Personalizing your living space is one of the most satisfying ways to turn a house into a home.
However, the cost of professional interior designers or expensive home decor can be a deterrent for many. Fortunately, we have good news for you! Indeed, you don’t need a huge budget or advanced skills to transform your space into something uniquely yours.
With a little creativity, some simple materials, and a weekend of work, you can embark on easy and affordable DIY decorating projects. They will not only personalize your space, but also provide a sense of accomplishment.
In this article, we’ll explore a variety of DIY decorating ideas, from simple crafts to more involved projects. All these DIY decorating projects are designed to make your home feel more inviting, personal, and stylish.
Create a Gallery Wall
One of the most impactful yet simple DIY decorating ideas is creating a gallery wall. Whether it’s in your living room, bedroom, or hallway, a well-curated gallery wall adds character and a focal point to any space.
What you’ll need:
- Picture frames (you can find affordable options at thrift stores or discount shops)
- A mix of personal photos, art prints, or postcards
- Command strips or nails for hanging
Steps:
- Start by laying out your frames on the floor to determine the best arrangement. You can mix different frame sizes and colors for an eclectic look or keep things cohesive by using frames of the same style.
- Next, print out personal photos or use artwork that reflects your style. Don’t hesitate to mix in quirky items like postcards, inspirational quotes, or even fabric swatches.
- Use command strips or nails to hang the frames, ensuring they are level and spaced evenly.
Budget Tip:
Stop buying expensive art prints! Instead, download free printable artwork from online resources. Or you can create your own using watercolors, acrylics, or simple graphic design software.
Revamp Old Furniture with Paint
A fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into outdated or worn-out furniture. Whether it’s a dresser, a coffee table, or even kitchen cabinets, painting furniture is a simple DIY decorating project that makes a big impact.
What you’ll need:
- Sandpaper
- Paint (chalk paint works great for furniture and requires minimal prep)
- Paintbrush or foam roller
- Painter’s tape
- Drop cloth or newspaper
Steps:
- Start by sanding the surface of the furniture lightly to help the paint adhere better. Wipe it down to remove dust and debris.
- Apply painter’s tape to areas you don’t want painted (such as hardware or glass sections).
- Use a foam roller or brush to apply the first coat of paint. Let it dry completely before applying additional coats, if necessary.
- Once dry, you can lightly sand the edges for a distressed look or seal the paint with a clear wax or polyurethane for added durability.
Budget Tip:
Before buying new furniture, check out local thrift stores, garage sales, or online marketplaces for affordable pieces that can be easily refurbished.
DIY Throw Pillows
Throw pillows can instantly change the look of a room by adding color, texture, and personality. While store-bought pillows can be pricey, making your own DIY decorating project is easy and cost-effective.
What you’ll need:
- Fabric (choose patterns and colors that complement your decor)
- Pillow inserts or old pillows to repurpose
- Sewing machine or needle and thread
- Scissors and measuring tape
- Fabric glue (optional, for no-sew versions)
Steps:
- Measure and cut the fabric to fit your pillow inserts, leaving a seam allowance of about half an inch.
- If you’re sewing, stitch the fabric together inside-out, leaving a small opening to insert the pillow. Once the pillow is inside, close the opening with hand-stitching or fabric glue.
- For a no-sew option, use fabric glue to adhere the seams and skip the sewing entirely.
Budget Tip:
What if you don’t want to purchase new fabric? Then, repurpose old clothing, bed linens, or thrifted textiles for a unique look.
Add Floating Shelves
Floating shelves are a stylish and functional way to display personal items like books, plants, and knick-knacks. They create extra storage while also adding a decorative element to your walls.
What you’ll need:
- Wooden planks (pre-cut or DIY)
- Wall brackets or floating shelf kits
- Drill and screws
- Level and measuring tape
Steps:
- Measure the area where you want to install the shelves, and mark where the brackets will go. Ensure they are level to avoid a crooked shelf.
- Drill the brackets into the wall, making sure to secure them into studs for added support.
- Place the wooden plank on top of the brackets, securing it with screws if necessary.
Budget Tip:
Look for reclaimed wood or repurpose old materials to make the shelves more affordable and eco-friendly.
Create Your Own Wall Art
Creating your own wall art is an excellent way to add a personal touch to your space without breaking the bank. You don’t need to be a professional artist to create something beautiful!
What you’ll need:
- Canvas or poster board
- Acrylic or watercolor paints
- Paintbrushes, sponges, or stencils
- Painter’s tape (optional)
Steps:
- Decide on the design you want to create. Abstract art is a great option for beginners, as it allows for creative freedom without the pressure of perfection.
- Use painter’s tape to create clean lines or geometric shapes if desired.
- Experiment with different painting techniques, like sponging, dripping, or stenciling, to achieve various effects.
- Once your artwork is dry, frame it or hang it as is for a minimalist look.
Budget Tip:
Use items you already have, such as old canvases, leftover paint, or craft supplies. You can also find affordable materials at dollar stores or craft supply sales.
DIY Candle Holders and Jars
Decorative candle holders and jars add a warm, cozy feel to any room. They’re easy to make and can be customized to fit your home’s aesthetic.
What you’ll need:
- Mason jars, glass bottles, or old candle holders
- Twine, ribbons, or lace
- Paint (optional)
- Tea light candles or string lights
Steps:
- Clean the jars or bottles thoroughly.
- Decorate the outside with twine, ribbons, or lace for a rustic look. You can also paint the jars in pastel or metallic colors to match your decor.
- Insert tea lights or battery-operated string lights to create a soft, ambient glow.
Budget Tip:
Save glass jars from food items (like spaghetti sauce or jam) to reuse as candle holders or vases instead of purchasing new ones.
Upcycle Old Picture Frames into Trays
Old picture frames can be repurposed into stylish trays for coffee tables or dressers. This DIY decorating project adds a decorative element while also providing a functional piece for organizing small items like candles, books, or jewelry.
What you’ll need:
- Old picture frame (remove the glass)
- Spray paint (optional)
- Fabric or decorative paper for the base
- Drawer pulls (optional for handles)
Steps:
- Remove the glass and back of the picture frame.
- Paint the frame if you want to give it a new look.
- Cut fabric or decorative paper to fit the frame’s base, then insert it in place of the glass.
- Attach drawer pulls to the sides of the frame for handles, if desired.
Budget Tip:
Look for old frames at thrift stores or use frames you already have at home. Drawer pulls can often be found at second-hand stores for a fraction of the retail price.
Personalized Chalkboard Wall
A chalkboard wall is a fun and functional addition to kitchens, home offices, or children’s rooms. It allows you to write notes, reminders, or inspirational quotes while also serving as a creative outlet.
What you’ll need:
- Chalkboard paint
- Paintbrush or roller
- Chalk or chalk markers
Steps:
- Choose a wall or section of a wall you’d like to turn into a chalkboard.
- Paint the area with chalkboard paint, applying multiple coats if needed.
- Once dry, you can start using the chalkboard for messages, drawings, or lists.
Budget Tip:
If you don’t want to commit to an entire wall, paint a smaller section or use a large picture frame to create a portable chalkboard.
Conclusion
Decorating your home doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, you can tackle these easy and affordable DIY decorating projects to personalize your space.
Whether you’re adding a gallery wall, refurbishing old furniture, or creating unique art, these DIY decorating projects will infuse your home with your own style. Also, they will make it a place you truly love. So grab your tools, set aside some time, and start turning your home into a personalized sanctuary!