5 Simple DIY Projects You Can Tackle This Weekend

You’re itching to try something new this weekend, but you don’t want to invest too much time into a new project. Not sure what to do? No worries, I’ve found 5 spectacular DIY projects that are easy to do, totally affordable, and only take a few hours at most to complete. From a rustic-elegant mirror to the coolest custom wall hanging you’ve ever seen, don’t be surprised if you want to give all of these projects a go this weekend. Each one of them will add a unique little touch to your space.

1. Bedside Shelf

Everyone needs something next to their bed to put a glass of water and a book on. If you just aren’t feeling the typical bedside tables, or you’re seriously looking to save space, this simple bedside shelf is a great compromise. Although you could easily buy a piece of wood from the hardware store for this project, I think it would be really cool to use a piece of salvaged wood, or even a piece of wood with the raw edge left on. Whatever material you choose, all it takes is two simple brackets and some screws to install, and you’re good to go.

2. Copper-Edged Mirror

A copper-edged mirror is pretty much a showstopper. Not only does it look like it cost a fortune, it’s actually super simple to make. Oh, and the actual cost of supplies will likely run you under $30. The best part about this project is that it can be easily made to fit any type of mirror you find. In fact, it would look fantastic to make a large mirror for one room, and a smaller version for another. Just a word of caution, though: once your friends and family find out you made this super-cool mirror, you might just find yourself filling orders!

3. Brass-Accented Cork Board

Corkboards are a great way to stay organized, but they can be kind of big and blah looking overall. This DIY is not only quick (and cheap!), the little brass accents really elevate the look of the whole piece. Not to mention that the board is split into quadrants, which could actually be really helpful: post grocery lists (and tack up that new recipe you’ve been dying to try) on one board, and memos on another. While your kitchen or office could certainly benefit from this DIY, consider placing it by the front door instead. Not only can you hang your keys from the pushpins, the board will also be a great place to leave notes, tickets, mail, or anything else you might normally forget as you’re running out of the house.

4. Batik Wall Hanging

Another project that looks like a million bucks but costs very little, you might be surprised to learn that you really don’t need to be a great artist to make this gorgeous hanging. In fact, simple designs, from polka dots to stripes, would be just as striking as the floral arrangement shown in the picture. And, while you might not have the supplies on hand, everything from the liquid dye to the paraffin wax is easy to find at any craft store. Oh, and worried about melting wax in one of your pots? It’s easy to remove: simply add water to the pot and bring to a boil. Pour into an old coffee can and discard. Then, add some white vinegar to the pot and let it sit for a few minutes. Use a nylon mesh scrubber to remove any remaining residue (using the vinegar to help degrease), rinse thoroughly with warm water, and let dry.

5. Watercolor Mugs

This DIY is a great way to refresh your everyday mugs. Plus, you likely have all of the supplies on hand, so you won’t have to spend a dime to achieve this unique, one-of-a-kind look. Because you’re using nail polish to achieve the swirled, marbleized designs, you don’t really have to worry about the colors fading or washing away. Though, if you have issues, a coat of clear, nontoxic paint spray will seal in your art for good.

Written By

Paul Kazlov is a “green” home remodeling enthusiast and an industry pioneer for innovation in home renovation. Paul writes for the Global Home Improvement blog and strives to educate people about “green” products such as metal roofing and solar. Follow him on Twitter @PaulKazlov