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Decor Ideas | DIY Home Ideas | Paint Ideas | Shelving | Wall and Ceiling | Woodworking
ByErin Nutter Updated on
From painting projects to simple DIY home decor projects, these home DIY ideas are a great way to update your home. We love budget-friendly DIY home projects and hope this list will inspire you to dust off those painting supplies or tools.
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What does DIY stand for?
DIY can mean do-it-yourself and depending on your abilities this could mean a lot of different things for different people. Home DIY projects are the perfect way to help you update your home decor on a budget. Just be careful as there are some DIY projects that are best left to the professionals.
What is the best cheap DIY home improvement project?
Hands down our favorite way to makeover rooms is with paint. Go beyond just painting walls. Look at ceilings, moldings, and cabinets, too.
Learn from our experience that the cheapest paint is not always the best paint. Buying quality paint for your DIY home projects will always save you money in the long run.
What are some good DIY home improvement projects?
- Paint your cabinets (bathroom, kitchen, anywhere)
- Paint your trim and molding
- Redo your fireplace cover
- Whitewash brick
- Paint Your Fireplace
- Add no sew curtains to your living room
- Change out blinds
- Paint walls
- Paint flooring (we have seen some cool flooring stencil ideas)
- Add new artwork
- Hang a gallery wall
- Redo your kitchen backsplash or paint it
- Add outdoor seating
- Update old planters
- Create closet shelving
- Paint your oak railing two different colors
- Add shelving to bathrooms
- Paint an accent wall
- Use Ikea spice racks for shelving
- Change light fixtures (our favorite capiz shell light fixture really made our kitchen)
- Use upper stock cabinets to create new storage solutions
- Change light bulbs to all match and give the same “glow”
- Powerwash the outside of your house or use a DIY cleaner
- Declutter inside, create labels and a new storage container
- Add a new mirror to the bathrooms
- Replace cabinet hardware (or just clean it)
- Turn a closet into a mudroom
- Build coat hooks to create a “drop off-center” near your entryway
- Upcycle a flea market or thrift store find
- Organize your closet by taking everything out and putting back only what you need
- Use contact paper to makeover furniture (see file cabinet below), redo countertops or use on walls as removable wallpaper
- Paint your mailbox
55+ Easy DIY Home Improvement Projects
Nothing says being a homeowner like spending your weekends doing DIY home improvement projects.
The good news is that all DIY home decor projects have to be hard. Here are 50+ DIY ideas for the home you will want to consider the next time you feel like picking up a paintbrush or a hammer.
DIY Paint Projects
It is no secret that we think paint projects are the best way to add a new look to your space. Use paint to showcase your personal style. From painting a blank wall to other surfaces you wouldn't think to paint, it is an easy way to make a big difference in your home.
1
Paint A Tile Backsplash In Your Kitchen
Did you know you can paint that old tile backsplash? We are still shocked that this project was completed over a weekend and looks so good. Beginners can do this simple DIY project following our step-by-step guide and quick video tutorial.
2
Whitewash A Brick Fireplace
If you love your brick fireplace but not the color, whitewashing may be for you. This DIY may only take you a few hours as long your brick is in good condition.
Learn how to cheaply update your brick with diluted white paint. We search high and low to make sure used the best products that will last.
3
Make Faux Wallpaper
If you don't want the hassle or mess of installing wallpaper consider making your own using a paint pen. Create an accent wall anywhere in your home during the afternoon. Everyone will be amazed that you were able to create a fun focal point for under $10!
4
Use Spray Paint On Anything
From old hardware to picture frames and more, spray paint can give you the pop of color that you want. There are so many great ideas and creative ways to add your personal touch with a variety of spray paint ideas.
You can see how we gave new life to this old metal tanker desk by using teal spray paint.
5
Paint White Cabinets
We are huge fans of getting rid of that 90's honey oak color. You can see that at first, we updated with white paint and then decided to add a bold cabinet color as the years went on.
6
Repaint Painted Cabinets
Are you sick of the same boring kitchen island? Painting it with a fun and bold color can really modernize your kitchen. This island color is so great that it inspired the next DIY project below.
7
Paint Lower Kitchen Cabinets
We loved our green kitchen island so much that inspired our next weekend project. The two-toned cabinet painting trend makes this project doable on a weekend (at least the painting part).
We always recommend letting the cabinet doors cure as long as possible before putting it all back together.
8
Paint Bathroom Vanity Cabinets
Seriously these oak cabinets look amazing now. Due to the size of this bathroom cabinet, this really wasn't that bad of a weekend painting project.
Add new hardware and you will feel like you completely transformed the small bathroom without breaking the bank.
9
There is no need to replace your whole bathroom vanity if your cabinets are in good shape. Use the painting step-by-step tutorial listed in the above link and just get a premade counter to truly create a new look. This finished bathroom is one of our favorite home DIY ideas.
10
Update your staircase this weekend by using two different colors or paint. We just love how we were able to update our staircase in this weekend's do-it-yourself project.
11
Terracotta Flower Pot Makeovers
This is a quick and easy DIY painting project for your outdoor spaces! Get the whole family involved.
No one wants to pay for designer flower pots and planters! These 29+ DIY flower pot painting ideas mainly use acrylic paint to help decorate your outdoor space the way you want.
12
Paint A Different Neutral Color
Think outside the box when picking a light neutral color to help brighten your home. Livable Green by Sherwin Williams is just that color for us.
13
Gray Paint Is Always A Great Starting Point
And if you are looking for a gray paint color here is a great post about some of the most popular gray paints from Sherwin Williams (and a few uncommon ones you may want to consider).
14
Paint A Fun Accent Wall
Do you want to easily add some fun personality to a space? Accent walls (here are 20 awesome accent wall ideas) add character to any room.
Even this complex wall was done on a weekend. You can use painter's tape for all sorts of designs. We know that kids' rooms are a great place to have some fun and think outside the box.
15
Use Chalkboard Paint
Create a unique wall mural in your home using chalkboard paint. This chalkboard wall idea used a frame design to give each child a place to put their awesome drawings.
Beginners can easily use chalkboard paint on walls or other home accessories. Just make sure you "prime" the freshly painted wall before drawing with chalk.
16
Upcycle Furniture With DIY Chalk Paint
Have an old piece of furniture? Consider making your own DIY chalk paint to help upcycle or repurpose it.
17
Paint A Red Brick Fireplace White
White paint easily can update and transform your old brick fireplace. Create a modern farmhouse look that all your friends will be asking about.
18
Paint Your Fireplace Mantel
White paint can add a fresh look to any surface and your fireplace mantel or surround is no exception.
19
Paint A Bold Color In Your Bedroom
Find the best navy blue paint color for your space. A fresh coat of paint in Indigo Batik was exactly what this bedroom needed to feel fresh again.
20
Bathroom Accent Wall Ideas
A bathroom accent wall can add a lot of personality to your small space. We absolutely love how this paint marker wall turned out for under $10! Click the button to find more of our favorite accent walls you can try no matter what your style is.
21
Spray Paint Marbling Tutorial
Use that leftover spray paint and create unique one of kind home items. This spray paint marbling tutorial will show you all you need to know for this fun process.
22
Paint Cabinet Hardware For An Updated Look
Have you changed your home decor style? Make your newly painted hardware last with our tips.
23
Paint A Decorative Metal Mailbox
Stand out in your neighborhood with a unique mailbox. Okay, we know that this one might be only for Van Halen fans, but a fresh coat of paint will help improve your curb appeal easily.
DIY Organization, Storage Space and Declutter Ideas
You always feel better after decluttering and organizing. Sometimes it can be as simple as creating a place for things to go. Here are some DIY home organization projects to try.
24
Use stock cabinets (painted of course) and farmhouse brackets to give yourself extra storage in your laundry room. The extra height from the cabinets made this worth adding to your DIY to-do list.
25
Add Cheap Built-in Storage With Stock Cabinets
Create a unique storage solution for your home by using stock upper cabinets to create extra storage for any room in your home.
26
Build A DIY Pegboard To Easily Get Organized
Build a large pegboard to help keep your garage, craft room or basem*nt organized. Use your own DIY containers or buy cute craft cups to keep your garage or craft supplies organized.
Make A DIY Wooden Shoe Organizer
Are you sick of all the shoes laying around your entryway or garage. This simple wooden shoe rack can help everyone finally have a place for their shoes.
28
Turn A Closet into a DIY Mudroom
Do you have any entryway closet that never gets used? Here we used one of our favorite medium colors to repaint this DIY mudroom idea.
29
Build Easy Small Closet Shelves in a Weekend
Add simple wood shelving into that small closet for a custom storage option. These DIY shelves were built to store games and more for our family.
30
Build A DIY Wood Floating Desk With Simple Brackets
Use your space wisely by building your own DIY desk. Now your children can each have their own workspace without bothering the others.
31
DIY Basem*nt Waterproofing (before organizing that closet)
This might not be the most glamorous DIY home improvement project. but you will have peace of mind knowing that you are helping keep your basem*nt dry. Please note that if you have severe water problems, it is probably best to call a professional to help you out.
32
Redo Your Basem*nt Closet
Doesn't everyone have a craft supply closet? If not, this weekend might be the time to make one using wood and farmhouse brackets. Consider taking the doors off the closet to create a more open space.
33
Make A DIY Storage Crate on Wheels
Turn old pallet wood into an awesome storage crate for your home. Add wheels and customize to make it any size you want.
34
DIY PVC Shoe Rack Storage Idea
Don't want to build an elaborate wooden shoe organizer? Consider using large PVC pipes to get a custom shoe rack to fit your needs.
35
Make DIY Storage Boxes
Do you get a lot of brown boxes sent to your house (don't worry we won't tell). Repurpose those boxes by covering them with cloth and add fun rope or other elements. Great for storage and the environment.
Need more repurposing ideas? Check this list of 31+ DIY projects out.
36
Redo An Old File Cabinet
This cute file cabinet makeover was done using spray paint and contact paper. We just love the fresh and modern-looking file cabinet. This is a true cheap furniture makeover.
37
Create A DIY Memory Box
Nothing says clutter in your home like papers from school and beyond. Save all those memories and projects in an organized file box for your little ones.
38
Build A Bathroom Shelf Over Your Toliet
Yes, there is another painted accent wall you could check out. Add bathroom shelves or new DIY artwork over your toilet this weekend.
39
Build Reclaimed Wood Rustic Bathroom Shelving
Once you build shelves for one room, you may just want to keep going. Here is a way to use that old reclaimed wood to create another pipe bathroom shelf.
40
Build A DIY Corner Shelf For Under Your Mounted TV
Are you sick of seeing wires around your mounted television. This corner shelf is the perfect DIY solution to help you hide those wires while still having a place for your cable box and DVD player (yes...we said, DVD player).
41
DIY Art Shadow Box Frame With Storage
These shadow box frames have been a game-changer for us. Not only do they display our children's artworks, but they also easily store artworks. You will be happy once you build these DIY frames.
42
Create A Kid's Craft Room
Create a specific place in your home for your child's creativity to run wild. You will be amazed at what they can create when given the freedom to do so.
DIY Cleaning Ideas
After you build shelves and declutter you want to try some these DIY cleaning ideas for your home using items you probably already have.
43
How To Easily Clean Carpet On Stairs
The next time you notice your stairs looking a little dingy consider a good DIY cleaning. You can use homemade cleaners or a large steamer to get a fresh and clean feel.
44
Homemade Composite Deck Cleaner (Eco-Friendly)
We all want a nice clean outdoor space to relax in. Get tips on how to get rid of mold and algae this Spring.
45
Best Homemade Vinyl Siding Cleaner (Eco-Friendly)
Use a similar method to easily clean your vinyl siding. See our experience with using this cleaner to get rid of grime and dirt.
Easy Ways To Add DIY Wall Art
Sometimes you feel better just hanging something on the wall in your home. Truly create a space you love and one that showcases those memories.
46
DIY Easy Kid Art Displays
This art display idea is way simpler. By reusing pallet wood you can easily make an art display to show off your child's creativity.
Here are 18+ DIY art display ideas you may want to try soon!
47
Add Fun Shelves To A Baby Nursery
Use Ikea spice racks to add fun and cheap DIY shelving to a child's room. Not only will these shelves help you stay organized but they can act as easy wall decor. Get other DIY baby nursery shelf ideas here.
48
Create A DIY Picture Wall
Use a mixture of kid artworks and adults to create a fun picture wall in your home. You can mix and match frames or keep to one style. The choice is yours. Here are 12+ other picture wall ideas you want to check out.
49
Large DIY Word String Art Idea
Are you in need of large artwork for a playroom or child's bedroom and you don't want to pay the expensive prices for large artworks? Why not create your own string art with an inspiring or personalized message to hang on the walls.
50
Hang A Grid Gallery Wall
Showcase your family in matching frames. We love how this 9 grid square picture wall turned out. We will always cherish the memories in this black and white photo wall.
51
Create A DIY Word Canvas Art
Short on time but want a simple artwork idea. This word canvas idea is the perfect way to create a personalized artwork easily.
Other DIY Home Ideas
Sometimes a certain product or home idea can make a huge impact on your home.
52
Update Your Drop Ceiling
Get rid of those dated drop ceiling tiles and replace them with new vinyl covers. We could not believe how much brighter our basem*nt become with this simple home improvement project.
53
Install A Modern Backsplash
We are fans of painting things, but sometimes you can upgrade a space by not painting. This kitchen is a great example of DIY kitchen ideas you can do to update oak kitchen cabinets without painting.
54
Install Easy Peel and Stick Flooring
You won't believe that this half bath's floor was redone for under $40. Get rid of your dated floor and learn how to install peel and stick flooring for an upgraded look. We are happy to finally not have carpet in the bathroom anymore.
DIY FAQs
What is Home DIY?
Home DIY (do-it-yourself) refers to home improvement projects that you tackle yourself. There are many advantages to learning how to improve your home on your own.
When should you not DIY?
If you are lacking the skills, tools or patience for a DIY project then it is best to leave it up to the professionals. We like to leave plumbing, electrical and structural changes to professionals with proper insurance and guarantees.
Is DIY becoming more popular?
Youtube, blogs and DIY websites are helping people feel confident to tackle home DIY projects on their own. According to Yahoo, there is an expected “growth ofUSD 121.47 billionbetween 2021 and 2026.” A combination of access to knowledge, some people staying home more, more DIY home decor items such as ready-to-assemble furniture, and new DIY products (such as specialty paint kits) all have contributed to this expected growth.
Are DIY projects cheaper?
Most of the time, DIY projects will save you money. However, there are times when it may end up costing you more due to a lack of knowledge or buying power of materials. The biggest advantage to do-it-yourself home improvement projects is that you are able to customize your project for your home while using better materials.
More DIY Inspiration
- 14 Painted Bathroom Vanity Ideas: there is a color for your next bathroom cabinet makeover.
- 9 Fun Marbling Craft Ideas: learn all the different ways to create a faux marble effect for budget-friendly home decor items.
- Easy DIY Bathroom Remodel Ideas: this whole bathroom renovation was completed for under $300!
- 14 DIY Fireplace Remodel Ideas: #6 is our favorite
- 40+ Homemade Shelves
Follow us on Pinterest, Youtube or Facebook for more DIY inspiration!
DIY home ideas and simple updates can add value to your home while not breaking your budget. Even beginners can gain confidence by tackling easy ideas first. There is nothing better than giving our space a whole new look on your own.
Erin Nutter
Erin Nutter is the DIY enthusiast, writer and photographer behind TheDIYNuts.com. She loves sharing her passion for do-it-yourself projects along with her husband, Eric. As an artist, mother, and lover of all things DIY she hopes to inspire you to be creative to make a life and home you love.
