It’s always exciting to update your home, but it can feel daunting when you’re working within a budget. The good news? You don’t need a huge renovation to transform your space. With a few creative DIY projects, you can refresh any room without spending a fortune. These 10 easy ideas are simple enough for beginners but impactful enough to make your home feel more personalized and stylish.
1. Create a DIY Gallery Wall
A gallery wall is one of the easiest ways to inject personality into your space. Start by gathering photos, printables, or art that speaks to you. Mixing up frame styles and sizes can create a more interesting visual effect, so don’t be afraid to use mismatched frames. If you’re on a budget, look for thrifted frames or repurpose old ones with a fresh coat of spray paint.
Why it works: Gallery walls are dynamic and versatile. You can change them up as often as you like, whether it’s for holidays or just because you want to refresh the room’s vibe. I had the thermostat positioned where I wanted to create a gallery wall, so I got creative and incorporated it into the design by placing an empty picture frame around it. All the frames are held up by command strips, making it super easy to swap them out with new pictures whenever I want a refresh.
Amazon – Gallery Perfect – 12-Piece White Square Photo Frame
Command Strips
2. Revamp Old Furniture with Chalk Paint
If you have a piece of furniture that’s seen better days, don’t throw it out! Chalk paint can give old furniture a whole new look with minimal effort. Whether it’s an old dresser or a side table, chalk paint doesn’t require sanding or priming, making it a quick and easy DIY project. Add new hardware to complete the transformation.
Why it works: Chalk paint gives furniture a soft, matte finish that feels modern and fresh. Plus, it’s durable and comes in a range of colors that can fit any decor style.
I enjoy helping friends and family with DIY furniture makeovers. One of my favorite tricks is using paint to refresh a piece and lightly sanding areas to give it a modern vintage feel. It’s a simple way to update furniture while keeping some character and charm.
I used chalk paint to give my dark headboard a modern vintage look. After painting, I lightly sanded certain areas to create a soft, weathered effect. Still, I kept it subtle to maintain a balance between the vintage charm and a more updated, contemporary feel.
While Annie Sloan chalk paint remains a classic and widely trusted option for DIY furniture projects, other brands have gained popularity in recent years. Dixie Belle’s chalk mineral paint, for example, has become a favorite among DIYers for its smooth finish, self-leveling properties, and variety of colors. It’s especially appreciated for giving a more matte, modern finish compared to the chalkier texture of Annie Sloan. For best results, pairing it with a high-quality brush and sealing with furniture wax can enhance durability and achieve a professional look.
3. DIY Floating Shelves
Floating shelves are both practical and stylish, giving you a way to display decor, books, or plants. You can make them yourself with some simple materials like wooden planks and brackets. Whether you’re looking for extra storage in a kitchen or want to highlight a corner in your living room, floating shelves are an easy weekend project.
Why it works: Floating shelves make great use of vertical space and can instantly make a room feel more curated and polished without taking up floor space. In our toddler’s bathroom, they also help keep items up high and away from the bathtub, making the area both safer and more organized. This is especially useful for storing things like towels, toiletries, and bath toys, keeping them out of reach yet easily accessible.
Amazon – Floating Wall Shelves Set of 2
4. Use Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper for an Accent Wall
If you’re renting or just want a temporary change, peel-and-stick wallpaper is your best friend. It’s easy to apply and just as easy to remove, so you can experiment with bold patterns without a long-term commitment. Consider using it to create a focal point behind your bed or in your entryway.
Why it works: Peel-and-stick wallpaper lets you update a room with minimal effort, and because it’s removable, you can switch things up whenever you feel like it.
I haven’t yet tried this, but using Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper for an accent wall is one of the projects I hope to complete in the house. I love the idea because it offers flexibility in design, and the options I’m leaning toward are those with clean lines, subtle texture, and an aesthetic that complements the rest of the space. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is not only easy to apply and remove, but it also allows for a curated look without the long-term commitment. Plus, it’s perfect for adding a pop of style without overwhelming the room!
5. Swap Out Pillow Covers
Changing your pillow covers is a simple and affordable way to transform your living room or bedroom. Pillow covers come in endless designs, colors, and textures, making it easy to refresh the vibe of any space. Opt for seasonal patterns or colors to keep things interesting throughout the year.
Changing your pillow covers is a simple and affordable way to transform your living room or bedroom. Pillow covers come in endless designs, colors, and textures, making it easy to refresh the vibe of any space. Opt for seasonal patterns or colors to keep things interesting throughout the year.
Why it works: Pillow covers are easier to store and swap out than new pillows, and they instantly refresh the look of your space. Plus, using a larger pillow (about 2 inches bigger than the case) creates that perfect plush, fuller appearance, giving your pillows a cozy and inviting feel without extra bulk.
6. Paint Your Front Door
A bold front door can completely change the look of your home’s exterior. Whether you choose a vibrant color or something more muted, it’s an easy way to boost curb appeal without breaking the bank. For the best results, I recommend using a durable, weather-resistant paint that offers excellent coverage. Personally, I’ve had great experiences with Behr and Valspar paints, both of which provide excellent coverage. Just be sure to sand and prime beforehand for a flawless finish!
Why it works: Painting your front door is a small, high-impact project that can make your home feel more welcoming and refreshed.
7. Add DIY Wall-Mounted Planters
Bring some greenery into your home by creating wall-mounted planters. These can be made from wood, small pots, or even repurposed containers. They’re perfect for small plants like succulents or herbs and add a fresh, natural element to any room. You can hang them in your kitchen, living room, or even on your patio for a pop of greenery.
Why it works: Plants add life to a space and improve air quality, while wall-mounted planters save surface space and can be customized to fit any style.
8. Repurpose Mason Jars as Light Fixtures
Mason jars aren’t just for storing food—they make great DIY light fixtures. Whether you want to create a rustic chandelier or outdoor lighting, a mason jar can give your home a warm, vintage feel. Paired with Edison bulbs, these make a charming addition to your kitchen or outdoor patio.
Why it works: This project blends form and function. Mason jars add a rustic yet modern touch, and using Edison bulbs enhances the look with a vintage twist.
9. DIY Headboard from Pallets
If you’re a fan of the rustic farmhouse look, a DIY pallet headboard is the perfect addition to your bedroom. Pallets can often be sourced for free or cheaply, and with a little sanding and staining, you can create a statement piece that makes your bed feel more luxurious.
Why it works: Pallet headboards offer a high-end look on a budget, and they can be customized to fit the exact width of your bed.
Affiliate tip: Link to pallet wood, sandpaper, stain, and protective varnish.
10. Create Wall Art with Washi Tape
Washi tape is an inexpensive and versatile tool that can be used to create custom wall art. Whether you want to make geometric designs, create a faux frame, or even map out a city skyline, washi tape can be removed without damaging the wall. It’s a great way to experiment with design without commitment. HGTV has highlighted how washi tape can transform plain walls into creative canvases, offering endless possibilities for personalization. For visual inspiration, Crazy Laura also provides excellent examples of how to use washi tape to create fun and stylish wall decor.
Why it works: Washi tape is perfect for renters or anyone who wants to update their decor frequently without permanent changes. It’s easy to apply, reposition, and remove, allowing for constant creativity.
Whether you’re ready to tackle a major update or just want to add some small, thoughtful touches, there’s always a way to make your home feel more personal and inviting.
If you’re looking for more inspiration or tools to get started, stick around—I’ve got plenty more ideas to help you refresh your space!
