city. So what could I do to update my bedroom walls from ordinary sheetrock to farmhouse country chic for practically no money? I found the dream tutorial, that’s how! This DIY pallet wall is cheap, easy and simply amazing looking! If you love DIY pallet projects , you need this cool rustic plank wall in your home.
9. Add Wood Accents to Furniture
theidearoom
We recently updated our Master Bathroom by making a few simple changes. I have shared a few of the changes in some past posts as it is a work in progress. We are almost to the point where we can officially add it to the “finished project list”. But we still have a few little things to work on, and if any of you have ever done a little remodeling, you know how long it can take to get to some of them. Today, I want to share with you how we went about updating builder grade cabinets. This is was a really easy addition that really made the regular old cabinets feel a bit more upscale. We simply added a couple of finial feet to the base of the cabinets. That is it.
10. DIY Painted Bathroom Tiles
remingtonavenue
Have you all seen those cement tiles that come in so many cool prints? I’ve fallen in love with all the graphics. Not wanting to replace all my tile got me thinking about how I could accomplish this high impact look for less. Follow this simple tutorial for all the tips on how to create this amazing new floor space. Add a cute DIY rug and your room will instantly transform in just a few hours.
11. Concrete Countertop DIY
abeautifulmess
Nothing says modern chic decor like concrete austere fixtures.
12. $60 DIY Barn Door Hardware
brightgreendoor
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25 Easy Weekend Projects That Cost Less Than $20
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These 20 improvements might not cost a lot, but they'll make a big difference in how your home operates. Try one or more of these projects this weekend to make your home look (and function) its best.
Replace a Window Treatment
Has the window shade above your kitchen sink been marred by repeated exposure to splashes and cooking liquids? Replace a stained window covering with an inexpensive fabric treatment and see your kitchen in a whole new light. And when you make your own Roman shade , you get a custom look for a fraction of the cost.
Organize the Entry
Keep dirt and mud contained with a boot tray near your home's entryway. Buy one that's easy to clean, or create your own from a jelly-roll pan. Then add a shelf with pegs to corral coats, hats, umbrellas, and Fido's leash. If storage space is limited, tuck the tray beneath a slim console table.
Step Up Storage
Plastic bins are a versatile and inexpensive way to restore order in almost every in-home trouble spot. Using clear bins for storage in a pantry or for a closet gift-wrap station, for example, is an easy way to take inventory and identify items at a glance. Use labels to ensure everything stays tidy and easy to access.
Put Towels and Robes Within Reach
Bid floor puddles goodbye by keeping after-bath accessories within reach. Add a towel bar or robe hook near your shower or bathtub, or move the one you already have to make it more accessible. Find bars or hooks that match or complement existing hardware in your bathroom.
Boost Bedside Storage
Repurpose an old storage basket (or buy a new one) and hang it near the head of the bed. Thread a charger cord through the back of the basket so your nightstand can also serve as a charging station. This easy-to-install storage idea is a clever solution for a small bedroom or guest room.
Paint the Front Door
Boost curb appeal with a can of paint and a free afternoon. Painting the front door refreshes the look of your whole home. It's easiest to paint a door by removing it from the hinges and laying it flat. Be sure to give it a good cleaning and sanding before you prime and paint it.
Add Open Shelving
Outfit an empty stretch of wall space in the kitchen with open shelves to display decorative items or hold frequently used items, such as coffee mugs. You can find laminated shelf boards for about $10 each. If you've got the time to peruse a flea market, save cash with vintage wood shelves that you can repaint and install.
Designate a Drop Spot
Enhance the style and storage of your entryway with a designated place for important drop-zone items. Create a mini hang-up station for house keys and outgoing mail on the back of a cabinet door. Use magnetic strips, a pegboard, or an old ceiling tin and add hooks to store items in one convenient location near the door. If you have space, add storage bins or baskets to hold pet supplies, wallets, or winter accessories.
Recaulk the Bathroom
If the caulk in your bathroom is looking dingy, discolored, or cracked, it's time to remove it and start fresh. Whether it's around your sink, bathtub, or shower, old caulk can grow mildew and cause damage by leaking water—especially between the tub and bathroom floor. Remove the old caulk, clean the space well, and replace it with a new layer. A good caulk seal will last up to 10 years.
Update House Numbers
All it takes is a screwdriver and a few minutes to give your front door a personality-filled facelift. Change out poorly operating door hardware or make house numbers more readable for a pretty, practical update on the cheap. Learn how to build this house numbers planter for easy curb appeal.
Organize the Garage
Take advantage of space between the studs of your garage for storage . Use scrap pieces of lumber to fashion shelves to hold spray paint or other small items. Use hooks to hang tools, garden equipment, and project supplies. Bungee cords hold long items like shovels and rakes in place and prevent them from falling on the floor—or your car!
Create an Office Space
Fashion a small office area for bill paying—and Pinterest searching—with flea market finds. Repaint a table or desk to serve as a work surface. Frame a print-it-yourself design with a secondhand frame for a quick DIY art project .
Update Furniture with Paint
Breathe new life into an old piece of furniture with a fresh coat of paint. For wood pieces, remove dirt or wax buildup with a household cleaner and rinse. Sand rough areas and wipe away dust. Apply two coats of stain-blocking primer and allow it to dry between coats. Roll or brush on two coats of latex paint in the direction of the wood grain, and use a brush to finish the surface with smooth strokes.
Tackle Trimwork
You might not be able to install new trimwork in your home for $20, but you can make improvements to what you already have. Replace mismatched, missing, or damaged moldings, end caps, quarter rounds, or baseboard. Curved areas might require a special piece or trim made of an alternate material.
Mend Your Walkway
Cracks and gaps in sidewalks and walkways can quickly expand throughout the year. Not only will a patch job make your pathway look nice, but it'll also make it safer for visitors and passersby. Fix your sidewalk or driveway with a patching compound specifically made for cement.
Add Hanging Storage
Free up valuable floor space in your basement, garage, or entryway with hanging storage. Seasonal items, such as bikes and sleds, are difficult to store and take up lots of space. Add hooks to an unused wall or ceiling area and discover space you didn't know you had.
Label Laundry Supplies
The laundry room often becomes home to a wide variety of miscellaneous items. Group products by use, such as ironing supplies, mending kits, or cleaning items. Place each group of items in a storage bin or backet. Add labels so it's easy to find what you need—and remember where it goes when you're done.
Brighten a Bookcase
Give a bookcase an exciting backdrop by applying adhesive paper, scrapbook paper, or fabric to its back. If you don't want to commit to a particular design or color scheme, measure the piece's back panel and mount the background material on poster board, cut to the size of each shelf.
Add a Divider
Drawer and cabinet dividers are a must when it comes to keeping kitchen tools in their respective places. Secure a wire rack inside a cabinet to provide sturdy storage for cookie sheets, muffin tins, and cooling racks. Some units match your kitchen cabinetry design for a completely integrated and customized look.
Get Stylish Underfoot
Try your hand at a fun paint technique and update tired flooring with a custom rug. Using a vinyl floor remnant and paint, you can create a fun, personalized focal point. Varying the stripe widths creates a cool, casual look. Get the step-by-step painting instructions here.
Add a Cheap Backsplash
Turn a large vintage map into a distinctive backdrop that makes a statement. This map of Paris is a fun addition to an otherwise-neutral kitchen. If you're a renter or have boring ceramic tiles in your kitchen, use peel-and-stick decals to add less permanent flair in a flash.
Make a Message Center
An inexpensive glass panel can be pressed into service as a message center wherever it's needed. To make a design like this, paint the back of a glass panel to complement your kitchen and frame it. Use dry-erase markers to write notes and reminders.
Replace Switchplates
Replace a plastic switchplate with a wood, metal, or ceramic cover to make a visual statement. Some switchplates are even textured to blend in with marble, tile, or stone surfaces. Do this for light switches, electrical outlets, and phone and cable jacks.
Elevate a Closet
Coax function from a messy closet with thoughtful accessories designed to elevate organization. Categorize hanging garments by type, day of the week, or family member with colorful tags. Slim, slip-free hangers look uniform and maximize space.
Streamline Under the Sink
Ease cleanup and eliminate the clutter of freestanding bottles in your kitchen or bathroom with an over-the-door wire organizer. This slim solution maximizes under-sink space while keeping kitchen essentials within easy reach.
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40 Cheap DIY Home Decor Ideas and Projects
Looking to add a personal touch to your home without breaking the bank? DIY home decor is a great way to add style and personality to your space without spending a lot of money. With creativity and inexpensive supplies, you can easily transform your home into a stylish and inviting space.
To get started, check out these 40 cheap DIY home decor ideas and projects that are sure to turn heads. From simple wall art and mirrors to impressive making DIY furniture and fixtures, there’s something here for every taste and budget. So whether you’re looking for a quick weekend DIY project or modern decorating project to tackle, these DIY home decor ideas are sure to inspire.
DIY Home Decorating Projects and Ideas
Find 40 cheap DIY home decor ideas and projects that you can try to decorate your home. These inexpensive diy home decorating ideas are simple, affordable, and definitely worth trying out. So what are you waiting for? Start brainstorming your own diy decor ideas, and get started today!
DIY Tiered Planter Box Plans And Video Tutorial Under $10:
Planters are a way to enjoy the garden greenery everyday just right in your court yard, at patio and also to any indoors of your home! They can be different type and of different designs but the wooden ones always work amazing! See here this stepped row of wooden flower planters that is a delight to view! A fantastic DIY home decor idea just by creating some wooden holdings! Want to see these planters next in your front porch? anikasdiylife
Easy DIY Modern Farmhouse Desk – Plan & Video:
Have you ever gone through some DIY woodworking projects? If yes, then it can really help you to design your own special and custom interior furniture! Get inspired of this precious modern farmhouse desk that is a perfect sample here is purely home-built! This comes with 3 drawers built in the top panel and 2 shelves built underneath that provide ample storage space to user! Getting custom furniture for the home with a custom appeal is also a great way to boost your interior decor! anikasdiylife
How To Easy DIY Pallet Headboard:
Pallets are what that a creative person use to change his life! They can be used in almost every home improvement projects and a big source of free and durable wood! Here is another adorable pallet project that you can duplicate in your bedroom! Just grab some free pallets and pluck apart the slats from them! Put them together to build a durable wooden rectangle and a precious wooden headboard is ready! Give a durable weather finish and just paint it in your own favorite colors to be an eye-catching head of your bed!
DIY Rain Barrel Stand For Multiple Rain Barrels:
To store the rainwater is just a great idea and this is why the rain barrels are often to see on roofs of various homes! So, if you have also got some rain barrels then you should also build a durable stand for them to get them working fine! However, you build a lasting longer wooden stand at home too just by using your woodworking skills! Just make you get the enough knowledge about this, here is a sample rain barrel stand made of repurposed wood! Another great DIY home decor project! Want to duplicate this barrel stand? practicallyfunctional
Decorative Macrame 3-Pot Planter Tutorial:
You can also make use of your art of macrame to boost your interior home decor! Just craft some beautiful macrame pot planters and hang them to any room or interior at some visually attractive locations, this will truly raise your interior decor to peak level! A mind-blowing and durable sample of macrame 3-pot planter is here, a lasting longer rope has been knotted to make this macrame plant holder! Intending to duplicate it? Free tutorial and step-by-step instructions here myfrenchtwist
Macrame Plant Hanger : This easy macrame plant hanger pattern is perfect for adding a touch of nature to any room. The simple design is easy to follow, and it makes a great beginner project.
DIY Macrame Hanging Herb Garden Decoration
Another mind-blowing DIY home decor project to do using your macrame-ing skills! Just grab your favorite colored rope and knot it beautifully to create precious holdings for the pots! A mind-blowing sample is given here, the macrame hanging herb garden made of precious white cord! This is here the 3 pot macrame plant holder but you can vary the number of rope hangers according to number of garden pots you are having! myfrenchtwist
DIY Macrame And Terra Cotta Planter:
If you are true home lover and are always having the DIY home decor on your brain then you will just fall in love with this macrame terracotta planter! A precious milky white rope holding carrying a sweet terracotta flower pot in it, would make an attention-grabbing centerpiece for any interior or exterior wall! One can also duplicate it for bigger statements of interior wall decor! All you need white cord, terracotta flower planter and some skills of art of macrame-ing to clone this project! myfrenchtwist
Quick DIY Painted White Dash Doormat:
If you are on a mission to boost your DIY home decor, then you just pay more attention to locations of your home that makes the first impression of your home to visitors! No doubts they are the entryways, entryways to your home and entryway to your room or hallway too! A great way to jazz up your entryways would be to place there some beautiful doormats! If not having the special new ones, simply paint the old doormats for some fascinating patterns to be interesting and visually captivating! A great sample here is this white dash doormat, a great inspiration to boost your DIY home decor projects! delineateyourdwelling
How To Make Vertical Wall Planter – Free Tutorial:
Bringing a garden vibe to your interiors would also be something that can add great visual details to your interiors! This can be done in various different ways like by using pots, plants and vertical gardens but if your main focus are the interior walls then this vertical wall planter would just work great! It is super easy to make at home just by using some free wood and some leather strips! Final step would be to use the recommended hardware hanging systems to hang it safely on any interior wall! loveandrenovations
DIY Gorgeous Serving Tray – Free Plan
Little things matter a lot when being on the mission to boost the interior home decor! You will find the statement so true when you will just look at this fancy hand-built wooden tray! It comes with alluring diagonal color stripes that turn it into a dining table eye-piece! All you need a flat wooden plank or lengths, two metal hardware handles and some wooden dowels cut to the size that will serve as a base of the tray and will make it a little off the dining table surface! inspiredbycharm
Simple DIY Home Decor Ideas
DIY Wind Chimes : Wind chimes are a beautiful addition to any yard or garden. They make a pleasant sound when the wind blows and can be a decorative addition to your outdoor space. Here are homemade DIY wind chimes to make your own wind chimes.
Burlap Crafts & Decor : Burlap crafts are all the rage right now, and for a good reason! They’re super easy to make, and they add a rustic touch to any decor. Check out these easy DIY burlap crafts and decor projects for inspiration.
Vinyl Projects : You can use vinyl to create patterns, designs, and even text. Explore simple vinyl projects that even beginners can attempt. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of personalization to your home or want to create a unique gift for a loved one, these vinyl projects with Cricut are a great way to get started.
DIY Makeup Vanity : If you’re looking for a DIY vanity table plan, find different makeup vanity plans for you to choose from. A makeup vanity is a perfect addition to any bedroom. Not only does it provide a designated space for you to get ready each day, but it can also add a touch of style and glamour to the room.
DIY Room Decor : With these DIY room decorating ideas and some basic supplies, you can decorate your room in a way that reflects your personality and is uniquely yours. From funky wall art to creative storage solutions, these ideas will help you transform your room into a space that you love spending time in.
How To DIY Vertical Herb Garden – Free Tutorial:
You should grow some hard-to-find herbs in your garden! But there could be some additional beautiful ways to grow herbs indoor also that will also compliment the home decor! If you were willing to do then just check out here this very precious vertical herb garden that is all made of metal baskets hanged on the wall in vertical line using the perfect hardware! Another mind-blowing DIY home decor project to duplicate to get your home look enchanting! inspiredbycharm
DIY Planters : Looking for a fun and easy way to add plants to your home? Check out these decorative DIY planters you should make! From simple pots made from recycled materials to stylish geometric planters, there’s a project here for everyone.
How To Make An Indoor Swing:
Why your kids seek the fun always at your outdoor, you can provide the ultimate fun and entertainment to them at indoor too! One brilliant idea would be to install the indoor swings, check out here a brilliant sample! All you need the suspension rope or metal chain, some aloft supports, a wooden blanket as the seat! In hardware, you will only require some eye-bolts and metal rings as you can see! This would be another DIY home decor project also! chrislovesjulia
DIY Natural Surface Cleaner For All Purpose:
While being on the mission to create a perfect look of your interior then delicacy of your furniture matter a lot in this case! So, here is what you need to see all your surfaces including furniture shining! This is here the homemade surface cleaner that can be used for all purposes and is damn easy to make to at home! lifenreflection
Easy DIY Modern Address Plate – Free Tutorial:
As we have said it above that the little things should also be decorated well while intending to create a glam and spellbinding look of your home! Here is another quick project, in this case, just replace your old address plate with a new and modern looking one, and this will add great visual details to your home exterior, get inspired of this sample project here! thediyplaybook
DIY Colorful Fall Mantel With Painted Pumpkins:
Looking for perfect fall decor home plans? You can simply go with the pumpkin theme that is always appreciated as special fall decor theme! So, a great idea would be to put some fab painted pumpkins on your fireplace mantel for an enchanting display! See the sample project here to get your self-inspired! Another mind-blowing DIY home decor idea for fall! tatertotsandjello
DIY Copper Wire Photo Display – Free Plan & Tutorial:
The main focus is always the interior walls when intending to boost the interior home decor to peak level! So, you can simply jazz up the interior walls by displaying some art pieces, religions sing and paintings! Another idea would display your memorial photos artfully! Just check out here the copper wire photo display that is brilliant and will add tons of focal stimulation to any of your interior walls! Another great DIY home decor project to duplicate! todayscreativelife
DIY Letter Decor – DIY Home Decor:
Rustic and modern mix decor are in trends, and there are several related DIY projects that one can do to spruce up his interiors! One amazing one is shared here that is perfect for those who are willing to bring a rustic vibe to their interior for making them appeal a bit vintage! Just check out these pastoral home decor letters that come with “o” made of grapevine wreath form and rest of the letters are made of old wood! Another great DIY home decor project here! morewithlesstoday
How To Make An Easy Magazine Rack:
If your home is equipped with some enticing storage plans, then it would look automatically great! So, you can focus on interior storage units especially on the wall organizers to create a super cool of your home interiors! Just get inspired by this magazine rack that is all made of repurposed wood and brings a great visual attraction to a wall along with holding your magazines beautifully! Another clever hack and project to boost your home decor! ohmy
Make An Easy Decorative Pallet Shelf:
You can even use the leftover pallets to jazz up your interiors and here you can also go extra smart to rusticity of pallet wood to give a glam rustic touch to your interiors! Get inspired by this sample pallet project here; a beautiful shelf has been installed on a modern wall that holds the old art and crafts like the old pots! This pallet shelf would be a way to get tons of views of the wall! Another free of coast idea to create a perfect look of your interiors! diycandy
DIY Wooden Candle Centerpiece – Free Plan & Tutorial:
Looking for a divine centerpiece for a shelf or a dining table? If yes, then why not go with this wooden candle centerpiece that would be a great rustic delight to view on any surface! All you need to get a piece of wood which can be drilled for some bigger holes to fit your candles inside! This wooden candle centerpieces will also bring a great rustic touch to any of your space! Another home decor project for home lovers! thesweetestoccasion
How To Build A Farmhouse Table For Under $150:
Home decor also depends on the interior home furniture, the enticing the furniture is the good looking home for sure! Sometimes unique and custom interior home furniture becomes the center of attention, and bringing such a furniture piece to your home will also be a great idea to boost your home decor! A great sample here is this farmhouse table that is wholly hand-built something that will serve all from breakfasts to dinners to your guests while enjoying the outdoor weather! penniesintopearls
DIY Scalloped Concrete Planters From Thrift Store Bowls:
Looking for some cheap but outstanding home decor? Then we recommend you to adopt these scalloped concrete plants for an instant garden vibe to your interior! A thrift store project that is sure to enhance your home decor incredibly! All you need to create a liquid concrete mixture that can be poured in the decided mould to dry in shape! Simple and easy peasy home decor project! thekimsixfix
DIY Pallet Wood Hearts Step-by-Step Tutorial:
Sometime the accents and decor place around various of your items of interest help boosting your home decor! Same will do these pallet wood hearts that are hand-crafted ones and comes in natural wooden appeal! Just put them around the vases placed on a mantel or on window side shelf and enhance your home decor to peak level! You can also mount these wooden hearts on any interior wall as a lovely wall art and they will precious furniture embellishments too! penniesintopearls
Easy DIY Print-makers Media Console – Free Tutorial:
The half of the beauty of a living room depends on the furniture placed inside! The most focally stimulating piece of living room furniture has always been a media console that is mostly a center of attention in a living room! So you grab some perfect media console to raise the living room decor! If you were afraid of expensive furniture purchases, then try making your beautiful media consoles at home just like this gorgeous wooden media console that offer ample storage space in the form of built-in drawers and cubbies! rogueengineer
DIY Thanksgiving Pallet Art & A Pallet Canvas Giveaway:
One amazingly cost-effective and great way to enhance your interior wall decor would be to go with DIY pallet wall art ideas! Yes, you can put together a few separated planks of pallets to create some geometrical wooden boards which can be painted for any shape or symbol and can also be written over the custom quotes and letters to make mind-blowing pieces of wall art! pitterandglink
DIY Rustic Pallet American Flag – Free Tutorial:
Avail also the already built geometrical shapes of pallets to fancy up your home! The idea is just to paint them directly for some colorful art pieces and you can paint anything that is in your imaginations! Get inspired of this rustic pallet American flag, a great patriotic decor made of free pallets! You can also go with pallets that come with solid and tight filling for more eye-catching results! aamomspark
Simple And Easy DIY Wood Pallet Planter:
Pallets can easily be dismantled to get fantastic looking and sturdy wooden lengths or planks! One having some great experience of woodworking can do amazing wooden projects with those free wooden lengths got from pallets! One precious sample project is here, the enchanting wooden box style planter that comes with shorter legs and also with edged opening! You can simply make it hold your favorite garden pots or can start potting in it directly by filling it with potting soil, it is sure to spruce up your home and targeted space in either way you decide! savedbylovecreations
How To Easy DIY Pallet Planter Box:
Get inspired of this another great pallet project done to achieve better looks of your home! This is here a rustic pallet planter box that can easily be made by using a few of plucked apart pallet slats! Just create a slim long holding and that’s it! Fill it with glass vases and drag to any flat surface that need to be attractive! This is also here a beautiful idea about how you can give a garden like touch to any of your space! bloominghomestead
How To Make An Easy Pallet Sign:
It would not take time to spice up any wall with some stunning wall art pieces if you go smartly handmade with some pallets! Just take the pallets into pieces and resize the lengths you have got to do some wall art projects! A great sample is here, just put together your resized lengths and make good looking wooden boards in any geometrical shape! Paste or paint your art and you are done! In this case, the “LOVE” letters cutout from a scrapbook paper have been pasted on the pallet boards for a glam looking wall sing! homestoriesatoz
Upgrade Simple Vanilla Candles With A Cinnamon Stick:
Another smart DIY hack here to add amazingly visual details to your home! You can simply upgrade your candles too to turn them into focally stimulating home centerpieces! Check out here the rustic makeover of candles done with a cinnamon stick! Just put the cinnamon sticks around the candles and let them be more fetching a rustic looking! An amazing sample here is these vanilla candles that are utterly cute and has been given a black ribbon wrap to be more eye-catching! sheknows
How To Make An Easy Photo Display – Free Plan & Tutorial:
Displaying your photos in an enchanting manner to your interior wall will also be a great suggestion to lure number of view of your interior wall boosting your home decor at the same time! If you want to do it cost-effective then you should really take a visit of nearby thrift store or dollar store to grab the cheap photo frames! Paint your frames by the wall colors and just paste your favorite photos on them! Final step would be to hang the photo frame on wall in a precious manner!
DIY Pallet Frame Within 10-Minute – Free Plan & Tutorial:
Here is a last 10 minute home decor idea that every home lover can duplicate! The idea is just to build some handsome wooden frames for the vases placed on your wall shelves or fireplace mantel! Check out here the rustic frame made of pallet wood and just serves as an enchanting background to flower vase placed just in front of it! This frame will be ready in just no time! Another easy but great home decor project! cupcakesandcrinoline
How To Build A Pallet Cabin – Free Plan & Tutorial:
It also raises the beauty of your home to have some brilliantly beautiful outdoors! So, your outdoor is having some kind of beautiful sheds or cabins they will just look fantastic! So, here is a DIY project that will help you create some brilliant wooden outdoor cabins at outdoor without getting expensive! The idea is to go with pallets that can be used as prefabricated panels to build the structure frame of your cabin! thehomesteadingboards
- DIY Shed Plans – 36 Easy DIY Shed Designs for Your Home
How To Easy DIY Gorgeous Pallet Art:
It is a great idea to add tons of focal stimulation to any particular interior wall by hanging there some fantastic quoted wall art pieces, get inspired of this given amazing sample, a gorgeous pallet art sign crafted in just no time and is just lovely to look at! Just put together a few torn apart boards of pallets to build a wooden board shape on which your art is to paste! Here the hand-built wooden pallet board has been written over some custom messages using letter stencils and looks a fetching rustic delight! mysocalledcraftylife
DIY Rustic Pallet Jewelry Holder – Free Plan & Tutorial:
In the same way you build wall art pieces out of pallets, you can put together the custom cut pallet lengths again to build the long fetching wooden boards which can be added with some hooks to be used for some utilitarian purposes! A great sample here is this jewelry holder that looks fetching in natural tone of wood and is something that will spruce up any of your interior wall! The midsection comes with a piece of mesh-mounted beautifully on four additional mini wooden supports that work great as earring organizer! One more DIY home decor project to do with pallets! remodelaholic
DIY Pallet Wood Chargers:
Another mind-blowing hack here to boost your home decor with pallets! Just create outstanding snowflake wooden chargers that will make a great gift too! All you need some rustic pallet boards and some artistic paper art templates made of freezer paper and some mod-podge to paste them on wooden boards! Another easy but great DIY home decor project! cherishedbliss
How To Make A Pallet Top Table:
Build special and custom furniture pieces with pallets that will also be a way to adorn your home interiors more! A great sample is this brilliant pallet top table, the top is hand-built and comes with an alluring design texture to be extra unique and adorable! Just use the separated apart pallet planks to build the tabletop and finish it up with custom table legs, and that’s it! Want to see this pallet top table next to your home? myrepurposedlife
- 40 Brilliant DIY Furniture Projects That Are Easy To Make
DIY Pallet Wood Bathtub Table:
Another mind-blowing idea that will indirectly boost your home decor! This project is also to do with pallets, repurpose the pallets and build beautiful bathtub tables just like the given rustic sample that will come in handy to read to your books and will also beautifully the bath candles just to create a lovely atmosphere there! This project’s total cost would equal the cost of 4 planks of pallets! knickoftime
DIY Pallet Board Serving Tray – Free Plan & Tutorial:
It adds tons of focal stimulation to your entire dining table if you add some beautiful looking trays to its top! Another beautiful DIY home decor boosting idea and hack! Just grab an old picture frame, some pallet wood and also 2 metallic hardware handles to craft a beautiful serving tray! A mind-blowing sample is given here and is just looking fantastic! Willing to duplicate this eye-catching serving tray? brepurposed
Easy DIY Shipping Pallet Dog Bed:
Check out here another marvelous project that will also bring a great decorative vibe to your spaces! Go handmade with free pallets and build some outstanding pet beds just like this pallet dog bed which is amazingly beautiful and comes with double story design! It is having here the alluring color stripes and both levels have been cushioned beautifully! All you need is to get some pallet wood to clone this very stunning model of dog bed at no-cost! savedbylovecreations
- Pallet Dog House – Step by Step Plan
Related DIY Home Decor Ideas and Projects
DIY Backyard Ideas : On a budget and looking for some cheap backyard ideas and decor projects? Check out our list of cheap DIY backyard ideas ! From simple projects like building a fire pit or an outdoor kitchen to more complex projects like creating a backyard oasis complete with a pool and waterfall, there’s something on this list for everyone.
DIY Porch Decor Ideas : Add some life to your porch this season with these small porch decor ideas on a budget ! From wreaths and planters to pillows and banners, there’s a little something for everyone. So get creative and make your porch stand out this year!
DIY Wood Signs : Looking for some easy DIY wood signs? Look no further! These affordable handmade signs are perfect for adding a personal touch to your home. From funny quotes to inspiring mantras, there’s a sign for everyone.
Easy Pallet Projects : Looking for ideas to use pallets? Look no further! This guide provides a variety of easy pallet wood projects you can complete in just a few hours. From furniture to home decor, there’s something for everyone.
Scrap Wood Projects : Woodworking is a great hobby for anyone who enjoys working with their hands. It can be a bit intimidating for beginners, but these simple scrap wood projects are perfect for those just getting started.
DIY Concrete Projects : There are so many amazing ways to use concrete that aren’t just for driveways and sidewalks! These amazing DIY concrete projects will show you just how versatile this material can be. Try out a few of these ideas now and you’ll be hooked on this durable, affordable, and stylish material!
Conclusion:
Are you looking for some cheap and easy DIY home decor ideas? We’ve got you covered. In this post, we shared a variety of diy home decorating projects that will add some personality to your space without breaking the bank. From simple tips like using plants or mirrors to create visual interest, to more involved projects like building your own coffee table or headboard, we’ve got something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Get started on your new DIY home decor project today!
50 Easy DIY Projects You Can Tackle This Weekend
These easy DIY home projects will make your space look like a million bucks in no time.
The coronavirus pandemic has many people spending more time at home than ever—and eager to tackle some home projects during their time spent inside. However, while learning to drywall or repaving your own patio may be more of an investment of time and money than most people are inclined to spend right now, there are plenty of easy projects you can take on to completely transform your home in a couple of days or less. That's why we've teamed up with DIY experts to bring you some amazing and easy DIY home projects you can complete in a single weekend! And for more simple and speedy ways to spruce up your space, check out these 23 Genius Home Improvement Projects You Can Do in an Hour (or Less!) .
1 Make your own hand-painted wallpaper.
No budget for expensive wallpaper? No problem! Cassandra Campana of Cass Creates says this project cost virtually no money and was quick to complete. "I used a level and long piece of scrap wood to draw the vertical lines along the wall. Then, I cut two pieces of scrap wood at an angle and glued them together to make a template for the rest of the pattern," she explains. After penciling the design on the wall, she painted it using a thin brush. (For more details on how she completed it, click here ).
2 Create your own DIY coffee station.
Tired of having too many mismatched mugs in your cabinet? Consolidate your collection and keep your morning pick-me-up accessories in one place with this easy coffee station from Jes and Madhu Das of Yea We Built That.
After you've sanded your wood and sprayed it with lacquer, "put the pieces together [and] be sure the shelf is at a 90-degree angle so your shelf contents don't slide off," says Jes. She adds that the mug hooks under the station can be purchased at any hardware store. (For more insight into this project, click here .) And for more awesome ideas for upgrading your space, check out 27 Amazing Home Upgrades for Every Budget .
3 Build your own slide-out crate organizer.
If you want more entryway storage but don't have a lot of space, these sliding milk crates might just be the best way to combat your clutter .
"We had a couple of [crates] lying around so we decided to turn them into functional items where we could actually store things we need access to on a regular basis," says Jes. After spray painting the crates, she attached sliding drawer tracks to the crate and wall, making sure to measure and re-measure to ensure functionality. (Want to make your own? Check out Jes and Madhu's project here .)
4 Create your own custom mirror.
Transforming that lackluster mirror into a statement piece is easier than you might expect. "I recently turned a plain wooden mirror into a gorgeous rose gold piece using only white paint, tape, and a can of Rust-Oleum spray paint in rose gold," says DIY blogger Sarah Macklin of Dream of Home. She simply painted the corners with white paint, covered them with tape once they were dry, and used spray paint for the rest. (For the full DIY, click here .) But before you so much as pick up a paint brush, make sure you know these 17 Bad DIY Projects to Avoid, According to Home Improvement Pros .
5 Reupholster your headboard.
Want to brighten up your bedroom in no time? All it takes is a weekend and some elbow grease to make this gorgeous headboard. "This update was inexpensive and made a huge impact, but it did take a couple of coats to cover the gray color of the original upholstery," says DIYer Amanda Poe of BohoFrisco.
6 Stencil and paint your nightstand.
Now that you've done your headboard, why not upgrade that boring nightstand in your bedroom, too? It only takes a couple hours to create a custom piece. "I used chalk paint and a stencil to create this bone inlay look for a fraction of the cost" of a new piece, says Poe. (Click here for the full tutorial on both the headboard and nightstand.) And if you're concerned about the temperature in your sleeping quarters, check out 17 Genius Ways to Keep Your Bedroom Cooler .
7 Use milk paint to transform an old dresser.
Instead of taking that beat-up old dresser to the dump, try transforming it a la DIY home bloggers Ash and Eileen Annesley of Just Measuring Up. "We had an old dresser from the '50s and completely changed the look of it with milk paint and brand new hardware," the pair explains. (Love this project? See how they did it here .)
8 Make your own picture ledge.
You don't have to crowd every bookshelf and mantle to find enough space for your photos. "These are gorgeous picture ledges that we made from scrap wood that now house a collection of photos," say the Annesleys. The best part? This project cost less than $10. (Find out more here .)
9 Create your own map wall art.
Great art doesn't have to cost a fortune. Case in point: This gorgeous map from Just Measuring Up. "This is a simple three-piece world map made with just wood, paint, and a stencil," explain the Annesleys. (Eager to make your own? Check out their tutorial here .)
10 Build your own bookshelves.
11 Construct your own entertainment center.
Want to make your TV and cable box a stylish part of your décor instead of an eyesore? Pientka says this project is a bit more time-consuming, but it's well worth the effort. "We mounted the cabinets then added feet for additional support," she explains. "The cabinets give us lots of hidden storage space without a lot of work." (Check out the full tutorial here .)
12 Install your own peel-and-stick backsplash.
Upgrading your kitchen doesn't have to mean spending a lot of money—or even hiring a contractor. Poe says that removable tiles are an easy way to transform your space, noting that it took just one weekend to complete this project. Better yet, "these tiles are removable so you can take them out when you leave your rental space, or when you want to change your kitchen again!" (For more insight into this project, click here .) And for more ideas for creating your culinary dream space, check out 25 Kitchen Decorations That Will Completely Transform Your Space .
13 Make over your pantry with custom shelving.
Kitchen remodels can be pricey, but you can upgrade your pantry in a single weekend with custom shelving. "We took the old wire shelves out of our pantry and replaced them with beautiful wooden shelves and home drawers," say the Annesleys. (See how they did it here .)
14 Build kitchen shelves from old doors.
Remodeling your home? Put those old doors to good use with this fun DIY from Chatfield Court. "This is an easy project to do and makes a huge difference in any space," says DIYer Kristi Haight . (Find out more here .)
15 Make your own farmhouse table.
Large dining room tables can be prohibitively pricey—unless you make your own, that is. "Just sand down the wood with an orbital sander, add a coat of stain, and wipe it off. Let it dry and then apply whitewash to the entire table," says Austin Alvarez of Building Our Rez. (For full instructions, click here .)
16 Build your own fire pit.
Keeping warm outdoors doesn't have to mean dragging your blankets into your backyard. "Go to your local hardware store and grab 30 pewter concrete retaining wall blocks, a bag of pea pebbles, and a bag of paver base," says Alvarez. "Two hours later you'll be roasting all the marshmallows with the closest of friends and family." (Check out the full project here .)
17 Create your own compost bin.
Turn your food scraps into nutrient-rich fertilizer for your garden with this easy DIY. "You can use any wood you want to build, including scrap wood that is free," says Allen Michael , editor of DIY site SawsHub. "Just make sure it isn't treated—you don't want chemicals in your compost!" (You can find the full tutorial here .)
18 Make your own succulent wall.
Want to flex your green thumb? This succulent wall is the ideal way to display your prized potted plants. "All you need is shiplap, 2×2 pots, and clips," says Amanda Badgley of DIY.ing.Mama. "Make a few straight cuts, nail everything together, screw in your clips, and you're done!" (For more info on this project, click here .)
19 Create your own succulent terrarium.
You can bring the outdoors in with these easy terrariums from Karla Perez of Chicfully Kreations. "You fill the apothecary jars with pebbles and just insert the succulent of your choice," explains Perez. (For more on this project, click here .)
20 Make your own front door wreath.
Want to give your front door a fun seasonal makeover? Try this gorgeous paper wreath project from Chicfully Kreations on for size. "I used a floral garden natural willow wreath, different plastic ferns, white paper plates, feathers that I dipped with gold glitter, and a cutout of [Peter Pan's] silhouette," says Perez. She notes that she first rolled the plates to make the flowers, then glued the other materials on. (See the full project here .)
21 Build an elevated garden bed.
Raised beds just got a chic upgrade, thanks to this easy DIY from April Reade of If Only April. "Just cut the wood, make a box from it and add legs for convenience. Add planks on the bottom of the box and cover the bottom with black fiberglass screen to protect soil from falling through," says Reade. (See the full tutorial here .)
22 Make an easy entryway organizer.
Don't let your mail and keys clutter up your entryway any longer. Reade says she attached hooks and small shelves to some scrap wood and voilà, "the entryway organizer was ready!" (See how she did it here .)
23 Construct a set of garage shelves.
Has your garage gotten so cluttered you can hardly see the floor? These simple DIY shelves are perfect for getting rid of that mess once and for all. "I attached a frame to the wall, then made another matching frame and connected them with cleats between," explains Reade. "Then I cut a sheet of plywood in three parts and lined shelves with it." (Discover the full project instructions here .)
24 Make a lazy Susan pencil holder.
Give your desk an easy upgrade with this lazy Susan pencil holder. "I measured the thickness of pencils, drilled holes into the wood, attached a lazy Susan on the bottom, and it was ready!" says Reade. (Find out how to make one here .)
25 Build your own baby gym.
Not loving the look of your kids' clunky plastic toys ? Making this gorgeous wooden baby gym is easier than you'd expect. "Simply take one 1×2, make four legs out of it, attach the dowel and decorate as you like," says Reade. "I used beads on elastic cord, but ideas are unlimited." (Find out how to make your own here .)
26 Install your own custom closet.
You don't have to have contractor-level skill—or a huge budget—to create your own custom closet. Using a ClosetMaid Selectives system, DIYer Alyssa Loring of Feathers and Stripes created this bespoke storage space for her daughter. "I love the drawers for extra organization, so I have a place to put her swimsuits, extra sheets, and other things that just don't fit well in her dresser," she said. "One drawer usually has some items that are a little too big but will fit soon-ish." (Find out how to make your own here .)
27 Create your own couch sleeve.
One dropped mug of coffee is too many—but you don't need another table cluttering up your space to give yourself extra room for those drinks—just spend a day making this wooden couch sleeve. After cutting your wood to size, "glue and clamp the sides to secure the bottom two pieces to the top, and let it dry," says Brandon Smith , editor at The Saw Guy. Follow it up with wood stain and polyurethane finish and you're done! (You can find the info on how to make your own here .)
28 Build a stylish blanket ladder.
Draping a blanket over the arm of your couch can add a touch of rustic chic, but there are only so many textiles your sofa can handle. Enter: the DIY blanket ladder. "You don't even need power tools to make this simple blanket ladder. All it requires is a miter box, a hand saw, and a few boards," says Vineta Jackson , founder of The Handyman's Daughter . (You can get the whole lowdown from her here .)
29 Resurface your fireplace.
This easy DIY home project can completely transform a room, but, surprisingly enough, it doesn't require a contractor. If you're over your existing brick fireplace, "smooth out the rough surface with mortar, then give it a new look with modern tile," suggests Jackson. ( Click here for more in-depth instructions.)
30 Or give it a serious cleaning and paint job!
Smoke stains are notoriously hard to clean, but don't let that discourage you from remodeling your fireplace. "When the cleaning didn't remove the smoke stains, I turned to a semi-transparent concrete dye," says Kate Terhune of Mama Kate Knows Best. (Check out the full DIY here. )
31 Redo your worn-out bathroom floors.
Even if your bathroom flooring is looking a little worse for wear, you don't have to rip up all that tile. According to Jackson, it's easy to "give your bathroom floor a bold new look with floor paint and a graphic stencil." (You can click here for more information on this easy home DIY project.)
32 Create a simple bespoke laptop stand.
That laptop stand you bought at your local big box store may serve a purpose, but it's not exactly pretty. Luckily, transforming it is simpler than you might expect with this easy DIY project. "It's so easy to swap out the faux wood top of this store-bought laptop stand for a custom design," explains Jackson. "You can glue several contrasting boards together to make a larger piece, or add a pop of color with recycled skateboards." (For the full tutorial, click here .)
33 Transform a piece of wood into an easy candleholder.
Have one too many mismatched candles kicking around your house? Turn them into a stunning centerpiece by creating your very own wooden candle or plant holder. "Dig through your scrap wood pile to put together this simple DIY candleholder that doubles as an air plant stand," says Jackson. "Just glue up the layers, trim off the sides, and drill a hole for the candle on top." Simple as that! (And if you want more directions on this DIY, click here .)
34 Make a fancy plant hook.
Even if you don't have much of a green thumb, hanging some easy-to-care-for plants on your wall can add major character to your space with a minimal investment of time. "Spice up an ordinary plant hook with a fancy wood backing, then add cute terrariums for air plants," says Jackson. She notes that this whole project takes under an hour to complete. ( Click here to learn how to make one yourself.)
35 Redo your cabinets with contact paper.
A full kitchen makeover is a pretty time-consuming and expensive undertaking. However, you can "give your flat front cabinets a quick makeover with peel and stick contact paper," says Jackson. This is also a great way for renters to transform their kitchens without losing their security deposit. (For more information on how to make this easy DIY project happen, click here .)
36 Paint your kitchen backsplash.
You don't need to tear out your existing backsplash to give it new life. Instead, "brighten it up with a coat of bonding primer and floor paint that holds up to cooking messes and sink splashes," suggests Jackson. ( Click here for more information on this tutorial.)
37 Add crown molding to your cabinetry.
Looking for a way to transform your kitchen that doesn't require a contractor? Adding some trim above your cabinetry is so simple, even a DIY novice can do it. "Purchase the molding and trim and then paint it to match the cabinet color," explains James Judge , a Phoenix-based designer and realtor . "The finished look makes it look like the cabinets expand to the ceiling."
38 Install some interior wall paneling.
If you're bored of your drab walls—and even paint won't do—a great way to transform them is to add paneling, which is easier to install than you might think. "Buy 1×1 boards and then create a graphic pattern," suggests Judge. He recommends drawing the pattern on the wall first before hanging the panels. Then, attach the boards to the walls and paint them in the color of your choice. "This is a great inexpensive way to achieve a new look and a nice alternative to wallpapering," Judge says.
39 Sew a new set of curtains.
Curtains can cost a pretty penny, but you can easily make your own with a little DIY know-how. DIY blogger Alisa Bovino of A Glass of Bovino says it takes just about an hour to hem a set of four panels. Her only warnings about these pleated beauties? "Be sure you're using the same amount of fabric per pleat, you're spacing them about equal distance apart from each other, and you're also clipping in the same place." (For the full tutorial, click here .)
40 Revamp an Ikea media center.
Ikea furniture may be a staple in many homes, but on its own, it doesn't do much to stand out. If you want to change the look of your media center, try this Kallax hack from DIY blogger JZ of Just Might DIY . "With some thin wood, stain, wood glue, drawer pulls, and a free afternoon, I turned this piece from meh to wow," she explains. The best part? It cost her just $40 to complete!
41 Upcycle an old record cabinet.
Have an old record cabinet that's seen better days? Click here to try JZ's trick for repurposing a family heirloom and giving it new life. "We decided to use the bones of the old [record cabinet] and cover it with red oak veneer so it would still be the piece that my mom used to store her records," she says.
42 Build your own surfboard headboard.
Whether you live at the beach or just wish you did, creating a surfboard headboard is a great way to liven up your bedroom with some ocean-inspired appeal . Despite her lack of experience and limited collection of tools, JZ managed to create this gorgeous piece. "This headboard is proof that with enough determination, you can make anything you put your mind to," she says. (And you can follow along to make your own surfboard headboard with the full tutorial here .)
43 Create a sola flower centerpiece.
Want to add some natural elements to your space but not great with plants? Try this sola wood flower centerpiece, via Just Might DIY . "A little bit of water mixed with craft paint, and you can dip dye these amazing [sola wood] flowers and create a beautiful centerpiece that will last," says JZ.
44 Make your own postcard wreath.
This easy DIY postcard wreath is another great centerpiece that will look amazing on your wall all year round. "This wreath has it all: a funky Sputnik shape, silvery glitter, and a place to display retro postcards," says Tara Besore , founder of DIY blog Hammer and a Headband .
All she used was pre-cut pieces of wood and glue to craft the frame. "I created this wreath to hold holiday and special occasion cards, but for the rest of the year it's a perfect spot to showcase my favorite postcards," she says.
45 Paint a mid-century-style work of art.
Transforming your home with new art doesn't have to mean spending hours browsing Etsy or galleries for inspiration. "Since mid-mod art involves a lot of simple shapes and clean lines, anyone can DIY this kind of painting using a few basic shapes," says Besore. "Think footballs and bowling pins." (For the full tutorial, click here .)
46 Create a cool frame for your favorite pieces.
Not thrilled with the frame selection at your local store? No problem. According to JZ, creating this acoustic foam frame is pretty simple. "I created what we call the 'Soundboard Frame' out of square edged pine, black stain, and lots of patience. But it was definitely worth the effort!" she says. "Now this cool painting is showcased in a piece of art itself." (And you can make one of your own by following the instructions here .)
47 Build your own floral board wall art.
Want an eye-catching design element to liven up an otherwise bland wall? Try making your own piece of floral wall décor. "I had this wooden frame kicking around that was used as a packing element for a large appliance [and] could easily cover it in fabric via staple gun [to] have a gorgeous focal point," explains blogger Katie Hellmuth Martin , founder of Tin Shingle and A Little Beacon Blog . By simply stapling the fabric to the frame, she created this amazing piece of art, but you can also do the same with a piece of cork board if you want to create your own custom message center.
48 Paint a chalkboard wall calendar.
With just a little tape and some chalkboard paint, you can create a gorgeous reusable wall calendar that doesn't take up even an inch of space. Martin says this is one of the first projects she tackled in her workspace. "I sketched it out in my notepad, and then spread the blue painter's tape into the squares, making sure they lined up as I wanted," she says. "I applied black chalkboard paint with a brush in even lines. I commissioned local sign artist Jenn Ulrich to paint the scripty words on."
49 Make your own pendant light.
A new light fixture can be an expensive investment—so if you're looking for a simple low-cost DIY lighting project to revamp your space, look no further than On the Fly DIY. "Pendant lighting is so easy and inexpensive to make yourself. There's no reason to purchase new fixtures at retail prices," says Vicki Liston in On the Fly DIY's video tutorial .
She made this fixture from pieces at a local hardware store, but you may find all the materials you need in your basement! "Start with a basic wiring set up and you can incorporate almost any type of DIY shade to perfectly coordinate with your style," she explains.
50 Build a theft-proof mailbox.
This easy home DIY project isn't just decorative—it's incredibly practical, too. "We use online shopping for almost everything, but porch pirates are putting a damper on this convenience," explains Liston in the video tutorial for this super secure mailbox. With some wood, a saw, a drill, screws, hinges, and spray paint, she managed to create her own theft-proof mailbox to outsmart those thieves—and you can, too!
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9 Home Improvement Projects That Are Cheap & Make A Big Difference
But improving our home doesn’t always mean massive renovations. There are tons of little home improvement projects that you can do around the house that won’t break the bank and will improve the look of your home. Here are nine of our favorite cheap home improvements.
Paint the Front Door
If you want to make a change and an impact, start with the very front of your home. Give your door a brand-new look with a fresh coat of paint. If you don’t want to change the color of your door, a fresh new paint job in the same color would be a great improvement too.
Paint Door Knobs
If you have dated and worn door knobs, you can give them a super quick makeover by removing them and spraying them with a trendy color of spray paint. Gold, black, or oil-rubbed bronze are great colors to choose from.
Update Your Kitchen Hardware
You can totally transform the look of a kitchen just by replacing the kitchen hardware. This is a great idea to get a new look without replacing cupboards or even having to paint them. If you’re looking for more guidance on how to choose the right hardware for your cabinetry, check out this article too.
Paint a Brick Fireplace
If you have an old brick fireplace in your home but you’re not ready to fully demolish it, an easy way to give it a quick upgrade is to grab some paint and go to town. Try painting your fireplace a trendy color like black to make it a focal point of the room, or white to give it a modern facelift.
Give Peel and Stick Tile a Try
Peel and stick tile is a great option if you’re not ready to rip up the flooring and take on a full-blown tile project. You can get tons of nice, trendy patterns on the internet and this can substantially change your space. Peel and stick tile is also an option for renters who are looking to change up their space but don’t have the ability to make permanent changes.
Add Some Window Boxes
To upgrade the exterior of your home, add in some window boxes. This will beautify the outdoor space as well as add some character. You can DIY your own or buy some if you’re not up for a woodworking project.
Switch Out Your Light Fixtures
An easy and quick upgrade is to switch out your lighting. That’s right — say goodbye to those “boob” lights and replace them with something more modern and trendy. You’d be surprised how much an updated light fixture can change a space.
Add Peel and Stick Wallpaper
Peel-and-stick wallpaper is easy to install and comes in so many different patterns and colors. This is an easy weekend project and can be done relatively cheaply. Peel and stick wallpaper is the perfect option if you’re changing up a child’s room when you know they’re going to have a new favorite color or interest a year from now.
Change Your Shower Curtain
This one might be the easiest of all, and while it may seem like something that’s not a big deal, swapping out your shower curtain every so often can make a huge impact in your home. Design trends are constantly changing and swapping out your shower curtain can change the whole look of your bathroom without spending a ton of money.
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If you’re an avid DIYer, you’re already on your way to saving money. But with the right planning, you can transform the feel of a whole room with a single project that only costs you a few hundred bucks.
Easy Home Upgrades You Can Do on a Budget
Pick from our round-up of value-boosting upgrades that all come in under the $500 mark—some well under. Not only will they be soft on your wallet now, but some of these will even save you money in the future. Check out our easy home improvement ideas below.
1. Refresh Your Rooms With Paint
You can give your drab, washed-out walls a burst of brilliant depth (or wash away your decorating sins with virgin white) just by picking up a paint can and having at them. That’s the power of a coat of paint: It rearranges your reality. Which is why painting is the most oft-tackled DIY home-improvement upgrade.
While you don’t have to be a pro to learn how to paint like one, there is more to a good paint job than just slathering some color on the wall. See our how to instructions to coat your walls expertly in one weekend, from the first scratch of the pole sander to the final feather of the brush.
Cost: About $150
See How to Paint a Room for full step-by-step instructions.
2. Add Crown Molding the Easy Way
Crown molding makes it to the top of most remodeling lists because it adds charm and value to a home, not because people enjoy spending a Saturday trying to get the corners just right. Luckily, there’s a simple way to beat miter-saw frustration.
Trimroc molding from Canamould Extrusions is a lightweight polystyrene foam coated in hard plaster. It cuts smoothly with a handsaw and it goes up in a flash with joint compound. No coping, no tricky angles, and ragged joints disappear with a dab of mud. So in just a weekend, you can upgrade a plain room to an elegant space—and still leave plenty of time for the rest of your list.
Cost: About $120.
See How to Install Foam Crown Molding for full step-by-step instructions.
3. Install a Low-Cost Stair Runner
Want to get a good grip on slippery stairs? Try a DIY runner. After getting a quote of $2,500 to carpet her dangerously slick oak staircase, TOH reader Jaime Shackford took the project into her own hands. Using just two off-the-shelf woven runners ($125 each) and supplies from a home center, she gave her stairs an non-slip upgrade.
Cost: About $300.
See How to Install a Low-Cost Stair Runner for full step-by-step instructions.
4. Install a Dishwasher to Conserve Water
That old dishwasher could be wreaking havoc on your electric and water bills. Time to switch it out for a new Energy Star-qualified dishwasher, which can save you more than $30 a year on power and almost 500 gallons of water. If you don’t have a dishwasher at all, you’re using 40 percent more water washing by hand!
The biggest cost saver of all? You can install a dishwasher yourself in an afternoon. No plumber, no electrician—and no worries that you’re squandering your retirement money on a load of clean dishes.
Cost: About $450+
See How to Add a New Dishwasher or How to Replace a Dishwasher for full step-by-step instructions.
5. Rewire a Vintage Entry Lantern
Many hanging lanterns from the first half of the 20th century were humble by design, looking as if they’d been crafted by blacksmiths rather than machines.
Popularized by tastemakers of the time, such as Gustav Stickley and the Roycroft crafters, these rustic lanterns exemplified a back-to-basics design sensibility. If you’ve scored one such find at a yard sale or have one stashed in the attic, you can invite guests to “come on in” by putting back into service a vintage lantern. It’s an easy, affordable job once you get the parts.
Cost: About $140.
See How to Rewire a Vintage Entry Lantern for full step-by-step instructions.
6. Renew Old Flooring With Paint
The burgundy red floor in the master bedroom of Sara and Andrew’s Massachusetts farmhouse didn’t fit the fresh and energetic personality of the newlyweds. But refinishing wasn’t an option on a limited budget. So to update the space, they painted the floor in a light checked pattern, using beige and white to warm up their cool blue walls.
Here we show how a little measuring and a couple of coats of durable floor paint can add a lot of personality to a room for a small price.
Cost: About $75.
See How to Paint a Floor for full step-by-step instructions.
7. Make Shade and Add Privacy With Interior Shutters
Sunlight streaming through windows can be an annoying distraction. Not to mention the neighbors who have more evening hours to look into your brightly lit living room. You could install shades to foil prying eyes, but swinging wood shutters would definitely be more beautiful.
Interior shutters were the original “window treatments,” commonly used in Southern and urban houses, and they’re still a great way to add architectural and historical detail. They also help keep out winter’s chilly winds or summer’s oppressive heat. And they’re easy to install on any window because they attach to a thin frame that either sits inside the window opening or around the outside of the casing.
Cost: About $150 to $400.
See How to Hang Interior Shutter s for full step-by-step instructions.
8. Give Kitchen Cabinets a Flawless, New Finish
Your cavelike kitchen feels that way because the dark cabinets have sucked all the light out of the room. But a brighter makeover doesn’t necessarily mean replacing those gloomy boxes with all-new one. As long as the frames and doors are structurally sound, you can clean them up and brush on some new paint—and within a weekend take that kitchen from dreary to sunny. All you need is some strong cleaner, sandpaper, a paintbrush, and a little elbow grease. What you don’t need is a whole lot of money, as the transformation will cost you a fraction of even the cheapest new cabinets.
Cost: About $200.
See How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets for full step-by-step instructions.
9. Get More Flowers Without Spending a Dime
Dividing perennials every three to six years is a great way to thin clump-forming varieties, like the daylily (shown here), which blooms from late spring to late summer. This technique can also be used to control plant size, invigorate growth, and multiply the number of specimens in a garden. A good rule of thumb is to split apart spring- and summer-blooming perennials in late summer or before the fall frost.
See How to Divide Perennials for sull step-by-step instructions. And don’t forget to check out How to Propagate Plants at no cost for even more ways to multiply the plants you’ve already got.
10. Install a Water Filter and Ditch Expensive Bottles
Millions of households have switched to bottled drinking water because of concerns over the purity or taste of their tap water. Such problems exist across the country, regardless of whether the water comes from municipal pipeline or ground well. However, there’s an easier, less expensive way to obtain clean drinking water: install an under-sink water-filtration system.
Cost: About $250.
See How to Install a Water Filter for full step-by-step instructions.
11. Lay an Eco-Friendly Layer of Insulation
It’s bad enough to have to get up in the morning, let alone get up and experience the icy shock of a cold floor. What you need is some warmth underfoot, a little cushion as you pad across the house. Enter cork. Resilient yet durable, stylish yet earthy, a natural cork floor can turn any cool room into a cozy haven.
Cork is also a lot easier to install than traditional wood flooring. Manufacturers now offer products in engineered panels that snap together without glue or nails. These floating-floor systems sit well over plywood, concrete, or even existing flooring. In one afternoon you can turn a floor into a comfortable mat where your toes can roam free without fear of the big chill—or expensive area rugs.
Cost: Average is about $6 to $8 a square foot.
See How to Lay a Cork Floor for full step-by-step instructions.
12. Refinish Your Home’s Handsome Wood Door
The years and the elements hadn’t been kind to the exterior of this 94-year-old, thick, cypress door. Flakes of varnish still clung to the wood in spots, while the rest of the surface was rough and dried out from the effects of water and sun. Wood entry doors everywhere suffer from the same assaults, and many end up in the trash, replaced by low-maintenance, mass-produced metal and fiberglass surrogates. But you can breathe new life into your old door with a few affordable supplies.
Cost: About $50.
See How to Refinish a Door for full step-by-step instructions.
13. Put Down a Fresh Bead of Bathroom Caulk
You’ve seen the ominous signs of aging caulk. First it was the brown tinge along the edges. Now its smooth and supple skin has turned brittle and cracked, opening the way for stubborn colonies of mildew to take hold, or for water to seep through and turn wallboard and framing mushy. Whether it’s around your sink, between a tub and its tile surround, or covering the joints of your shower stall — it has got to go.
Fortunately, caulk is cheap, and applying it isn’t difficult. All you need is an hour, a few common tools, and materials easily found at any hardware store. But as easy as it is, you still have to do it right, or you’ll be caulking again next year, says This Old House general contractor Tom Silva.
Cost: About $10 to $50.
See How to Caulk Around a Tub for full step-by-step instructions.
14. Revive Your Old Deck
By the time contractor Stephen Bonesteel arrived on the scene, the condition of this pine deck was bleak. Twenty years of harsh upstate New York weather without a lick of care had turned its once-bright boards a weatherbeaten gray, flecked with slimy algae and black leaf stains.
Still, even wood this neglected can be brought back to respectability. Over the course of a week, he power-washed and hand-scrubbed the deck back to a semblance of newness, then brushed on a protective coat of semitransparent stain to protect it from the elements.
Cost: About $80 to $120.
See How to Restore a Weathered Deck for this pro’s full step-by-step instructions. In addition, you’ll want to make sure your structure is stable by doing a Deck Check .
15. Add Architectural Interest With Stair Brackets
The newel post and balusters get all the attention, while the exposed side of most staircases is largely ignored. But with the addition of decorative stair brackets, a bland stringer can become an elegant eye-catcher. Here we used simple-to-install, affordable wood brackets that go up with adhesive and nails.
Cost: About $150 to $250.
See How to Add Shapely Stair Brackets for full step-by-step instructions.
16. Lay Low-Cost Flooring in Laundries and Mudrooms
Long before the advent of resilient sheet flooring and plastic-laminate planks, there was vinyl tile. Originally produced as an alternative to linoleum, vinyl tile grew in popularity because it was colorful, easy to clean, and crack resistant. The 12×12-inch tiles come in dozens of colors, patterns and textures, making it easy to create checkerboard designs and floors with contrasting borders. Here we’ll show you the right way to put in self-adhesive tiles for a professional-looking and durable floor.
Cost: About $2 a square foot and $80 to $100 other materials.
See How to Lay a Vinyl Tile Floor for full step-by-step instructions.
17. Protect Walls With an Easy-to-Clean Backsplash
If installing a traditional tile backsplash feels a little out of your DIY league, putting up one made from a single sheet of solid surface material may just be your saving grace. Shaping, cutting, and gluing up this inexpensive stock material—available from companies such as Swanstone, which makes the beadboard backsplash shown here, in a variety of colors and patterns—is a weekend project most amateurs can conquer with confidence. And when you have your sleek backsplash in place, you’ll think it such a stylish protector from splashes and splatters you’ll wonder why you ever considered tile in the first place.
Cost: About $25 a square foot.
See How to Install a Solid-Surface Backsplash for full step-by-step instructions.
18. Prevent Mold Growth With a Bathroom Vent Fan
Installing a ventilating fan in your bath does more than just eliminate fogged-up windows, steamy mirrors and stale odors. It also helps prevent moisture-related problems, such as the growth of mold and mildew, that can be costly to remove and lead to health problems. Avoid all of that with this affordable upgrades. Here, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows the proper way to install a bath vent fan. In this particular installation, Tom ran the exhaust duct into the attic and through a sidewall to the outdoors.
Cost: About $120 to $175.
See How to Install a Bathroom Vent Fan for full step-by-step instructions.
19. Build a Custom Tool Bench
Amy Paladino is a pro at juggling the demands of her job and family. But as with many of us, when it came to organizing tools for DIY projects, she needed a little assistance.
Here is a plan for a size-it-to-your-space tool-storage bench that doubles as a work surface. Though it may look complicated, the construction couldn’t be simpler. And you’ll be protecting your valuable tools in a custom chest, while saving on the outrageous cost of store-bought storage.
Cost: About $150.
See How to Build a Tool Bench for full step-by-step instructions.
20. Ceiling Fans for Summer (and Winter) Savings
The popularity of ceiling fans continues to grow as more and more homeowners discover dramatic, year-round energy savings. In summer, ceiling fans create cooling breezes, which reduce the strain on air conditioners. In winter, they circulate heated air to keep the room warm.
Installing a ceiling fan is relatively simple, especially if the space above is accessible from an attic. However, even when it isn’t, the job is still quite doable. Here, we’ll show how to replace an old light fixture with a new ceiling fan and light, in a room with no attic above. The advantage of this approach is that you don’t have to run new wiring. The fan connects to the existing cable from the old light.
Cost: About $50 to $350.
See How to Install a Ceiling Fan for full step-by-step instructions.
21. Cut Costs With a Programmable Thermostat
Going digital with a model that automatically changes the indoor temperature setting is fairly easy, and it can trim about $180 off your annual heating and cooling costs. Simple models that only control heat are sold at home centers for around $25. But units like the one shown here can handle many more functions, including cooling and humidifying. Typically they’re purchased through and installed by HVAC contractors, but you can get a good deal on one by buying online and install it yourself in no time.
Cost: About $475.
See How to Install a Programmable Thermostat for full step-by-step instructions.
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Home Topics Remodeling
Best DIY Affordable Home Improvement Ideas
How to get the most value for your remodeling dollar.
By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine
You might also like: TBD
Improvement 1: Bathroom mini makeover—$430
If you’ve long wanted the elegance of natural stone in your home, consider a new granite bathroom vanity top, which is a great, affordable way to get it. You can now find granite tops at Lowe’s, Home Depot and other home centers. Prices range from $150 to $450 depending on the size. Complete this bath makeover with a new faucet and mirror, and you’ll still keep the price under $500.
Begin by ordering your new items and don’t start the project until you have them all on hand. Be sure to inspect them for flaws (a common problem). Then tear out the old fixtures and repair the walls as needed. Keep the old vanity if it’s in good shape. But paint it to freshen it. Use a few cans of spray paint to get a smooth finish and avoid brush marks. And replace the old pulls with new ones to dress it up.
Next, paint the walls and add the new mirror. If your old mirror included a recessed medicine cabinet, make sure the new one fits within the existing opening. Enlarging the opening often expands the job considerably!
Finally, mount the faucet, install your new granite top and connect the plumbing. Whew! If all goes well, you’ll finish in a long weekend.
Cost: Granite vanity top, 31 in. long, $200; faucet, $130; 24 x 36-in. mirror, $60; paint and cabinet pulls, $40. Total: $430.
Time: Two to three days.
For more information type “bathroom,” “faucet,” and “towel bars” in the search box above.
Simple Bathroom Makeover
Granite vanity tops cost as little as $150 and come complete with an under-mounted sink.
Improvement 2: Wallpaper one wall—$280
Close-up of wallpaper.
Fine wallpaper is affordable if you only paper one wall.
If you haven’t visited a wall-covering retailer lately, you’re missing a treat. With the revived popularity of wallpaper, stores are offering an expanded range of choices. The prices of some of these may knock your socks off too.
But take heart. You don’t have to cover every wall to make a dramatic change. Papering only a single wall will do, and that’ll make some of those fine, expensive papers or fabrics affordable. It’ll also lessen the time, effort and mess of papering an entire room. This is an especially good solution for a room with plain walls, slim baseboards and window trim, and no built-ins. You create instant character.
Begin by taking a photo of your existing room and measuring its dimensions. Take these with you to the interior design or wall-covering store. Ask a specialist to help sort through options that’ll work well with your existing furnishings. The specialist will also help you pick the best wall for the new paper and estimate the amount to order.
Some papers can be hard to hang, especially fabrics, rolls with uncut edges and other designer papers. Always check the hanging instructions and ask the dealer about the difficulty level. If you’re a novice paperhanger or fall in love with a super-expensive paper, consider hiring a pro. The extra cost should be modest for a single wall, from $150 to $250.
Be sure to fill holes and smooth your wall before beginning. Rough spots might show through the paper. Then seal the wall surface with an acrylic primer. It dries hard and smooth. This allows you to slide the paper a bit more easily to tighten seams.
Cost: $122 for a double roll of the paper shown and $20 to $50 for supplies.
Time: Half to one full day, depending on the wall condition.
For more information type “wallpaper” in the search box above.
Wallpaper on One Wall
Wallpaper on one wall adds drama to a dull room with less effort and expense than covering the whole room. It also lets you choose a bold pattern that would be overpowering on four walls.
Improvement 3: Halogen track lighting—$180
Halogen track lighting, halogen pendant option.
Hang pendants from the rail to brighten work surfaces.
Photo courtesy of Seagull
Track lighting lets you put light exactly where you need it—on countertops, walls or objects—and brighten just about any area. The tiny halogen bulbs emit a dazzling white light that illuminates colors brilliantly.
The price of track lighting has dropped in recent years. And many systems now operate on standard household voltage. That means you don’t have to install a Transformer—just connect to any existing junction box in the ceiling.
The “rail” system that hangs below the ceiling like we show will hold both spotlights and pendants. Rails typically run either 4 or 8 ft. You can bend the rail for a more decorative appearance and position the lights anywhere on it.
Look for rail system kits (typically with three to five light fixtures) in home centers, lighting stores or online. Check manufacturers’ Web sites or check the catalogs at a lighting specialty store to see all the options. This is especially important if you want to assemble your own system or add extra lights to the rail. You want to be sure you get all the correct parts.
Cost: $150 and up for a basic kit.
Time: One to two hours if you have an existing electrical box in the ceiling.
For more information type “ceiling lights” in the search box above.
Improvement 4: Kitchen rollouts—$40 to $80
Installed rollout.
Rollouts turn wasted space deep inside cabinets into accessible storage space.
Photo by Ramon Moreno
Two-level rollout
This two-level rollout fits around the drainpipes under a sink.
Rollouts are one of the easiest and most satisfying upgrades you can make to your kitchen. They bring everything that’s tucked out of sight in the back of cabinets right to your fingertips—you actually gain usable storage space.
If you don’t want to make the rollouts yourself, you can shop for moderately priced yet sturdy rollouts online or at Lowe’s and Home Depot. You simply mount them to the existing shelves in your cabinets with four screws.
The biggest mistake is ordering the wrong size. When you measure the opening in the front of the cabinet, be sure to account for the door, hinges and other obstructions.
Cost: $40 to $80 per rollout.
Time: 15 minutes per rollout.
For more information type “rollouts” in the search box above.
Improvement 5: Trim and paint—$380
By adding two simple lines of trim—a chair rail and a crown molding—you create the perfect framework for any handsome two-color wall combination. This is one of the secrets of fast, easy redecorating.
To have the biggest color impact, paint your trim. This also simplifies installation. You don’t have to cut perfect joints, because a little filler and paint will leave them looking sharp and crisp. You can also use less expensive materials.
The trim combination we show looks best in rooms with at least 4-1/2-in.-tall baseboards. If your baseboard is narrower, consider replacing it or choosing a different wall decorating technique. (See “Wallpaper one wall” above.)
Then make the new chair rail 60 to 70 percent of the width of your baseboard. Use a two-piece combination that mimics a windowsill (stool) and its apron (the trim underneath) if you have this type of trim. Otherwise, use trim similar to your window trim with a 5/8- to 3/4-in. strip on top. Center your chair rail at about one-third the wall height. Choose crown molding that’s 30 to 40 percent of the width of the baseboard.
Finding colors that work well together and go well with the existing room furnishings can be challenging. We suggest that you take full advantage of pictures in magazines and the combinations recommended by paint manufacturers that you find at every paint store. Take photos of rooms you like (or clothing combinations you like!) and work with a paint dealer to match colors. Most home centers and paint dealers now offer small paint samples. You can try them directly on the wall or paint a 2 x 2-ft. scrap of drywall or cardboard instead. That way you can view the samples in different parts of the room. Then look at the colors both in daylight and with your lights on at night. (Some colors change dramatically under different types of light.)
TIP: Prepaint the trim and paint the walls before you put the trim up. Touch up afterward.
Cost: 6 gallons of paint—$180; 80 ft. of chair rail and crown moldings—$200.
For more information type “trim” and “paint” in the search box above.
Remodeled Dining Room
Painted trim requires less skill, time and expense than stained and varnished trim. To create wall stripes, apply easy-release masking tape over a light base color.
Right-Sized Trim
To accentuate—rather than dominate—colorful walls, choose chair rail that’s about two-thirds of the baseboard width and crown about one-third the baseboard width. For a more traditional look, choose crown that’s about two-thirds of the baseboard width.
Improvement 6: Backyard oasis—$450
Canopy anchors.
Screw-in ground anchors are the best defense against strong winds.
Two elements make for a great backyard retreat—shade from the sun and protection from irritating insects. The good news: You can now choose from a wide range of screened canopies (also called gazebos) that handle both sun and insects. They’re easy to put up and maintain, you can plant them in almost any flat spot, and they’re reasonably priced, typically $200 to $500, depending on the size. Typical sizes range from 10 x 10-ft. to 12 x 12 ft. You can create a comfortable sitting area in just a few hours. Look for screened canopies at home centers and outdoor furniture dealers.
A grass floor is inviting, but it’ll wear out fast. If you don’t have an existing deck or patio that’s suitable, we recommend building a paver patio for the floor. Brick and concrete pavers are durable, handsome, and available in many styles and colors. And you don’t need special skills or experience to lay them successfully. Even a novice can do a first-class job and complete a small project in a weekend. OK, it is hard work. You’ll have to dig a bit and rent and operate a heavy plate compactor. Look for pavers at home centers and patio and garden centers.
Begin by choosing a canopy style and size. Then make your patio slightly larger to accommodate it. Or consider an even larger patio, leaving part of it open.
Cost: $150 and up for a screened canopy; about $3.50 per sq. ft. for a paver patio.
Time: Two hours for a canopy; a weekend for a small patio.
For more information type “brick” in the search box above.
Screened Canopy
Block out the hot sun and bothersome bugs with a screened canopy.
Improvement 7: Closet organizer—$100
You don’t have to spend a fortune to have a neat closet. Wire shelving systems are inexpensive, practical and easy to install. They increase your storage space and simplify cleaning too. Almost everything hangs on the walls, keeping the floor clear for easy vacuuming. And the wire shelving won’t collect dust like solid shelving does.
A novice can install a system with only a drill, a level, a hacksaw and basic hand tools. Begin by measuring your closet dimensions. At home centers, you’ll find basic kits with a full complement of shelves and clothes rods priced from $50 to $75. If you want a more elaborate system, either begin with a kit and then add accessories, or build a custom system from readily available parts. Visit a home center to see a complete selection of parts and get arrangement ideas. Then plan your system by laying out all the shelves and other components using masking tape on the back of your closet wall. You can also draw up a plan on paper, but measure carefully if you use this method. Often manufacturer Web sites have planning guides.
Most brands have solid, drill-and-tap-in wall anchors that work well even in drywall. Use a hacksaw to cut the heavy wire shelving to fit your layout.
Finally, check for accessories like shoe racks, tie and belt racks, and baskets to expand storage options and make the best use of leftover space.
Cost: $200 for the closet system shown.
Time: Half day to remove old shelves and install the new system.
For more information type “closet” in the search box above.
Closet Organizer
Make the most of closet space with wire shelving and accessories. You can outfit an entire closet in one morning.
Improvement 8: Laundry center—$480
Close-up of floor tile.
Bright, resilient floor tiles snap together for easy installation.
Stand back and look at your laundry room. Chances are it could use better organization, better lighting and more storage. These simple upgrades give you all that.
Everything you need is available at home centers. Start with a stock countertop (you can order colors that aren’t in stock, but you’ll pay two to three times as much). Don’t forget to buy end caps to cover the raw ends of the countertop.
To support the countertop, build super-simple shelf units from 8-ft. lengths of 23-1/4-in. wide shelving. We chose Melamine shelving, which has a tough plastic coating and doesn’t need painting. Size and space the shelves to suit your laundry baskets (we made ours 14-1/2 in. apart and 35 in. above the floor). Cut the parts and screw them together with 2-in. screws. Cover the screw heads with plastic caps (sold near the shelving).
Next, hang a pair of inexpensive 18-in. x 30-in. utility wall cabinets over the countertop to hold detergents and other cleaning supplies. Fasten an adjustable clothing rod between them for clothes hangers.
You’ll want especially bright lighting to help you sort clothing and spot stains and other problems. Fluorescent tubes work well because they cast light evenly with few shadows. We recommend a four-bulb fixture that’s 4 ft. long with a prismatic plastic cover for extra brightness. Make sure to buy fixtures with electronic ballasts to avoid the annoying hum that goes with magnetic ballasts.
TIP: Equip the fixture with 90-plus CRI (color rendering index) bulbs to better see the true colors of your clothing. These fluorescent bulbs are more expensive ($8 to $10 each) and may drive you over budget. Order them online.
Finally, soften and brighten your floor with rubbery plastic floor tile. Used mostly in garages and commercial buildings, this flooring is tough, but easy on your feet. And it may be the world’s easiest to install floor: You simply snap the tiles together; you don’t have to glue it down. The 12 x 12-in. tiles come in several colors and surface patterns. Look for them at home centers or online.
Cost: 6-ft. countertop, $70; 3/4-in. Melamine supports and shelving, $40; two 18-in. wall cabinets, $150; adjustable clothes rod, $10; light fixture, $54, plus $45 for four high-CRI bulbs; flooring, about $3.50 per tile.
Time: One or two days.
Cutting List for Shelving
- Four 3/4′ x 23-1/4′ x 34-1/2′ Melamine supports
- Four 3/4′ x 23′ x 22′ Melamine shelves
- Two 1/4′ x 23-1/4′ x 34′ plywood backs
For more information type “cabinets” and “laundry room” in the search box above.
Laundry Center
Equip your laundry room with a spacious folding table, more storage space, better lighting and a durable floor in one weekend.
Improvement 9: New bath accessories—$470
Pullout mirror, towel warmer, self-closing toilet seat.
A self-closing toilet seat eliminates the irritating seat banging.
Replacing accessories like towel bars, light fixtures and towels, plus applying a fresh coat of paint , is the absolutely easiest way to make your bathroom feel new and clean. You don’t need special skills for success; it’s a screwdriver- and-paintbrush project you can complete in a weekend. But keep in mind that this face-lift will only work if your basic fixtures—the sink and faucet, vanity, toilet, tub and tile—are all still in reasonably good shape.
Also keep in mind that the total cost of this makeover will vary widely depending on your choices. You could spend as little as $200 or much more than $500.
When you shop for accessories, stay with a consistent style and finish. Manufacturers help here by offering matching sets of towel bars, shelves, soap dishes and other accessories.
Simply painting the walls a new color makes a quick, dramatic change. But beware. If you choose the paint color first, you may spend days hunting for matching towels, a rug and shower curtains. To make color coordination easier, shop for accessories first, using paint samples as a guide. Then settle on a paint color.
TIP: Remove the old wall accessories, then repair, clean and repaint the walls before adding the new accessories.
Extra accessories we especially like (and that might blow the $500 budget!): a pullout mirror near the sink; multiple-level towel bars (shown below); a towel warmer ($40 to $200); and a self-closing toilet seat.
Cost: About $340 for the accessories shown above. Add $30 for paint and $100 for a rug, towels and shower curtain.
Time: One weekend.
For more information type “bathroom” in the search box above.
New Bath Accessories
Revive your bathroom in a weekend with fresh paint and updated hardware.
Improvement 10: Add curb appeal—$200 and up
Brick border.
A brick border adds color and charm to a bland concrete sidewalk or driveway.
Photo by Shawn Nielsen and Craig McNitt
Installing a border
To install a brick border, lay bricks on a compacted bed of gravel and sand. Lock them in place with plastic edging.
Tired of a shabby, uninspiring front entry? Take heart. You can totally transform it with a series of small accents and minor changes that will impress your guests, please the neighbors and, perhaps most important, make your house a more pleasant place to come home to. All are easy to do and cost little.
Begin with paint. Renew your trim and siding (if painted) and take a hard look at your front door. If it’s the primary feature, consider painting it a strong color. Color choice can be difficult, so look in magazines and at other doors in your neighborhood for ideas you like.
Then buy new accessories, like the house number, mailbox and light fixture. In most cases a screwdriver is the only tool you’ll need to install them. Also replace the door handles and latch if they’re worn.
Next, spruce up the approach to the front door. If you have a plain concrete walk or driveway, choose one of our favorite upgrades: Add a simple border of bricks, or other pavers, depending on the style of your home. Dry set them (no mortar) on a firmly tamped base. For lasting results, dig a trench about 5 in. deep. Add 2 in. of compacted gravel such as “class V.” Cover the gravel with an inch of sand and set the bricks.
Cost: Paint, numbers, mailbox, etc., less than $100 total; bricks or pavers $3 per sq. ft. and up.
Time: One or two weekends.
For more information type “paint” and “brick” in the search box above.
Simple Front Entry Upgrades
A fresh coat of colorful paint and updated hardware on your front door give your home a quick face-lift.
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Home » DIY Ideas » Gardening » 120 Cheap and Easy DIY Garden Ideas
120 Cheap and Easy DIY Garden Ideas
January 29, 2023 by prudentpennypincher.com 4 Comments
Spruce up your outdoor space on a budget with these cheap and easy DIY garden ideas .
From flower container gardening to fruit and vegetable raised garden beds , there are over a hundred creative ideas to add a personal touch to your gardening space and improve your curb appeal on a budget . There are DIY gardening ideas for small spaces like vertical gardens for front porches and apartment balconies to large space landscaping for the yard, so you are bound to find a DIY garden projects that fits your space, style, and needs. Whether you are looking for front-yard ideas or backyard projects , you will find tons of ideas for inspiration.
With a little creativity and basic do-it-yourself knowledge, you can create a stunning garden without breaking the bank. You will find gardening projects here for everyone, whether you are a beginner or an advanced gardener!
DIY Planters and Container Garden Ideas
Chandelier Planters from DIY Show Off
Container Water Garden from What’s Your Home Story
Hanging Galvanized Tub Filled with Flowers (source unknown)
Overflowing Wine Barrel from Greyt Paper Crafts
Old Tire Planter from Addicted 2 DIY
Recycled Barrel Planter from Goods Home Design
$8 Front Porch Planter from Home Heart and Hands
Wooden Pallet Box from House by Hoff
Window Box from Paradise Perspectives
Strawberry Pallet Planter from Lovely Greens
$15 Modern Cedar Planters from Remington Avenue
Wagon Wheel Succulent Gardens (source unknown)
Wagon Wheel Planter from Urban Gardens NYC
$10 Tiered Planters from Anika’s DIY Life
Cascading Flower Pallet Box from Her Toolbelt
Succulent Planter Using Cinder Blocks from Youtube
Succulent Tree Trunk from My Repurposed Life
55 Gallon Drum Planter from Instructables
Hanging Colander Planter from Sadie Seasongoods
Wood Box from Wife in Progress
Laundry Basket Planter from Elizabeth Joan Designs
Macrame Hanging Potted Plant from Craft and Creativity
Hypertufa Pots from 33 Shades of Green
Spray Paint Makeover Planters from Listotic
Succulent Turtle from Fab Art DIY
One Pot Herb Gardening from Black Eiffel
Herb Tiered Plant Pots (no source found)
Plastic Bottle Herb Gardens from Grillo Designs
Tree Ring Landscaping (source unknown)
$20 Window Box (Video Tutorial) from The Rehab Life
How to Build a Window Box from Remodelaholic
Swinging Tire Planter from DIY Showoff
Potato Box (How to Grow 100 Pounds of Potatoes in 4 Sq Ft) from Life Hacker
Rain Boot Planters from The Chic Site
Upcycled Old Drawers Planters from My Repurposed Life
Front Porch Planter Tutorial from Cherished Bliss
DIY Tree Stump Flower Garden Idea (source unknown)
Vertical Container Gardening
Topsy Turvy Flower Pots from We Heart This
Upcycled Rainbow Pallet Flower Terra Cotta Pots from Hello Creative Family
$20 Cedar Vertical Tiered Ladder Planters from Ana White
$10 Cedar Tiered Flower Planters from Ana White
Clay Pots for Apartment Balcony from The Horticult
Vertical Plant Hanger from I Heart Naptime
Pallet Herb Gardens from Pink When
Pallet Vertical Gardens from 99 Pallets
Ladder Container Gardens (no source found) metal planters with handles + s hooks + ladder
Shower Caddy Wall Planter from Dazzle While Frazzled
See 60 more vertical garden ideas here !
DIY Raised Garden Beds
Pallet Gardens from Bright Nest
$35 Raised Bed from Queen Bee Coupons
Planter Box from One Little Project
Cinderblock Raised Gardens from I Save A to Z
Retaining Wall Block Raised Bed from Pet Scribbles
Simple Raised Bed Boxes from Frugal Family Times
Used Tire Raised Garden Bed from Instructables
Elevated Gardening from Addicted 2 Decorating
Reclaimed Wood Raised Beds from Instructables
Thirty Minute Thirty Dollar Raised Bed from Five Little Homesteaders
$10 Rustic Cedar Raised Beds from Ana White
Raised Bed with Removable Pest Gate from Vegetable Gardener
$30 Raised Planter with Wooden Chicken Wire Fence from Remove and Replace
Kiddie Pool from The Spruce
Terra Cotta Pipes Gardening from Apartment Therapy
Log Raised Garden Bed from Organic Life
Raised Rock Herb Spiral from Family Food Garden
Raised Bed That Will Last Years from Joyfully Growing
View 50 more raised garden beds here
Fairy Garden Ideas
Magical Fairy House Planters from Crafts Unleashed
Affordable Fairy Garden from Mommy Moments
Tiered Terra Cotta Fairy Gardens (source unknown)
Potted Fairy Garden from I Heart Nap Time
Beach Fairy Gardening from Jolene’s Gardening
Beach Fairy Garden (source unknown)
Easy Fairy Gardening from Meatloaf and Melodrama
Barrel Planter from My Frugal Adventures
See over a 100 more fairy gardens here
Gardening Tools Storage Ideas
Easy Pallet Tool Storage from Out Little Acre
Gardening Tool Organization from Fix Lovely
Pallet Gardening Table from Jenna Burger Design
Tool Storage Idea from Newly Woodwards
DIY Garden Markers and More
Wooden Spoon Markers from Playground Park Bench
Painted Rocks from August Wren
Marker Rocks from Adventure in a Box
Wine Cork Markers from Thrifty Mom
Scrabble Tile Markers from 5 Dollar Dinners
Chalkboard Markers from Handmade in the Heartland
Clay Stamped Markers from Wit and Whisle
River Rock Markers from West Valley Moms Blog
Vegetable Stakes from The Wood Grain Cottage
Painted Rock Markers from Crafts by Amanda
Watering Can with Lights from Smart School House
Garden Mushrooms from Birds and Blooms
Lattice Privacy Screen on a Budget from Four Generations One Roof
Rain Barrel from Trash Can from The Thrifty Couple
Hose Holder from Shanty 2 Chic
Chevron Lattice Trellis Tutorial from Remodelaholic
Pallet Wood Deck from Simple Easy Creative
Budget-Friendly Gravel Pathway from Craving Some Creativity
William Sonoma Garden Bench from DIY Candy
Shop for Gardening Supplies on Amazon
More diy gardening projects.
50 Pallet Gardens
Upcycled Gardening Projects
Sofia Anna says
February 10, 2020 at 5:47 pm
We do not have an outdoor garden, we live in a small two bedroom apartment, i believe that chandelier planter would be so great for the outdoor decoration and it is so doable as well. Thank you for sharing these ideas, love your ideas and i am truly inspired by your talent. Love you. xoxo
Maggie says
August 5, 2020 at 6:09 pm
Some wonderful ideas, thank you.
Pauline Hooks says
February 3, 2021 at 7:12 pm
I just loved them all especially the garden markers and the use of the cendar blocks.
Daine Smith says
March 31, 2021 at 10:29 pm
I’ve got some beautiful ideas for my yard thank you so much 💗
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99 Cheap Crafts To Make For Less Than $5
Looking for some fun but inexpensive DIY ideas you can make without spending too much money? Try these 99 awesome teen crafts you can make for less than $5 each. Not only are these do it yourself crafts cheap, though, they are actually all pretty cool. Some DIYs for teens are just not very cool, but I have made more than 10 of these off the list. I am thinking about making some to sell soon. I would love to know your favorites and if you have any more fun teen crafts you want to share with me. Share with a comment below or follow me on Facebook and message me there .
With this list of awesome inexpensive crafts for teenagers, you are sure to find thrifty homemade gifts, crafty DIY projects you can make and sell, room decor you can make on a budget. DIY jewelry, art, do it yourself fashion, wall art and more… Check out this best list of DIY projects for teens, tweens, teenage boys or girls and even adults. You are sure to find at least 10 things you absolutely have to make this weekend! Head to the dollar store for budget-friendly supplies, but many of these cool but cheap DIY ideas can be made with things you already have around the house.
99 Cheap Crafts Ideas for Teens
1. diy zippered pouch iheartnaptime.
This is a fun little sewing project that just about anyone can make for next to nothing. If you need a cool DIY gift idea on a budget, this little pouch is the crafty project for you. Use leftover fabric scraps or repurpose an old clothing item for a fun print. Add a zipper, and voila! Store makeup, school supplies, your phone, loose change and more in this adorable little DIY clutch.
2. Sharpie Tie Dye T-Shirt diyprojectsforteens
One of my favorite projects ever, this cool tie dye T-shirt is made using only Sharpies and rubbing alcohol. Well, you will also need a mason jar, but I am thinking everyone on earth must own at least one of those by now… Get creative with your Sharpie dots and patterns, then add alcohol to make the pattern bloom into a unique artistic creation. The alcohol also helps set the Sharpie in the T-shirt fibers. Super cheap to make, you just need a plain white tee. I had my friends come over and make some and it was super fun! Cute idea for girls slumber parties or birthday party favors.
3. Reversible Coffee Cup Cozy craftystaci
A cute coffee cozy makes an awesome DIY gift idea – after you have made 2 or 3 for yourself, that is! Starbucks is even better with your own homemade coffee cozy. Forego the paper wrap for a hand-sewn craft you will enjoy for many coffees to come.
DIY Phone Case With Nail Polish
Turn a phone case into a work of art instantly with this easy and quick DIY idea. You will be amazed with the way these look when they are finished! No artistic talent required, either.
4. DIY Hair Comb lemonjitters
Pretty! This comb takes on a whole new look when you add the colors of your choice. Much more fashionable and dressed up. I made some of these in neutral colors and then some fun brights to go with my summer stuff. Friends have been asking me to make some for them and I am seriously thinking about starting a business selling these crafts. You can buy cheap hair clips like this at Walmart or a dollar store.
5. DIY Glitter Phone Case
Diy projects for teens.
Some of my favorite inexpensive craft ideas involve dressing an ordinary item up a little bit. Glitter, no surprise, is one of my top go-to crafting supplies. If you are looking for a fun and easy DIY idea and are in need of a different look for your phone, you have to try this cool project.
6. Make a Polka Dot Mirror agirlandagluegun
7. Washi Tape Pallet Coasters
Washi tape crafts.
8. DIY Mini Note Book from Cereal Box cremedelacraft
9. DIY: Paper Heart Wall Art honeybeevintage
10. DIY Dinosaur Serving Dish threelittlemonkeysstudio
10. DIY Galaxy Print T-Shirt byhandlondon
This fun DIY idea can be worn to school to impress. Get creative with your very own galaxy T-shirt. Some galaxy DIY shirts look kind of silly, honestly. This tee does not, and it is cool enough to actually wear in public.
11. Inexpensive Felt Bow Bookmarks cutesycrafts
12. Quick DIY Duct Tape Hair Clips cremedelacraft
13. DIY Photo Frame Banner sugarbeecrafts
14. DIY Boho Bracelet ShineTrimny
15. no-sew mini blue jean purse michlinla.
16. Fluffy Fabric Flower iheartnaptime
17. Cute DIY button bookmarks iheartnaptime
18. 3 D Origami Sculpture
19. DIY Glitter Wearables ilovetocreateblog
20. Decorate Sun Glasses with Washi Tape momsandcrafters
21. DIY Glitter iPhone Charger diyprojectsforteens
22. DIY : Workout T-Shirt asplendidassemblage
23. Boutique Style Hair Bow midwesternmoms
24.DIY Braided Hardware Store Bracelet honestlywtf
25. Letter Bottles With Hot Glue imgfave
26. Wrap a Scarf to Make a DIY Skirt passionsforfashion
27. BFF Heart Matching Phone Cases ilovetocreateblog
28. DIY Instagram Frame u-createcrafts
29. Year Long Gift in a Frame eighteen25
30. Jersey Knit Bracelet vanessachristenson
31. No Sew Denim Mini Bag ilovetocreateblog
32. Money Origami howaboutorange
33. Color-Wrapped Mystery Braid Bracelet iheartnaptime
34. Paper Net Garland ohhappyday
35. DIY Mason Jar Candles somethingturquoise
36. diy headband with t-shirt yarn craftfoxes.
37. Chalk Board Banners theidearoom
38. DIY Fabric Key Chains craftinessisnotoptional
39. DIY Birds Nest Necklace sarahortega
40. DIY Flower Mirror happyhourprojects
41. giant bow necklace lilluna.
42. Leather Necklace & Earrings freetimefrolics
43. Triple Tote thediydreamer
44. Arm Knitting an Infinity Scarf becomingmartha
45. Vintage Freezer Paper T-Shirts livingwellspendingless
46. DIY Leather Bracelet the-red-kitchen
47. Fashion Buttoned Clutch bag allwomenstalk photo via flickr
48. Forest Frolic Yoyo Hair Clip allwomenstalk photo via flickr
49. Leather Bow Ring Tutorial dreamalittlebigger
50. DIY Emoji Stickers dollarstorecrafts
51. Wire Wrapped Bead Bangle happyhourprojects
52. DIY Glitter Rings lafactoriaplastica
53. Painted Camera Strap designlovefest
54. Neon Wood Painted Earring thecraftedsparrow
55. DIY Word Bobbi Pins mintedstrawberry
56. DIY Bracelets the36thavenue
57. Mod Melts Paper Clips 52mantels
58. Custom Luggage Tags sisterssuitcaseblog
59. DIY Vinyl Record Bowls thesurznickcommonroom
60. Chalk Board Calendar lollyjane
62. stamped friendship bracelets iheartnaptime.
63. How to Make Fabric Bags iheartnaptime
64. DIY Button Bowls cheapcrafting
65. Felt Coin Purse Banks dreamalittlebigger
66. Badge or Key Holders the36thavenue
67. Water Balloon Luminaries candletech
68. Botanical Pen Bouquet onceuponherdream
69. Little Zippered Bow Pouch iheartnaptime
70. Oilcloth Coin Purse iheartnaptime
71. Holiday Earrings thirtyhandmadedays
72. diy mine craft shirts lilluna.
73. DIY Zipper Bracelets momsandcrafters
74. Color block earrings momsandcrafters
75. Washi Tape Hair Pins triedandtrueblog
76. Homemade Decorative Straw Frame theclassychapter
77. DIY Mason Jar Fairy Lights diyjoy
78. DIY Recycled Bottle Bowling moonfrye
79. $5 DIY Yard Yahtzee thepinningmama
80. Felt Raccoon Mask craftinomicon
81. DIY Watercolor Mug poppytalk
82. Flourescent Feather Duct Tape Earrings brit
83. Reversible Hat marthastewart image via allwomenstalk
84. butterflies wall decor goodshomedesign.
85. Super Cool 3-D Hand Art diyprojectsforteens
86. Make Mac Lipstick from Crayons diyprojectsforteens
88. DIY Lava Lamp diyprojectsforteens
89. Make A DIY Mini Toy diyprojectsforteens
90. Industrial Decorative Spheres Made from Cereal Boxes designdininganddiapers
91. Heart Bracelet mywhiteideadiy
92. DIY Lunch Box Container cremedelacraft
93. Duct Tape Reading Light dollarstorecrafts
94. Stamped Pineapple Shirt dollarstorecrafts
95. DIY Duct Tape Soda Can Tab Bracelet 101ducttapecrafts
96. Dream Bank acreativeprincess
97. lego desk organizer kidsactivitiesblog.
98. Paracord Bracelets craftwhack
99. Marshmallow Slingers happinessishomemade
100. How to make paper clip earrings sunnyvanilla
These earrings are a fun DIY jewelry project that will not cost much to make!
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50+ Easy & Cheap DIY Home Ideas For A Stylish Home
By: Author Erin
Posted on Published: August 2, 2021 - Last updated: January 5, 2023
From painting projects to simple DIY home decor projects, there are many ways that these home DIY ideas can help you update your home. We love budget-friendly DIY home projects and hope this list will inspire you to dust off those painting supplies or tools.
*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Read our full privacy policy.
Table of Contents
What does DIY stand for?
DIY can mean do-it-yourself and depending on your abilities this could mean a lot of different things for different people. Home DIY projects are the perfect way to help you update your home decor on a budget. Just be careful as there are some DIY projects that are best left to the professionals.
What is the best cheap DIY home improvement project?
Hands down our favorite way to makeover rooms is with paint. Go beyond just painting walls . Look at ceilings , moldings, and cabinets, too.
Learn from our experience that the cheapest paint is not always the best paint. Buying quality paint for your DIY home projects will always save you money in the long run.
What are some good DIY home improvement projects?
- Paint your cabinets (bathroom, kitchen , anywhere)
- Paint your trim and molding
- Redo your fireplace cover
- Whitewash brick
- Paint Your Fireplace
- Add no sew curtains
- Change out blinds
- Paint walls
- Paint flooring (we have seen some cool flooring stencil ideas )
- Add new artwork
- Hang a gallery wall
- Redo your kitchen backsplash or paint it
- Add outdoor seating
- Update old planters
- Create closet shelving
- Paint your oak railing two different colors
- Add shelving to bathrooms
- Paint an accent wall
- Use Ikea spice racks for shelving
- Change light fixtures (our favorite capiz shell light fixture really made our kitchen)
- Use upper stock cabinets to create new storage solutions
- Change lightbulbs to all match and give the same “glow”
- Powerwash the outside of your house or use a DIY cleaner
- Declutter inside, create labels and a new storage container
- Add a new mirror to the bathrooms
- Replace cabinet hardware (or just clean it)
- Turn a closet into a mudroom
- Build coat hooks to create a “drop off-center” near your entryway
- Upcycle a flea market or thrift store find
- Organize your closet by taking everything out and putting back only what you need
- Use contact paper to makeover furniture (see file cabinet below), redo countertops or use on walls as removable wallpaper
- Paint your mailbox
DIY Home Improvement Projects Ideas
They do not have to always be expensive or require a ton of tools. Here is a list of all types of weekend do-it-yourself projects.
Budget-Friendly DIY Home Improvement Projects
Nothing says being a homeowner like spending your weekends doing DIY home improvement projects .
Here are 50+ DIY ideas for the home you will want to consider the next time you feel like picking up a paint brush or a hammer.
DIY Paint Projects
It is no secret that we think paint projects are a great way to whole new look in your space. From painting backsplashes to walls, paint is one of the easiest ways to update your home without spending a lot of money.
Paint A Tile Backsplash In Your Kitchen
Did you know you can paint that old ugly tile backsplash ? Honestly, we are still shocked that this project was completed on a weekend and looks so good.
Not to mention, it is totally holding up and we see no reason to replace it with new backsplash tiles any time soon.
Whitewash A Brick Fireplace
If you love your brick fireplace but not the color, whitewashing may be for you. Learn how to cheaply update your brick with diluted white paint.
Use Spray Paint On Anything
From old hardware to easy DIY home decor items, spray paint can give you the pop of color that you want. Add your personal touch and showcase your personality with a variety of spray paint ideas.
You can see how we gave new life to this old metal tanker desk by using teal spray paint.
Paint White Cabinets
We are huge fans of getting rid of that 90's honey oak color. You can see that at first, we updated with white paint and then decided to add a bold cabinet color as the years went on.
Repaint Painted Cabinets
Are you sick of the same boring kitchen island? Painting it with a fun and bold color can really modernize your kitchen. This island color is so great that it inspired the next DIY house project below.
Paint Lower Kitchen Cabinets
We loved our green kitchen island so much that the next weekend you can guess what happened. The two-toned cabinet painting trend makes this project doable on a weekend (at least the painting part).
We always recommend letting the cabinet doors cure as long as possible before putting it all back together.
Paint Bathroom Vanity Cabinets
Seriously these oak cabinets look amazing now. Due to the size of this bathroom cabinet, this really wasn't that bad of a weekend painting project.
Add new hardware and you will feel like you completely transformed the small bathroom without breaking the bank.
Paint A Light Fixture & Upgrade Bathroom Hardware
There is no need to replace your whole bathroom vanity if your cabinets are in good shape. Use the painting tips listed in the above link and just get a premade counter to truly create a new look. This finished bathroom is one of our favorite home DIY ideas.
Paint An Oak Railing & Banister To Modernize Your Stairway
Update your staircase this weekend by using two different colors or paint. We just love how we were able to update our staircase in this weekend's do-it-yourself project.
Terracotta Flower Pot Makeovers
This is a quick and easy DIY painting project for your outdoor spaces! Get the whole family involved.
No one wants to pay for designer flower pots and planters! These 20+ DIY flower pot painting ideas mainly use acrylic paints to help decorate your outdoor space the way you want.
Paint A Different Neutral Color
Think outside the box when picking a light neutral color to help brighten your home. Livable Green by Sherwin Williams is just that color for us.
Gray Paint Is Always A Great Starting Point
And if you are looking for a gray paint color here is a great post about some of the most popular gray paints from Sherwin Williams (and a few uncommon ones you may want to consider).
Paint A Fun Accent Wall
Do you want to easily add some fun personality to a space? Accent walls ( here are 20 awesome accent wall ideas ) are the perfect ways to add character to a bedroom while being budget-friendly. Even this complex wall was done on a weekend.
Make A DIY Chalkboard Wall
Create a unique wall mural in your home using chalkboard paint. This chalkboard wall idea used a frame design to give each child a place to put their awesome drawings. This weekend DIY project is an easy project to try.
Upcycle Furniture With DIY Chalk Paint
Have an old piece of furniture? Consider making your own DIY chalk paint to help upcycle or repurpose it.
How To Paint A Red Brick Fireplace White
White paint easily can update and transform your old brick fireplace. Create a modern farmhouse look that all your friends will be asking about.
Paint Your Fireplace Mantel
White paint can add a fresh look to any surface and your fireplace mantel or surround is no exception.
Paint A Bold Color In Your Bedroom
Find the best navy blue paint color for your space. A fresh coat of paint in Indigo Batik was exactly what this bedroom needed to feel fresh again.
Spray Paint Marbling Tutorial
Use that leftover spray paint and create unique one of kind home items. This spray paint marbling tutorial will show you all you need to know for this fun process.
Paint Cabinet Hardware For An Updated Look
Have you changed your home decor style? Make your newly painted hardware last with our tips.
How To Paint A Decorative Metal Mailbox
Stand out in your neighborhood with a unique mailbox. Okay, we know that this one might be only for Van Halen fans, but a fresh coat of paint will help improve your curb appeal easily.
DIY Organization, Storage Space and Declutter Ideas
You always feel better after decluttering and organizing. Sometimes it can be as simple as creating a place for things to go. Here are some DIY home organization projects to try.
Add DIY Laundry Room Cabinets & Shelving
Use stock cabinets (painted of course) and farmhouse brackets to give yourself extra storage in your laundry room. The extra height from the cabinets made this worth adding to your DIY to-do list.
Add Cheap Built-in Storage With Stock Cabinets
Create a unique storage solution for your home by using stock upper cabinets to create extra storage for any room in your home.
Build A DIY Pegboard To Easily Get Organized
Build a large pegboard to help keep your garage, craft room or basement organized. Use your own DIY containers or buy cute craft cups to keep your garage or craft supplies organized.
Make A DIY Wooden Shoe Organizer
Are you sick of all the shoes laying around your entryway or garage. This simple wooden shoe rack can help everyone finally have a place for their shoes.
Turn A Closet into a DIY Mudroom
Do you have any entryway closet that never gets used? Here we used one of our favorite medium colors to repaint this DIY mudroom idea.
Build Easy Small Closet Shelves in a Weekend
Add simple wood shelving into that small closet for a custom storage option. These DIY shelves were built to store games and more for our family.
Build A DIY Wood Floating Desk With Simple Brackets
Use your space wisely by building your own DIY desk . Now your children can each have their own workspace without bothering the others.
DIY Basement Waterproofing (before organizing that closet)
This might not be the most glamorous DIY home improvement project. but you will have peace of mind knowing that you are helping keep your basement dry. Please note that if you have severe water problems, it is probably best to call a professional to help you out.
Redo Your Basement Closet
Doesn't everyone have a craft supply closet? If not, this weekend might be the time to make one using wood and farmhouse brackets. Consider taking the doors off the closet to create a more open space.
Make A DIY Storage Crate on Wheels
Turn old pallet wood into an awesome storage crate for your home. Add wheels and customize to make it any size you want.
DIY PVC Shoe Rack Storage Idea
Don't want to build an elaborate wooden shoe organizer? Consider using large PVC pipes to get a custom shoe rack to fit your needs.
Make DIY Storage Boxes
Do you get a lot of brown boxes sent to your house (don't worry we won't tell). Repurpose those boxes by covering them with cloth and add fun rope or other elements. Great for storage and the environment.
Need more repurposing ideas? Check this list of 31+ DIY projects out .
Redo An Old File Cabinet
This cute file cabinet makeover was done using spray paint and contact paper. We just love the fresh and modern-looking file cabinet. This is a true cheap furniture makeover.
Create A DIY Memory Box
Nothing says clutter in your home like papers from school and beyond. Save all those memories and projects in an organized file box for your little ones.
Build A Bathroom Shelf Over Your Toliet
Yes, there is another painted accent wall you could check out. Add bathroom shelves or new DIY artwork over your toilet this weekend.
Build Reclaimed Wood Rustic Bathroom Shelving
Once you build shelves for one room, you may just want to keep going. Here is a way to use that old reclaimed wood to create another pipe bathroom shelf.
Build A DIY Corner Shelf For Under Your Mounted TV
Are you sick of seeing wires around your mounted television. This corner shelf is the perfect DIY solution to help you hide those wires while still having a place for your cable box and DVD player (yes...we said, DVD player).
DIY Art Shadow Box Frame With Storage
These shadow box frames have been a game-changer for us. Not only do they display our children's artworks, but they also easily store artworks. You will be happy once you build these DIY frames.
Create A Kid’s Craft Room
Create a specific place in your home for your child's creativity to run wild. You will be amazed at what they can create when given the freedom to do so.
DIY Cleaning Ideas
After you build shelves and declutter you want to try some these DIY cleaning ideas for your home using items you probably already have.
How To Easily Clean Carpet On Stairs
The next time you notice your stairs looking a little dingy consider a good DIY cleaning. You can use homemade cleaners or a large steamer to get a fresh and clean feel.
Unclog A Drain With Vinegar & Baking Soda
No need to buy harsh chemicals to unclog your drain. Try this DIY method first.
Homemade Composite Deck Cleaner (Eco-Friendly)
We all want a nice clean outdoor space to relax in. Get tips on how to get rid of mold and algae this Spring.
Best Homemade Vinyl Siding Cleaner (Eco-Friendly)
Use a similar method to easily clean your vinyl siding.
Easy Ways To Add DIY Wall Art
Sometimes you feel better just hanging something on the wall in your home. Truly create a space you love and one that showcases those memories.
DIY Easy Kid Art Displays
This art display idea is way simpler. By reusing pallet wood you can easily make an art display to show off your child's creativity.
Here are 18+ DIY art display ideas you may want to try soon!
Add Fun Shelves To A Baby Nursery
Use Ikea spice racks to add fun and cheap DIY shelving to a child's room. Not only will these shelves help you stay organized but they can act as easy wall decor. Get other DIY baby nursery shelf ideas here .
Create A DIY Picture Wall
Use a mixture of kid artworks and adults to create a fun picture wall in your home. You can mix and match frames or keep to one style. The choice is yours. Here are 12+ other picture wall ideas you want to check out.
Large DIY Word String Art Idea
Are you in need of large artwork for a playroom or child's bedroom and you don't want to pay the expensive prices for large artworks? Why not create your own string art with an inspiring or personalized message to hang on the walls.
Hang A Grid Gallery Wall
Showcase your family in matching frames. We love how this 9 grid square picture wall turned out. We will always cherish the memories in this black and white photo wall.
Create A DIY Word Canvas Art
Short on time but want a simple artwork idea. This word canvas idea is the perfect way to create a personalized artwork easily.
Other DIY Home Ideas
Sometimes a certain product or home idea can make a huge impact on your home.
Update Your Drop Ceiling
Get rid of those dated drop ceiling tiles and replace them with new vinyl covers. We could not believe how much brighter our basement become with this simple home improvement project.
Install A Modern Backsplash
We are fans of painting things, but sometimes you can upgrade a space by not painting. This kitchen is a great example of DIY kitchen ideas you can do to update oak kitchen cabinets without painting.
Home DIY (do-it-yourself) refers to home improvement projects that you tackle yourself. There are many advantages to learning how to improve your home on your own.
If you are lacking the skills, tools or patience for a DIY project then it is best to leave it up to the professionals. We like to leave plumbing, electrical and structural changes to professionals with proper insurance and guarantees.
Youtube, blogs and DIY sites are helping people feel confident to tackle home DIY projects on their own. According to Yahoo , there is an expected “growth of USD 121.47 billion between 2021 and 2026.” A combination of access to knowledge, some people staying home more, more DIY home decor items such as ready-to-assemble furniture, and new DIY products (such as specialty paint kits) all have contributed to this expected growth.
Most of the time, DIY projects will save you money. However, there are times when it may end up costing you more due to a lack of knowledge or buying power of materials. The biggest advantage to do-it-yourself home improvement projects is that you are able to customize your project for your home while using better materials.
More DIY Inspiration
- 14 Painted Bathroom Vanity Ideas : there is a color for your next bathroom cabinet makeover.
- 9 Fun Marbling Craft Ideas : learn all the different ways to create a faux marble effect for budget-friendly home decor items.
- 14 DIY Fireplace Remodel Ideas : #6 is our favorite
- 40+ Homemade Shelves
Follow us on Pinterest , Youtube or Facebook for more DIY inspiration!
DIY home ideas can add value to your home while not breaking your budget. What is your favorite DIY home improvement project?
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32 Homeowners Are Sharing The Ridiculously Cheap Home Improvements That "Ended Up Making A Huge Difference" (And Many Just So Happen To Be Renter-Friendly)
"They look incredible for the small amount of money we spent on them, and they change the feel of the room entirely.”
BuzzFeed Staff
Many home improvement or DIY projects aren't for the faint of heart. Just because a project might cost less when you do it on your own doesn't mean that you should tackle it solo — but luckily, there are ~tons~ of cheap home improvements to be made out there. Even better: Most of them are as straightforward as they are budget-friendly.
Recently, redditors were asked to share their "favorite $100 or less upgrade they've made to their homes," and as someone who loves a good (and inexpensive) diy project, i found myself absorbing every single word of them..
If you're a renter, many of these tips will work for you too. Several of the projects and products featured below can easily be packed up and taken with you to a future home, so being a homeowner isn't necessary. These are some of the smartest ideas.
1. "Replace your regular lightbulbs with warm LEDs. I've had a lot of luck with both IKEA and Amazon Basic brand LEDs — just make sure you're checking their Kelvin value (which indicates color temperature). 2700K is generally considered a 'warm white,' and anything higher than that will make the room feel cold and unpleasant."
— u/Audaxls
2. "I paid $100 to repaint my kitchen cabinets, and it was the best decision ever. It's simple, too — all you have to do is clean them, scuff them up with sandpaper, prime them, and paint with two coats."
— u/VORT3XXX
3. "Installing dimmer switches in the bathroom was life-changing. No more being blinded by harsh overhead lights in the middle of the night!"
— u/peckrob
4. "We refinished our ugly brass ceiling fans for under $20. We took them apart, painted the metal with oil-rubbed bronze spray paint, and finished the blades with a gel stain. They look incredible for the small amount of money we spent on them, and they change the feel of the room entirely."
— u/CountingSatellites
5. "Weather stripping around poorly-insulated doors. It's definitely saved us money in utilities, and it made our drafty house a lot more comfortable (for very cheap)."
— u/Echochrome3
6. "I finally bought a bidet, and I feel like I'm in the stone ages when I use the bathroom anywhere else."
— u/alanbdee
7. "If you're dealing with a bathroom that feels humid all the time, upgrade your existing bathroom fan with a $25 humidity sensor switch . It goes where the old wall switch would've, and it automatically tells the fan to turn on when the room reaches a certain humidity level."
— u/Chrthiel
8. "I've done so many little upgrades, but the ones that bring me joy are the trivial ones that I notice every day. I replaced the super cheap beige outlet and light switch covers in our kitchen with ceramic and stone ones (that almost perfectly match the backsplash). It made such a huge difference. Still blows my mind that the people who built our house used so many builder grade products in the first place."
9. "We had these dingy old light switches and covers from the '50s all over our house. New materials would've cost a total of $600 — and I was not about to spend $600 on light switches. So, I opted to paint them all. I ended up spending one day and $30 on the materials, and they look so much better now!"
— u/chula198705
10. "Replace your 'boob lights' with something better. I just replaced our ninth boob light to complete our whole downstairs! Man, did it make my '90s house feel so much more updated — it's ridiculous how transformative it can be."
— u/turnip_for_what_
11. "Buying even a cheap $20 shower head to replace the one that came with my home was the best $20 I've spent this decade, and they're so unbelievably easy to install on your own."
— u/Turd_of_Paradise
12. "When we moved in, we replaced all the 1980s gold door handles, and for something that inexpensive, it upgraded every room of the house dramatically."
— u/sydneyface
13. "I just installed a slide-out trash can and recycling bin. My wife and I were debating it for a year and we finally got one. It's so nice to have the garbage and recycling hidden away, and as a bonus, now we can just pull out the bin and sweep crumbs directly into it from the counter!"
14. "I LOVE my soft-close toilet seats . The only problem is that now when I visit people who don't have them, I end up slamming a lot of toilet seats...but I wouldn't trade it for the world!"
— u/parasolfinish
15. "I upgraded to a smart thermostat about a year ago. I got the Nest one, but with rebates from my utility it was well under $100. I thought saving energy and being able to adjust the temperature when away from home would be best feature...but far and above that, I love not having to get off the couch to make an adjustment. So worth it!"
— u/panda527
16. "I spent just about $100 to get a keyless lock that works with my home automation, and it's amazing. I pull into the parking spot in my condo, and bam , the doors unlock before I even get upstairs! Even when I end up using the keypad, it's easy to use and so worth never having to fumble with keys. It gives me so much peace of mind to know I can just lock it when I'm not home, too."
— u/UndeadArmy314
17. "I bought a simple wooden threshold for all of $7 for a spot where my living room hardwood floor meets the sunroom parquet floor. Previously, there was a massive gap there, and I can't believe how much of a difference that little strip of wood made!"
— u/OrangeCosmos
18. "We refinished the entire area around our wood-burning stove which was beginning to look very dated. The whole project cost us $80 — we used sanded and stained 2x10 boards for the shelves, standard brackets to hang them, and did a light wash on the bricks to make them a little more neutral."
— u/mrspetie
19. "Invest in a curved shower rod , especially if your shower is narrow. It's so nice not to have the shower curtain sticking to you when you're showering, and it really makes a difference in the overall amount of space you have to move around!"
— u/thereverend666
20. "We put our dog's bed under the stairs. When we moved into a new home we didn't have as much room, so we decided to put a false wall underneath the stairs, cut a square hole, and use a gate as a door. The costs were only for a bit of trim and some wood — probably $80 — yet it saves me the MASSIVE space that the dog crate used to take up!"
— u/B23vital
21. "Investing in a budget-friendly power washer made such a difference when it came to our exteriors. Cleaning up stones, walls, and siding became so much easier, and it made a huge impact on curb appeal."
— u/bonesonstones
22. "Adding motion-sensing light switches for our closets and garage was such a great decision. No more fumbling around for lights in the dark!"
— u/ssryan9
23. "Install smart plugs that work with Alexa, Siri, or Google (depending on the phones and devices you have). Being able to turn lights on with a timer by using my voice is amazing, and the smart plugs cost a whole lot less than smart lightbulbs do. They're less glitchy, too."
— u/Cleodora
24. "This is so tiny, but using amber glass bottles with pumps instead of the disposable plastic bottles that soap and shampoo come in makes our bathroom (and kitchen) instantly look fancier."
25. "Buy a stationary vacuum! I got one as a Christmas gift, and it's stupid how much I love it. We have hard flooring throughout the house with two dogs, two cats, and a toddler. Whenever we notice dust or dirt we sweep it into the stationary vacuum, and then it's gone until I empty it out once a month. No more dustpans! It's truly silly what a big difference it makes."
— u/klodklodklod
26. "I installed LED shop lights in my garage. It was around $20 per light to replace our failing fluorescent fixtures, and they were so easy to install. I ended up doubling up on the overall number of light fixtures, and now I swear you can see my garage from space."
— u/flying_trashcan
27. "Putting up blinds — even cheap ones that aren't custom-made. We held off for way too long when it came to putting blinds in the stairwell of our house. We finally pulled the trigger (thinking it would be more expensive than it actually was), and it ended up making a huge difference considering how downright cheap it was."
— u/DanielTrebuchet
28. "I installed under-cabinet LED light strips with a motion sensor. They're really nothing fancy and they plug into an outlet, so there's no need to hardwire anything. Other than that, they're completely hidden. It really makes the kitchen a lot more pleasant to work in."
29. "We installed a cat door to our basement — specifically so we could move the litter box down there. Game-changer!"
— u/jvhatch
30. "Doing a simple hardware upgrade on our older cabinets was so worth it. I didn't know how much I cared about those drawer pulls until I installed some that I really loved. It's been two years since we put them in, and I still feel happy every time I see them. The total investment for new pulls and handles for every cabinet in our kitchen came out to just under $100!"
— u/ShieraBlackwood
31. "Lots of people are obsessed with soft-close drawers, but many don't realize you can retrofit your existing cabinets and drawers with soft-close hinges. When you buy the hardware online, it's really cheap, too."
— u/NotSure2505
32. "I repainted my front door. It only took a small can of paint and a few hours, and it gave the entire front of our house an instant facelift."
— u/ohforfoxsakee
If you've ever done a cheap home project that made a world of difference, tell us about it in the comments! 👇
Note: Comments have been edited for length and/or clarity.
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18 Home Improvement Ideas You Can Do Yourself
Simple interior updates, 6. reveal and restore hardwood floors, basic bathroom upgrades, quick fixes in the kitchen, save when you refresh the exterior, the bottom line.
Home Renovations
Do-It-Yourself Projects to Boost Home Value
A little sweat equity can go a long way
Amy Fontinelle has more than 15 years of experience covering personal finance, corporate finance and investing.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/fontinelle-5bfc262a46e0fb0083bf8446.jpg "cheap diy projects for home")
Marguerita is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC®), Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP®), and a Chartered Socially Responsible Investing Counselor (CSRIC). She has been working in the financial planning industry for over 20 years and spends her days helping her clients gain clarity, confidence, and control over their financial lives.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/20171011-Rita-Cheng-01-low-RitaCheng-75f7b7411e684a0baf12bc7ff1763b54.JPG "cheap diy projects for home")
Whole house renovations can add value to your home , but there are ways to upgrade your home without going into debt or ransacking your savings. Painting, re-grouting tile, and power washing the outside of your home won’t cost a lot of money, but these do-it-yourself home improvement ideas can add real value to your home.
With some sweat equity , a DIY attitude, and a few dollars, you can list your home for more money if you’re ready to sell. And if you’re not quite ready to put your home on the market, you can enjoy having a more beautiful place to live. Here are some low cost, high value home improvement projects to consider.
Key Takeaways
- Typically, kitchens are the most expensive room in a house to renovate, according to the Houzz & Home renovation trends study for 2021 and 2022.
- The study found that primary bathrooms are the second most expensive room in a house to renovate.
- Experts recommend limiting do-it-yourself home renovations to cosmetic improvements, such as painting, landscaping, and changing out fixtures.
From interiors to exteriors, bathrooms to kitchens, there are small upgrades that you can do yourself to improve your home and increase its value. The most popular home improvement ideas include:
- Paint the walls
- Install crown molding
- Update simple fixtures
- Install ceiling fans
- Install new window treatments
- Uncover and refinish hardwood floors
- Clean the fireplace
- Install new bathroom tile
- Update bathroom fixtures
- Paint the kitchen cabinets
- Update knobs and pulls
- Install a new front door
- Replace your doormat
- Clean the gutters
- Power wash walls and decks
- Repaint the exterior
- Clean the driveway and walkways
- Tidy up the landscaping
1. Freshen up the walls
If your walls have scratches and dirty paint, an outdated color, or fading wallpaper, a little elbow grease and a few cans of paint can make a dramatic difference. To maximize the value of your home for a sale, choose a neutral color scheme that unifies the entire house, makes space look more prominent, and appeals to a wide variety of potential buyers.
2. Install crown molding
Putting in crown molding is a surprisingly easy task that can add character to your rooms. Buy the molding from a home improvement store, cut it to the size that fits your room (or have the store cut it for you), and attach it to the top of the wall with a nail gun. These decorative strips may even come already painted. Installing crown molding does involve a bit of woodworking skill as well as the right tools, but it is very inexpensive to do yourself.
3. Update fixtures
Switch plates, outlet covers, curtain rods, light fixtures, and doorknobs are often boring or overlooked, but you can add significant pizzazz for just a few dollars. Attractive metal switch plates and outlet covers can cost as little as $5 apiece but look much more expensive. Light fixtures and decorative curtain rods can be a little pricier, but sometimes you can make an inexpensive one look elegant with a can of spray paint. Again, if you plan to sell, be sure to choose items in colors and finishes that will appeal to a broad audience.
4. Install ceiling fans
Everyone likes to save money on electricity bills, which makes ceiling fans an appealing addition to any home. Ceiling fans cut down on air conditioning costs, and they can also reduce heating costs by circulating warm air away from the ceiling. A primary fan costs about $50, and you can get a nice one for no more than a couple of hundred dollars. If you don’t already have wiring from overhead lighting, you may need to hire a professional, which can significantly escalate the cost of this project.
5. Improve window treatments
The cheap vertical plastic blinds, paper shades, or horizontal aluminum blinds that may have come with your house don’t add value to your home. Consider replacing them with plantation shutters, wooden blinds, or drapes. Again, if you are selling, choose neutral options that can help you get a better price for your home.
Older homes, in particular, are likely to have hardwood floors lurking beneath carpet. Squeaky floors are a sign that you may have wood floors. If you’re not sure, pull up your carpet in an unnoticeable corner and check. If you do have wood floors, there’s a good chance you’ll have to refinish them to restore them to their original splendor, but it will be much less expensive than installing new flooring from scratch.
7. Clean fireplace brick
If you have a brick fireplace and burn wood in it, chances are some of the brick is stained with soot and creosote. Because a beautiful fireplace can be a significant selling point in a home, make yours look as attractive as possible. Use a damp rag to wipe away some of the soot, then follow with a fireplace cleaner designed to remove creosote. It will take some scrubbing with a stiff brush and possibly several applications, but you’ll have that brick looking spiffy when you’re finished.
Some homeowners take out a home equity line of credit (HELOC) to pay for renovations, but it's possible to spruce up a home without taking on debt.
1. Redo the bathroom floor
DIY installation can save you a lot of cash. If you don’t know how to install flooring, look for a class at your local home improvement store. Saving money on labor will allow you to choose more beautiful flooring than you could otherwise afford. Opt for a neutral-colored tile to add the most value.
2. Update fixtures
If you have generic, cheap, or outdated fixtures, replacing them with newer, more customized versions can make your bathroom sparkle and look more high-end. For about $40 to $100, you can substitute a shabby bathroom vanity or ceiling light fixture with something elegant.
A similar cash outlay will get you a new sink faucet. A spa-style chrome shower head adds a touch of luxury for about $80. Towel bars are a cheap and easy fix at about $20 to $30. Sometimes an upgrade can be more energy efficient , increasing not only the aesthetics of your home but “greening” it up as well.
1. Paint or stain kitchen cabinets
You could buy all new cabinets and save money by purchasing prefabricated (rather than custom) cabinets and installing them yourself, but that’s more work and money than painting or staining your existing cabinets. White cabinets will brighten a kitchen, don’t usually go out of style, and are easy for a future owner to repaint if they want something different. You’ll need to remove all the hardware from your cabinets, including the doors. You’ll also need to clean the cabinets first, so dirt and greasy residues won’t ruin your work. Consider sprucing up your bathroom cabinets as well.
2. Upgrade cabinet knobs and drawer handles
It’s surprising how a seemingly innocuous element such as a cabinet doorknob can make your kitchen look cheap or dated. Updating this hardware can give your kitchen a facelift, whether you redo your cabinets or not.
It may be easy for you to ignore your home’s exterior when you spend most of your time inside, but it’s the first and sometimes only impression that others get of your house. Here are a few simple ways to make it look its best.
1. Install a new front door
A fundamental steel front door costs about $100, but for another $100 to $200 you can get a door with a lot more character and improve your home’s curb appeal. If you can’t afford a new door, a fresh coat of paint in an attractive color may be all you need.
2. Replace the front doormat
When you’ve had the same doormat for years, it can be easy to overlook how worn out or dirty it’s become. As it’s one of the first impressions people get of your home, this is one place where $20 can make a big difference.
3. Clean the gutters
This task relates more to maintaining your home’s value than increasing it, but it’s essential. Without properly functioning gutters, which are designed to carry water away from your home, rain may seep inside or pool around the foundation, causing problems such as mold and mildew. Eventually, water damage can compromise the house’s structural integrity, leading to costly repair bills.
4. Power wash the exterior of your home
For less time and money, a good pressure washing can make your home’s exterior look almost as good as a fresh coat of paint.
5. Repaint the exterior
If washing the exterior of your home didn’t brighten it up as much as you’d hoped, consider a new paint job. With the ladders and heights involved, this may not be a DIY task for everyone, but even if you have to hire others to do this job, it’s still pretty inexpensive as far as home improvements go and can make your house look almost new from the outside.
6. Power wash the driveway, walkways, and patio
As long as you’re renting the power washer, you might as well clean your driveway, patio, and any walkways. You may be surprised by how new they’ll look afterward.
7. Upgrade landscaping or clean up existing landscaping
Flowers and other plants are a great way to brighten your home’s exterior. Use greenery in front of your house and/or along walkways to draw attention to your home. To get the most for your dollars, choose perennial plants, which come back year after year, rather than annuals, which, as their name suggests, last a year or less. Patch any bald spots in the yard with fresh sod (or plant grass seed if you have time) and trim existing trees and bushes to complete the yard’s new look.
Upgrading your home doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated, and it doesn’t have to involve contractors. A variety of projects for all price ranges and levels of skill and enthusiasm can improve your home’s value , whether for future buyers or, perhaps more important, for you.
Putting a few of these home improvement ideas into action will help you get the most value out of one of your most significant assets, whether you’re planning to stay or selling . And before a DIY project can even be considered, you need to make sure that any new additions or changes will still fit the house's overall aesthetic, which the best home design software can help you with.
Houzz & Home. " Overview of U.S. Renovation in 2021 & 2022 ," Page 17.
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- Should I Sell My Home When I Retire? 6 of 47
- Avoid These Mistakes When Selling Your Home 7 of 47
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- 5 Negotiating Strategies When Selling Your Home 9 of 47
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- 6 Tips to Sell Your Home Fast 12 of 47
- Real Estate Open Houses Might Not Be an Effective Sales Tool 13 of 47
- Why the Holidays Are a Good Time to Sell a House 14 of 47
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- How To's & Quick Tips
30 DIY Home Projects Absolutely Anyone Can Do
Don’t be intimidated by the idea of making practical and stylish changes to your home these diy home projects are simple enough for anyone to accomplish..
By Lori Lovely | Updated Jul 13, 2022 3:01 PM
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Photo: istockphoto.com
Every home can use a little sprucing up. If you’ve been overwhelmed by a list of needed house projects in the past, this is your chance to tackle a few easy DIY home projects like a pro. Even if you think you’re the least handy person around, these home projects are doable.
Not only can you save money by tackling DIY projects for home, but you can learn useful skills along the way. Building these skills may boost your mental capacity, and in the process, you may discover new passions and greater confidence. DIY at home can also provide creative ways to express yourself.
1. Wallpaper a Wall
Wallpaper can add color and pattern in an elegant or invigorating way that paint can’t always match. Available in a variety of materials, it can also add texture to your room. Today’s prepasted papers make your DIY décor easier to apply. Just be sure to measure the height and width of each wall and multiply those numbers to calculate the square footage of the wall.
You can subtract 10 square feet for every door or large window. If your chosen wallpaper has a pattern, professionals recommend buying an extra roll or two in the same dye lot, depending on the size of the pattern.
2. Make Compost
Composting diverts materials from the waste stream, decreasing trash at landfills while also improving soil: a win-win. It’s a simple habit to pick up. Just be sure to learn what can be composted—such as fruits, vegetables, coffee grounds , dryer lint, shredded newspaper, grass clippings , and small leaves and twigs—and what can’t. For example, don’t add meat or dairy products to your compost.
Ideally, you’ll want three parts brown material (leaves, twigs, and the like) to one part green material (kitchen scraps and grass clippings). Place your compost in a warm sunny spot, keep it moist, and turn it frequently to aid the breakdown process.
3. Tile a Backsplash
Backsplashes have a practical side—they protect your walls from food stains, after all—but they also have a decorative purpose. There’s a wealth of colors, sizes, and shapes of tiles from which to choose for a backsplash. Once you’ve selected your tiles, measure the space and mark your starting point. Apply tile mastic to adhere the bottom row to the wall. Insert spacers and keep going. You may need to score and cut tile around electrical outlets.
The next day, grout the tile using a rubber float. After the grout has set for an hour, wipe away any excess.
4. Install Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring comes in many iterations: by the roll, in “tiles,” and in plank form. Any version makes a great surface, particularly in rooms where high moisture levels occur, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Vinyl plank flooring is easy to cut, doesn’t require bonding to the subfloor, and snaps together simply for a tight fit. Gather the proper tools, remove baseboards and molding, measure accurately, make sure the floor is level, and begin laying out your floor. For floor ducts and door frames, use a utility knife to cut to fit. Tiles are laid in similar fashion. Rolls of flooring have to be carefully unrolled a few feet at a time, removing the backing as you go in order for it to adhere to the floor.
RELATED: Buyer’s Guide: The Best Vinyl Plank Flooring
5. Build a Raised Garden Bed
If you’re looking for things to build with the kids, a raised garden bed may interest you. They make growing vegetables and flowers easier on your back and knees because you don’t have to bend all the way down to the ground. Choose a spot and plot out the size and footprint of your raised bed; 3 feet wide typically enables gardeners to easily reach across. Most are between 12 and 20 inches tall.
You can buy a raised bed kit or use water-resistant material, such as concrete blocks, landscape timber, or rot-resistant exterior wood like cedar to build one yourself. You may need screws to attach the corners. Add good soil for raised beds : a combination of two parts topsoil to one part compost or a commercial mix designed for raised beds work best. After planting, you may want to mulch the beds to retain moisture; beds that are above ground lose moisture faster than in-ground gardens.
6. Paint the Front Door
Add a cheerful welcome to your “projects house” with a painted front door . Ideally, you should remove the door from its hinges before painting. Sand, wash, and dry the surface as part of the prep. Remove hardware— doorknob and hinges—and cover any glass panes.
Apply primer or a paint-and-primer-in-one. It will probably take two coats, so let it dry between applications. Once the final coat is dry, replace the hardware and rehang the door.
7. Hang Plants From the Ceiling
A fun décor DIY project that can improve your health by adding oxygen to a room involves hanging plants from the ceiling . Choose a location that gets the required amount of light for your plant. Locate a stud or beam to attach a swag bolt to, or use a toggle bolt to secure to drywall.
Be sure the bolt capacity is rated for the hanging wet weight of your plant plus its container. Be aware that plastic anchors support less weight from the ceiling than the wall; they are not a good choice for a hanging plant. Once the swag bolt is secure, hang your plant.
8. Reupholster Secondhand Furniture
Old furniture often has great “bones” or nice detail, but the upholstery might be worn or simply dated. Reupholstering furniture can give it a second life.
It’s pretty easy to recover a basic chair seat . Measure the cushion to determine the amount of fabric needed; be sure to allow a few inches all around to fold over the bottom of the seat. Remove the seat from the chair. If you need to make any repairs or want to add new padding or refinish the chair, now’s the time to do it.
Cut the fabric to fit. Fold it over the seat and use a staple gun to attach it to the seat’s underside. Stretch it taut and do all sides. Angle the fabric around the corners before stapling. Then reattach to the chair and you have a fresh look.
9. Replace a Faucet
Whether your current faucet has sprung a leak or you’d simply like to update the look to match your décor, you may be able to replace it yourself. If your new faucet has the same hole configuration, this will be a snap. However, even if you want to switch from a three-hole faucet to a one-hole faucet, you can do it by adding an escutcheon plate that covers two of the holes.
Begin by shutting off the water, usually done by turning a knob under the sink. Loosen the nuts on the faucet and lift it out. Then place the new faucet and escutcheon plate if necessary, attach the nuts, and connect the appropriate water lines. If you’re using an escutcheon plate, you may need to caulk it.
RELATED: Buyer’s Guide: The Best Kitchen Faucets
10. Build a Shelf
Adding a shelf is a quick and easy project that adds function and form in the way of decorative storage. Determine where you want to hang a shelf and what size the shelf should be.
It’s best if you can attach the supports to a wall stud , but drywall anchors may work if there’s not too much weight placed on the shelf. For longer shelves or heavier loads, you may want to consider adding brackets for extra support.
Measure the height you want and the distance you need between brackets. Drill pilot holes for the screws before screwing the brackets into place. Some shelves simply rest on the brackets; others are attached by screws. Test the strength before placing any breakables on the shelf.
11. Grow Your Own Food
Growing fruits and vegetables provides fresh food at your fingertips. It’s a great learning experience for children and almost always results in tastier produce than you can buy at the store.
Decide how big you want your garden to be, based on what you intend to plant. Choose a spot that gets at least 8 hours of sunlight a day, and remove any sod or other plant material. Prepare the soil by tilling or digging. You may want to add compost or other soil amendments to improve the growing medium.
Plant seeds , seedlings, or a combination thereof, following the planting instructions on the package. Add fertilizer or compost. Water. You may need to provide protection from wildlife or harmful insects, or structure for climbing plants and tomatoes. Periodically, you will probably have to pull weeds and irrigate.
12. Frame a Mirror
Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who’s the most creative one of all? You can have a luxe mirror for less by making your own frame . Measure the piece of unframed mirror, and purchase an appropriate amount of framing material in a width and style of your choosing. Remember to factor in the mitered corners when determining the lengths you’ll need for each side of the mirror. You’ll need to cut a dado in each piece—a slot for the mirror to slide into. This is most easily done using a table saw, but a router will suffice.
Next, you’ll need to use a miter box to make 45-degree cuts for the corners of the frame. After sanding the wood, insert the mirror and use silicone glue to set the joints. Apply compression with a band clamp while the glue dries. Using a nail gun to insert a nail into each corner is optional. Apply caulk to conceal the joints and wood putty to hide the nails. Affix hanging hardware. Paint or stain the mirror, and hang.
RELATED: How to Hang a Heavy Mirror
13. Seal Drafty Windows and Doors
Reduce your heating and air conditioning bills by sealing drafty windows and doors. Latex caulk is often used for this application because it expands more than silicone caulk. Load the tube into a ratchet rod caulk gun .
After you have removed the old caulk and cleaned the area with vinegar, bleach, or liquid caulk remover, let it dry. You may want to tape off the area to avoid getting unwanted caulk on the walls. Once you’re ready, use scissors or a utility knife to cut the tip of the caulk tube at a 45-degree angle. Use the trigger on the caulk gun to apply a thin line of caulk . Run your gloved finger over the line to smooth it. Let dry for 24 hours.
14. Paint Kitchen Cabinets
Add some color to your kitchen by painting the cabinets , or lighten up the room by painting them white. Whatever color you choose , select a semi-gloss or gloss paint because it is easier to clean and stands up to wear and tear better than a matte-finish paint.
Remove the doors, drawers, and hardware . Apply two coats of primer. Sand the surface lightly. Apply the paint, going with the grain. Don’t forget to paint the backs of the cabinet doors too. When they’re dry, reinstall and enjoy your new kitchen look.
15. Conceal Cords
Technology has provided a lot of convenience, but it comes with many cords. If you’d rather look at anything but a messy tangle of cords, this DIY for the home project will straighten things out in no time.
There are many options. You can adhere clear Command cord clips , a favorite in our roundup of the best ways to hide every wire in your home , to the back of your electronics or furniture to corral your cords. Some furniture comes with cord-hiding compartments, or you could build your own secret storage into a TV stand. For wall-mounted TVs, you can run the cords through a cord cover like this SimpleCord Cable Concealer Kit . For ultra-invisibility, paint the cord covers the same color as your walls.
Paintable baseboard cord channels, which are covered vinyl tunnels that hardly anyone notices, offer an alternative way to route cords around a room. The D-Line Cord Cover , for example, was a top performer in our researched guide to the best cable management solutions for the home.
16. Illuminate Your Exterior With Solar Lights
Photo: Homedepot.com
One of the easiest DIY home projects for beginners is adding solar lights to your yard or along a sidewalk or driveway. Available in a wide range of sizes, styles, brightness, and even color of light, solar lights require no wiring and don’t add to your electric bill. What they do add is ambiance and an element of safety.
Stand-alone solar path lights are mounted on a spike that easily slides into the ground. Simply place one every 6 to 8 feet, although you can put them closer for a brighter walkway.
RELATED: Buyer’s Guide: The Best Solar Deck Lights
17. Carve Out a Home Office
Living through a global pandemic has changed employment status for many of us who now telecommute from home. Whether you’re working full-time from a home office or just need somewhere to pay the bills, you may want to carve out some space where you can take care of business.
Use a nook or a closet if you have to, but if you can commandeer an entire room, consider swapping a hollow core door for a solid door to reduce sound intrusion from the family room. Upholstered furniture, rugs, and quilt wall hangings will also muffle sound from the rest of the house.
You can use a table as a workspace instead of a desk, but be sure to add an ergonomic chair , sufficient lighting, some shelving, and storage. Be mindful of traffic flow so the family doesn’t trip over you.
18. Declutter and Donate
Gain usable space by decluttering your home. Get the whole family involved. First, sort through your stuff to determine what you really use and what you wouldn’t miss. Donate items you no longer need to a school, a homeless center, an animal shelter, your church, or your favorite charity.
Next, store things used infrequently in cabinets and drawers, leaving countertop space free and clear. Use a closet organizer to get shoes, linens, or other closet items in line. For the things you feel must be left within easy reach, try some simple DIY projects to organize your must-haves like shoes, mail, cords, keys, and more.
19. Line Drawers
A generation or two ago, housewives lined all their shelves and drawers with adhesive shelf paper. The idea was sound; they protect surfaces from stains and spills, and make clean-up a breeze. But today’s shelf and drawer liners offer choices.
Fabric liners are washable and can be used long-term. Plastic liners work best on open wire shelves, where they prevent items from becoming unevenly balanced or falling through the shelving. Foam liners provide extra cushion for delicate, breakable items. Vinyl liners are the least expensive and are available in the widest array of colors and patterns, but adhesive-backed liners leave a sticky residue when removed.
20. Create a Container Garden
Another great DIY home project for the entire family is creating a container garden . Pretty up your patio with a bouquet of flowering plants in a decorative container . Create bright color combinations that will attract pollinators for an added bonus.
Select an appropriate outdoor container with a drain hole in the bottom and fill it with potting soil. Let the kids choose a selection of plants. The rule of thumb is to combine a thriller, filler, and spiller—a tall, showy plant, smaller plants to fill in the space, and a trailing plant to spill over the side. Take care that all plants have similar sunlight and water requirements and are suitable for your climate.
One kind of container you might want to add to your home are window boxes filled with beautiful flowers.
RELATED: 20 Plants That Are Perfect for Window Boxes
21. Landscape the Mailbox
Why not make the mundane tasks a little more fun? Let your personality shine by landscaping the mailbox, which might take some of the pain out of finding bills inside it. For starters, you can repurpose items around your home that are meaningful to you, adding humor, architecture, or historical significance to your daily routine of mail collection. Many of these are easy DIY projects you can do with a few tools.
Other mailbox ideas can involve plantings, mulch, stone, and other more traditional landscape materials that not only make your mailbox more cheerful, but also make it easier to mow around. When planting vines or busy plants , it’s important not to obstruct the mailbox door or flag, which could inhibit you or your postman from accessing the box.
22. Repot Indoor Plants
If you’re lucky enough to have a green thumb, your indoor plants will reward you by growing. To keep them happy, you’ll occasionally need to repot them. Let your kids help on this family-friendly project ; they probably like getting their hands dirty already.
Signs that your plant is ready for a new home include: roots growing through the drain hole, pot-bound roots, soil that dries out faster than it used to, stunted growth, wilting between waterings, and plant size overpowering pot size.
Simply select another pot—ideally, only one size larger than the current one—and the correct type of potting soil. Carefully remove the plant from its current pot. If it’s rootbound, you may have to tease the roots apart to help it grow. Place in the new pot. Backfill with potting soil as necessary. Water thoroughly. Withhold fertilizer for at least 6 weeks to allow the plant to adjust to its new home.
23. Refinish Old Wood Furniture
Maybe millennials don’t value “brown wood,” but plenty of other generations do. Whether your wood furniture is a valuable antique or just one of your favorite pieces, it might be worthwhile to refinish it rather than paint it. It’s not as hard as you may think. Nevertheless, this is one of those craft projects that requires some patience and skill.
If you want to refinish wood furniture, remember that preparation is everything. Clean the piece thoroughly. Next, use wood filler to fill any holes. Then, strip the old finish off, following the directions of the project you chose. Use a plastic scraper to remove the solution and the old finish. Lightly sand before applying the new stain. Once that dries, apply a clear-coat finish to protect it.
24. Install a Hanging Pot Rack
If you like to cook but lack cupboard space to store all the pots you typically use, consider installing a hanging pot rack . First, it’s important to select a pot rack sturdy enough to support all the pots and pans you intend to hang from it. It’s critical to ensure that the hardware attaching the rack to the ceiling is also heavy-duty enough that your pots won’t come crashing down.
Hanging a pot rack in the ceiling is not the best DIY project for beginners, but experienced DIYers will know they first must be sure you drill into the ceiling joists. Use a stud finder to locate them if you’re having difficulty. Measure where the holes need to be by using the rack as a template. From there, things get easier. Attach it and start hanging your pots.
RELATED: 10 Kitchen Updates You Can Do in a Day
25. Paint a Chalkboard Wall
Need a place to write down your weekly grocery shopping list? Or maybe the kids already are scribbling on the walls. A fun DIY home décor project is painting a chalkboard wall.
There are lots of chalkboard paints on the market, including this brush-on special-purpose paint from Krylon , the top pick in our researched guide to the best chalkboard paints . When making your selection, consider the ingredients, ease of application, and drying and curing time. Your choices may depend on how you intend to apply it (paintbrush or spray), how big an area you’re going to paint, and the environmental impact. For example, you might prefer a paint with low VOCs .
Whichever paint you choose, and whatever method you’ll be using, sand and prime the area first for better adhesion and a cleaner finished look. Many chalkboard paints on the market require only one coat. Nevertheless, you might opt to apply two or three for a more durable finish for your chalkboard wall.
26. Reimagine Bookshelves
One way to declutter your home is to add or organize shelving: Everything in its place. Bookshelves don’t have to hold only books and can be much more than merely functional. In fact, you don’t have to put a single book on your bookshelf. You can install sleek, decorative floating shelves to showcase your book collection, photos, pottery, collectables, knick knacks, or whatever looks good on display.
Add a fun, creative bookshelf in any number of shapes and sizes—under-the-stairs triangles, corner units, circular designs, or amorphous shapes.
Even if your bookshelf is rather traditional, you can have fun by rainbow-organizing your books. Get your kids involved to group your books by cover color first. This can create a vibrant display reflecting the spectrum of your reading material.
RELATED: Dos and Don’ts of Arranging a Bookshelf
27. Soundproof a Wall
If you work at home, rent your place, or have teenagers, soundproofing a wall may appeal to you but seem like an overwhelming task. Don’t panic; it’s not as invasive as you may think. You won’t be knocking down walls.
A few methods can dampen sound through a wall. For example, hang mass-loaded vinyl, a sound-dampening material used in night clubs, on the walls. Of course, it’s more effective when hung between drywall during construction, but it will still muffle some of the noise. Rolls of MLV are heavy and bulky, so try to find a helper.
If you don’t like the idea of shiny black MLV adorning your walls, try a more decorative option: floor-to-ceiling acoustic—also called blackout or thermal—curtains . As added benefits to their noise-reduction properties, they block light and trap warmth. Pleats act like baffles, enhancing the sound-deadening effects. For enhanced wall soundproofing, do either technique to both rooms that share the wall.
28. Power Wash the Small Stuff
Pressure washing isn’t just for sidewalks and siding . It’s a great way to quickly clean up almost anything. If you’re planning to restain your deck , start by power washing it. Even if you don’t want to stain it, using a pressure washer on it is a great way to get rid of mold, mildew, and ground-in dirt after a summer of outdoor living.
While you’re at it, power-wash the patio furniture before you store it for the winter. Ditto, the lawn mower, bicycles, trailer, and even cars. Just be careful not to blast the paint too hard or it could chip and flake off.
Once your summer annuals have been bitten by frost, power wash the pots they lived in—and your gardening tools , shovels, hoes, and rakes—before storing them for winter. When done with the tools, don’t forget to give your hard-working trash cans a good power cleaning while you’ve got the pressure washer out.
29. Improve Interior Lighting
Liven up your interior with creative lighting. The three functions of lighting are task, general, and accent. Undercabinet lighting can Improve safety issues for food prep, enhance ambiance and show off backsplash tile, or even serve as a nightlight for those early morning trips to the kitchen. LED strip lights —aka ribbon lights or LED tape—that can change color ramp up the atmosphere as under-cabinet lighting or as TV backlighting.
Get whimsical with accent lighting by adding statuesque lights in the shape of animals , or convert ordinary items (such as old telephones or teapots) into lights. String lights aren’t just for patios. Draping a few rows of string lights like these indoor/outdoor fairy lights from our researched guide to the best outdoor string lights can set a romantic scene when draped from the ceiling. Or hang a curtain wall of lights. Get twinkle lights for extra sparkle.
30. Step Up Style on the Stairs
Photo: Etsy.com
Looking for ideas to add some style to your staircase ? There are a number of easy projects you can do to make an impact. Paint the risers and the treads in contrasting colors, or stain the tread and paint the riser.
Apply decorative tile to the risers. Even easier, use trompe l’oeil adhesive stickers to add a bold faux tile look to the risers to turn your stairway or apply stencils to paint patterns on the risers and turn the stairway into more than a mere passageway. You can even use wallpaper to create decorative effects on the risers. Non-slip carpeted stair treads or runner rugs can add a decorative touch and increase safety.
Don’t forget the walls. Paint a mural. Add wall sconces. Make a photo wall or add a picture ledge shelf. Add molding to create wainscoting or paneled walls . Use your imagination to add personality to your stairway to make your home extraordinary.
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Home Design Ideas For Modern Living
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100 Unbelievably Cheap DIY Home Decor Crafts
Do you ever get that urge to do something for your home, to craft something…anything that could make your home more beautiful, more customized, more…you? All it takes is one successful attempt at DIY home decor to get hooked and to want more so if you’ve already done this once you’re probably already looking for the next idea. Well, you’ve come to the right place. We have a ton of cool home decor hacks and DIY projects and ideas just waiting for someone like you to turn them into reality.
Candle crafts
Great for both indoor and outdoor use, these little cube lanterns are really easy to make and all you need for that is some candles, glue, large washers, square dowel rods, something to cut the rods with and some spray paint. You can figure out the details just by looking at these lanterns.
Some of our favorite DIY projects involve the use of driftwood or fallen branches. One of them is this branch candle holder which can be customized in a variety of ways, based on the type of branch you want to use, its size, shape and all sorts of other details. The whole process is very simple. Just take branch, sand it down a bit and clean it, then drill the holdes for the candles and put tea lights in them. You can paint the branch or give it a lacquered finish.
Cool ways to customize your light fixtures
You have a lamp and you think it’s nice but you feel like something is missing from its design. Does this sound familiar at all? It’s a pretty common situation and the solution can be very simple: customize the lampshade . One thing you can do is to cover it with fabric. You’ll need a piece of fabric that you like, spray adhesive and a lampshade with a suitable shape.
The idea of crafting a whole light fixture from scratch sounds intimidating and while that is in fact the case, some designs are actually pretty simple and DIY-friendly, like this brass chandelier which you can make out of pipes and fittings. You can give it any shape you want and you can play with the pieces in all sorts of cool ways.
Lamps are less scary and even more DIY-friendly than other fixtures. For example, a mason jar desk lamp is something that pretty much anyone could put together. We love this project because it’s super easy and also because there are a ton of ways in which you can personalize the lamp.
I don’t know about you but I love to craft things out of paper so, naturally, i’d jump at the idea of making an origami lampshade . It’s a fairly simple project for which you need some wallpaper, scissors, a hole punch, glue, a light cord kit and string.
You know those globe lampshades that look like hollow yarn balls? You could definitely make one of those and you’d even have fun doing it. Depending on how large you want the lampshade to be you’ll need a round balloon and some string. You can use cotton twine or some other type of string which isn’t too thick. You’ll also need craft glue, some flour, spray paint and a few hooks.
There are so many cool things you can do with paper that we don’t even know which projects to pick first. We already showed you how to make an origami lampshade so now it’s time for something a bit different: a faux capiz shell chandelier . The supplies needed include a piece of wire grating, laminated rice paper, a circle punch (or one in a different shape), a hot glue gun and a sewing machine.
Yarn is also a very versatile resource when it comes to DIY projects of all kinds. One idea is to make a yarn-wrapped lampshade . You can make the lampshade yourself out of some thick wire or you can use an existing one. You’ll need a lot of yarn which you basically just wrap around the shade until it’s all covered up. The resulting shade will have a really cute and cozy look, perfect for the cool seasons.
Industrial-style light fixtures are among the easiest ones that you can build yourself from scratch. This usually involves some sort of fittings and metal pipes. This bathroom light fixture has a wooden base and is designed to be installed on a wall. It can be interesting to use a piece of driftwood instead of a clean cut plank or perhaps a piece of reclaimed wood from an old piece of furniture could work.
Some projects are so simple and so cute you start to wonder why you didn’t do them sooner. For instance, you could have this dreamy lampshade made out of wallpaper . It really is extremely easy to make and it looks really chic. Who needs expensive light fixtures when you could just have this instead?
Another amazing type of lampshade which you can make with minimal costs and which looks very stylish and posh only requires a few little things such as an A4 piece of thick paper (either black or white), a piece of string, double-sided tape and three wooden beads. With these things you can make a folded lampshade that’s simply gorgeous.
Pretty coasters
Coasters are always useful and you can’t really have too many of them so It’s never really a bad time to customize a few. It’s a great activity for when you’re feeling bored and in the mood to craft something pretty without investing too much time and effort. That being said, check out these geometric felt coasters . To make these you need some felt, cork tiles, plain cardstock and craft glue.
As it turns out, those scrapbook paper leftovers can be useful and the same thing can be said about wrapping paper. You could use some pieces to customize a bunch of patterned coasters . Don’t these look really pretty. If you like them, you can make similar ones using resin, a circle silicone mold, scrapbook paper, mod podge and a paint brush.
Ingenious ways to store your things
Tired of losing your keys and just leaving them on counters and tables only to forget every time where you’ve put them? Maybe it’s time you came up with a crafty solution for this project. How would you like to make a wire key holder ? It’s pretty easy and since you’ll be using pliable wire you can basically just shape it however you like.
What about your living room. You probably have a TV in there and chances are that you also have a few other devices as well which have to be stored somehow. We’re talking about things like an x-box, a router, maybe also a small server (NAS) and these take up space and need to be plugged so it’s practically to just keep them all together on a shelf under the TV. You can make that shelf yourself. We’re calling this one a media box .
I find rope baskets to be really useful and really cute too. They’re great for storing things like keys, hair clips, jewelry and all sorts of small items. The coolest thing about them is that you can make them yourself from scratch. You just need some heavy rope, a hot glue gun and, if you also want to add some color to your design, some spray paint as well. Using these things you can make a pretty paint-dipped rope basket which you can then keep on your desk, coffee table or counter.
A magnetic knife holder is one of those things that you know you want but you just can’t find the opportunity to buy for a variety of reasons. Well, maybe it would be easier to just make one yourself. Go get yourself a block of wood, a drill, some strong glue, a bunch of round heavy-duty magnets, a hammer and a few brackets and nails and take matters into your own hands. I should probably do this myself…
A folded felt bowl like this one looks cute and stylish and is also practical. You can keep your keys and coins in it or you can use it to store all sorts of other small things, including potpourri. To make such a bowl you only need a piece of felt, fabric glue and scissors. You should also have some cardstock ready to make a template.
All these little crafts are definitely nice and useful in their own way but sometimes you need to do something a bit more drastic if you want to actually improve your home decor or to make your home more space-efficient. An idea is to build some wall shelves for the garage (or pantry). Don’t worry, it’s not that hard. You need some wood boards, a miter saw (possibly also a circular one), some screws or nails and some mounting hardware.
Another useful craft that can make a big difference in your home decor is a diy towel rack . You can make one out of metal pipes and fittings and you can add a wooden shelf as well so you can keep more things on it, like planters, toiletries or extra towels.
Check out this double box shelf …isn’t it funky? This design direction is very common in modern and contemporary home decors . Want to make one just like it? You need the following: two wooden boxes, craft paint, a paint brush, a saw, wood glue, a hammer, 4 small nails and spray lacquer. Feel free to use your favorite colors.
Storage boxes are very practical and can be useful in many different settings and situations. For instance, you can solve the problem of a messy playroom with a simple wooden toy box . It’s like a treasure chest but for toys. You can build one of out reclaimed wood or from plywood. Paint it to make it more attractive and install casters so kids can easily move it around.
Bathrooms don’t usually have much storage and that’s something that you could work on. For example, you could take advantage of the unused space in the bathroom, like that area above the door. You could make a shelf to keep extra towels, toilet paper rolls and other things up there. It’s a very simple above-the-door storage shelf which doesn’t require much skill, time or resources from your part.
We really like the idea of personalizing a space with framed photos even though it may seem like an outdated or cheesy idea to some. If you don’t like the idea of framing photos and displaying them on the fireplace mantel or on the desk, think of some other way of making them a part of your decor. Perhaps you could build a picture ledge or several if you want to create a gallery wall.
For the bathroom, a simple and at the same time useful craft can be a custom toilet paper holder. You could make one out of some brass wire and you could attach it to a box shelf which, by the way, would also be very easy to build from scratch. So there you have it, a simple brass toilet paper holder which you can craft in only a few minutes…a nice way to personalize your bathroom.
Every entryway needs a shoe rack. Actually, this is not an accessory exclusive to entryways. You could also add it to a walk-in closet to increase its storage-efficiency. In any case, we can show you how to build a stylish shoe rack from scratch. It’s not a very complex project although it is a bit more difficult than most of the others we presented so far. Nevertheless, if you follow the instructions there shouldn’t be any problems.
A wine rack is one of those things that seem cool and fancy but cost too much to be worth purchasing. Well, what if you made one yourself? We have the perfect design idea: a leather sling wine rack that’s easy and fun to put together. To make it, you need a leather strap, a sharp needle, glue, some screws, a drill, clamps and a bunch of little pieces of hardwood. In a way, it’s like putting together a puzzle.
Not every home decor idea has to be related to furniture. In fact, a lot of them aren’t. After all, it’s often the little things that matter in life. Based on this idea, we present to you a quirky little mirrored tray . It’s made out of a regular wooden tray which has been spray painted for a fresh and new look and which has a mirror glued to it.
A jewelry stand is a little thing which you can do for yourself. It’s practical and with it you can finally say goodbye to all that mess resulted from throwing all your jewelry in a box or in a drawer only to have to waste time digging through that pile whenever you need something. We’re proposing a simple copper pipe stand which can be made as big or as small as you need it to be.
Big drawers are great because they provide a lot of storage space for all sorts of things like clothes, plates, documents, utensils and all sorts of knick-knacks. There is, however, a downside and it’s the fact that they rarely stay organized. They get messy really quick. To avoid that or at least to postpone the tragic end, you could make some drawer dividers using some cardboard.
Hanging crafts
We have a bunch of cool home decor ideas which are aimed at things that you can hang on walls, the goal being to fill a void or to give a space more character. One idea is to decorate walls with custom posters using wooden slat frames . To make something like this you only need a few things such as a long and rectangular piece of wood, some sandpaper, a drill, a saw, 2 popsicle sticks, some twine and paper print.
Some people like to hang plates on their wall. Maybe you could do the same in your kitchen or in the dining area. Select a few plates in various shapes, sizes and colors and display them on a wall using picture hangers and glue. Maybe collecting cool plates can become a hobby.
Here’s another idea related to jewelry, more specifically to the idea of storing and organizing jewelry in a practical and stylish manner. This is a jewelry tree and it’s basically just a branch that you can hang necklaces and other things from. It looks lovely and you can mount it onto a wall if you want to save space on the counter.
There are all sorts of crafts which can help beautify the walls in your home. One of them is this yarn fringe wall hanging which could make a space look extra cozy and welcoming and which is simple and versatile enough to fit into a variety of decors and spaces. It’s made using a metal ring and a bunch of yarn.
Looking for something to display in your kitchen, to fill that empty wall or column? How about something super simple like these EAT boards ? You can arrange them vertically or horizontally and there’s also room for customization if you want to paint them to match your kitchen cabinetry for example.
Next, a woven wall decoration with a lot of charm and which requires you to build a loom first. Don’t worry, it’s nothing too complicated or big. You just need a rectangular piece of cardboard, some yarn, a wooden dowel and scissors to complete this project.
Have you ever made tissue paper flowers ? It’s quite simple and you can then use them as decorations in all sorts of cool ways. One idea is to make a bunch of big tissue paper flowers and to hang them on a wall to create a colorful and fun display. Perhaps you could decorate the balcony this way.
We all have our knick-knacks that we like to keep as reminders or that have a special meaning. Some of them would look good on shelves, more specifically on floating shelves like these chic little ones. They’re not just great for knick-knacks but also for children’s books or for collectibles.
When storage is limited and there’s not a lot of space to work with, you have to get creative. A cool and at the same time very practical home decor idea is to make a facade wire hanger which you can keep on a door and use to store towels, clothes and other things. Obviously, the most interesting thing about it is the facade outline.
A mini chalkboard wall hanging is something you can add to just about any room. The coolest thing about it is that you can personalize in all sorts of ways. Write a cute message on it, a draw something funny or make a note of something. The possibilities are endless.
You don’t need to be a talented painter to make canvas wall art for your home. You just need to be creative. For example, this is something you could display in the dining room, the living area and even in the bedroom. It’s simple, chic and abstract and anyone could do it.
Yes, this wood heart decoration looks girly and a bit cheesy but sometimes that’s just what a space needs to feel like home and to stand out. If you like the idea, make your own heat-shaped decoration. You could make it from scratch or use a ready-made, plain and unfinished wood heart and you can just decorate it with scrapbook paper and letter cutouts.
The curtains are an important part of a room’s interior decor, their role being to provide privacy and shade but also to make a space look cohesive and beautiful. Picking the curtains is just one of the steps you need to worry about. You also have to figure out how to hang the curtains and that’s where we can help. Check out our guide and tips.
We keep going back to jewelry holders and one explanation for that is the fact that there are simply so many different storage possibilities to consider that we can’t really pick a single one. That being said, check out this Ikea spice rack which has been turned into a jewelry holder. It’s such a simple craft that you barely have to do anything.
You’re probably familiar with the concept of string art . If you’ve already done something like this before then you know there’s nothing to fear. The process is easy and the design possibilities are endless. In this case, for example, the outline of a tree can be identified. It looks really cool.
A lot of times people don’t really know what to do with their sunglasses once they get inside the house or into the office. The glasses end up gathering dust on a shelf or on a table and get moved around or thrown in drawers along with other things. That’s not practical at all. The solution is propose is a chic little holder designed specifically for sunglasses . As you can see, this one is decorated with scrapbook paper and looks really cute.
A shelf is very versatile, it’s one of those things which you can always add to a room in order to make it more storage-efficient or more cohesive. A small hanging rope shelf is a pretty specific craft which we find very charming. We like the simplicity and the subtle rustic and nautical look. You could craft a shelf like this one for the bathroom, the hallway or the kitchen.
Welcome nature into your home and let its freshness and beauty transform the spaces. It doesn’t have to be anything too dramatic. Think of a simple wall-hanging made of three wooden sticks, some string and some twigs, flowers or a climbing plant which is trained to grow on them. That could be a the new focal point of your living room or you can use this as a decoration for the bedroom.
Having trouble finding inspiration for your next project or getting hyped about it? Give yourself a push and make a project out of it. We’re talking about crafting a “create” sign . You only need a few things in order to do that like a pre-made sign (or a few boards), some paint, letter stencils, glue and paintbrushes.
If you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, perhaps you’d like to make some canvas art . You could paint something abstract either using a paint roller, a brush or your bare hands. It doesn’t have to be perfect and it doesn’t even have to be based on a very specific idea or image.
Did you know you can use cookie cutters to make cute ornaments which you can hang in the Christmas tree or which you can use to make garlands or as cute decorations around the house? It’s not even that difficult. Take these dala horse ornaments for example. They’re linked to the Scandinavian culture, being a Swedish symbol and they’re really chic and beautiful.
In case you have some colored yarn just lying around, we can show you a way to make some string wall art with it. This is a very simple hanging decoration which is made using nothing more than a wooden dowel (a metal pipe could work too) and yarn in various colors and textures. You can spray paint the dowel if you want.
There’s not much you can do with an old window shutter once it’s no longer needed for its intended purpose…unless you repurpose it. You could make a cool shutter shelf for your office, entryway, bathroom, hallway or kitchen. You might have to cut the shutter down to size. After that you can paint it and attach a wooden board to make a shelf (or more).
Coat racks are easy to make too and with so many different variations, styles and designs to choose from there’s always an idea that’s accessible, like this rustic coat rack which you can make out of a simple wooden board which can be a leftover piece from another project and some simple wire hooks.
Whenever you need a small storage container or you’re looking for a way to organize a few small things, you can always count on mason jars to be useful. You can use them in tons of cool ways. For example, you could make a mason jar wall organizer . Doesn’t this one look chic? We love those leather straps.
Maybe the idea of having a wine rack sounds interesting and enticing but you don’t feel like you’ll need all those slots since you hardly ever drink wine and you’re not a collector. Well, there’s actually no point in having a big wine rack when a small one would do just fine. So go ahead and make one. You need a few pieces of wood, a saw, a hammer, some glue, paint and nails.
Custom decorations
Not a big fan of fabric flowers? Maybe you like tassels more. Here’s how you can make a cute tassel pillow : first make a bunch of yarn tassels (you can find all the details in the tutorial), then take a pillowcase and attach each tassel to it using thread and a large needle. You can attach the tassels all around the edge of the pillowcase or only the four corners.
If you’d prefer to drop the ornaments altogether and to just make a simple and chic accent pillow, check out this mud cloth-inspired design. It requires the following supplied: linen cloth, straight pins, a permanent fabric pen, cardstock, a sewing machine, an icon, pillow insert and a straight edge.
Brighten up your home with a lovely billy ball bouquet . You can make the flowers out of mustard yellow-colored yarn. Attach the balls to floral wire stems and then put your bouquet in a mason jar or in a vase. If you like you can also use yarn in other colors to match the bouquet to your own home decor.
Similar strategies can be used when creating festive decorations for special occasional like the 4th of July. We actually have the perfect table decor idea for this very event. To make this centerpiece you need wood rounds with bark, a styrofoam ball, red, white and blue fabric flowers (you can buy them or you can make them yourself), a hot glue gun, ribbon, flower stencils and craft paint.
Not a big fan of flowers in general? Perhaps you prefer simple greens instead and in that case you might like these cute crepe paper leaf branches . They’re made of crepe paper and….branches. They’re really easy to make and they look lovely when displayed in a simple vase or a jar on a table, a desk or a shelf.
Wall clocks are no longer something we need but rather something we find cool and interesting, something we display and customize, much like we do with artwork. You can actually make your own wall clock and there are a lot of design strategies you can use for that. If you prefer a simple approach, check out this minimalist design which is made of wood.
This isn’t the first time we mention DIY abstract wall art so you might already be familiar with the concept. What we want to show you now is a very simple and fun method which you can use to create cool artwork for your home. You only need a canvas, a circular sponge brush (or two, if you want different sizes) and acrylic paint in various colors (here some grey, black, white and silver hues were used).
For your book collection, no matter how big or small it is, we suggest making some of these cute fox bookends . Actually they don’t have to be foxes. You can repurpose any salt and pepper shakers into bookends. You need spray paint, wooden blocks and glue. You can do the same thing with toys or figurines.
Have you ever decorated with wood tags ? They’re very versatile. You can hang them on doors and walls to create focal points or to fill voids on gallery displays. In any case, we have some coastal-themed design ideas that we want to share with you. Aren’t these tags just charming? To make something similar you need some plain wood tags, dye or paint, beach-themed stencils (shells, sea horses, stars and other similar symbols), white chalk paint and a foam brush.
We also have an idea for a DIY accessory for your desk: a gilded pencil holder . To make it you need a wooden block, sandpaper, a drill with bits in different sizes and some spray paint. Cut the wood block to the desired size if needed and drill holes in it so you can organize your pencils in them. Sand down the wood and then paint it. If it sounds simple that’s because it is.
DIY planters
We always say that there are so many different planters and pots to choose from it’s impossible not to find something that you like but not all of these designs are available at your local store and ordering them online is just not worth it. So how about crafting your own beautiful planters? That’s actually an awesome idea and, as you’ll see, the projects are easier than you think. Take this concrete succulent planter for example. You can make one of these any time you want and you can give it any shape you desire as long as you have the right container to use as a mold.
Air plants are awesome because they don’t need soil to stay healthy which means you can create some really cool displays with them. An idea can be to hang them using some chic geometric planters which you can make from scratch out of hollow brass rods and galvanized wire.
Like it or not, terra-cotta pots are probably the best ones for your plants. They don’t exactly look pretty but that can be changed if you just use some acrylic paint to give them a quick makeover. Use painter’s tape to create geometric patterns and cool designs.
If you can get your hands on a tree stump, you could turn it into a unique planter. The tree trunk planter can have any size you want as long as you find a suitable piece of wood, of course. A small one would look really cute on the desk. You can simply drill a hole into the stump and put your plant in there. Of course you can also decorate and customize the planter. For instance, you can paint it.
A lot of things can be repurposed into planters and this includes tin cans. Curious how tin can planters look like? Well, they’re just cans with plants in them but the cool thing about this whole idea is that they can be customized and decorated in a ton of creative ways. You can spray paint them, wrap them in yarn or rope or you can decorate them with scrapbook paper.
How about something smaller and more delicate? A test tube vase is a super easy craft. You don’t actually have to do anything other than put some water in it and add a single flower stem. You can put together several test tube vases to create a nice centerpiece. Use a wooden block as a frame.
Another cool idea is to make a terrarium . For that, you need a glass container, some bark, rocks, moss, potting soil, activated charcoal and other things you’d like to put inside plus, of course, some tiny plants. You can put the terrarium on a shelf or on a table but you can also hang it.
A kokedama planter can also look really nice if you hang it somewhere. Here’s what you need to make one: sheet moss or Sphagnum moss, bonsai compost, twine or string, a bowl, a plant and gardening gloves. It’s an easy craft and it’s also quite unusual which makes it that much more interesting.
Finding a vase that you like is not easy so you’re much better off just buying a plain one and customizing it yourself. That way you give it meaning and you get to make something really special for your home. In that sense, we suggest adding a hand-painted flower vase to your DIY home decor collection.
Small succulents and cacti don’t need much soil to stay healthy which means you could make some really cute little geometric planters for them using wooden blocks. Air plants don’t need soil at all which gives you even more freedom. Take a wooden block, shape it however you want using a saw, sand it, paint it, drill a hole for the plant at the top and you’re done.
Air plants don’t even need a planter. They can be displayed on shelves, in glass containers, terrariums, you can hang them with string or you can make little air plant stands for them. To make one of these stands you need a wood block shaped like a cube, a piece of silver or gold floral wire, something cylindrical to wrap the wire around, a drill and wire cutters.
You can completely reinvent a planter by simply making a macrame hanger for it. It’s not a difficult project but it is one that requires dexterity and patience. Here’s what you need in order to make the hanging support : jute twine, an assortment of wooden beads big enough to fit over two strands of twine, a rattan cane ring, a ruler and scissors.
Not all terrariums are the same. In fact, each one is unique and special. Let’s say you want to make an oversized terrarium for your desk or for your bathroom counter. You could start with a large and transparent glass vase. It’s up to you to decide what you put inside. It could be a combination of small rocks, soil, moss and a variety of trinkets and decorations like shells or small figurines. don’t forget the succulents or other small indoor plants.
I’ve always liked vases that are made out of cut glass bottles. The process of actually cutting the bottle was something that really scared me but then I realized just how easy it is if you know how to do it. That’s when cut glass bottle vases really started to stand out. Perhaps you’d like to add some to your own home decor. You could repurpose a few beer bottles since they have the right size and they come in various colors. Use a bottle cutter and thick gloves.
Hanging planters are great for several reasons, one of them being the fact that they save counter space and they stay out of the way. Considering this, there are surprisingly few designs to choose from which brings us to our next project, a DIY hanging planter made of brass tubing. Pair it with a cute bowl and use twine or string to connect the tubes and to shape the whole frame.
We love the paint-drip technique and we actually shared a few inspiring DIY projects that use it, including this beautiful vase. The project starts with a clear glass vase and some gold acrylic paint as well as some white latex paint. Contrary to what you’re probably thinking, it’s actually the gold paint that’s applied first after which comes the white paint.
DIY furniture – quirky tables and accessories
You have all the main furniture pieces and everything is in order but you feel like there’s something missing: an accent table. This actually happens a lot and the search for the right table can be long and full of obstacles which is why we suggest considering the possibility to build the piece yourself. It doesn’t have to be an expensive or complicated project. You could make a tree stump side table . It’s quick and easy.
A coffee table can be easy to built too, especially if you choose a simple design. Let’s say you decide to repurpose a pallet. You only have to make a few modifications, to remove a few boards, to cut a few pieces and to nail others in place after which you can add four hairpin legs and your pallet coffee table is complete.
Another project you could try is a coffee cart . It too is a sort of table and it too is easy to craft. Naturally, an industrial design comes to mind simply because they’re usually easy to implement. We suggest building the cart out of metal pipes and wooden boards, a combination that’s versatile and easy to work with.
A desk can seem like a complicated piece of furniture but that shouldn’t intimidate you because we’re ready to show you just how easy it can be to put together a stylish desk with hairpin legs . First, glue two pieces of wood together to make the top. Then cut the boards for the frame and follow the instructions in the tutorial, after which all that’s left to do is install the hairpin legs.
You can even dare to build a TV stand for your living room. It’s nothing to be intimidated by, especially if you’re realistic about what you want to achieve and as long as you’re happy with a simple design like this one which is a blend of rustic, industrial and modern elements. It’s basically a table with a storage shelf.
The smaller the furniture piece, the easier it is to build. Well, that’s true up to a point. In any case, we’re pretty excited about this tomato cage side table . One of the reasons is that it’s made out of a repurposed wire tomato cage which is really cool and inspiring. We like how simple it is and that the base can be spray painted in any color.
The fact that wooden pallets can be repurposed into furniture and home decor pieces is no secret so the fact that you can make a wall-mounted wine rack out of one shouldn’t come as a surprise. If you make the rack about the same size as this one you might even be able to use the leftover wood to also make something else for your home.
A side table can be built out of pretty much anything. For example, if you have a slab of wood you can just attach three hairpin legs to it and call it a table. It would be easy to build and it would look pretty too. You can spray paint the legs if you want or you can leave it as such.
Another cute and useful thing you can craft for your home is an upholstered footstool . You can build it from scratch or you can give an existing one a makeover. Pick a type of fabric that’s easy to clean and durable in a color or a pattern that complements your home decor.
Next, another coffee table with a tile top . It’s easy to make and you can complete the project in around 30 minutes with a very small budget. You need some wood for the frame and legs and a tile for the top. Of course, you can use this idea as a source of inspiration and you can come up with a different version of the design which better suits your style and needs.
The most DIY-friendly furniture pieces are usually those that have very simple designs and which don’t require a lot of precision. Industrial and rustic designs are both great options in that sense. One example is this standing desk which has a top made of wooden boards and a frame made of metal pipes and fittings.
Not all home improvement projects imply building an item from scratch, especially when it comes to furniture. Some of the most inspiring DIY home decor projects are makeovers. There are a lot of cool ways in which you can improve what you already have. Let’s say you have a nightstand that’s in good condition but which doesn’t really look the way you’d want it to. Perhaps you could transform it. An idea can be to use marble contact paper .
The last DIY project that we want to share with you today is a pouf ottoman . We’re really fond of poufs because they’re just so cute and cozy and so practical you just can’t resist them. As it happens, a pouf is also something that you can craft yourself from scratch. You need strong and durable fabric, a sewing machine a bunch of polystyrene balls. It’s not only easy but also fun.
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46 Budget-Friendly DIY Home Decor Ideas for an Instant Refresh
Add a crafty touch to every space, from the living room to the kitchen.
Your home should be a reflection of your personality and sense of style, which means filling it with colors, materials and artwork that you love. Sure, you can splurge on some of your favorite store-bought pieces, but what better way to curate the perfect space than by tackling a few DIY home projects? Beyond saving tons of money, these DIY home decor ideas will put your creativity to the test. Time to break out your toolkit and a few nifty craft supplies!
Don't worry: you don't need to be an expert crafter to recreate these designs. We've found a project for every skill level, whether you want to start small with a DIY craft idea (like make your own shelf or succulent planter) or go big with a full room makeover. Ahead, you'll find ideas for creative accent walls, DIY wall decor and reclaimed furniture. If you're looking for an easy way to repurpose the materials and accessories you already have at home, we've included a few genius upcycling ideas — hint: a chic cabinet made from shutters.
These Pinterest-worthy decor ideas will put your personal style on display, whether you prefer modern, rustic or eclectic interiors. Bring new energy into your home by starting with an outdated living room , simple bedroom in need of a makeover or awkward nook that isn't living up to its full potential.
Use a kitchen sponge and a little paint to transform a plain white wall. Just dip the straight edge of the sponge into paint, then press it against the wall. Here, bloggers Niña Williams and Cecilia Moyer group the lines in threes, using a level to ensure straightness.
Use pages of your favorite book to add a touch of whimsy to any space. This alcove in a modern farmhouse also features a Dr. Seuss quote, cut out of vinyl, up the stairs. "It invites you to give yourself over to the world of imagination found in a good book," says designer Emily Clark of Clark & Co. Homes .
Create a statement accent wall by hanging frames of different shapes and sizes, then cover everything with a fresh coat of paint — preferably something bold. Tip: keep it affordable by gathering your frames from antique and thrift stores.
Get the tutorial at A Beautiful Mess »
Put your wardrobe on display by turning two ladders into a chic clothing rack. You'll also need two wooden planks for the shoe platforms, as well as a wooden rod for the top.
Mask a TV with a bold roll-out tapestry, whether you go for florals, an abstract print or something neutral.
SHOP SCROLL TAPESTRY
About one hour of effort and $30 worth of contact paper later, this chic dresser was completely transformed. Add new hardware, and you've got a whole new piece of furniture.
SHOP CONTACT PAPER
Get the tutorial at Bless'er House »
Gather your favorite cards, photos or even your child's artwork for a seasonal display that'll add a personal touch to any room. Go for a store-bought frame or make your own. Start by hot-glueing small bulldog clips to a wooden frame, then place it in a spot that's easy to access so you can update the arrangement as often as you'd like.
SHOP WOODEN FRAME
Create a beautiful display for your succulents. Start by covering an unfinished wooden crate in a coat of bright white paint — or another color of your choice. Use leather strands to secure a mini succulent in place.
SHOP CRATES
Get the tutorial at Cherished Bliss »
Use a set of old shutters to make a chic piece of furniture, like this decorative cabinet used for storing board games and extra throw blankets. Paint the finished product in a sleek shade.
Bring a tufted bench back to life with a fresh coat of paint and a cushion upholstered in playful floral fabric. Finish the look with a few coordinating throw pillows.
Go for a custom headboard, like this coastal-inspired one that brings the beauty of the beach inside. Use planks of driftwood or recycled oars to recreate this look.
Atlanta-based DIY enthusiast Xin Lu painted an arch in her trendy guest room using Behr’s Green Balsam . “Most of my house is gray, so I used the arch wall as an opportunity to go for a bold color,” she says. “It’s a fun feature whenever our guests see it.”
SHOP PAINT COLORS
That plain old console table that's been collecting dust in your attic? Yes, it can easily be turned into a conversation starter. Cover it in a bold paint color, like this fuchsia shade, for a design-forward look.
If you're looking for a fun way to "paint" with wallpaper, revamping old cabinet doors with graphic wallpaper is the perfect project. Don't forget to switch out the hardware, too!
RELATED: 15 Removable Wallpapers That'll Temporarily Transform Your Space
Bring a dose of elegance to your morning routine by setting up your very own coffee nook. Designer Ashley Gilbreath dreamed up this coffee station, complete with built-in shelves for things like mugs and stirrers and whimsical wallpaper for a touch of drama. But the best part is behind the curtain, where machines and cords are kept out of sight.
RELATED: 20 Coffee Bar Ideas to Make Your Kitchen Fit for a Barista
Embrace the beauty of the fall season with an unexpected gallery wall showcasing colorful leaves of all sizes and shapes. For a cohesive look, stick to one frame style.
Get inspired by designer Carissa Miller of CC + Mike Creative and let a geometric tiled fireplace steal the show in your living room. Patterns in varied sizes and similar colors, including a framed print of bold lines and argyle-style pillows, can add to the look.
Tired of traditional nightstands? Take a cue from designer Alison Giese and put a low-profile console table to work. Style it with accents like mirrors and art of different scales to make it a focal point in your bedroom.
Make room for natural light and an assortment of your best decor finds by installing wall-to-wall floating shelves, like Pure Salt Interiors' Leigh Lincoln did in this Los Angeles home. When styling objects, consider introducing a variety of materials, heights and shapes to create interest.
RELATED: Creative Bookshelf Decor Ideas That Are Full of Style
Of course, potted plants look great on an outdoor table, but there's also room for an unexpected display as well. Simply dress up a wooden slat with small potted plants to boost your deck's visual appeal.
RELATED: Best Places to Buy Plants Online
Hang gritty rope, like jute, from a Shaker rail with round pegs to create a shelf that fills a wall with style and function.
Rather than settling for basic horizontal blinds, take things up a notch. Strips of colored fabric tape can give your blinds a custom look.
SHOP FABRIC TAPE
Bring different textures into your space by painting a concrete-inspired wall. Once you gather your gray paint, dry paintbrush and lint-free cloth, follow a forgiving buffing technique until you nail your desired look.
RELATED: How to Paint a Room in One Day
Go halfsies on paint in a variety of coordinating paint colors to turn garage-sale art into a bold colorblock display.
RELATED: Creative Upcycling Ideas That Are Also Budget-Friendly
Trade a standard wooden banister for jute or Pro-Manila rope to match your home's nautical aesthetic. After anchoring brackets to the wall or individual posts, secure the rope from the top to the bottom of the stairs. Then unravel both ends to create a more relaxed look.
SHOP JUTE ROPE
Paint a wooden pedestal in any solid color of your choice, and then use it to play up different heights in your space with stacked books and fresh greens.
Keep your entryway clutter-free by covering shoe cubbies with a fabric table skirt. Dress the top of the table with flowers, trinkets and other stylish decorative accents.
This stunning star mirror looks intricate, but it's surprisingly easy to DIY if you follow the step-by-step guide. An added bonus: It costs less than $25 to make.
Get the tutorial »
Jute rope turns a cheap vase into a statement piece. It's as easy as it looks: Simply, hot-glue jute rope around a vessel for a beach-ready look.
With paint and a pair of drawer pulls, a salvaged cabinet door becomes a makeshift cheese board or TV dinner tray. To make, fill holes in the board with wood filler and let dry. Sand and paint the surface, pre-drill holes and screw in handles.
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50 DIY Home Improvement Projects to Tackle This Weekend Take your home from builder-grade to custom-made with low-cost home upgrades you can tackle in a weekend or less. Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money from these affiliate links. By: Chelsea Faulkner and Morgan Faulkner View The Gallery 1 / 50
100 DIY Home Improvement Projects for Under $100 The editors of This Old House share their favorite home projects you can do yourself on a budget. Add Carved Corbels Under Your Breakfast Bar Photo by Ellen McDermott How to do it: Check salvage yards for Victorian-era ones with patina for an extra flourish in the eating area.
30 High-Impact Home Improvement Ideas That Cost Less Than $150 Learn how to tackle these simple and cheap home improvement ideas on a budget. Our projects can be accomplished for less than $150, but you'll be surprised at what an impact these mini makeovers will have. Learn how to tackle these simple and cheap home improvement ideas on a budget.
We've come up with a list of the best cheap DIY projects that are not only inexpensive, but they are easy to make. For many of these ideas to cost less than $10, make sure you use coupons for craft stores and shop the sales. A little planning as far as materials are concerned will save you a lot of cash. 01 of 24
Cheap DIY Home Decor Projects 1. DIY Geometric Planters homemadeginger Oh wow, this is such a modern and trendy planter! It makes for such an attention-grabbing piece in your home. They are so beautiful, I can't believe they are made out of straws. I might have to try this for my own.
Many DIY headboard designs come up so budget-friendly and simple to make. Fake it with paint or choose bamboo as your base material for a super cheap design that's simple to recreate in a day or two max. Cost: roughly $100 depending on bed size/project 9. Create designer-esque oversized art (Image credit: Brooke Waite)
This DIY pallet wall is cheap, easy and simply amazing looking! If you love DIY pallet projects, you need this cool rustic plank wall in your home. 9. Add Wood Accents to Furniture theidearoom We recently updated our Master Bathroom by making a few simple changes. I have shared a few of the changes in some past posts as it is a work in progress.
25 Easy Weekend Projects That Cost Less Than $20 By Caitlin Sole Updated on June 22, 2022 Photo: Rett Peek These 20 improvements might not cost a lot, but they'll make a big difference in how your home operates. Try one or more of these projects this weekend to make your home look (and function) its best. 01 of 25 Replace a Window Treatment
To get started, check out these 40 cheap DIY home decor ideas and projects that are sure to turn heads. From simple wall art and mirrors to impressive making DIY furniture and fixtures, there's something here for every taste and budget.
And for more awesome ideas for upgrading your space, check out 27 Amazing Home Upgrades for Every Budget. 3 Build your own slide-out crate organizer. Yea We Built That If you want more entryway storage but don't have a lot of space, these sliding milk crates might just be the best way to combat your clutter.
Kitchen. $30 DIY Marble Countertops from Make, Do and DIY. Peel and Stick Tile Backsplash from Self Style. Wire Shelving Faux Floating Shelves from Within the Grove. DIY Backsplash using Vinyl Flooring from Re-Fabbed. Kitchen Cabinet Transformation from The Creative Crate. DIY Granite Painted Countertops from Happy Clean Living.
Peel-and-stick wallpaper is easy to install and comes in so many different patterns and colors. This is an easy weekend project and can be done relatively cheaply. Peel and stick wallpaper is the perfect option if you're changing up a child's room when you know they're going to have a new favorite color or interest a year from now.
Using just two off-the-shelf woven runners ($125 each) and supplies from a home center, she gave her stairs an non-slip upgrade. Cost: About $300. See How to Install a Low-Cost Stair Runner for full step-by-step instructions. 4. Install a Dishwasher to Conserve Water Photo by Kolin Smith
These 10 projects—decorating, storage, lighting and more—cost little but yield great results. They upgrade bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, closets, the entryway, the laundry and other areas of your home. By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine Improvement 1: Bathroom mini makeover—$430
Old Tire Planter from Addicted 2 DIY. Recycled Barrel Planter from Goods Home Design. $8 Front Porch Planter from Home Heart and Hands. Wooden Pallet Box from House by Hoff. Window Box from Paradise Perspectives. Strawberry Pallet Planter from Lovely Greens. $15 Modern Cedar Planters from Remington Avenue.
99 Cheap Crafts Ideas for Teens 1. DIY Zippered Pouch iheartnaptime This is a fun little sewing project that just about anyone can make for next to nothing. If you need a cool DIY gift idea on a budget, this little pouch is the crafty project for you. Use leftover fabric scraps or repurpose an old clothing item for a fun print.
What are some good DIY home improvement projects? Paint your cabinets (bathroom, kitchen, anywhere) Paint your trim and molding Redo your fireplace cover Whitewash brick Paint Your Fireplace Add no sew curtains Change out blinds Paint walls Paint flooring (we have seen some cool flooring stencil ideas) Add new artwork Hang a gallery wall
7. "If you're dealing with a bathroom that feels humid all the time, upgrade your existing bathroom fan with a $25 humidity sensor switch. It goes where the old wall switch would've, and it ...
For about $40 to $100, you can substitute a shabby bathroom vanity or ceiling light fixture with something elegant. A similar cash outlay will get you a new sink faucet. A spa-style chrome shower ...
A good DIY project for beginners, window boxes made from pallets are easy and require only the most basic tools to construct. If you want a rustic looking window box pallet wood is ideal as it ...
DIY at home can also provide creative ways to express yourself. 1. Wallpaper a Wall Photo: istockphoto.com Wallpaper can add color and pattern in an elegant or invigorating way that paint can't...
Some of our favorite DIY projects involve the use of driftwood or fallen branches. One of them is this branch candle holder which can be customized in a variety of ways, based on the type of branch you want to use, its size, shape and all sorts of other details. The whole process is very simple.
1. Shop Lululemon We Made Too Much For Up to 50% Off. 2. 8 Silk Pillowcases for Your Best Beauty Sleep. 3. 100 Black-Owned Businesses to Shop Now. 4. A How-To Guide for Painting Kitchen Cabinets. 5.
DIY Paper Lantern Basket Making | Home Decorating Ideas Using Paper | Craft Ideas for Home Decor with Paper | Paper Basket Craft Ideas Easy. KA Creative Ideas. 13:14. 3 Awesome wall decor ideas | Wall Hanging Craft Ideas | Home Decorating Ideas Paper Craft Easy #NHD #DIY #walldecorideas. NHD Hacks. 15:36.
Jun 25, 2022 - DIY home project ideas and plans. Easy projects on a budget to create a room makeover. Ideas that are cheap and create a WOW impression in your home. These projects will help your home stay organized and functional. See more ideas about home projects, a slob comes clean, easy projects.