Choosing a style is an essential step in decorating a home. It helps create a cohesive look throughout the house and ensures that each room flows seamlessly into the next. One’s furniture and the era the home was built in can be used as a starting point to determine the most suitable style or aesthetic.
Every homeowner has a distinct style preference when it comes to decorating their home. Some prefer the urban chic look with industrial elements, while others opt for the Bohemian style with colorful carpets, plants, and books. In this article, readers will learn about the importance of finding their style and how it can help create a cohesive look throughout their home.
DIY Mirrored Closet Doors
Homeowners who want to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to their bedrooms or walk-in closets can opt for mirrored closet doors. However, purchasing and installing new mirrored closet doors can be expensive. A budget-friendly solution is a DIY mirrored closet door project. Here are the steps:
- Measure the size of the closet door frame and purchase mirrored glass that will fit the frame.
- Using a glass cutter, carefully cut the mirrored glass to fit the frame.
- Clean the frame and glass with a cloth to remove dust or debris.
- Apply mirror adhesive to the frame, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Carefully place the mirrored glass into the frame, ensuring it is aligned and level.
- Allow the adhesive to dry completely.
- Once the adhesive is dry, screw the frame back onto the closet door.
The materials required for this project are measuring tape, glass cutter, safety glasses, mirror adhesive, cloth, 2-3 sheets of mirrored glass, closet door frame, and screws. By following these simple steps, homeowners can create their own mirrored closet doors without breaking the bank.
Floors That Sparkle
If you’re tired of your scuffed-up floors, there’s a quick and easy solution. By using the paper, glue, and polyurethane trick, you can give your floors a brand new look. Simply drench paper in glue and artfully arrange it on your existing floor, then coat it in polyurethane. Once it dries, your floors will shine like they’ve been freshly varnished. It’s an affordable and effective way to update your home’s aesthetic.
Bathroom Vanity Update
Updating a bathroom vanity can be an easy and inexpensive way to give an outdated bathroom a fresh look. For houses built in the 1970s, a coat of paint and removing cabinet doors can make a big difference. To take it a step further, homeowners can choose between a marble or tile countertop. Both options are relatively inexpensive and add a touch of class to the bathroom.
Rope And Mirrors
For those who prefer a nautical theme, using rope to hang mirrors can create a unique boat-like design. Boating stores offer thick ropes that can be attached to the back of mirrors. This creates a porthole-like appearance in any room. The rope can be used to complement a blue and white color scheme, adding to the overall nautical aesthetic.
The Ladder Shoe Rack
A wooden ladder can be transformed into a functional shoe rack with the addition of some wooden shelves. This DIY project can be done easily and inexpensively. The ladder shoe rack can be placed in the front entrance way or bedroom, providing a beautiful and unique storage solution for shoes. It is a great way to repurpose an old ladder and add a touch of rustic charm to any room.
A Splash Of Color
A creative way to add some color to a room is to paint the sides of drawers. Although it may seem like an overlooked area, it can make a big difference when you open the drawers. This is especially fun for children’s rooms, where you can use a variety of colors to create a rainbow effect. It’s a simple and inexpensive way to add some personality to a room.
Shower Curtain Bows
Many people opt for metal or plastic shower rings to hold up their shower curtains. However, using ribbons tied into bows can be just as effective and add a touch of cuteness to the bathroom décor. To achieve this look, choose a ribbon that complements the bathroom color scheme and ensure that it is thin enough to fit through the holes in the curtain.
Screen Embroidery
Window and door screens can be transformed into creative and eye-catching designs with just some embroidery floss. A friendly message or colorful shape can be embroidered onto the screen wires to make it stand out. By carefully wrapping the floss around the wires, anyone passing by will admire the unique design. It’s an easy and fun way to add a personal touch to your home’s exterior.
Teapot Vases
Thrift stores offer a variety of items that can be turned into vases. Vintage teapots, with the lid removed, can be used for floral arrangements. To give a teapot an update, one can spray-paint it gold or silver. These colors go with everything and are currently in fashion. It is recommended to purchase a colorful bouquet to make the teapot vase stand out.
Frame Your Television
Many people prefer to use TV stands for their television, but a fireplace mantle can also serve as a great stand. However, simply placing the TV on the mantle will not give it a stylish look. To add a polished appearance, accessories such as candles and plants should be added.
To create a frame around the TV, one can use wood or other materials that match the mantle. This will require measuring tape and some tools to complete. The final product is worth the extra effort and adds a great touch to any living room.
Appliance Covers
If you want to give your fridge a new look without spending a lot of money on a new appliance, consider using stick-on wallpaper. With a plain or patterned design, you can easily apply the wallpaper to your fridge within minutes and transform it from average to fabulous. This is a cost-effective solution to update your kitchen’s look and feel.
The DIY Pedestal Sink
Pedestal sinks are a great way to give your bathroom a more expensive look without breaking the bank. One way to create a pedestal sink is to build a storage area from old metal piping or wood. This will give the sink a more elevated look and provide additional storage space for bathroom accessories like folded hand towels. Not only will this make your bathroom appear more organized, but it will also give it a more chic and modern look. Converting a wall-mounted sink into a pedestal sink is an easy DIY project that can be completed in just a few hours.
Add Peel and Stick Tiles to the Floor
Before starting with the installation of peel and stick tiles, it is important to clean the current floor and let it dry completely. Once the floor is ready, cut a tile in half using a utility knife after measuring and marking with a pencil. Score the tile a few times with a straight edge and utility knife, and then flex it to shatter uniformly for a clean cut.
Start installing the tiles along the rear wall and work your way through the design. Peel the backing off the tile and press it firmly onto the floor. Make sure to align the tiles properly as you move forward. It is recommended to avoid using tiles with Liquid Nails as they take a long time to dry. With peel and stick tiles, the process is straightforward and easy to follow.
New Door Knobs
Upgrading a room’s doorknob can be an easy way to add style and personality to a space. While many homes come with standard-issue doorknobs, there are a variety of options available to choose from. When selecting a new doorknob, it’s important to consider the overall style of the room and choose a knob that fits with that aesthetic. By making this small change, guests will take notice and appreciate the added touch of personality.
Create a Pallet Wall
To create a pallet wall, the first step is to ensure that the pallet wood is sanded and cleaned properly to avoid splinters. A power washer or a good brush and soapy water may be used to clean the wood. After washing and rinsing, allow the pallet wood to dry completely.
The typical method of installing a pallet wall involves screwing 14 kinds of wood into wall studs. However, instead of attaching some pallet boards to the wall studs, one may use brad nails and a nail gun to fasten pallet wood to the 1x4s. This method provides a more secure hold for the pallet wall.
To achieve a selection of various colored wood planks, there are a few different ways to go about it. The easiest method is to dye some of the wood. This will give the pallet wall a unique and personalized look.
Create a Herringbone Board and Batten at Home
To create a herringbone board and batten at home, start by placing a full-length board snugly in the upper left corner of the wall and attaching it with a finishing nailer. Cut a piece to fit the gap between the end of that board and the right side of the wall and install it tightly against the ceiling. Measure the wall’s length and split it in half. Trim the vertical board to fit between the baseboard and the ceiling piece.
To create the herringbone pattern, remove one end of a new board and cut a 30-degree angle. Mark where the board meets the following vertical board while holding it flush to one of the vertical boards. Cut and dry fit this board to ensure it fits snugly on both ends. Repeat this process until the wall is covered in the desired pattern.
After sanding and caulking, use a vacuum to gather sawdust and wipe off every nook and corner using a tack cloth. This will leave the wall looking clean and polished. With these simple steps, anyone can create a beautiful herringbone board and batten at home.
DIY Trellis Using PVC and Lattice
To make a durable and low-maintenance trellis, one can use PVC pipe, vinyl lattice, PVC elbows, screws, and a PVC cutter. The first step is to cut the PVC pipes into lengths and connect them using PVC elbows to form a rectangular frame. For a sturdier build, drilling holes and securing the joints with screws is recommended, especially in areas prone to severe weather conditions. This approach allows for easy disassembly and part replacement in the future.
The next step is to attach the vinyl lattice sheet to the PVC frame using screws to ensure it is securely fastened. Once assembled, the trellis can be placed in the garden by digging holes to secure it or leaning it against a stable surface. This versatile design can support various climbing plants such as vegetables and ornamental vines.
Tile Designs
Stenciling is an excellent way to transform an outdated linoleum floor. After painting the floor in a uniform shade, one can use a stencil to add character to it. The stencil can be chosen based on personal preference and can be used to create designs such as fleur-de-lis for a French feel or polka dots. Stenciling is a simple and cost-effective way to give a floor a new look without having to replace it entirely.
The Fancy Breakfast Island
A breakfast island is an essential component of most kitchens. However, not all islands are created equal. Some have intricate details and granite countertops, while others are more basic. To elevate the look of a basic island, one can add a corbel. These small details can be attached beneath the countertop overhang, and there is a wide range of colors and shapes available to achieve a classic French or rustic appearance. With the addition of a corbel, a basic island can be transformed into a chic and sophisticated centerpiece of the kitchen.
A Multi-Level Balcony Garden
For apartment dwellers with balconies, creating a garden area is easy. Using planks of different sizes, one can build planter boxes and place them at various levels around the balcony. By planting flowers and herbs that creep over the edges of boxes and grow quickly, one can create a lovely area to relax in. Mint and lavender are great options for a calming aroma. With a multi-level balcony garden, one can have a paradise to sit in and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee. This is a great way to add some greenery to an apartment and create a peaceful outdoor space.
Elevate Your Bathroom Window with a Chic DIY Design
Transform your bathroom window into a stunning focal point with this elegant outdoor decorative screen panel. Measuring 32″ in width and 4′ in height, this panel can be customized to fit your window perfectly.
To begin, cut four pieces of pine wood to match the internal dimensions of your window, subtracting 1/8″ to ensure smooth opening and closing of the frame. Use a router to create a consistent depth groove on all four pieces. For a polished finish, route the edges as well.
This waterproof, paintable, and warp-resistant screen panel is 0.25″ thick and offers incredible durability. Follow these instructions to ensure the perfect fit:
- Use a Kreg jig to create pocket holes and screw the frame parts together.
- Place the frame onto the panel, ensuring that no birds are cut off.
- Sketch two lines around the inner edge of the frame: one for the frame itself and another for the cut line, taking into account the groove depth.
- Carefully cut along the external line you marked using a fine-tooth blade on a slow-moving jigsaw.
- Disassemble one end of the frame and insert the panel to verify the fit.
- Remove the panel, paint the frame, and let it dry.
- Reconstruct the frame by sliding the panel back in and attaching the hinges to the frame and window.
With patience and attention to detail, you can create a beautiful and unique DIY design for your bathroom window.
Upgrade Your Bathroom Ambiance with a Sophisticated Black Shower Curtain and Silk Drapes
Transforming your bathroom into a luxurious sanctuary can be easy with a simple DIY project. By incorporating a black shower curtain and silk drapes, you can create an elegant and sophisticated ambiance. Here are the steps to achieve this stylish look:
- Measure the width of your shower space to ensure that the silk curtains will cover it properly. Depending on the dimensions of your shower, you may need to trim the silk curtains to match the width of the shower curtain rod. Leave some extra fabric for a relaxed, billowing drape.
- Choose an appropriate height for your shower curtain rod that will entirely conceal the shower area while accommodating the length of the silk curtains.
- Fasten the black shower curtain to the curtain rings or hooks. Make sure the curtain is evenly distributed and presents a uniform appearance across the full width of the rod.
- Guide the curtain rings or hooks through the silk curtains, ensuring an equal spread of fabric. Affix the silk curtains to the new shower curtain rod, situating it in front of the black curtain. This layered arrangement generates depth and exudes opulence.
By following these simple steps, you can upgrade your bathroom’s ambiance and create a high-end sanctuary. The black shower curtain and silk drapes work together to create a sophisticated and elegant look that will leave you feeling relaxed and pampered.
A Quick and Easy Guide to Door Painting
To give your front door a new look without spending too much, follow this DIY painting guide. You will need a quart of front door paint, painter’s tape, aluminum foil, q-tips, rubbing alcohol, and a suitable primer. Additionally, you will need any front door paint, drop cloth, paintbrushes, clean rags, stir sticks, and a step stool.
Here are the steps to follow for a successful door makeover:
- Start with the edges. It is important to give them enough time to dry. The edge you paint first depends on the direction of your door swings.
- If your door has raised or sunken panels, paint the reveals next. These are the molded edges around the panels.
- After the edges, move on to the panels. Use smooth up-and-down brush strokes for a polished finish.
- If there are any additional decorative elements, like a shelf, paint them next.
- Next, tackle the horizontal cross pieces, working from the top down.
- Lastly, paint the vertical pieces for straight and uninterrupted brush strokes.
After completing the first coat, wait for an hour before repeating the process for the second coat. Once the door is fully painted, let it dry for a few hours. Your door will now have a chic, revamped look!
The Rustic Wooden Blanket Ladder
For those who are space conscious, a blanket ladder is a great idea to save storage space. Making a rustic-looking wooden blanket ladder is easy. First, decide how many rungs you want it to have, and measure the height of the vertical pieces accordingly. Sand the wood to avoid any pesky splinters, then put the ladder together. You can stain the wood to match the rest of your decor or paint it if you want it to be bright and colorful. With this ladder, you can hang blankets, towels, or even clothes. It’s a versatile and stylish addition to any room.
Transform Your French Doors with Sleek Integral Blinds
Integral blinds are a great way to add a touch of sophistication to your French doors. With a few simple steps, you can have a sleek and modern look that will transform your home. Here’s a quick DIY guide to help you get started.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Measure Tape
- Integral Blinds
- Rubber Gasket
- Glass Cleaner
- Screwdriver
Step 1: Measure the Glass Panels
Start by measuring the glass panels on your French doors. Make sure to measure twice to ensure accuracy before ordering your integral blinds. The blinds need to fit perfectly within the glass panes for a smooth, sophisticated look.
Step 2: Clean the Glass Panes
Before you start installing, clean the glass panes thoroughly with a glass cleaner. A clean surface is crucial for flawless fitting.
Step 3: Install the Integral Blinds
Now comes the exciting part – the installation! Place the integral blinds on the inner side of the French doors.
Step 4: Secure the Blinds
Secure the blinds in place using a rubber gasket and a screwdriver. This will ensure that they stay in place and operate smoothly.
Step 5: Check the Operation
Once the blinds are installed and secured, it’s time to check if they’re operating smoothly. They should slide up and down with ease, offering you complete control over light and privacy.
By following these simple steps, you can transform your French doors with sleek integral blinds.
DIY Plastic Barrel Planter
Transforming plain plastic barrels into charming planters is easy with this DIY project. To start, cut the top off the barrel or cut it in half to make two smaller planters. Next, drill holes for drainage and add skids. Then, cover with wooden slats using a brad nailer for a unique planter. For the rim/top, cut and cover them with contrasting wooden slats.
To add a decorative touch, cut 8 pieces of scrap wood to form an octagonal topper and secure it with brads and glue. Cover the drainage holes with a mesh screen to prevent dirt from falling through. Finally, add an inch of pebbles at the bottom for proper drainage.
Materials needed for this project include a plastic barrel, 1/8″ to 1/4″ wood planks, brad nails, mesh screen, and 1″ thick scrap wood (for risers). Tools required include a jig saw, cordless drill, miter saw, brad nailer, and hammer. This DIY project is a great way to recycle used barrels and add a pop of color to your outdoor space.
DIY Seat Cushion (sewing required)
To create a custom bench cushion, start by cutting high-density foam to fit your bench dimensions, leaving half an inch of room. Use an electric knife for easier cutting. Next, select quality upholstery fabric from trusted sources like Tonic Living. Cut the top, bottom, and side pieces of fabric, adding a 5/8″ seam allowance. To add a zipper, cut an extra strip for the back, sew in the zipper, and then hide it under a fabric flap for a clean look.
For a professional-looking edge, create your own cording by cutting fabric strips on the bias and sewing them around a cord. Lay your cut fabric pieces face down on the foam, insert the cording, and pin everything in place. Sew the pieces together, ensuring the cording and fabric seams align neatly. The result is a removable, washable bench cushion with a clean, polished look.
Remember to use quality materials and take your time with each step to ensure the best results. With a little bit of sewing know-how, anyone can create a custom bench cushion that will elevate their space and provide comfortable seating.
DIY Privacy Window Screen
Upgrade your windows with a DIY privacy window screen that requires no professional skills. To begin, gather simple tools and materials, including plywood or budget-friendly pine strips, sheer fabric (such as lining fabric or muslin), a jigsaw or another cutting tool, rotary cutter or scissors, cutting mat, tape measure and ruler or straight edge, paint and stencil, and a glue gun or spray adhesive.
Start by measuring the window’s width and the desired height for the privacy panel using a tape measure. Cut the plywood or pine strips to size with the measurements in hand using a jigsaw or another cutting tool. After cutting the wood, test-fit the pieces together before securing them with glue or nails to ensure that the pieces fit snugly but not too tightly.
Next, prepare the sheer fabric by cutting it to the correct size and applying your chosen stencil design using paint and a stencil. Attach the fabric to the frame with a glue gun or spray adhesive. Finally, install your new privacy screen in the window and make adjustments as needed for a perfect fit. Enjoy the fresh look it brings to your space!
Craft a Simple Window Curtain
Creating a custom door-window curtain is a simple and straightforward DIY project that can add sophistication to any area. To get started, gather the necessary materials, including fabric, thread, a sewing machine, scissors, measuring tape, and an iron.
The first step is to measure your door’s window to determine the amount of fabric needed. Be sure to add extra inches to the length and width for hemming and creating a rod pocket. Once you have the correct measurements, cut the fabric to size.
Next, hem the edges of the fabric using a sewing machine to prevent fraying. Fold the edge about 1/2 inch and sew a straight stitch along the edge.
After hemming, create the rod pocket by folding the top fabric edge about 3 inches and ironing it down. Fold it over again approximately 2 inches and iron it down. Sew a straight stitch along the pocket’s bottom edge to create a channel for the curtain rod.
Finally, hang your curtain on a tension or small curtain rod that fits your door’s window, adjusting the folds as desired. To add a personal touch, consider incorporating decorative accents like tassels or ribbon.
Crafting a simple window curtain is an easy and affordable way to add style and sophistication to any area. With just a few materials and some basic sewing skills, anyone can create a custom curtain that perfectly fits their door’s window.
Updated Ventilation Ducts
To give a room a more modern look, one can update the air vent cover. This can be achieved by purchasing wooden slats and painting them white. The slats can then be nailed onto a frame and placed over the old air vent. This will create a more stylish and updated ventilation area. This is a simple and cost-effective solution to improve the look of your home’s central air conditioning or heating system. By updating the air vent cover, one can create a more modern and appealing atmosphere in any room.
No-Sew Window Seat Cushion
Creating a comfortable and stylish window seat cushion doesn’t have to involve sewing. With just a few simple steps, anyone can create a custom cushion for their bench. First, measure the bench with a measuring tape, permanent marker, and ruler, and then use those measurements to cut a piece of foam with an electric bread knife.
Next, place the foam on top of the fabric and wrap the fabric around the foam, trimming any excess fabric as needed. Finally, secure the fabric with Fabric Velcro, just like wrapping a present. The result is a beautiful and comfortable cushion that requires no sewing. This method is perfect for those who want to create a cushion without any sewing skills.
Make a Floating Shelf Using Plywood
To make a floating shelf using plywood, the first step is to mark the studs in the back and side walls with a pencil. After marking, connect them to the wall, starting with the side supports, and secure them with 3′′ sheetrock screws. Once the side supports are in place, add the rear support.
With the concealed supports in place, cut the two outer shelf sections. The length of the shelf will depend on the length of the back wall, so make a gentle cut accordingly. Cut the inner spacers to create two boards that are 4″ shorter than the length of the shelf. Cut a 1″ x 4″ board to the length of the shelf and then tear it to the shelf thickness.
Attach all the parts with wood glue and brad nails. With these steps, a floating shelf made of plywood is ready to use.
Paint the Tile Backsplash in Your Kitchen
Painting the tile backsplash in your kitchen can be a cost-effective way to update the look of your kitchen. However, it is not a quick and easy task, and it requires proper preparation, attention to detail, and the right products to ensure a successful outcome.
The following steps can guide you through the process of painting your kitchen tiles:
- Clean the tiles thoroughly with TSP or a tile degreaser to remove any dirt, grime, or grease.
- Sand the tiles with 220-grit sandpaper to ensure a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to.
- Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas that you don’t want to paint, such as the grout lines.
- Apply tile paint to your tiles using a roller or brush, following the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times between coats.
- Once the paint is dry, apply a clear topcoat sealer to protect the paint and add durability.
- Allow the sealer to dry completely before removing the painter’s tape.
It is important to note that painting kitchen tiles may not be a permanent solution and may impact your property’s value. Additionally, it may not be suitable for high-traffic areas or areas exposed to water or heat. Therefore, it is always best to consult with a professional before starting any DIY project.
In summary, painting the tile backsplash in your kitchen can be a great way to refresh the look of your kitchen. By following the proper preparation and application steps, you can achieve a successful outcome. However, it is important to consider the potential impact on your property’s value and consult with a professional before starting the project.
Venetian Blinds
Venetian blinds are a type of fabric blinds that are popular for their chic and stylish look. They can be easily made at home with a long piece of fabric, evenly spaced holes, and some string. These blinds are designed to pull up for a slightly gathered look, making them perfect for any room in the house. With their ease of construction and fashionable appearance, Venetian blinds are a great choice for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their home decor.
Change the Furniture into something new
The nook’s walls were painted with a blend of Cast Iron and Pewter Green by Sherwin-Williams to give it a dramatic green hue. The seat was made with a combination of new and old timber, while a re-covered floor mattress was repurposed to serve as a cushion. New covers were bought for the pillows, and repurposed baskets were placed to complement the decor. Eye-catching lighting was added to the nook to give it a fresh look. The Hudson Valley Lighting fixture was obtained for free in exchange for images and coverage on the blogger’s website, which helped keep the renovation cost under $100. With these simple changes, the whole closet was transformed into a new and inviting space.
Modernize The Staircase With Paint
Updating a staircase can be a costly endeavor. However, with the right materials and techniques, it can be done inexpensively. For staircases made of real wood, stripping the varnish and staining the wood a darker color can give it a fresh and modern look. Additionally, painting the newel posts and balustrades white can create a striking contrast between the stained and painted portions, adding an extra touch of elegance to the staircase. By using these methods, homeowners can elevate their staircase’s style without breaking the bank.
DIY: Easy Burlap Shades
Looking for a budget-friendly way to add a touch of rustic charm to your home? Look no further than this DIY Burlap Shades guide!
To get started, grab your sewing machine and some upholstery-grade burlap. All-cotton Natural Burlap is recommended for its durability and natural aesthetic. Cut roughly a yard of burlap per window from a 40-inch wide bolt, and sew the burlap into the shape of your window, leaving a slight overhang on all sides for an elegant drop.
Next, use a spring-loaded curtain rod to hold your burlap shade in place. The Levolor 18- to 28-Inch Spring Tension Rods are budget-friendly and practical.
To add weight and a professional finish to your shade, attach a 3/8-inch wooden dowel to the bottom of each shade. Home Depot’s Four-Foot-Long Hardwood Dowels are just the right size.
For a stylish touch, fasten a 1 1/2-inch brass ring at the top of each shade. These rings not only serve a functional purpose, but also bring a chic, vintage feel to your shades. Use a robust topstitching thread for this task.
Finally, tie it all together with Solid Brass Rope Cleats. Secure one to the wall near each window, and loop your burlap shades onto them when you want to let in that morning sunshine.
With less than $20 per window, you can transform your window spaces with these easy DIY Burlap Shades.