Happy Labor Day Weekend, friends! I hope you are spending some time safely with those closest to you, relaxing and savoring the extra time off. If you’re like me and you’re hitting any of the Labor Day sales at furniture/decor stores this weekend, I have a few quick tips for holiday weekend shopping & some info on the Diderot Effect.
Browsing Category
There’s a gal I watch on Youtube who creates videos along the lines of “things in your closet to throw away right now.” And I can’t help but respect the boldness of that! Especially in 2020; nobody’s got time to dance around what they can’t stand in their homes. So I’ve reviewed my recent interior design projects and created a list of the top 10 design trends people are getting the heck out of their lives in 2020. Read on to see part one of what’s IN and what’s OUT in 2020.
Happy Sunday y’all! While I firmly believe weekends are meant for relaxation and fun times connecting with friends/family, I know we can’t help but look around our house in judgement. Especially in these upside down times where you might be home significantly more than the past. Trust me when I say, I KNOW this feeling of discouragement where your expectations and the reality of your home are just not lining up. The struggle is real! So I thought this was a good time to provide my blog audience with background on why I’ve launched my Virtual Design Strategy Sessions. Because this could be EXACTLY what you need to incite great change in your home.
If you’ve been following since my very first blog post, then you know that 2020 has been a fun year of experimentation at my own house. I love trying things here – especially projects on a budget – so I can advise on whether a client or friend should try the same thing. Today we’re trying three (3) experimental paint techniques on some home decor items.
Rewind a few weeks back, and you may have joined me on my Thrift with Me blog post where I found some cool items I wanted to makeover for the mini-farm. I rode the high of excitement over to Michael’s craft store and picked up supplies to start these DIYs. Between waiting out summer non-stop showers to paint and having one fail pretty fast…this post was almost #cancelled. But since this blog is in the spirit of experimentation, I wanted to explore so I can share my thoughts with you.
We’re not failing, we’re learning! 🙂 I’ll start with my favorite…
Glass Lamp Base Painting
I had a lot of confidence in this project because of how well I learned the Dollar Tree glass vases take paint. (You can check out that super fun DIY in my Instagram Story Highlights!) New lamp bases, especially big ones like this, are often pretty expensive to replace. Using this $16 Goodwill find, I used some leftover paint to give this guy a new life!
First I went in with one layer of white spray paint. But as you can see in the photo above, it definitely needed about 2-3 total coats to cover.
Photo after the second or third coat of spray paint was applied. With spray paint, you always have to move the piece around to ensure you’ve touched all angles.
Another trick I recommend when you’re covering a pattern with a white or similar light color, is to add a little pattern on top. This is an insurance policy to make sure the old pattern is nearly undetectable. I really liked how easy this small brush stroke pattern was, and that it didn’t have to look totally perfect.
If you caught my Lamps DIY or the 2020 DIY recap, you heard the news that this lamp shade was needing a new base from its tragic fall. I totally love how these two look together in terms of color and overall proportion.
Marbled Terra Cotta Pot
So this is where I nearly had an “I give up” moment. I found this blank canvas terra cotta pot when I went to Michael’s to purchase the supplies. We needed to transition an orchid into bigger pot, so I thought this would be a fun opportunity to paint.
Basically, I originally wanted to do a “dipped” look with some Mod Podge glazing but it all went to heck really fast. In hindsight, I should’ve worked with a deeper, bigger bowl of paint to have more control of the “dip” effect.
So after nearly all of the beautiful terra cotta color was covered, I decided to get really bold and try a marbling technique.
Warning: this was 10 out of 10 on the messy scale! The marbled effect was created by lightly mixing colors with Mod-Podge in a small bowl and basically dripping it on. After all the paint is applied strategically, leave it somewhere safe to dry overnight.
Not sure if I love it, but let me know what YOU think of this finish!
Chalk Painted Coffee Bar Shelf
Another one from my recent Thrift Store finds! I bought this shelf for just $3 and envisioned hanging it above our coffee machine to clear some counter. You would think a girl living at a literal mini-farm would have tried chalk paint out sooner, but there’s no time like the present!
I picked a white chalk paint to update the look of the shelf and pop against our slate blue walls. First I will say, I was super impressed by how far a little chalk paint will go. I did two coats and some touch-ups and I don’t think I used even 4oz.
I watched a Youtube video on chalk paint before this experiment and was excited that it didn’t require prep to get started. However, to give it any sort of style, you basically have to do the work on the back end. To create this finish, I had to vigorously sand down for 10-15 minutes. I may try to use a wax glaze technique on another upcoming chalk paint project. So stay tuned for that if you’re interested!
With chalk paint, I now recommend trying to use a fine, soft, dense brush. (The kind that’s made for chalk paint!) That way it might not leave as many strokes on the finished piece. That definitely added to the sanding time! Overall I like the finish, and that again it doesn’t need to be perfect. Would Joanna Gaines approve my farmhouse style shelf?
So there you have it! Which of these 3 experimental paint techniques have you tried? Let me know what you liked best in the comments below.
About Kaitlyn Loos
Kaitlyn Loos [loh-s] is one of the newest designers for interiors and events in the west-central Florida area. (Tampa, Ocala, Gainesville, and everywhere in between.) She brings over seven years of graphic design, project management, and event planning experience to create amazing spaces and experiences for her clients. She is one of the only interior design companies in her area who offers modern, fresh, pattern and color-savvy designs. From styling an event to designing an entire home, Kaitlyn Loos Design is a full service company that delivers style for nearly any investment level. She also enjoys sharing her ideas and projects through her new blog which reaches over 325 people monthly.
For more information about Kaitlyn, check out: About Kaitlyn: Interior Design, and About Kaitlyn: Event Planning.
You can also subscribe to the blog and contact Kaitlyn directly here.
Disclaimers: a small percentage of purchases from select links will benefit me via an affiliate program. I appreciate anyone who wants to support my blog by shopping the products, but there is no obligation to buy.
All of my DIY blog content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. I share what works for me in my home, but you should consult with professionals/landlords before taking on any construction projects. My blog does not constitute interior design advice for readers. I am not liable or responsible for any damages resulting from or related to your use of this information.
I don’t know about you, but I’ve been indulging in some style shows on Netflix and Youtube because I think I’m about over this quarantine life! So in watching these, I came up with the totally random idea to design a fantasy bathroom that translates some of the biggest trends in summer fashion. And it actually worked! If this was my idea of a self-inflicted Project Runway challenge, this is the episode where you can actually shop the look the next day, because it’s all from Amazon! So voila, a DIY bathroom update inspired by summer fashion that you can order in by the weekend. (If you wanted to!)
It was always interesting, on shows like Project Runway, when they had a challenge that connected fashion with art, architecture, or any other creative field. This design explores possible overlaps with what’s current in interior design with five of the biggest summer fashion trends. I decided to do a bathroom because my first idea that jumped out was mint colored tile. And small bathrooms are a space I notice a lot of people are willing to take some design risks on to create a pop of color or pattern in their home.
The Design
The big disclaimer here is that I’m not a fashion expert, and I barely own any of these inspirational apparel pieces, but in my dream world I do. In my dream world, I also have this bathroom, though! Also, I’ve not ordered or tested out any of these products, so please be sure to do your own research before purchasing. (But they’ll arrive quickly, anyway!) Lastly, the mockup is intended to show how the pieces look together, but it is not created 100% to scale. So now, onto the breakdown of the trends and their coordinating pieces.
The Puff Sleeve Trend
Beautiful puff sleeve dress, please meet the tufted, ruffle shower curtain. This also plays into the babydoll dress theme that was shared in Marie Claire as well, because of the tiered pattern. Much like how the volume of a puff sleeve makes shoulders look more substantial, the textured volume of this shower curtain creates visual interest in a similar way. Keep scrolling for some accessory ideas that fall under another trend!
The Mint Green Trend
So as I mentioned originally, this color trend in essence inspired this entire blog article because I connected it with the pastel ceramic tile trend. I thought for sure this would be the one thing you COULDN’T get on Amazon for a quick bathroom update. And then I found these beautiful peel and stick wall sheets in mint! I’ve had my eye on this product ever since I saw Sharrah Stevens use a white version in her rental laundry room. Check it out below.
Doesn’t this look amazing and totally like real tile? I might even like the look of it better than SOME real tile because it looks handmade in texture and the grout is probably much easier to clean. It would take being a bit crafty and meticulous to make the cuts and line it up nicely, but for the price, I think this would look amazing to do wall to wall in a small bathroom.
The Hawaiian Print Trend
This is less of a direct translation of the trend than some of the others. With a bold, colored tile in the room, I wanted a more subtle tropical print piece for the walls, and I’m totally in love with this find! This doesn’t mean you couldn’t design a whole bathroom around a bold, happy Hawaiian print. I’d be into that, too! Just maybe go with the white peel and stick subway tile.
I suggest framing the print in this matted, gold frame to finish the look.
The Gold Chain Trend
While you might not catch me posing with a gold chain Chanel necklace in my mouth (LOL!), you know I can recommend gold metal fixtures in your bathroom! Gold is my favorite shade of metallic whether it’s a necklace or a new bathroom faucet. I also love how the warm gold contrasts with the cool toned mint. In this summer bathroom, I’m recommending you “go for the gold!” with as many metal fixtures as possible.
The Crochet Trend
There’s definitely some fashion and interior design trend crossover happening with the crochet and macrame trends. Crochet/macrame plant hangers add some casual, bohemian flair to this bathroom. I love the idea of hanging these over the toilet area with the art print either under it or on the opposite wall.
Finishing Touches
Below are a few additional items that I think bring the rest of the room together.
Another item I can’t believe I found on Amazon! This mid-century walnut vanity brings some contrast and warmth to the room and ties in well with the other selections.
Rounded rectangle mirrors have a vintage-inspired look that’s definitely a new trend in the interior design world. The gold frame ties in well with the rest of the space and is in great proportion with the vanity.
In any bathroom renovation, it’s important NOT to forget your toilet! If you have a toilet in the dreaded “almond” shade or off-white, it will NOT look good with the mint tiles, white shower curtain, and white sink. I found this modern white toilet on Amazon, but really it just needs to match the white tones of the space. Be sure to hire a plumber for a drama-free install.
So that’s your bathroom update inspired by five of the biggest summer fashion trends! Let me know in the comments if you liked this “Project Runway” inspired idea and be sure to tag me on Instagram if you try any of this out in your own home!
Be sure to subscribe here because more DIY projects and ideas are on the way!
About Kaitlyn Loos
Kaitlyn Loos [loh-s] is one of the newest designers for interiors and events in the west-central Florida area. (Tampa, Ocala, Gainesville, and everywhere in between.) She brings over seven years of graphic design, project management, and event planning experience to create amazing spaces and experiences for her clients. She is one of the only interior design companies in her area who offers modern, fresh, pattern and color-savvy designs. From styling an event to designing an entire home, Kaitlyn Loos Design is a full service company that delivers style for nearly any investment level. She also enjoys sharing her ideas and projects through her new blog which reaches over 325 people monthly.
For more information about Kaitlyn, check out: About Kaitlyn: Interior Design, and About Kaitlyn: Event Planning.
You can also subscribe to the blog and contact Kaitlyn directly here.
Disclaimers: a small percentage of purchases from select links will benefit me via an affiliate program. I appreciate anyone who wants to support my blog by shopping the products, but there is no obligation to buy.
All of my DIY blog content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. I share what works for me in my home, but you should consult with professionals/landlords before taking on any construction projects. My blog does not constitute interior design advice for readers. I am not liable or responsible for any damages resulting from or related to your use of this information.
So I hit the thrift stores this past week to look for items for our living room, kitchen and front deck. According to my recent blog topics Instagram poll, thrift decor ideas was a close second behind DIY projects. (That blog post can be found here!) Specifically, I went out looking for some wall art pieces, a new lamp base, and outdoor furniture. In the process, I decided to check out a few different spots since I’m still new to the area. I took lots of pictures and I’m sharing tips and ideas so you feel like you’re coming to the thrift shop with me!
If you’re new to thrifting…
If you’re new to thrift shopping, let me first say, that you never really know what you’ll find! I mentioned in my first blog on Budget Home Essentials that I like to shop thrift stores for unique decor. And this is still true! So if you like to shop around, it can be fun! Thrift stores are an awesome option because the things you buy will benefit a charity or small local business. In addition, when you find a new life for one of these pieces, you’re making a sustainable choice.
Someone who shops luxury, quality wholesale, IKEA, and thrift stores the same week? Yes, that’s me! I like to mix things up and embark on a bit of a treasure hunt. And there’s certainly some treasures I’ve found! Keep reading to see more of my finds and ideas for how these can be implemented into a modern home.
Different types of thrift stores
There’s several types of stores can fall under the “thrift” category and I’ll share my perceived differences for those. The most common are Goodwill and Salvation Army, where people donate unwanted items and the sales go to the charity. You’d be shocked in the best way at what people will donate to places like these. When you find something good there, it’s such a win for both you and the organization! This is where you’ll typically get the best deals IF you can find what you want. In this week’s adventure, I shopped two different days at the Goodwill by the Paddock Mall.
Next, there’s small businesses who purchase large quantities from estate-type sales, to sell at a discount. Or they may sell consignment. These stores are typically privately owned by a family and they can be very motivated to sell. I shopped at the Bargain Barn Thrift Store Extravaganza and I was impressed by how much selection they had!
Lastly, you have the traditional vintage stores which typically have a more curated collection of vintage goods. I shopped at the brand new Ocala Antique Mall and Estates. The prices may be higher than the other stores, but the average value of the items is likely much higher.
I found so much at all three stores, so I’ll briefly share my thoughts and ideas for each.
Ocala Antique Mall and Estates Finds
Vintage stores are great about pairing like items. I love this old wash bin and selection of wooden bowls. Why buy the antique decor look from a high end store when you can get the real thing?
I love vintage silk scarves! They’ve come back in style since more people are using them in their hair or to dress up a bag. If you find one with a design or colors you totally love, you could even have it framed as an art piece. How pretty would this colorful yellow and black one be in a simple white frame?
I’m living for the idea of someone refinishing these high-back rattan chairs and adding plush cushions for a chic patio moment. (More outdoor living trends and ideas in this recent post.)
I saw these vintage art pieces in gold frames and thought they’re MEANT for a moody dark library gallery wall. Or they can go totally extra on a patterned wallpaper accent wall.
These mid-century glass pieces look like a school of colorful jellyfish, and I’m into it! With so many people opting for glass-front cabinets, colored glassware decor is an on-trend, vintage pick.
These ceramic birds are the stuff of Opalhouse at Target’s dreams. They could add a fun sculptural flair to a gallery wall over a couch or part of a vertical gallery on a narrow wall.
Is this etagere Pier 1, World Market, or Anthropologie? Nope, it’s totally the real vintage thing. This would be beautiful in an eclectic style living room.
These capiz shell chargers would help create a stunning table setting on a contrasting, dark wood table. One of a kind, investment pieces like this can dress up your table even when paired with inexpensive plates and flatware.
Ocala Goodwill Finds
I can tell we’ve arrived at Goodwill when an 80s brass/glass table is styled with a plastic blue kid’s chair! But how cool are these vintage chairs? I feel like this 80s glam, beach-style stuff is back in style in a big way.
You might see these two matching light blue lamps and think – hey, those look nice! I thought so, too. But then I checked the price and saw they were marked for $35 each. While this isn’t bad, you could get totally great lamps from Target or similar for the same price. Goodwill also gets retail items that may not be marked down as low as other items, and I think this is the case here. Keep scrolling though, because I did find a lamp for a better price!
I thought these green chairs could look really cool with dark wood stain and new upholstery. What you may have to invest to improve these chairs is a fraction of what they could cost new from a Crate & Barrel or West Elm.
These storage units I thought would make cool, tiered planters for a covered patio area. Tiered planters are very hot on sites like Urban Outfitters this season.
If you need a new lamp shade, check out your local Goodwill! I feel like this $3 lamp shade would be 4x more at Target.
Bargain Barn Thrift Finds
Bargain Barn definitely had a lot more furniture than the Goodwill. They actually buy storage units to resell in their store, nearly unseen. I recommend this spot if you’re in the Ocala area!
I’m very big on buying lamps in pairs, and these quickly caught my eye at the Bargain Barn. I could see these working as-is, or I could see someone switching out the shades for modern black ones. Another idea, if you have the DIY bug, is to paint the base detail blue and white and add sleek white shades.
The Bargain Barn had two of these matching archway window mirrors –which can create such a beautiful symmetrical moment in a space. You could rough them up for a farmhouse feel or touch up with black paint for a traditional look.
I love how this floor lamp has a tiki style that could add vintage character to a coastal-inspired home. Whether that’s in a neutral toned room with palms or against a jewel-toned, teal wall, this one had me dreaming!
Had to snap a picture of this larger-than-life pin board BEHIND the floral painting. With linen fabric and white, chalk-painted looking frame, this would be perfect for an open wall of a home office.
When trying to decide on something that’s a little out-there in style, consider if it’ll have friends in the room. Do you have something with similar colors? The two pieces above with the very similar color palette and matting style were recommended to be sold together by the owner, and I agree!
Even More in the Bargain Barn Back Room!
Cedar chests are timeless and popular because the natural material keeps bugs away. By mixing a piece like this chest with modern decor, you can create a customized, lived-in feel in your home.
Is this a thrift store or a 2020 Urban Outfitters? I couldn’t help but day dream about styling a whole room around the big rattan etagere on the right.
Again, more and more rattan furniture! A little reupholstery could make these look totally 2020. Rattan, along with other casual, natural furniture materials, are back and on trend.
I like the lines of this mid-century side table. With a dark walnut stain it could look like it’s from West Elm in 2020, but with a bright paint color it could look like 1960s Palm Springs.
This table and chairs set appears to be vintage and high quality. My idea was to paint the chairs and table base black and add new upholstery. It could be chic, black and white 80s moment.
What I Bought!
So onto the next part – what I actually bought on these adventures! As mentioned previously, I was thrift shopping for new wall art, a lamp base, and outdoor furniture. And luckily, I was able to find a few of these items!
I found this frame for $10 that I can use to frame a large art piece for our living room. The white color should be a nice contrast against our slate blue walls and has a subtle, farmhouse feel. (Because even though I straight up live on a farm, I still like it with my modern and colorful spin.) This was found at the Bargain Barn.
I’d envisioned a narrow shelf piece that we can hang above our Keurig for a little coffee station. But I totally forgot about it when I went thrift shopping. Then at Goodwill, I spotted this shelf in one of the bins for $3! It even has the fixtures on it to mount on the wall! More DIY on this particular piece will be coming in the near future, so be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss it!
Last but not least, I found this vintage beauty at Goodwill. (Sharpie for scale reference.) What’s funny is that this was hiding behind the lamps I mentioned were overpriced. If you remember from my epic 2020 DIY Recap, we needed a new base to replace the one that broke. And you better believe this means there’s another big DIY happening here in the coming weeks!
Does that leave you with a bit of a cliff hanger? 🙂 Are you inspired to go and thrift shop for your home this weekend? I hope you enjoyed this thrift shop with me adventure. Let me know what you find at your local thrift store in the comments below.
And hey, if you’re liking any of my ideas and want to make something similar happen in your space, I’d love to help! I’m currently accepting projects for summer and can do consultations in-person or virtually. Drop me a note here, and we’ll get started. Thank you!
About Kaitlyn Loos
Kaitlyn Loos [loh-s] is one of the newest designers for interiors and events in the Tampa, Ocala, and Gainesville area. She brings over seven years of graphic design, project management, and event planning experience to create amazing spaces and experiences for her clients. She is one of the only interior design companies in her area who offers modern, fresh, pattern and color-savvy designs. From styling an event to designing an entire home, Kaitlyn Loos Design is a full service company that delivers style for nearly any investment level. She also enjoys sharing her ideas and projects through her new blog which reaches over 325 people monthly.
For more information about Kaitlyn, check out: About Kaitlyn: Interior Design, and About Kaitlyn: Event Planning.
You can also subscribe to the blog and contact Kaitlyn directly here.
Disclaimer: All of my DIY blog content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. I share what works for me in my home, but you should consult with professionals/landlords before taking on any construction projects. My blog does not constitute interior design advice for readers. I am not liable or responsible for any damages resulting from or related to your use of this information.
Hello again! Another big thank you to my Instagram friends who took my recent blog post topic survey. While the final results were pretty close, the winning topic you all wanted more from me is…DIY projects! This put a big smile on my face because I definitely have a bit of the “maker gene.” In my mind, I keep cutting back to college making a 5 ft hanging birdcage out of cereal box strips and hot glue. I love a good DIY, and this is the first year I’ve had this kind of platform to share them. I’m inspired do more! But I thought this was a great opportunity to recap all of my 2020 DIY projects so far.
I’m including all the related links you could ever want in case you’d like to try any of these yourself. There’s also some new photos of how it looked in the respective space that you may not have seen yet. Oh, and to make it a little more interesting, I’ve created a ranking system! The ranking is based on performance, durability, cost to value ratio, and overall aesthetic appeal. This is like when a beauty Youtuber shares at the end of the year which products they still love, and what they’ve changed their minds about. I’m starting with the highest score to moving down to the lowest. I hope you enjoy!
1. IKEA Fixtures Spray Painted
My office has quickly become my favorite room in the whole house since the One Room Challenge. (Check out my office reveal here!) Who knew a project from the last day of the challenge would make the number one spot? It was so simple! This was gold spray paint (this one specifically) to the knobs that came with my Billy Oxberg doors and wall hook set.
The inspiration photo I had of the Billy Oxberg pieces used custom pulls like you would find at Anthropologie. While I liked that, the spray painted hardware also has the elevated look I was going after. These two quick projects are highest on the list because the were very easy to do, low investment, and they’re ridiculously pretty IMO.
2. Mini Water Painting
This was another project from the last 24 hours of the One Room Challenge, though it was part of a set plan. I knew that I wanted a small pool water painting and I knew it would be a fun thing to try to DIY for the challenge. But on the day-of, it honestly took a little bit of experimentation and I picked the best of three. My arts background helped!
This painting was created by coloring a coffee filter with a water-based marker, dampening the filter, and pressing to print onto a piece of water color paper. Repeated a few times to create the desired pattern.
3. Dollar Tree Anthropologie Vase
If you are crafty or interested in this project at all, you absolutely must try it! I’m so happy with how this Anthropologie-inspired vase came out. You can see more details in this Instagram story highlight.
4. Spray Painted Coat Rack
Another DIY project that is very simple to do is my spray painted coat rack. This coat rack needed to move rooms after the One Room Challenge happened in my office and I loved the idea of finally getting around to spray painting it gold. I love how it looks against our slate blue walls in the living room. Get my favorite spray paint here!
5. The Dollar Tree Gallery Wall
The Dollar Tree Gallery Wall was a bit of a runaway hit compared to my other projects and posts on social at that time. And, I documented basically the whole process on my Instagram Story highlights, if you want to check it out! While I’m happy with the look and the low investment cost of this project, I don’t have the highest expectations for how long these Dollar Tree frames will last. You could achieve a similar look using a set like this one from Amazon for $43.
6. The Upcycled Wicker Lamp
I think all of my best DIY projects are when I have the opportunity to be brave and have some fun. I took this thrifted lamp from looking like it was ready to go to the dump, to looking like it’s ready for the pages of PB Teen magazine. All I used was a can (or two) of white spray paint and some embroidery thread. You can watch the full upcycled lamps saga, including this one, on this Instagram Highlight.
7. The Upcycled Pineapple Lamp
The pineapple lamp was basically tied with the wicker lamp because the overall improvement was huge. However, the “extra” level of this lamp makes it a bit limiting for where you can style it in the home. I think it would look better with the gold spray paint from #1. Again, you can watch the full upcycled lamps saga, including this pineapple lamp, on this Instagram Highlight.
8. Chains on Frames
The chains on frames DIY from my corner gallery in my new office to me is absolutely beautiful. (Check out my office reveal here.) I’m so happy with my decision to go with the very delicate jewelry chain. (Similar chain here.) However, it was a bit tricky, and maybe not beginner-craft-level to hot glue the chains and do the faux/double “hang” like I did to protect the art from falling. It’s also a bit risky because the jewelry chain may discolor over time and not match the frames as well. For now, I absolutely love this detail in my new office and I would recommend this project.
9. Bathroom Vanity Update
And now this DIY countdown has taken us to the bathroom! Check out the details from my bathroom vanity makeover in my Under $300 Bathroom Makeover blog post.
10. Dollar Tree Linen Closet Shelves
I’ve gotten a few compliments on these Dollar Tree DIY shelf coverings in my bathroom linen closet. You can check out the full details and find the Youtuber who inspired me, by checking out the Under $300 Bathroom Makeover blog post.
11. DIY Window A/C Unit Filler Inserts
Not to toot my own horn, but I thought I was a frickin’ genius when I thought of these! If you’ve ever lived somewhere without central air conditioning (yes, hello from the mini-farm) you might like this DIY idea!
If you have a window A/C unit without the adjustable accordion attachments OR a large window, try this DIY. This was totally inspired by the linen closet DIY! I measured the opening and used extra foam core to cut out the perfect shape to fill it. Then, for both aesthetic and water proofing purposes, I covered in the faux wood contact paper. We’ve had several of these in use for months and they help keep bugs out. Even in this rainy season, and I have not yet had to replace them. And when I do, it’s less than $2 worth of supplies!
12. DIY Hem Taped Curtains
You can see more of this and before/after photos in my One Room Challenge Office Reveal. But basically I tried iron-on hem tape on my curtains and it worked! I love how this makes my space feel more put together and that I can always let the hem out if we move.
The one downside to this project is that sunlight may show your hem-tape work, as pictured above. It’s worth it for me, but if you do this project for a more permanent space, my advice is to cut them and keep the hem tape within about two inches of the bottom.
13. The Velvet Foot Stool
I still LOVE this foot stool, but I totally admit that the pillow is a bit delicately placed and can come off easily. In an office space I think this is fine, but it’s probably not going to stay if you have kids or house pets. Check out this DIY in my Instagram Story Highlights.
14. The Blue Bedazzled Upcycled Lamp
There may be a few of you scratching your heads as to why this lamp is so low on the list, and that is because it has broken! The tall lamp had taken many tumbles from its precarious side table, and the base has officially broken and the inside part of the shade has come out. However, I deeply love this lamp shade and I’m setting out to try to fix it and put it on a new base.
The tip to gain here is not to spend a lot of time/energy/resources on a lamp that is so easy to fall over/break. There are other fish in the sea! You can watch the full upcycled lamps saga, including this one (before its RIP), on this Instagram Highlight.
15. The 70s Upcycled Lamp
While I don’t want ANY of my DIYs to be at the bottom, our list has come to an end… I specifically have very positive memories painting this one during a beautiful sunset. I love how the painted lampshade gives a moody effect when the light is on. But I think it would look better one day on a more mid-century inspired base. If I painted something like this again, I would do slightly finer lines and more of them. You can watch the full upcycled lamps saga, including the 70s lamp shade, on this Instagram Highlight.
So this was a fun trip down recent memory lane for me! What did you think? Let me know your favorite DIY in the comments down below.
Be sure to subscribe here because more DIYs are on the way!
About Kaitlyn Loos
Kaitlyn Loos [loh-s] is one of the newest designers for interiors and events in the Tampa, Ocala, and Gainesville area. She brings over seven years of graphic design, project management, and event planning experience to create amazing spaces and experiences for her clients. She is one of the only interior design companies in her area who offers modern, fresh, pattern and color-savvy designs. From styling an event to designing an entire home, Kaitlyn Loos Design is a full service company that delivers style for nearly any investment level. She also enjoys sharing her ideas and projects through her new blog which reaches over 325 people monthly.
For more information about Kaitlyn, check out: About Kaitlyn: Interior Design, and About Kaitlyn: Event Planning.
You can also subscribe to the blog and contact Kaitlyn directly here.
Disclaimers: a small percentage of purchases from select links will benefit me via an affiliate program. I appreciate anyone who wants to support my blog by shopping the products, but there is no obligation to buy.
All of my DIY blog content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. I share what works for me in my home, but you should consult with professionals/landlords before taking on any construction projects. My blog does not constitute interior design advice for readers. I am not liable or responsible for any damages resulting from or related to your use of this information.
Recent Posts
Subscribe to Blog
Subscribe here to receive email notifications for blog posts as they go live.
Blog Topics
- Decluttering (3)
- DIY (28)
- Farm life (16)
- Holidays (8)
- Interior Design (42)
- Life Updates (15)
- Organizing (7)
- Outdoor Living (4)
- Product Recommendations (14)