Feeling like your kitchen could use a little refresh, but you’re working on a tight budget? Well, you’re in luck! I’ve rounded up some easy and super fun DIY projects to make your kitchen feel brand new without breaking the bank. Because Y’ALL the last thing we want to be doing is spending our hard earned cash on overly expensive upgrades!
1. Transform Your Fridge with Contact Paper and Framed Magnets
We’re starting with a bang because this DIY is a total game-changer. You can refresh your fridge and add a little cottagecore or retro charm with just two simple steps.
Here’s How to Do It:
- Step 1: Choose a contact paper or peal and stick wallpaper pattern that fits your style, whether it’s vintage-inspired florals or modern prints. Cut the paper to fit your fridge panels and apply, smoothing out bubbles with a credit card. The result? A fridge that looks totally custom! If you want to go above and beyond you can even purchase large handles to add to your fridge in bronze or gold!
- Step 2: Create your own framed magnets. Get small picture frames, remove their stands, and glue magnets to the back. Use these to display family photos, your kids’ artwork (bonus points if you recycle the originals and save space!), or charming art prints from Etsy or museum websites.
This hack takes no more than an hour or two, and every time you walk into your kitchen, your fridge will make you smile.
2. Viral Dishwasher Curtain Hack
This hack is so simple but adds SUCH a cozy touch to your kitchen!
Here’s How to Do It:
- Step 1: Grab nice small curtain rod.
- Step 2: Attach magnets to the back of the rod hangers. You can use strong adhesive-backed magnets or magnetic strips for this.
- Step 3: Pick a fabric you love (you can sew a hemmed curtain if you’re crafty or cut one to size and use iron-on hem tape for a quick fix). Attach your custom curtain to the rod and hang it in front of your dishwasher.
Pro Tip: Match the fabric to your window curtains or spread the same pattern throughout your home. It’s the easiest way to tie everything together and create a cohesive vibe.
3. DIY Clay Egg Holder
Calling all older kids (and moms who love a good craft session)! Here’s a fun and functional project.
What You’ll Need:
- Air-dry clay
- A plastic egg carton
- Patterned napkins
- Mod Podge
How to Make It:
- Step 1: Roll out the air-dry clay to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Step 2: Mold the clay over the bottom of a plastic egg carton to shape your holder. Trim off excess clay and smooth edges with water.
- Step 3: Once it’s dry, cut out pieces of your patterned napkins. Use Mod Podge to attach them to the clay for a beautiful, decoupage effect.
These egg holders are great for the counter or inside the fridge, and they’d make such cute gifts too!
4. Counter Clutter Solution with S Hooks
We all have that one counter space where mail, keys, and random odds and ends pile up. This DIY will help you reclaim it!
Steps:
- Step 1: Mount a sleek metal or wooden rod on the wall or the side of your kitchen island (choose one that matches your kitchen aesthetic).
- Step 2: Use S hooks to hang a dishtowel, a small basket, or even measuring spoons.
This hack not only keeps your counters clear but also looks so put together. Functional and beautiful!
5. Create a Candle Station
Transform a corner of your kitchen into a dreamy little retreat with this idea.
Materials You’ll Need:
- A small tray
- A candle
- A planter
- A jar of matches
- A vase with faux or fresh florals
Steps:
- Step 1: Arrange the items on your tray. Add the candle, planter, and match jar for practicality, and finish with a vase for that extra visual appeal.
- Step 2: Bonus points if you hang a hook nearby for an apron and slip your earbuds into the basket to create the perfect homemaking nook.
Light your candle when starting a cleaning or cooking session, and instantly feel more at home in your space.
6. Framed Handwritten Recipes
Want decor that’s personal AND functional? Framed recipes are it!
Steps:
- Step 1: Collect handwritten recipes (from your grandma, mom, or even your own!).
- Step 2: Pick picture frames (thrift for budget-friendly options!) and decide whether you want a uniform look (spray-paint them all the same color) or an eclectic vibe.
- Step 3: Cover the backing of each frame with decorative paper, fabric, or wallpaper. Center your recipe and secure it with tape or glue dots before replacing the frame.
These framed recipes look stunning grouped gallery-wall style! This would also make an AMAZING girls night, or family reunion activity! Make sure that each person you get a recipe from signs their work so you can reminisce every time you look at them!
7. Decorative Sink Setup
This viral hack is all over Instagram, and it’s such a statement-maker.
Steps:
- Step 1: Find a decorative toilet paper holder (stay with me on this!) and pair it with a pot of faux or fresh florals for your sink area.
- Step 2: Optional: Add a vintage-inspired ring hook for your wedding ring when doing dishes. It’s practical and gives total retro vibes.
Who knew the area by your sink could feel so elegant?
8. Peel-and-Stick Wall Tiles
If you’ve been dreaming of a backsplash but don’t have the budget for tile, this is your hack.
Steps:
- Step 1: Clean the wall area thoroughly.
- Step 2: Align peel-and-stick tiles. Some are even renter-friendly if you use masking tape underneath to protect the wall.
- Step 3: Reveal your brand-new backsplash that looks high-end without spending a fortune.
This upgrade transforms kitchens completely, and it’s easier than you think.
Romanticize Your Cleaning Routines (So you don’t HATE cleaning!)
These DIYs aren’t just about making your kitchen look good. They’re about creating a space where homemaking feels like an act of self-care. And you know what pairs perfectly with these projects? Domestic Daydreams Radio Cleaning Routines!
My vintage-inspired cleaning routines, printables, and challenges make homemaking fun (yes, really!). Imagine lighting your new candle station, putting on an apron, and starting a cleaning session to the sound of your favorite 1950s radio drama. Doesn’t that sound dreamy?
Click here for some free episodes, and bring a little more joy into every corner of your home. Homemaking isn’t just about chores; it’s about creating a space you love. Now go tackle those DIYs, and have fun transforming your kitchen!