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Want to give your home a fresh look without breaking the bank? DIY home decor is the perfect solution. Not only does it let you unleash your creativity, but it also helps you make the most of what you already own. Think old jars, scrap fabric, leftover paint, or even furniture that’s seen better days—most of these projects can be done with items you already have lying around.
The best part? DIY decor is affordable, fun, and totally customizable to your style. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, here are 10 simple projects you can start today.
1. Customized Planters
Let’s start with a classic: plants! 🌿 Even if you don’t have a green thumb, a cute planter can brighten any corner. Grab a mug, jar, or terracotta pot and give it a fun makeover with paint, stencils, or decoupage. The best part? You can match it to your style—modern, boho, or whimsical.
Materials checklist:
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Spare mugs, jars, or terracotta pots
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Leftover paint, stencils, or decoupage paper
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Paintbrushes or sponges
Tip from me to you: Metallic paint makes even the simplest jar look fancy in seconds.
2. Decorative Throw Pillows
Nothing makes a couch cozier than pillows—but who says you have to buy new ones? 🤗 Old pillowcases, scrap fabric, or even a tablecloth can get a fresh update. Paint, sew, or glue on tassels, patterns, or little embellishments. Before you know it, your living room will have that “designer” feel.
Materials checklist:
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Old pillow covers or fabric scraps
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Fabric paint, fabric markers, or tassels
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Needle, thread, or fabric glue
3. Photo Gallery Wall
Want to turn a blank wall into a conversation starter? A gallery wall is perfect. Mix family photos, postcards, kids’ artwork—even magazine clippings! Don’t stress about matching frames; mismatched ones can actually make it look charming and fun.
Materials checklist:
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Mismatched frames, postcards, or art prints
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Washi tape, string lights, or clips
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Leftover paint (optional, to unify frame colors)
Little secret: Lay your frames on the floor first before nailing anything—this saves a ton of trial-and-error!
4. Hand-Painted Mugs
This one’s so satisfying. Grab a few plain mugs from your cupboard and add some personality. Polka dots, stripes, or a little hand-lettered quote—your morning coffee just got a lot happier. ☕.
Materials checklist:
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Plain mugs
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Ceramic paint or oil-based Sharpie markers
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Oven (to cure paint if required)
5. Fabric Wall Hangings
Even if you’ve never done macramé, this is an easy one. Old T-shirts, sheets, or scarves can be cut and woven into something beautiful. Hang it above your bed or on an empty wall for instant texture and coziness.
Materials checklist:
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Old T-shirts, sheets, or scarves
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Yarn, rope, or string
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Dowel rod, stick, or hanger
6. Upcycled Furniture
Before you think about replacing that tired dresser or chair, try giving it a little makeover. Chalk paint, sanding, or switching out old knobs can completely transform a piece. You’ll be amazed how a little love turns “meh” furniture into a statement piece.
Materials checklist:
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Old dresser, chair, or side table
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Leftover paint or stain
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Sandpaper or sanding block
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Old knobs, handles, or hardware
Pro tip: Mix and match old knobs for a quirky, fun look.
7. DIY Candle Holders
Candles instantly make any space feel cozy, and the holders can be just as cute as the flame. Mason jars, wine bottles, or even teacups can all become candle holders with a little twine, lace, or paint.
Materials checklist:
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Mason jars, wine bottles, or teacups
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Twine, lace, or ribbon
8. Personalized Doormats
Make your entryway feel extra welcoming! Take a plain doormat—maybe even one you already have—and paint on a cute phrase, seasonal design, or funky pattern. Guests will notice, and you’ll love the personal touch every time you come home.
Materials checklist:
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Plain doormat
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Outdoor paint
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Stencils or painter’s tape
9. Floating Bookshelves
Want that “magical floating books” look? You can make it happen with old wood planks or shelves you already have. A little paint and some hidden brackets and—voila!—your books are literally floating on the wall.
Materials checklist:
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Old wood planks or repurposed shelves
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Wall brackets or hidden shelf supports
Style tip: Add a small plant or decorative object on top to break up the books.
10. Decorative Mirrors
Mirrors are amazing for opening up a space, but plain mirrors can be… well, plain. Dress them up with rope, beads, seashells, or even leftover tiles. It’s an easy way to make something ordinary feel like a statement piece.
Materials checklist:
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Rope, seashells, beads, or leftover tiles
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Hot glue gun or strong adhesive
Mirrors are amazing for opening up a space, but plain mirrors can be… well, plain. Dress them up with rope, beads, seashells, or even leftover tiles. It’s an easy way to make something ordinary feel like a statement piece.
Materials checklist:
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Plain mirror
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Rope, seashells, beads, or leftover tiles
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Hot glue gun or strong adhesive
Wrapping It Up
See? DIY decor doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Often the coolest projects are just about looking at what you already have in a new way. That lonely mug becomes a planter, a scrap of fabric turns into wall art, and your old dresser? A total showstopper.
So grab some supplies (or take a walk around your home first!) and start creating. I promise, it’s more fun than you think—and your home will feel a little extra magical. ✨
👉 Which project are you most excited to try? I’d love to see what you create—share your pics and tag me so I can cheer you on!
