Creating a warm and inviting farmhouse look doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With four kids and a commitment to staying on budget, I’ve learned how to add charm and personality to our home using affordable DIY projects. Whether you’re revamping a room or adding small touches, this guide will show you how to achieve the farmhouse style you love without breaking the bank. Grab your paintbrush—let’s get started on some DIY Farmhouse Decor!
1. Rustic Wooden Sign
- Supplies: Reclaimed wood or pallet wood, sandpaper, paint (white, black, or neutral tones), stencils or a Cricut machine, paintbrushes, and clear sealant.
- Estimated Cost: $10–$15 (free if using reclaimed wood and leftover paint)
- Instructions:
- Sand the wood to smooth out rough edges and splinters.
- Apply a base coat of paint in your chosen color and let it dry completely.
- Use stencils or a Cricut machine to create your design or lettering. Place the stencil on the wood and secure it with painter’s tape.
- Paint over the stencil using a dabbing motion to prevent bleeding. Remove the stencil carefully before the paint dries.
- Once the design is dry, seal the sign with a clear sealant to protect the paint.
- Hang your sign using picture-hanging hardware or display it on a shelf.
2. Mason Jar Organizer
- Supplies: Mason jars, a wood plank, metal clamps, screws, drill, paint or stain, and optional hooks for added functionality.
- Estimated Cost: $15–$20 (depends on jar and wood source)
- Savings Tip: Consider sourcing mason jars at thrift stores or buying in bulk online to lower costs.
- Instructions:
- Paint or stain the wood plank and let it dry.
- Attach metal clamps to the mason jars by tightening them around the jar neck.
- Drill screws through the clamps into the wood plank, spacing the jars evenly.
- Mount the plank on the wall using nails or screws.
- Use the jars to store kitchen utensils, flowers, or craft supplies.
3. Farmhouse Wreath
- Supplies: Grapevine wreath, faux greenery (eucalyptus, lamb’s ear, or boxwood), floral wire, hot glue, and burlap ribbon.
- Estimated Cost: $10–$20 (depending on the greenery and wreath size)
- Savings Tip: For an even thriftier option, repurpose greenery from old faux floral arrangements or shop clearance sections after seasonal sales.
- Instructions:
- Arrange your greenery on one side of the grapevine wreath in a crescent shape or evenly around the entire wreath.
- Secure the greenery to the wreath with floral wire or hot glue.
- Add a burlap bow by tying a decorative bow and attaching it to the top or bottom of the wreath with wire or glue.
- Hang your wreath on a door or wall using a wreath hanger or a piece of twine.
4. Distressed Picture Frames
- Supplies: Thrifted or dollar store frames, chalk paint, sandpaper, and a damp cloth.
- Estimated Cost: $5–$10 per frame
- Savings Tip: Look for unique frame shapes at thrift stores to add character. A small bottle of chalk paint goes a long way for multiple frames.
- Instructions:
- Remove the glass and backing from the frame.
- Apply a coat of chalk paint and let it dry completely.
- Use sandpaper to distress the edges and corners, focusing on areas that would naturally wear over time.
- Wipe the frame with a damp cloth to remove dust.
- Reassemble the frame and display your favorite photos or art prints.
5. Tiered Tray Decor
- Supplies: Two trays (metal or wood), a candlestick or small vase, strong adhesive (like E6000), and optional paint.
- Estimated Cost: $10–$15
- Savings Tip: Use mismatched plates and candlesticks from thrift stores to create a quirky, custom look.
- Instructions:
- Paint the trays and candlestick if desired, and let them dry.
- Apply adhesive to the bottom of the candlestick and attach it to the center of the larger tray.
- Add adhesive to the top of the candlestick and attach the smaller tray. Let it cure according to the adhesive’s instructions.
- Use the tiered tray to display seasonal farmhouse decor or organize small items like jewelry or spices.
6. Drop Cloth Curtains
- Supplies: Drop cloths (pre-washed), clip rings, a curtain rod, and an iron.
- Estimated Cost: $15–$30 per pair
- Savings Tip: Home improvement stores often sell drop cloths in multi-packs at a discount.
- Instructions:
- Wash and dry the drop cloths to soften them and remove any chemical smells.
- Iron the drop cloths to remove wrinkles.
- Attach the clip rings evenly along the top edge of each drop cloth.
- Slide the clip rings onto the curtain rod and hang the rod.
- Adjust the length by folding or hemming the bottom if needed.
7. Shiplap Accent Wall
- Supplies: Thin plywood sheets, a saw, paint (white or a light neutral), adhesive (like Liquid Nails), a level, and a nail gun.
- Estimated Cost: $50–$100 (depends on the wall size and materials)
- Budget Tip: Purchase thin plywood sheets and have them cut at the store to save time. Paint leftovers from other projects can be used for the finish.
- Instructions:
- Measure your wall and cut the plywood into even strips, about 6 inches wide.
- Sand the edges of the plywood strips to remove splinters.
- Start at the bottom of the wall and apply adhesive to the back of the first strip. Use a level to ensure it’s straight, and press it against the wall.
- Nail the strip in place for added security.
- Repeat the process, leaving a small gap (about a nickel’s width) between each strip for a true shiplap look.
- Once the wall is covered, paint the shiplap in your chosen color.
Final Thoughts
Transforming your home into a farmhouse haven doesn’t require a big budget—just a little creativity and some time. Whether you’re tackling a full wall or making smaller decor pieces, each project adds warmth and charm to your space. Try one (or more!) of these ideas, and don’t forget to share your results. For more inspiration and tips on living on a budget, visit my YouTube channel, Debt Free Dana, where I share practical solutions for a cozy and frugal lifestyle!
