Are you looking to upgrade your home on a budget? Believe it or not, it’s possible to give your living space a luxurious look without spending a fortune. With these easy DIY home projects, you can achieve a designer look for less than $100. From transforming blank walls to creating custom decor, here are ten projects that will make your home look stunning.
1. Create a Statement Wall with Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper
Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a quick and affordable way to add character to any room. It’s perfect for renters or those hesitant about permanent changes, as it’s easily removable. Choose a bold pattern or sophisticated texture to add depth to a living room, bedroom, or hallway. Installation is straightforward, and most rolls cover around 30 square feet, meaning you can transform a wall for less than $100. This simple addition will instantly make your space feel stylish and unique.
2. Build a Floating Shelf Display
Floating shelves can turn any blank wall into an artful display. Choose unfinished wood for a rustic look or paint the shelves to match your decor style. Arrange them in creative ways to showcase books, plants, or decorative items, giving your home a curated look. You can easily install these shelves yourself with minimal tools and hardware. Floating shelves add both functionality and beauty, making them a fantastic DIY choice.
3. Transform Cabinets with New Hardware
Swapping out cabinet hardware is an easy DIY project that makes a noticeable difference. Stylish knobs and pulls are available in various designs, from modern to vintage, and cost less than $5 each. This small upgrade can give your kitchen or bathroom a fresh look without the hassle of painting or refinishing. Choose hardware that complements your home’s style for a coordinated effect. This project is quick, with only a screwdriver needed, and offers a big visual payoff.
4. Paint a Furniture Piece with Chalk Paint
Chalk paint can revive tired furniture, giving it a chic, matte finish. You can repaint a small dresser, nightstand, or side table with one quart of chalk paint, costing under $25. Chalk paint requires no sanding or priming, making it ideal for beginners. Choose a color that complements your decor and apply two coats for a polished, high-end look. This easy DIY project adds character and charm to any room, creating a focal piece without breaking the bank.
5. Make a Custom Headboard from Plywood
Creating a custom headboard is simpler and cheaper than you might think. A sheet of plywood cut to size, some foam padding, fabric, and a staple gun are all you need. Choose a fabric that suits your style—linen for a minimalist look, velvet for something plush and glamorous. This personalized piece will add elegance to your bedroom and look much more expensive than it is. With a few hours of work, you’ll have a standout headboard that enhances your bed.
6. Add Wall Molding for an Elegant Touch
Wall molding can make any room look sophisticated and custom-built. Pre-made molding kits are available at most hardware stores, and installation only requires a miter saw and adhesive. You can create frames, panels, or wainscoting patterns on walls to add depth and texture. Paint the molding the same color as the wall for a subtle effect or in contrasting tones for a bold look. This classic addition will make your room look high-end and carefully designed.
7. Hang a DIY Pendant Light Fixture
Light fixtures can make a big impact on a room’s ambiance. You can find affordable pendant lights online, or even DIY one with a kit, some wire, and a unique shade. Position the pendant over a dining table or in an entryway to make a statement. Pendant lights add warmth and style, turning a simple room into a sophisticated space. This project can be completed in under an hour and immediately elevates the room’s aesthetic.
8. Create an Indoor Herb Garden with Recycled Jars
An indoor herb garden adds freshness and life to any kitchen. Use recycled glass jars, attach them to a piece of wood or a metal rack, and fill them with soil and your favorite herbs. Hang the setup on a wall near sunlight, and you’ll have fresh herbs right at your fingertips. Not only does it look charming, but it’s also practical for cooking and adds greenery to your space. This DIY project is easy to maintain and costs very little, especially if you reuse jars.
9. Build a Coffee Table from Wooden Crates
A crate coffee table is an affordable project with a rustic charm. Wooden crates can be found at craft stores or online for under $10 each. Arrange four crates in a square shape, secure them together, and add wheels or furniture pads for mobility. You can leave the wood natural or paint it to match your decor. The final result is a custom coffee table with built-in storage that looks store-bought but costs a fraction of the price.
10. Craft a Stylish Mirror Frame
Adding a unique frame to a plain mirror gives it a designer look. You can use wood trim, rope, or even metallic spray paint to create a custom frame. Attach the frame securely around the mirror and hang it in a hallway, bathroom, or bedroom to make the space feel larger and more elegant. This DIY project is quick and affordable but adds significant style to your home. A framed mirror is a small touch that brings a big payoff in visual appeal.
Transform Your Home on a Budget with DIY Projects
These easy DIY home projects show that creating a stylish home doesn’t have to be expensive. With a little creativity and effort, you can make your space look polished and personalized for under $100 per project. Each of these ideas brings its unique flair, whether you’re sprucing up a wall, revamping furniture, or adding functional decor. Try one—or all!—to see how these simple upgrades can make a big difference. Happy DIY-ing!