Your DIY Guide
One thing I've learned is that if you're willing to get your hands a little dirty and save some money, DIY projects can be your best friend.
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Do-it-yourself projects can be intimidating, but definitely rewarding, and there's an endless supply of ideas online for them (get a Pinterest account if your don't already have one).
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Start Simple: If your typically not the craftiest type of person, start with a small project to warm you up to the world of DIY.
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pick a colour scheme: I recently moved in to a new apartment. The first thing I decided to do was get rid of the yellow-beige paint job and replace it with a fresh colour, more my style. I chose to go with a light grey, because it's welcoming, happy and of course goes great with my decor! Next I chose complimentary colours, white and purple to give the room an extra little pop-white being my "practical" choice and purple being my "fun" choice.
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And lastly,
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just go for it! You really have nothing to loose, and you'll probably end up loving the satisfying feeling of completing something all on your own.
One of the best (and cheapest) ways to add some extra spark to your room is by using the furniture and room accessories you've already got! This weekend I refinished a old bedside table. It was one of those projects I've always wanted to get done so finally I made it happen. The table has been in my family for at least 50 years, soooo it was definitely time for a little TLC. This project was cheap, and easy (perfect for beginner DIY'ers!)
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Total time= 2.5 hours (I used one coat of primer, and four coats of eggshell white in a semi-gloss shine)
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total cost= $25
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You will need:
1. one quart can of eggshell white semi-gloss paint
2. paint brush
3. one sheet of medium-grain sandpaper
4. (optional) primer
5. varnish for the finishing coat (highly recommend- not only does it preserve the furniture, but it helps protect against scratches, bumps and other forms of "wear and tear")
6. some old clothes for painting and sanding
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Refinish an old piece of furniture
It's crazy what a little colour change-up can add to a room. After completing the bedside table, I felt like my room tied together much better! I have a grey and white theme going in my bedroom so this new addition fit right in.
DIY Snowglobes
Look at how cute these are!! This is definitely one of my favourite projects I've done. These little snow globes are super easy and fun to make. And did I mention CHEAP. They also make a great christmas gift...I'm literally filling my luggage with these to bring home for presents.
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What you will need:
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-a mason jar--if you're planning on making these as gifts I suggest you get a bulk pack, which normally includes 9-12 jars. It's more worth the money. $1.50-$13
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-white spray paint (for the jar lids)--make sure it's good on metal $7
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-a mini tree (Walmart or any big dollar store) $0.98-$3
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-fake snow (Home Hardware, Michael's) $2-$3
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-wood snowflake stickers (Michael's) $4
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-small can or tube of white paint (Michael's) $4-$6
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Step 1: remove lids from mason jars and lay flat on some newspaper or old towels. Then spray paint lids and leave to dry for a few hours. I like the spray them twice to get a true matte white.
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Step 2: while the spray paint is drying I used a Q-tip to paint little white snowflakes inside the jar.
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Step 3: once lids are dry, use a glue gun to attach a small tree to the inside part of the lid.
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Step 4: add faux snow around the tree.
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Step 5: Attach snowflakes or any other little decorations to the outside of the jar.
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Ta-Daaaaaaa! Now you have a great little addition to your winter decor collection, or the perfect DIY holiday gift.
