17 ridiculously cheap and easy DIYs that will improve your home

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As the old saying goes, if you want something done right, do it yourself. While that may not always hold in the complex world of architecture, when it comes to those little things that add flavour and personality to your home, there's no one better equipped than yourself. That's why we're going to take a look at some incredibly cheap, but more importantly fun projects that you can take on for yourself that will greatly improve your home.

You don't have to be an expert to make these ideas work, and remember there will always be a little bit of trial and error, so don't get too down on yourself if you don't get it quite right the first time. After all DIY is as much about the experience as the finished product, although we're sure you're going to absolutely love the results. So let's take a look at some ideas and then you can put on your work shoes and get busy!

1. Sew your own cushions

One of the first things you learn in home economics is how to sew a pillowcase which implies two things; it's incredibly easy, and it's fun! Choosing the material will be an enjoyable experience in itself; try to get something that matches the decor of your home, but remember this is DIY so anything goes.

2. Build a planter from antique furniture

For a really unique planter box that will impress your friends and make you feel like you're a character in a Lewis Carroll novel, try turning some vintage furniture into planter boxes. 

The set of drawers looks fantastic, just remember to fasten the draw so that it doesn't fall out under the weight of the soil. As for the chair, it's as easy as removing the cushion and planting your favourite herb.

3. Build your own kitchen shelves

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This is so simple, and there's myriad ways to go about it. We love these box shelves, they're really straightforward, and they actually provide two levels as you can put things on top, but you can also opt for the more traditional plank of wood nailed to the wall. Homemade shelves have a rustic feel that's extra homely.

4. Make a simple closet

Aside from the bed, closets tend to be the largest piece of furniture in a bedroom, which also means they're one of the most expensive, but when you break down the premise they're actually super easy to build yourself. 

A rudimentary closet is no more than a box with a couple of shelves and a pole running from wall to wall, but if you're feeling really adventurous you can try to include some design flourishes, like the pot plant on top.

5. Paint a mural

You don't have to be an artist to paint a wall mural in your own home, you just need some spare time, a passion for crafts, and a little inspiration. Murals always look fantastic because they have so much personality and dynamism, and they're a great way to show off your personal style. Landscapes are the traditional choice, but the only limit is your imagination.

6. Restore vintage furniture

If you love shabby chic style as much as we do then this idea is for you. Restoring vintage furniture is a great way to keep costs down, as you can pick up pieces at a second-hand store or even just refurbish that old cabinet you were planning on throwing out. 

The first thing you need to do is make whatever minor repairs are necessary to get it in working order, and then it's the fun part; decorating! Light colours and pastels work really well, and look adorable as you can see here, and for an extra special touch try painting a nice flowery design.

7. Personalised picture frames

This is a great project to work on with the kids, and will make sure you're memories are extra precious. It's as simple as getting out the craft paint, and following your instincts – there's really no wrong way to go about this.

8. Build a bed from wooden pallets

This is an absolutely huge money saver for your bedroom, and as long as you've got a comfy mattress you won't even notice the difference. Building a bed from pallets can be as easy as stacking a few up and throwing the mattress on top, or you can put in a little bit more effort like they have here to construct a more traditional bed base. 

The best part is you can usually pick up wooden pallets for free from supermarkets or warehouses.

9. Decorate your kitchen cabinets

This actually applies to any cabinets or furniture throughout the house, and if you're brave it's a lot of fun to get the kids involved. 

We recommend that first you choose a design and practice it a couple of times on a notepad before you break out the paints, but it's such a personal touch that it's sure to work regardless.

10. Origami lamp shade

Origami is as much a means of meditation as art, so if you're feeling a little bit stressed then this is the DIY project for you. Rice paper lamps are a timeless classic, but you can really develop that theme by folding a beautiful origami piece that will look elegant and promote tranquility. 

11. Make a herb garden

Ensure you always have fresh herbs for every meal by building yourself a little herb garden. Again, wooden pallets are a good way to go because they are practically purpose build for a vertical garden like this one. 

If you have a outdoor garden we suggest you place it there so that it gets maximum sunlight, but if you live in an apartment just make sure it's near a window, and you'll be immersed in the intoxicating aromas of mint and basil.

12. DIY wooden lamp shade

We love this idea, it's quirky but practical. Nothing more than a simple wooden box with a hole in it this square lamp shade is ultra modern, and has a really cool industrial edge. This is a good project for beginners in the world of DIY, or for introducing the kids to woodworking.

13. Colourful recycled shelving

If you've got a few wooden crates lying around we have a really cool idea for what to do with them! Pick out your favourite colours, apply a coat of paint, and stack them up in unique shapes for fun shelving units that will look fabulous in your home. Just remember to fasten the crates to each other so that they don't slip!

14. Make a mezzanine

If you have limited space in your home, or you live in a studio apartment, then a mezzanine is an innovative way to increase your floor space. Build an elevated platform between half and two-thirds of the way up the wall depending on what you want to use it for, lean a ladder against it, and you've got your own private little hideaway. 

While they're usually used for beds as that frees up the most space, they're also great as workspaces, or with a few of your homemade cushions just a nice spot to relax and read a book.

15. Outdoor furniture

Outdoor furniture is a great excuse to flex your DIY muscles, because the stakes aren't quite as high, and it's going to face the elements whether you like it or not. These couches and tables are made from wooden pallets, of course, and are really uncomplicated, plus you can choose the height to suit you, just stack a few extra pallets on top. The wheels are a great touch, as pallet furniture can get pretty heavy!

16. A chalkboard wall

Chalkboard walls are super simple thanks to the wonderful invention of chalkboard paint, and they're the DIY gift that keeps giving because you can completely redecorate your walls whenever the spirit catches you. 

This works really well in the kitchen where you might want to write down recipes or reminders, but it's also a good way to keep your life organised in the office.

17. Use curtains as room dividers

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If you live in a studio apartment you're probably dealing with the issue of how to separate functional spaces, but the solution is as easy as hanging a curtain. There's all kinds of options available here, so just pick a material that works with the decor of your home, and delineate the different areas of your apartment with some beautiful curtains.

These tips should certainly keep you busy, and best of all they will improve your home, so why not give them a try? For more fun home projects check out these different ways to style your sofa!

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