Decorating your home doesn’t have to drain your bank account. If your space feels boring, outdated, or unfinished — you’re not alone. Most people want a stylish home but feel stuck because professional decor and furniture can be insanely expensive.
The good news? You can completely transform your home using cheap DIY home decor ideas that look expensive — without spending more than $50 per project.
These ideas are beginner-friendly, weekend-approved, and perfect for renters or homeowners. Whether you want a luxury look, modern vibe, or cozy upgrade, these DIY projects prove that budget decor can still look high-end.
Let’s dive into 17 affordable DIY decor ideas that instantly upgrade your space.
1. Peel-and-Stick Accent Wall
Peel-and-stick wallpaper is one of the fastest ways to make a room look professionally designed. It’s renter-friendly, easy to apply, and comes in high-end patterns like marble, wood, and textured neutrals.
Use it behind a bed, sofa, or hallway wall to create a focal point. Choose subtle colors for a luxury look instead of bold prints
Cost: $30–$50
Best for: Bedrooms, living rooms, entryways
2. DIY Floating Shelves
Floating shelves instantly make a space look modern and intentional. You can build them using basic wood planks and brackets or buy budget kits.
Style them with plants, books, candles, and minimal decor for a clean, expensive look.
Cost: $25–$45
Best for: Living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms
3. Gold Spray-Paint Decor Upgrade
Gold accents scream luxury — and spray paint makes it ridiculously affordable. Paint old frames, vases, trays, or lamp bases for an instant upgrade.
Stick to matte or brushed gold finishes for a high-end feel.
Cost: $10–$20
Best for: Any room needing glam
4. DIY Large Wall Art (Abstract Style)
Large wall art usually costs hundreds — but DIY versions can be made for under $40. Use canvas, neutral paint colors, and abstract brush strokes.
Minimalist abstract art always looks expensive and trendy.
Cost: $30–$40
Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms
If you love affordable upgrades like this, you’ll also enjoy these low budget weekend DIY projects that instantly refresh your home.
5. Mirror Frame Makeover
Plain mirrors look cheap — framed mirrors look custom. Add wood trim or peel-and-stick molding to create a designer mirror.
Paint the frame black, gold, or wood tone for a luxury finish.
Cost: $25–$45
Best for: Bathrooms, entryways
6. DIY Headboard Wall Panel
Instead of buying an expensive headboard, create a wall panel using foam boards or plywood and fabric.
This adds texture and instantly makes your bedroom look hotel-inspired.
Cost: $40–$50
Best for: Bedrooms
7. Cabinet Hardware Upgrade
Swapping old cabinet handles for modern ones can completely change the look of your kitchen or bathroom.
Black, gold, or brushed nickel handles always look expensive.
Cost: $20–$40
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms
8. DIY Faux Marble Countertop
Contact paper marble wraps are budget-friendly and surprisingly realistic. They instantly make surfaces look high-end.
Perfect for renters who want a temporary but stunning upgrade.
Cost: $30–$50
Best for: Kitchens, desks, vanities
9. Decorative Molding Accent
Wall molding adds instant architectural interest and makes any room look custom-built.
Simple square or rectangular molding designs are easiest for beginners.
Cost: $40–$50
Best for: Dining rooms, bedrooms
10. Statement DIY Light Fixture
Lighting changes everything. Swap basic fixtures for statement pendant lights or DIY upgrades.
Look for minimalist or modern styles for an expensive appearance.
Cost: $35–$50
Best for: Kitchens, entryways
11. DIY Entryway Wall Hooks Station
Create a functional and stylish entryway using wall hooks, a wood board, and simple decor.
Paint it neutral and add a mirror above for a designer look.
Cost: $25–$40
Best for: Entryways, hallways
For more simple upgrades, explore these easy home improvement ideas that work perfectly for beginners.
12. DIY Linen Curtains Hack
Use budget fabric or IKEA curtains and hang them higher and wider to make ceilings look taller.
This trick alone makes rooms feel bigger and more expensive.
Cost: $30–$45
Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms
13. Decorative Tray Styling
A simple tray styled with candles, books, and greenery instantly elevates any surface.
Stick to neutral tones for a luxury feel.
Cost: $15–$30
Best for: Coffee tables, dressers
14. DIY Plant Corner
Plants add life and texture. Use affordable indoor plants with modern pots to create a stylish plant corner.
Even faux plants work if styled correctly.
Cost: $30–$50
Best for: Living rooms, balconies
15. Textured Throw Pillow Covers
Swap old pillow covers for textured ones like boucle, linen, or woven fabrics.
This small change instantly upgrades sofas and beds.
Cost: $20–$40
Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms
16. DIY Wall Sconces (Plug-In)
Plug-in wall sconces create a hotel-style look without electrical work.
Choose minimalist designs for a high-end aesthetic.
Cost: $40–$50
Best for: Bedrooms, hallways
17. Coffee Table Makeover
Sand, paint, or stain an old coffee table to give it a fresh modern look.
Finish with matte paint or wood stain for a designer finish.
Cost: $20–$40
Best for: Living rooms
✅ FINAL TAKEAWAY
You don’t need expensive furniture or professional designers to create a stylish home. These cheap DIY home decor ideas that look expensive prove that smart styling and simple projects can completely transform your space — all under $50.
Save this list, try one project this weekend, and watch your home look more luxurious with every small upgrade.