DIY Ideas for Making a Home on a New Grad’s Budget

published May 2, 2016

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Living the budget life is not easy and college grads know this more than anyone! During this exciting (read: stressful) phase of your life, having a cozy home that feels like your own space is so essential! After all, you need somewhere to kick up your feet after a busy day of chasing your dreams. If you’re on a budget, how can you create a beautiful home that’s not a mishmash of hand-me-down furniture? Here are some DIY ideas to help you stay on budget AND create a home you love.

(Image credit: Almost Makes Perfect)

Throw pillows make a space feel so much cozier and they always come in handy for naps on the couch. Add pom poms to a plain white throw pillow for a fun textural element from Almost Makes Perfect.

(Image credit: Burkatron)

Buying large furniture pieces can be a strain on your budget so skip the traditional bookcase for a cool and casual look by stacking crates together! They’re versatile enough that you can rearrange and add on as your book collection grows—Burkatron has the low-key look.

(Image credit: The Lovely Drawer)

There are plenty of wall art tutorials out there to help you create artwork that’s both affordable and artsy. For an easy art project that’s hard to mess up even for beginners, The Lovely Drawer has what you need.

(Image credit: Sugar & Cloth)

Mid century decor is beautifully retro and often costly. You can get the look for less (much less!) with supplies from the hardware store to make this DIY Mid-Century Wall Clock on Sugar & Cloth.

(Image credit: The Merrythought)

Can’t afford a vanity table or simply don’t have the space for it? Try creating this simple and Scandinavian-style beauty dock to help you get ready in the morning—it’s on The Merrythought.

(Image credit: Elsie Larson/A Beautiful Mess)

If your dishware leaves a lot to be desired, A Beautiful Mess shows you how to add floral patterns and vibrant color to your table setting with… MARKERS! Yes, you read that right.

(Image credit: One-O)

All it takes is an open-mind to create stunning decor like this wire pendant light from One-O. Look at what’s already in your home to repurpose items for weird and wonderful home decor.

(Image credit: Paper & Stitch)

Spray paint is still the ultimate tool for transforming the old into beautiful, one-of-a-kind furniture pieces as Paper & Stitch proves. Try an ombre effect on an old dining chair for a twist on the classic paint job.

(Image credit: Burkatron; The Lovely Drawer)

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