Even if you’re not a crafty person, you can still embellish everyday objects to transform them into something that looks more custom. Often times, what sets a high-end item apart from an ordinary one is the amount of detail. {You can read more about that HERE.} So, it stands to reason that if you add the details yourself, you can create a unique look at a fraction of the price!
I love the idea of transforming everyday, ordinary objects – like vases, pillows, chairs, and books – to give them a more custom look. I’m all about getting the biggest bang for your buck and reusing and redesigning items helps to give them longevity in your home. Why buy new when you can refresh what you’ve already got?!
Here are 5 easy DIY projects for embellishing everyday objects. And the best part is, you won’t need any special skills, knowledge or crafty-type tools to do these projects!
1. Embellish a Pillow
Updating the look of a pillow can be super easy and very inexpensive {especially compared to the cost of buying new} . A little bit of ribbon tied around can add a pop of color!
I’ve even used a hand towel secured with velcro to give a plain pillow a bit of color and pattern.
If you have some artistic ability, here’s a step-by-step guide for painting a pillow from Jennifer Rizzo.
2. Add a Graphic
I promise, this is an EASY project to do!
I fell completely in love with this project idea when I came across it on Pinterest and the instructions from The Graphics Fairy couldn’t be any easier! Not only does Karen provide step-by-step instructions for 12 easy transfer methods, but she also provides {FREE} graphics! Aren’t her tea towels cute?!
I used this same graphic to do a transfer on the guest bedroom chair that I reupholstered.
3. Update a Vase
When I was browsing the Pottery Barn catalog, this vase jumped out at me.
It’s fun, festive and can easily be done regardless of your skill set! I already had a glass vase at home, so I simply taped some sheet music around the vase and finished it off with a bit of twine! You don’t even have to own any sheet music to do this project because you can print it from your home computer. Check out the great {FREE} images available from Angie at Knick of Time! You can also find lots of other great printables on her site if sheet music isn’t your style. ;)
4. Add Some Sparkle
You can take a plain chandelier {or even a candelabra} and give it a completely new look with just a bit of crystal and wire! You can get the complete step-by-step instructions and source links {HERE}.
5. Embellish a Chair
You can make easy updates to chair backs with fabric, paint, stencils, ribbon, wreaths, and more. I added some numbers to my dining chairs for about $1 each {post HERE}. You could use the same idea to even monogram your chairs. You might even try the image transfer method mentioned above!
The more options you have for using an item in your home, the longer you’re likely to use it. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of shopping our homes and moving things around, but sometimes, it’s nice to give things a bit of an update to make them feel fresh and new again! These easy, little updates can have a bit impact!
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Love all of your beautiful decorating ideas! It is amazing how a simple change can really add a new style to a room. Thanks for sharing!
Wonderful idea and gorgeous images, Kim!!! I love love love your dining room
What great ideas. Your home is so pretty, Kim.
Karen