15 Clever DIY Projects to Upgrade Your Living Space on a Budget
Thinking about changing up your home but don’t have enough money for it? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! Here are 15 DIY projects that’ll help you refresh your home on the cheap. Whether it’s repurposing old furniture or adding a lick of paint here and there, these projects are guaranteed to give your home that extra pizzazz it needs.
1. Give Your Walls a Voice with DIY Art
Who said art needs to be expensive? Grab some paint and let your inner Picasso run wild. Abstract art? Splatter paint? Your choice. It’s an instant conversation starter and adds a personal touch to your space. It doesn’t matter if your dog ends up looking more like a blob – that’s all part of the charm.
2. Greenery Meets Creativity
Bring the outside in with homemade plant hangers. Whether you’re going for macramé or simply repurposing old belts and ropes, adding greenery helps elevate your space and your mood. Remember, talking to your plants is optional but highly recommended for that extra growth spurt.
3. Light It Up with Mason Jar Fixtures
Why not transform ordinary mason jars into chic light fixtures? All you need is a few jars, some wiring, and bulbs. Hang them over your kitchen counter or dining table for a rustic touch that brightens up your meals and your day. Bonus points if you can do it without asking for help or accidentally creating a minor blackout!
4. Create a Gallery Wall on a Dime
Collect frames from thrift stores or use ones you already have and then fill them with whatever you want. You can try photos and postcards or even your art. If you arrange well on your wall, then you’ll turn a blank space into a personal gallery without the hefty price tag. Your wall can tell the story of your life.
5. Upcycle Furniture with a Fresh Coat of Paint
Do you have a tired-looking chair or table? Forget buying a new one – a fresh coat of paint can work wonders. You could go bold with a bright color or keep it chic with neutral tones. It’s a simple way to breathe new life into old pieces. It’s a great way to save money and also flex your creative muscles, too.
6. Customized Cushion Covers
Don’t worry if sewing isn’t your thing. Fabric glue and some imagination can transform plain cushions into designer-esque décor. Choose fabrics that complement your color scheme to instantly jazz up your room. You’ll be able to give your cushions a complete makeover without having to worry about the cost.
7. Refresh Your Flooring with DIY Rugs
Let’s not forget about your flooring – changing it can change the whole vibe of a room. Try creating your rugs from scraps of fabric or old clothes. It’s cost-effective and gives you the chance to design a one-of-a-kind piece that perfectly matches your decor. Just remember not to go overboard!
8. Rearrange with Flair
Never underestimate the power of a well-organized bookshelf. There’s no rule for how you want to rearrange your books – you could go by color or size. Then, add some decorative items or plants in between for a display that doubles as storage. It’ll transform your shelf from something that simply holds your books into a statement piece.
9. Upgrade with a DIY Frame
Using a homemade frame, you can give a basic mirror a glamorous makeover and make any small spaces seem bigger. Use reclaimed wood for a rustic look or tiles for a bit of sparkle. Plus, you get to check out your handiwork every time you admire your reflection! If you’re feeling extra crafty, add a hidden shelf behind the mirror for secret storage space.
10. Revamp Your Entryway with a Shoe Rack
If you build a simple wooden shoe rack, you’ll keep your entryway looking tidy and welcoming. It’s a practical way to add a warm touch to anyone’s first impression of your home. And if you add a small bench or a couple of hooks above the rack, then your entryway won’t just be neat – it’ll be super functional!
11. Create a Cozy Nook with Fairy Lights
Looking to make your room seem a little more magical? Then you should try stringing fairy lights around your reading nook or bed frame. It’s the easiest way to create a cozy retreat where you can unwind after a long day. During the winter, you can throw in a plush blanket and a pile of cushions to make it extra comfy.
12. Clutter, Be Gone!
If you’ve got some extra cardboard boxes, why not turn them into stylish storage with some fabric and glue? They’re perfect for keeping shelves organized, and the customized look adds a chic touch to any room. Just remember to label each box with a stylish tag or sticker so you’ll know exactly what’s in each one.
13. Spice Rack Makeover
You can repaint and repurpose an old spice rack to hold more than just spices. Who knew? Use it in the bathroom for toiletries or in the craft room for supplies. If you want to make it stand out, then add some fun labels or paint it with different colors. Just make sure to wash it first – you don’t want to get chili on your toilet paper!
14. Pallet Coffee Table on Wheels
You can usually find pallets for free at junkyards or warehouses. If you manage to get your hands on one, then try using a bit of creativity to turn it into a trendy coffee table. Then, add some wheels for a functional piece that’s easy to move. Stain or paint it to match your decor, and perhaps add a glass top for a smooth surface that’s easy to clean.
15. Upgrade Drawer Pulls and Cabinet Knobs
Here’s a quick fix that can make your outdated drawers and cabinets seem more modern. All you need to do is simply change the handles – that’s it! You can choose funky vintage pieces or sleek modern designs that suit your style. But don’t stop there – match your new hardware with light switch covers or door handles for a cohesive look that pulls the whole room together.
Simple Tricks
Upgrading your living space doesn’t have to drain your bank account or consume every free moment. With these 15 budget-friendly DIY projects, you can give your home some more personality and style in just the right way. So, roll up those sleeves and get started on one of these!
Tamila McDonald is a U.S. Army veteran with 20 years of service, including five years as a military financial advisor. After retiring from the Army, she spent eight years as an AFCPE-certified personal financial advisor for wounded warriors and their families. Now she writes about personal finance and benefits programs for numerous financial websites.