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DIY Home Decor | Creative Projects to Personalize Your Space

August 15, 2024

Transforming your home into a personalized sanctuary doesn’t have to be expensive. With a bit of creativity and some DIY spirit, you can craft unique decor that reflects your style. 

Goodwill is a treasure trove for inspiration, ideas, and decor itself. Here are some fun ideas to spruce up your space and make it your own, all without breaking the bank.

Budget-Friendly Ideas

  1. Repurposed Furniture: Give old furniture new life with a coat of paint or stain. Add new hardware to dressers or cabinets for an updated look. 
  2. Gallery Walls: Create a gallery wall using thrifted frames and photos or prints. Mix and match frame styles for an eclectic feel. Make prints feel like old paintings by adding Mod Podge for some texture and taking out the glass. 
  3. DIY Shelving and Storage: Build simple shelves from reclaimed wood or inexpensive materials to add storage and display space. Thrift baskets to utilize as storage for your shelves, and corral any items you may not want visible.
  4. Fabric Updates: Like the base of a chair but the neon orange fabric isn’t your vibe? Reupholster it! Use fabric remnants to create new cushion covers, curtains, or table runners. 
  5. Mirror Makeover: Update old mirrors with new frames or by painting the existing frame. Add Rub N’ Buff to metal frames to give it an antique look or to switch up the color.
  6. Artwork: Create your own artwork using canvas and acrylic paints for a custom piece that fits your style.
  7. Planters: Turn tin cans, mason jars, or old containers into stylish planters for indoor greenery.
  8. Rugs and Mats: Paint or stencil designs on plain rugs or mats to add a personal touch. You can also hang cool rugs with patterns as a sort of tapestry for some wall decor.
  9. Lighting: Create custom lampshades with fabric or paper to match your decor.

Seasonal Decor Projects

  • Front Door Floral Wreaths: Use artificial flowers or real blooms to make a vibrant wreath for your front door. 
  • Outdoor Lanterns: Transform thrifted mason jars into lanterns with tea lights and sand or pebbles, perfect for summer evenings on the patio.
  • Fall Centerpieces: Fill a thrifted bowl with pine cones, acorns, and fall leaves for an easy autumn centerpiece. You can find stems and plants in the floral section to adorn your bowl. 
  • Holiday Ornaments: Create personalized ornaments using clear baubles, paint, and glitter. You can find lightweight trinkets, mini toys, and other things to create your own kind of tree. 
  • Gift Baskets: Personalize baskets with ribbons for a fun and festive look. Thrifted baskets from Goodwill can run at a fraction of the cost of department stores, and often have charm and a sense of individuality, perfect for gifting.
  • Halloween Decorations: Make spooky decor like painted pumpkins, ghost lanterns, and bat garlands. You can find seasonal decor and make it your own. You like a more neutral color scheme but that orange pumpkin doesn’t fit your home well? If you like the shape, think about painting it to fit your home.

Decor Trends to Try:

  • Minimalism: Embrace the “less is more” philosophy with clean lines, neutral colors, and functional decor.
  • Boho Chic: Incorporate bohemian elements like woven textiles, macramé wall hangings, and vibrant patterns.
  • Industrial Style: Combine metal, wood, and vintage pieces to achieve an industrial look. Think exposed brick walls and factory-style lighting.
  • Natural Elements: Bring the outside in with natural materials like wood, stone, and plants.
  • Mid-Century Modern: Look for sleek furniture pieces with clean lines and tapered legs.
  • Farmhouse Style: Use distressed wood, galvanized metal, and vintage-inspired accessories.
  • Eclectic Decor: Mix and match different styles, colors, and patterns for a unique, personalized look.
  • Scandinavian Design: Focus on simplicity, functionality, and cozy elements like soft throws and warm lighting.
  • Geometric Patterns: Incorporate geometric shapes in rugs, cushions, and wall art for a modern touch.
  • Vintage Accents: Add vintage or antique pieces to bring character and history into your space.

Tips for Successful DIY Projects

  1. Plan Ahead: Sketch out your ideas and gather all necessary materials before starting your project.
  2. Start Small: Begin with smaller projects to build your confidence and skills.
  3. Use Quality Tools: Investing in good tools can make a significant difference in the outcome of your projects.
  4. Watch Tutorials: Online tutorials can provide step-by-step guidance and inspiration for your projects.

DIY home decor allows you to express your creativity while saving money. By incorporating budget-friendly ideas, seasonal projects, and the latest decor trends, you can create a personalized and stylish home. 

Goodwill has aisles of inspiration and one-of-a-kind pieces that will get those creative ideas flowing, and make your guests ask, “Where do you find that?!”