Nothing beats redecorating a room and feeling like you've walked into a brand-new house. For a fresh look that's easy on your wallet, we've rounded up some clever ideas for decorating on a budget that don't skimp on style. Whether you're looking for DIY projects to spruce up your living room or tips for kitchen remodel ideas that won't break the bank, this list has it all. Many of these projects are ones that people of any skill level can tackle, from decorating with items you already have (such as creative ways to arrange your glassware) to painting thrifted chairs or tables (if you've never done it before, check out how to paint furniture first).
Before you head out to buy something new, see if there's something on this list that inspires you. Maybe you'll decide to DIY your own wallpaper (hint, use paint!) or turn an old ladder into a makeshift shelving unit. If you're still itching for something new, there are tips for finding cheaper options, such as opting for removable wallpaper or buying a bistro table instead of a full kitchen table. So before you start your renovations, take a look at these ingenious tricks for decorating on a budget.
Shelves Over Cabinets
In this kitchen, the cabinetry is contained to just the lower half of the room, while shelves and hanging rails are used in place of cabinets up top.
Recycled Barn Wood Bench
The bench in this mudroom was made with a piece of old barn wood painted white. A fix like this is not only low-cost, but also simple to create.
Salvaged Kitchen Chairs
These kitchen chairs were found at Goodwill and spray-painted to look brand new.
Hand-Painted "Wallpaper"
This pattern is actually hand-crafted, using just a sponge brush and some leftover paint. It completely transforms the room and costs nothing if you already have the items at home.
Clothes Rack
If you're lacking a closet or you just need another space to hang some clothes, use a clothes rack that will save on space and money.
Painted Coffee Table
Instead of purchasing an expensive new coffee table, give your current one a fresh look with a new coat of paint that matches your decor.
Bistro Kitchen Table
If you're tight on space and cash, opt for a small bistro table for your kitchen dining needs instead of a large on. Outfit it with charming chairs, like these comfy wicker ones.
DIY Wallpaper
Instead of dropping a ton of cash on an expensive print, craft your own with paint and a pretty stencil. The homeowner of this Mississippi farmhouse created her own stencil to make this custom pattern.
Showcase Collectibles
It only takes a few special antiques to start a collection. Take a cue from the owner of this cozy Texas bungalow and grow your group with a handful of extraordinary originals and less expensive replicas, then display your prized items in a group on shelves.
New Paint
A fresh coat of white paint brightened up this living room. The homeowner used a mortar wash treatment, known as a "German smear" to ensure the fireplace looked authentically aged look.
Drop Cloths
This home's 12-foot ceilings called for an abundance of drapery fabric, so the owner opted for budget-friendly painters' drop cloths.
Go to an Estate Sale
Set against the beautifully distressed plaster walls, the camelback sofa pictured here came from a winning $20 bid at a local estate sale.
Transformed Closet
Turn a closet into a simple craft "room" by covering the doors with pegboard.
Vintage Bookcase
These bookcases were made out of old peach crates borrowed from a friend's farm.
Decorate with Glassware
A mix of old and new glassware sit on these white shelves, including green handblown wineglasses that add a pop of color to the open shelving.
Make a Tray
Repurpose mirrors as trays by applying felt backing to their undersides. —Jonathan O'Hea, Jonathan O'Hea Antiques & Design
Label Canisters
Put an end to kitchen-counter confusion: Use chalkboard paint or decals to create labels on glass canisters. You'll always know whether you're scooping salt or sugar, and you can erase and change the wording whenever you like. —Jen Jafarzadeh L'Italien, the Haystack Needle
Make It Roll
Casters are the ultimate quick-change agents. These babies impart height and mobility to almost anything. Attach 'em to a farm table and voilà: It becomes an extra-large kitchen island with serious moves. Pop some wheels on a crate and you've got storage that rolls easily underneath a counter. The possibilities are truly endless. —Paige Schnell, Tracery Interiors
Make a Chair Rail
Amp up the architectural drama! Installing a chair rail can be a cinch — especially with stick-on molding. Paint the areas above and below it with two different shades of the same color for even more va-va-voom. —Leah Shirey, houseobsession.com
Light Up a Jug
From empty jars to illuminating conversation pieces: Fill a glass jug with Christmas lights to fashion a tricked-out table lamp. —Sirpa Cowell, textile designer
Erin Cavoto is the Editorial Assistant at ThePioneerWoman.com, covering food, holidays, home decor, and more.
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