No Art Skills? Make These DIY Pieces Look Expensive

Some houses are visually appealing because stories are hiding in every corner. These stories are not about everything being perfectly planned. They are about how an old frame became unique, how an ordinary lamp turned into something handmade, and how a forgotten tray suddenly completed a coffee table. Decorative magic does not have to be costly. It only needs a clever idea and a little free time.

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)

What makes this even better is that you do not need to consider yourself “a good artist” to create beautiful décor pieces! Many gorgeous decorative items are made through arranging, wrapping, painting geometric shapes, pasting, sanding, layering, and recycling things you already own. This idea suits people who love warm, comfortable homes but panic when asked to draw even a simple image.

Creative tasks can be relaxing not only for children but also for adult students who spend much of their time on computers and studying. Someone may search for help me with my paper in the middle of a stressful week. A couple of days later, that same person may use easy décor ideas to relax, unwind, and add a breath of fresh air to their space.

Focus On Texture First, Not On Talent

As a home decorating professional, Sophia Bennett suggests that texture is an easy technique even beginners can use. Texture adds the sense of depth even to the simplest composition. Burlap, rope, wood, dry plants, clay, cloth, wicker, paper, and old metal can all become materials for creating interesting texture without involving the need to paint or sketch some intricate images.

This kind of work does not require any special skills. The most important thing about them is that there is no need for precision. Sometimes, imperfections may look better than perfection. It may happen that an awkwardly wrapped bottle will look charming in its simplicity. Old wooden frames with scratches will attract more attention than new ones. In addition, there will be nothing better than clay dishes with rough edges.

The first step you should take is to understand the problem with your interior. If the room lacks textures, then adding some texture can help; if the room is too plain, then try one accent color; if the room is messy, create one decorative item instead of many small ones.

Create Found Object Wall Decoration

This art project is especially useful because it allows you to create designs with objects rather than drawings. You can use any kind of frame: a thrifted one, an old frame from storage, or a plain wooden frame from a craft store. Remove the glass, then cover the backing with a material you like, such as fabric, linen, burlap, wallpaper scraps, or painted cardboard.

Next, choose one found object with an interesting shape and place it in the center or slightly off-center. It might be an antique key, pressed leaf, dried stem, wooden spoon, piece of lace, broken brooch, feather, or flat shell. Glue the object carefully, let it dry, and hang it somewhere that needs subtle decoration.

Here are a few combinations that can look especially charming:

• Linen background with a dried fern.

• Black material with an aged brass key.

• Paper with a pressed wildflower.

• A piece of burlap with a white shell.

• Old-fashioned paper for books with a tiny spoon or charm.

Create Art Pieces From Ordinary Glass Bottles

Glass items such as bottles, jars, and vases are quite transformable. Begin by cleaning them and removing all the labels. Decide on the finish you’d like to achieve—glossy or rough.

For the stone-like finish, mix some baking soda with the acrylic paint for the thick layering. Paint the bottle layer-by-layer to make it matte, as it is similar to ceramic. To achieve the farmhouse effect, wrap jute around the bottom of the bottle with the help of a hot glue gun. Or decorate its top with ribbons.

What matters most is the grouping, rather than a hodgepodge collection. The trio of bottles of various heights will look more attractive compared to seven randomly selected jars. Use only one color palette for a cohesive effect. Arrange the bottles on the fireplace mantle, shelf, end table, or windowsill in the kitchen. Accompany them with dried grasses, eucalyptus, twigs, or leave them empty.

Gussy Up That Humdrum Tray

One of the most multi-purpose objects for home decorating is a simple tray, which brings order to any mess and makes it look organized. It can include keys, candles, coasters, remote controls, perfume bottles, and miniature plants in pots, each finding its place.

Pick up a wooden, metal, vintage, or second-hand frame for a picture and add a backing board. If necessary, sand the tray lightly. Cover the whole piece with paint or leave the exterior plain and adorn only the inside space with peel-and-stick wallpaper, fabric, wrapping paper, using decoupage medium, or additional tile pieces.

It doesn’t have to be a complicated decoration. A simple dark green background, wood accents, or floral wallpaper inside may do just fine. Felt pads under the bottom side will protect your delicate furniture from getting scratches.

How can you use the homemade tray?

• For decorating the coffee table with a candle, a miniature plant, and a book.
• For keeping jewelry, perfume bottles, and hair accessories in the chest of drawers.
• For storing keys and sunglasses near the door.
• For placing hand sanitizer, lotion, and a mini flower vase on the vanity table.
• For organizing pencils, sticky notes, and chargers on the working table.

How To Make Your Lamp Look Handmade

Last but not least, a lamp can transform a room immediately, but buying a new one can be expensive. Instead, try updating an existing piece. Start with the shade. An ordinary lampshade can be decorated with ribbon, fabric, or stencils. If that feels like too much, decorate only the rim.

There is usually something you can do with the base as well. Ceramic bases can be refreshed with matte spray paint, while wooden bases can be sanded and stained. A metal base may need only a thorough cleaning and a warmer light bulb.

As with any of these projects, do not ignore safety. Leave the electrical parts alone, and make sure decorative items do not cover the vents on the lampshade.

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)