15 Home Aesthetic DIY Ideas to Elevate Your Space on a Budget
Turning a house into a home doesn’t need a designer’s budget, just a spark of creativity, a free weekend, and a few simple tools. I’ve always believed that the best kind of home decor is the one you make your own. Whether you live in a rented apartment or your forever home, these 15 home aesthetic DIY ideas will help you create a space that feels truly yours—without burning a hole in your pocket.
Let’s dive in!
What is Aesthetic Home Decor?
Aesthetic home decor refers to visually pleasing, cohesive, and harmonious interior styling that reflects personal taste. It’s about curating a space that feels both beautiful and meaningful to you.
- Minimalist: Clean lines, neutral palettes, and clutter-free design.
- Boho: A mix of textures, colors, and vintage or handmade pieces.
- Scandinavian: Functional, airy, and nature-inspired.
- Rustic: Raw wood, warm tones, and cozy layers.
- Modern Farmhouse: Neutral tones, shiplap walls, and vintage touches.
Each of these styles can be achieved on a budget with a few clever DIYs.
1. Floating Wooden Shelves
Give your walls some personality while adding practical storage.
Materials Needed:
- Wooden planks
- Brackets
- Screws and anchors
- Drill
- Sandpaper
Steps:
- Sand the wood for a smooth finish.
- Paint or stain as desired.
- Mount the brackets on the wall.
- Secure the planks onto brackets.
Tip: Place a few trailing plants or books on them for an elevated look.
2. Macrame Wall Hanging
Macrame adds soft, boho vibes and fills empty wall space like magic.
Materials Needed:
- Macrame cord
- Wooden dowel or stick
- Scissors
Steps:
- Learn a few basic knots (square knot, lark’s head).
- Cut your cords and start knotting from the top.
- Customize the pattern to fit your space.
3. Painted Arch Mural
This one added so much life to my bedroom wall.
Materials Needed:
- Painter’s tape
- Measuring tape
- Paint (2-3 shades)
- Paint roller and brush
Steps:
- Tape out your arch using string and a pencil.
- Fill in with bold or pastel shades.
- Layer with framed art or mirrors.
4. Repurposed Ladder Shelf
Turn an old wooden ladder into a stylish display rack.
Materials Needed:
- Wooden ladder
- Sandpaper
- Paint or stain
- Wooden planks (for wider shelves)
Steps:
- Sand and paint the ladder.
- Place or secure planks horizontally.
- Lean it against a wall for an instant rustic shelf.
5. DIY Candle Holders from Air Dry Clay
These bring in handmade charm and work for centerpieces or side tables.
Materials Needed:
- Air dry clay
- Rolling pin
- Knife or shaping tool
- Candle sticks
Steps:
- Roll out the clay.
- Cut and shape your base.
- Create a hole for the candle.
- Let it dry and paint it if desired.
6. Fabric-Covered Headboard
Change the whole vibe of your bedroom in a single afternoon.
Materials Needed:
- Plywood board
- Foam
- Batting
- Staple gun
- Fabric of choice
Steps:
- Cut plywood to bed width.
- Layer foam, batting, and fabric.
- Stretch and staple around the back.
- Mount or lean behind bed.
7. Vintage Mirror Wall
Scour thrift stores or flea markets for mismatched mirrors.
Why It Works:
- Reflects light and opens up the room.
- Adds eclectic charm and a touch of history.
How to Arrange:
- Create a gallery layout on the floor first.
- Mix frame shapes and finishes.
- Secure each mirror with proper wall hooks.
8. Wooden Crate Storage Wall
Crates are cheap, stackable, and so versatile.
Use them to:
- Store shoes at the entry.
- Display plants and books.
- Create a mini bar or coffee station.
Paint them white or stain them to match your theme.
9. Renter-Friendly Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper
Why I Love It:
- Zero damage to walls.
- Instant makeover.
- Endless patterns and colors.
Great for accent walls, closets, or even lining drawers.
10. Gallery Wall with Personal Photos
Use black-and-white prints or soft color tones for aesthetic appeal.
Steps to Curate:
- Choose a consistent frame color.
- Use different sizes for depth.
- Mix in quotes, illustrations, or travel moments.
11. Dried Flower Arrangements
Bring in nature’s soft textures.
How to Do It:
- Hang fresh flowers upside down for 1-2 weeks.
- Arrange in vases, jars, or even as wall decor.
Perfect for a cozy cottage or rustic look.
12. Painted Plant Pots
Match your planters with your room theme.
Steps:
- Clean terracotta pots.
- Use acrylic paint or spray paint.
- Try stripes, polka dots, or modern abstract designs.
13. DIY Rope Baskets
Stylish storage without the splurge.
Materials:
- Cotton rope
- Hot glue gun
- Scissors
- Fabric for lining (optional)
Wrap and glue the rope in a spiral, shaping it into a basket.
14. Underbed Storage Boxes with Labels
Perfect for:
- Seasonal clothes
- Shoes
- Extra bedding
Add chalkboard-style labels for an organized aesthetic.
15. Refinished Thrift Furniture
A little sanding and fresh paint can go a long way.
Steps:
- Pick solid wood furniture.
- Sand off old finish.
- Paint, stencil, or decoupage.
- Seal with clear coat.
Comparative Cost & Time Table
| DIY Idea | Approx. Cost (USD) | Time Needed | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Floating Wooden Shelves | $20 – $40 | 2 hours | Beginner |
| Macrame Wall Hanging | $15 – $30 | 3–4 hours | Beginner |
| Painted Arch Mural | $10 – $25 | 1 hour | Intermediate |
| Ladder Shelf | $0 – $20 (if upcycled) | 2 hours | Beginner |
| Clay Candle Holders | $10 – $15 | 1 hour + drying | Beginner |
| Fabric Headboard | $40 – $70 | 2–3 hours | Intermediate |
| Vintage Mirror Wall | $5 – $15 per mirror | 1–2 hours | Beginner |
| Crate Storage Wall | $30 – $50 | 2 hours | Beginner |
| Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper | $35 – $60 | 1–2 hours | Beginner |
| Gallery Wall | $20 – $50 | 2 hours | Beginner |
| Dried Flowers | $0 – $15 | 1 week drying | Beginner |
| Painted Plant Pots | $5 – $15 | 30 mins | Beginner |
| Rope Baskets | $10 – $20 | 1 hour | Beginner |
| Underbed Storage | $20 – $40 | 1 hour | Beginner |
| Refinished Furniture | $10 – $50 | 4–6 hours | Intermediate |
Q&A Section
Q. Are these DIY projects suitable for renters?
Absolutely! Most of these ideas are wall-safe, removable, and completely reversible. Think peel-and-stick wallpaper, macrame hangings, and leaning ladder shelves.
Q. I’m not crafty—can I still do these?
Yes! I made sure each idea is beginner-friendly. I’ve personally done many of these with zero prior experience. Start with small ones like painting pots or making a rope basket.
Q. Where can I find materials affordably?
Try dollar stores, flea markets, online marketplaces (like Facebook Marketplace), or repurpose things already at home. Many of my best pieces came from curbside finds!
Q. How do I ensure my DIYs match my home’s color palette?
Stick to 2–3 core colors you already have in your space. Use those for paint, fabrics, and accents so everything ties together.
Final Thoughts
DIY home decor is more than just saving money—it’s a way to infuse your space with your story, your hands, and your personality. Whether you’re sprucing up a rental or finally turning your house into your dream home, these ideas are proof that beauty doesn’t have to break the bank.
So pick one this weekend, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make something beautiful!