Designing your space doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little creativity and a keen eye, you can transform your home using items you already own. For more savvy tips, be sure to visit Coupora for coupons.

1. Upcycled Glass Jars

Who knew empty jars crammed in the back of your pantry could be your ticket to a designer-esque touch in your space, right? Scoop up those old jam or pickle jars and get ready to offer them a new life. Turn them into cool, hip storage hubs or decorative vessels, and take pride in your eco-friendly design hack.

Creative Ideas for Upcycling

Here are some ideas to infuse creativity into your jar transformation:

• Storage Solutions: Use them as unique storage containers for:
  • Spices
  • Pantry staples
  • Office supplies
  • Bathroom essentials
• Decorative Vessels: Transform them into stylish vases or candle holders with a few simple steps.

Style Enhancement Tips

For extra style points, consider the following enhancements:

• Paint: Give the jars a fresh coat of paint to match your home’s aesthetic.
• Ribbon Wrap: Tie a ribbon around the jar, using old Christmas or birthday gift tags for a personalized touch.

Embrace the imperfect and celebrate the charm of upcycled storage that refuses to play a dull part in your decor. The result? Absolutely gorgeous.

2. Repurposed Fabric Scraps

Let’s face it, we all have a stash of leftover fabric hanging around somewhere. Whether it’s from an old t-shirt, a discarded curtain, or remnants from a craft project, these forgotten pieces can be a goldmine for resourceful decor. For starters, consider using these fabric scraps to create dynamic throw pillow covers or table runners.

No need to be a pro seamstress. In most cases, a simple hem will do. It’s a matter of folding the fabric and running a straight stitch—either by hand or with a machine. If you’re aiming for no-sew solutions, fabric glue will be your best friend. For throw pillows, just fold the fabric around the pillow insert like you would a present and seal the edges with your adhesive.

Adding a layer of texture and color, these items breathe new life into your decor without any significant expenditure. Better yet, you have the chance to mix and match different patterns for a boho-inspired vibe. Think tribal prints with floral motifs or polka dots next to stripes. It might seem chaotic, but when you intentionally curate and blend these pieces, a sense of sophisticated, layered richness emerges.

So don’t let those fabric scraps go to waste. Instead, invite them out of their storage and into your living space for a refreshing, budget-friendly design hack. As Tom Church, Co-Founder of Coupora, says, “Creativity is about making the most of what you have, and often, the most unique decorations come from items you already own.”

3. DIY Wall Art with Cardboard

Cardboard isn’t just for packing anymore; it’s now your ticket to affordable and chic wall art. Here’s how you can revamp those drab walls without burning a hole in your pocket. Grab pieces of cardboard you find lying around, say goodbye to ‘bland’, and hello to ‘grand’.

First, let your inner artist loose and cut out assorted shapes or designs from the cardboard. You can go for classic geometric shapes or dare into the realm of abstract designs, depending on your room’s theme. Glass of wine optional but highly recommended while doing this.

Once you’ve amassed a pile of cardboard pretties, it’s time to arrange them aesthetically into a gallery on your wall. Don’t rush here – take your time and have a few runs at it till your wall screams ‘masterpiece in progress’.

Now, time for some razzle-dazzle. Paint your cardboard cutouts in colors that complement your room or cover them with washi tape for that added sophistication. You get bonus points for glitter here.

Remember, the beauty of this DIY wall art lies in its flexibility. It can be as minimalist or as flamboyant as you want it to be.

However, be warned! Once you’re done, there will be a fight among friends and family as to who saw it first on Pinterest. There could also be whispers around the block of you starting an Etsy store. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

4. Books as Pedestals

They say that knowledge supports us in life, but who knew this could be taken quite so literally? Pile up your hardcover books to construct clever and unique side tables or plant stands. This DIY project not only provides functional furniture but also showcases your robust intellectual taste.

When it comes to choosing books, think beyond the content. Pay attention to their exterior as well. Using color-coded or thematically similar books can provide a sense of cohesiveness for your new, literary pedestal. For instance, stack all blue hardcovers for an oceanic vibe, or go monochrome with black and white books for a minimalistic appeal.

Another tip is to alternate the book placements for a more intriguing look. Place them vertically or horizontally, or mix them up. But ensure stability, especially if you’re placing items like table lamps or plants on it.

Throw a doily or a small runner on top, and voila! You’ve got yourself a conversation-starting, budget-friendly side table (with the bonus of being a secret bookshelf). As you can see, making an interior design statement doesn’t require a literary degree or a bottomless wallet—just some old books and a touch of creativity.

Tom Church, Co-Founder of Coupora.com, a discount code platform, advises: “Think of books not just as sources of knowledge, but as creative building blocks for your home decor. By selecting books with attractive covers and stacking them with intention, you can create both practical and artistic home pieces.”

5. Mason Jars as a Herb Garden

Using mason jars as a herb garden is not only creative, but it’s also practical. So save those jars next time you’re whipping up spaghetti, because they make the perfect pot for fresh herbs.

What you’ll need? Mason jars, potting soil, seeds and a bit of sunshine. Some popular herbs to consider are basil, rosemary, chives, and parsley. They root well in jars and are handy for your kitchen creations.

Now here’s the fun part, take your jars – clean them out thoroughly first – and fill them about three-quarters full with potting soil. Plant your seeds as directed on the packet, and make sure your new garden is in a sunny spot, preferably on your kitchen windowsill.

Putting your DIY skills into play, paint your jars with chalkboard paint, then label them with each herb’s name using a chalk pen. This step is optional but doing so will add an artsy vibe to your new little garden and will help you to easily identify each herb.

Voilà! You’re now a proud gardener, and your windowsill is basking in the newfound glory of your green thumb. So next time a recipe calls for a pinch of rosemary, you know exactly where to find it.

6. Tin Can Planters

Do you often open a can of beans and then recycle it without giving it a second thought? Well, think twice before you throw away your next can. This bulletproof container can actually be transformed into an uber-stylish planter. Here’s how:

First, make sure you thoroughly clean any leftover food residue from the can and remove the paper wrap. The clean, raw metal look of the tin can gives your planter an industrial edge that is totally in trend now. You may also choose to paint it if you prefer a pop of color or to match your home decor.

Tin cans make the perfect nest for small plants and succulents. The size is just right and the sturdy nature of the can holds the soil and plant firmly. For better water drainage and to prevent root rot, creating a few drainage holes at the bottom of the can is a smart move. You can do this with just a simple nail and hammer.

The beauty of the tin can planter is that it can be placed anywhere – in your kitchen, study desk, living room or even the bathroom. You could arrange several of them together for a miniature indoor garden. All you need is a handful of soil, a small plant or some seeds, and you can start greening up your space for the price of, well, a can of beans.

In a nutshell, a tin can is more than a container for food—it’s a design opportunity waiting to be seized. Next time, don’t be so quick to toss it. Give your green thumb a chance at this inexpensive, stylish, and utterly cool project.

7. Shoebox Drawer Organizer

Say goodbye to clutter, and hello to your new best friend: the shoebox. These modest items are gold mines for organization. All you need are shoeboxes – the size depends on your drawer or storage place.

This hack provides a perfect solution for those messy kitchen drawers full of utensils, or that home office drawer brimming with pens and staplers. Got a hot mess happening with your socks or belts? Shoebox to the rescue!

Start by emptying your drawer completely. Clean it out and let it breathe. Then, tackle those shoeboxes. Measure your drawer’s length, width, and depth to ensure your shoeboxes will fit. Cut them down to size if necessary. You can utilize the top of the shoebox as a divider if you want deeper compartments.

Lay out your shoeboxes in the drawer in a way that suits your storage needs. You can use them unadorned if want, but for a little extra vibe, consider wrapping them in leftover wallpaper or paint them in colours that bring you joy.

Remember, this hack is highly customizable to your needs. You can make a dedicated section for each type of item you frequently use – socks, ties, pens, you name it! Super cost-effective, fabulously practical, and a surprising way to bring some order to your chaos. ‘Box’ in the mess, literally. So reach into your closet, grab those shoeboxes and start organizing. Efficiency never looked so stylish.

8. Ladder as a Towel Rack

Got an old ladder lying around? Don’t let it collect dust. Instead, grant it a second life by transforming it into a unique and useful towel rack. This innovative design hack not only offers a practical solution for your towels, but it also adds a rustic and charming touch to your space.

All you need to do is properly clean and varnish your ladder. Depending upon your preference, you could even add a lick of paint to match your bathroom’s color scheme.

To install, simply lean it against a wall sturdy enough to handle the weight, ensuring there’s adequate height to hang your towels without them touching the ground. For a ladder with multiple rungs, you can hang towels, spare blankets, or any items that need a quick air dry.

Remember, the ladder’s rustic and worn-out vibe is the heart of its charm, so allow those beautiful imperfections to shine. This hack is a testament that a little creative repurposing can lead to astonishing budget-friendly design solutions.

9. Clothespin Photo Display

Remember those old clothespins gathering dust in your laundry area? Time for their moment in the decor spotlight. One fantastic idea is to use them as a photo display. Sounds weird, huh? Trust us. It’s aces.

Here’s the drill. Suspend a string—yarn, twine, fishing line—from one end of a wall to the other. Higher or lower—it’s your call. Then, clip your favorite photos onto the string using the clothespins. It’s that straightforward.

What’s more, this setup is super dynamic—perfect for the ever-changing world of social media. Got a new holiday photo with your buddies, latest stadium-selfie with your favorite team’s mascot, a candid pic of your dog sleeping hilariously weird? Unpin. Clip. Boom! Your photo display wall has a new face.

And if photos aren’t your thing, this can work just as well with short notes, keepsakes, postcards, your kids’ art. Anything that can be clipped, really. Give it a shot and watch how your room comes alive with memories or art or whatever makes you happy. Use the clothespin photo display hack to turn any blah wall into your personal storyboard. Easy peasy. Fun squared.

10. Wine Cork Coasters

• So you’ve been saving your wine corks after those evenings spent relishing your favorite red or white. Instead of tossing them, put those corks to good use. They make for fantastic, personalized coasters or trivets in your kitchen or dining space.
• Start by laying out your corks in the desired surface pattern. You can go for a circular coaster, a square one, or opt for something a tad more adventurous like a hexagonal shape.
• Grab a hot glue gun and attach them together, making sure they’re all lined up evenly. You can also slice them in half lengthwise for a flatter surface.
• Once you’ve glued everything, let them cool off and set before trimming any uneven sides for that perfect finish.
• And just like that, you’ve got an eco-friendly, cost-effective drink accessory. Not only do these DIY wine cork coasters serve a meaningful purpose, but they also bring a touch of homey refinement — an engaging conversation starter at your next party.

These corky creations are fun to make and even better to use. So next time you’re about to toss out a cork, toss it into your DIY stash instead. You’ll be making coasters in no time, and your furniture will thank you for it.