10 Easy DIY Home Decor Projects Under $50

DIY home decor projects offer a unique combination of cost savings, creative satisfaction, and personalization that store-bought items can't match. The projects I'm sharing today require minimal tools, basic skills, and modest budgets while delivering results that look professionally crafted. Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or complete beginner, you'll find projects that match your skill level and transform your space.

1. Custom Abstract Art ($20-30)

Large-scale artwork can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, but creating your own abstract pieces costs a fraction of that while adding a personal touch to your walls. Abstract art is particularly forgiving for beginners since there's no "right" way to create it—your unique style becomes part of the piece's charm. HGTV's DIY experts provides step-by-step guidance for creating gallery-worthy pieces.

Purchase a large canvas (24x36 inches or larger) from a craft store, along with acrylic paints in your room's color palette. Use painter's tape to create geometric patterns, then fill sections with different colors. Alternatively, try the pour painting technique by mixing paints with pouring medium and letting them flow across the canvas. The results are always unique and surprisingly sophisticated.

2. Floating Shelves from Reclaimed Wood ($15-25)

Floating shelves provide storage and display space while adding architectural interest to blank walls. Making your own from reclaimed wood or affordable lumber creates a custom look at a fraction of retail prices.

Purchase shelf brackets and a piece of lumber cut to your desired length. Sand the wood smooth, then stain or paint it to match your decor. Install the brackets according to manufacturer instructions, ensuring they're level and anchored into wall studs. Style your new shelves with books, plants, and decorative objects for an instant room upgrade.

3. Macramé Wall Hanging ($25-35)

Macramé has experienced a major revival, and for good reason—these textile wall hangings add texture, warmth, and bohemian style to any room. While they look intricate, basic macramé techniques are surprisingly easy to learn through online tutorials. Apartment Therapy's DIY guides breaks down the essential knots and patterns for beginners.

Purchase macramé cord and a wooden dowel or branch for mounting. Learn a few basic knots (square knot and half hitch are the foundations of most patterns), then follow a beginner-friendly pattern. The repetitive knotting becomes meditative, and you'll have a unique wall hanging that would cost $100+ to purchase retail.

4. Painted Terra Cotta Planters ($10-20)

Basic terra cotta pots are inexpensive and functional, but they lack personality. Transform them into custom planters that match your decor with paint, creating a cohesive look throughout your home.

Clean pots thoroughly, then apply a base coat of acrylic paint. Once dry, add patterns using painter's tape for clean lines, or freehand designs for a more organic look. Seal with matte or glossy varnish to protect your work. Group painted planters in varying sizes for maximum impact.

5. Upholstered Headboard ($40-50)

A headboard instantly makes a bedroom feel more finished and intentional, but retail options can be expensive. Creating your own upholstered headboard costs a fraction of store prices while allowing complete customization of size and fabric.

Cut plywood to your desired headboard size, then layer with foam padding and batting. Stretch your chosen fabric over the front, stapling it securely to the back. Mount to the wall behind your bed using French cleats or heavy-duty picture hangers. The result looks professionally made and perfectly matches your bedroom aesthetic.

6. Decorative Throw Pillow Covers ($15-25)

Throw pillows are the easiest way to update a room's look, but buying new ones frequently becomes expensive. Sewing simple envelope-style pillow covers lets you change your decor seasonally without replacing entire pillows.

Choose fabric that coordinates with your room, then cut and sew basic envelope covers that slip over existing pillow inserts. No zippers or buttons required—the envelope back keeps covers in place while making them easy to remove for washing. This project requires only basic sewing skills and can be completed in an afternoon.

7. Rope Mirror Frame ($20-30)

Transform a basic round mirror into a statement piece by wrapping it with rope. This coastal-inspired project adds texture and visual interest while remaining budget-friendly.

Purchase a round mirror and thick rope (manila or sisal work well). Starting at the top, apply hot glue to the mirror edge and press rope into place, working your way around the circumference. Continue wrapping rope in concentric circles until you've created a frame of your desired width. The result is a custom mirror that looks far more expensive than its actual cost.

8. Faux Marble Contact Paper Upgrade ($15-20)

Marble surfaces exude luxury but come with luxury price tags. High-quality marble contact paper provides a convincing alternative for updating furniture, countertops, or backsplashes without permanent changes—perfect for renters.

Clean the surface thoroughly, measure carefully, and apply contact paper slowly to avoid bubbles. Use a credit card to smooth as you go, and trim excess with a sharp utility knife. This simple update can transform dated furniture or surfaces into modern, sophisticated pieces.

9. Woven Basket Wall Display ($25-35)

Woven baskets aren't just for storage—arranged on a wall, they create sculptural art that adds texture and dimension. This project requires no crafting skills, just an eye for arrangement.

Purchase 3-5 woven baskets in varying sizes from thrift stores or discount retailers. Arrange them on your wall in a pleasing composition, then secure with picture hanging strips or small nails. The organic texture and neutral tones work with any decor style while adding visual interest to blank walls.

10. Painted Accent Wall with Geometric Pattern ($30-40)

An accent wall creates a focal point and adds personality to any room. Taking it beyond a simple solid color with a geometric pattern elevates the impact while remaining achievable for DIY beginners.

Paint your wall in a base color, then use painter's tape to create geometric patterns—triangles, hexagons, or simple stripes all work beautifully. Paint the taped sections in a contrasting color, then carefully remove tape while paint is still slightly wet for clean lines. This project requires patience but delivers professional-looking results that transform your space.