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Why Even Bother with DIY Wall Art?

Let’s cut to it: “DIY” can sound scary. Like glue on the carpet you’ll never get out. Lopsided frames that hang crookedly. A finished piece that screams “I made this in 5 minutes”—and not in a cute, quirky way. I’ve messed up my fair share. Trust me, I once tried to paint an “abstract” piece. It looked like a toddler’s finger-painting after a sugar rush. My roommate walked in, stared at it, and said, “Is that… a potato?” But the ones that worked? They’re my favorite things in my house. Here’s why it’s worth the mess:

It’s Your Story, Not a Catalog’s: Last year, I made a pressed flower frame. The daisies were from my niece—she picked them for me. She’s 5, so her fingers had chocolate on them. From the cookie she stole before picking flowers. One petal has a tiny brown spot. And I love it more than any store-bought print. Every time I look at it, I don’t just see flowers. I see her grubby little hands. The way she laughed when I tripped over a root in the yard. The way she held the daisies out like they were treasure, saying, “For your wall, Auntie!” You can’t buy that. A store-bought print might be pretty. But it won’t hold a memory. Yours will.

Your Budget Will Do a Happy Dance: I once made a huge geometric painting for under $20. The canvas was from a craft store sale. Rainy Saturday bin dive—score! The paint was leftover from my nephew’s play table. Bright, kid-approved, and free. The painter’s tape was from the dollar bin. The kind that sticks just enough. Not so much it peels paint. The same size print at a home goods store? Easily $100+. DIY lets you get that “high-end” look without draining your wallet. It’s like finding a designer bag at a thrift store. Total win, no guilt. And you don’t have to explain how much you spent.

That “I Made This” Feeling Is Unbeatable: There’s nothing like stepping back after a project and thinking, “Wait, I did that?” I hung my driftwood macrame above the sofa last month. My cousin came over, stared at it, and said, “Where’d you get that? It’s so cool!” When I told her I made it, her face—priceless. Like she couldn’t believe I, the person who once burned toast, made something that nice. It’s a little confidence boost every time someone notices. And even if no one does, you know. That’s more than enough.

It’s Actually Fun (I Swear): Forget thinking of it as a “task.” Put on your favorite playlist. Mine’s 2000s pop—no judgment if yours is show tunes or heavy metal. Pour a glass of wine. Or lemonade, if that’s your vibe. Add a strawberry, make it fancy. Just play. I once spent an hour messing with a squeegee and acrylic paint. Got paint on my jeans—now they’re my “DIY jeans.” Laughed at how messy it was. Ended up with a piece that looks like it belongs in a gallery. It wasn’t planned. It was just… fun. And that’s the whole point. DIY doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be yours.

Before You Begin: A Little Heart-to-Heart with Your Living Room

Before you grab a paintbrush and go wild—I’ve been there. It usually ends with paint on the ceiling—let’s chat with your space. This isn’t about strict rules. Decor rules are meant to be broken. Remember when everyone said “no white furniture”? Now it’s everywhere. It’s about making sure your art fits like a favorite sweater. Cozy, not forced. Here’s what I always ask myself first. After “Do I have enough coffee?” and “Is the cat going to sit on my supplies?”:

What’s Your Room’s Vibe? Is your living room where you curl up with a blanket and book? Cozy farmhouse style, with a cinnamon candle? Or is it bright, airy, full of plants? A boho spot where your succulents might survive another week? I made a mistake once. I bought a rustic wooden “HOME” sign because it was cheap. Hung it in my super modern living room. Think clean lines, gray couch, no clutter. Every guest glanced at it like it was lost. Like, “Why is that country sign here? Did it wander off from a barn?” Total fail. Pick a project that matches the room’s energy. A sleek geometric painting? Perfect for minimalists. A woven basket display? Made for boho lovers. It just makes sense. No awkward vibes. No guests side-eyeing your art.

Talk About Color (But Don’t Stress It): Your art doesn’t have to match your couch exactly. Thank goodness, because matching is hard. I once tried to match a pillow. Ended up with three different shades of blue that all looked wrong. Instead, pull a color from something you already love. I have a blue throw pillow that’s my favorite. It’s soft, has little tassels, and was a gift from my best friend. So I used that shade in a painting. It ties the room together without feeling “matchy-matchy.” The worst phrase in decor, let’s be honest. And if you want to mix it up? A pop of contrast is magic. My friend has a neutral living room. Beige couch, white walls. She hung a bright yellow macrame. Suddenly, the whole space felt alive. Like someone turned on a light in a dark room.

Size Matters (Sorry, Not Sorry): Here’s a mistake I’ve made twice: making art that’s too small. I hung a tiny print over my 8-foot sofa once. It looked like a lost postage stamp. My cat even knocked it off. Like it was teasing me, “Really? That’s the best you got?” The rule of thumb? Your art should fill 2/3 to 3/4 of the wall space. Especially over furniture. And for height? The center of the art should be around 56-60 inches from the floor. Eye level for most people. Trust me, it makes a huge difference. That tiny print? I now have it in a gallery wall with other small pieces. Way better. No more cat judgment.

Your Basic Toolkit (No Fancy Stuff Needed): You don’t need a professional art studio. I do 90% of my projects with stuff I already have. Old canvases from previous fails—paint over them. No one will know your first try looked like a potato. A set of acrylic paints I bought on sale—they last forever. Mine’s two years old and still going. A few paintbrushes—some are just old makeup brushes. Don’t tell my sister; she thinks I lost them. A drop cloth—an old sheet works! Just make sure it’s not one you care about. And painter’s tape. That’s it. No fancy tools, no expensive supplies. Just the basics. If you don’t have something? Borrow it. Or hit the dollar store. They have everything from q-tips to small canvases for $1.

26 Stunning DIY Wall Art Decor Living Room Ideas

Now for the good stuff—projects that are easy, fun, and look way more expensive than they are. I split them into categories so you can find the one that speaks to you. Trust me, there’s something here for everyone. Even if you think you “can’t art.” I once thought I couldn’t art. Now I have a macrame that people compliment. If I can do it, you can too.

A. For the Nature Lover: Bringing the Outdoors In

If you feel most at peace outside—digging in the dirt, walking through the woods, or sitting by the ocean—these projects will bring that calm right into your living room. They’re like a little vacation for your eyes. No plane ticket needed. No TSA lines, no lost luggage. Just calm.

1. Pressed Flower and Leaf Art:

This is my all-time favorite. It’s simple, but pretty. Last spring, I took my dog—a golden retriever who thinks every walk’s an adventure—for a stroll. I picked some wildflowers (the legal kind, no trespassing!) and maple leaves. I pressed them in my grandma’s old chocolate chip cookbook. It’s heavy enough to flatten them. And the flowers smelled like vanilla for a week—bonus. I forgot about them for two weeks. Oops, life got busy. When I pulled them out? Flat, dry, perfect. I arranged them on cream cardstock—thicker paper looks nicer. I put them in a floating frame I thrifted for $3. Now it hangs above my desk. Every time I look at it, I think of that sunny walk. My dog chasing a butterfly. The wind smelling like spring. Pro tip: If you don’t have a garden, grocery stores sell small bouquets for $5. Roses or daisies work great. Just make sure they’re fully dry before pressing. Wet flowers = moldy mess. Trust me, I learned that the hard way.

2. Driftwood and Macrame Wall Hanging:

I found a piece of driftwood on the beach last summer. It was just sitting there, weathered and cool-looking. Like it had stories to tell. I brought it home, sanded it a little. To get rid of splinters—no one wants a pokey wall art that stabs you when you walk by. I decided to make a macrame. I’m no expert. Seriously, I watched one 5-minute YouTube tutorial. The lady in it had a dog that kept barking. So I had to pause a lot. It was a golden retriever, too—must be a sign. I cut thick yarn into 2-foot lengths. Folded each in half, looped it over the driftwood. That’s a “lark’s head knot,” if you wanna sound fancy to your friends. Then I trimmed the ends into a chevron shape. It took an hour. And it looks like I bought it from a boutique. The kind where everything costs more than your rent. Bonus: If you don’t live near a beach, craft stores sell driftwood for cheap. Just check the wood section. I saw a pack last week for $8, and it had three pieces.

3. Botanical Print Gallery Wall:

You don’t have to be an artist to have a gallery wall. I did this last year. I wanted something sophisticated but didn’t want to spend money. Aka, I was broke after buying that fancy coffee maker. I Googled “free vintage botanical prints.” Found tons—flowers, ferns, even old-fashioned fruit illustrations. From the New York Public Library’s digital collection. They’re in the public domain. So you can download and print them for free. No copyright issues, no guilt. I printed mine at the library. My home printer ran out of ink—classic. Printed on cardstock. Bought 5 cheap frames from a thrift store ($1 each!). I laid them on the floor first. To avoid putting 100 holes in the wall—my landlord would’ve killed me. Arranged them in a grid. Now it looks like a high-end art display. My mom still asks where I got the “expensive prints.” I just smile and say, “Oh, you know… found them.” She hasn’t figured it out yet.

4. Moss Wall Art:

This one feels like magic—living art that doesn’t need to be watered. Perfect for people who kill plants. Guilty! I once killed a cactus. How is that even possible? I bought a bag of preserved moss from a craft store ($8). Got a deep shadow box from a thrift store ($3). The shadow box had an old photo of a kid in it. He was wearing a cowboy hat and holding a lollipop. So I saved the photo. You never know when you’ll need a random cowboy kid photo. Cleaned out the box. Spread a little glue on the inside—just regular craft glue, nothing fancy. Pressed the moss into it. Some areas thick, some thin, for texture. Let it dry overnight. Now I have a little patch of green on my wall. It never dies, never needs sunlight. And never judges me for killing that cactus. Pro tip: Stick to neutral frames—black or white. To let the moss be the star. No need for extra frills; the moss is cool enough on its own.

B. Modern and Minimalist Designs: Less is More

If you love clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and the idea that “simple” can be powerful—these projects are for you. They’re sleek, chic, and look like they belong in a design magazine. Without the magazine price tag. Those magazines cost $15 now, anyway.

5. Geometric Color Block Painting:

This is the perfect beginner project. You can’t mess it up (I promise). I did this when I first started DIYing. It’s still one of my favorites. I bought a 24x36 canvas. On sale for $10—craft store sales are your friend. Got a few acrylic colors: navy, cream, soft gray. Calm, modern vibes. Then I grabbed painter’s tape. I taped off triangles and rectangles. No measuring, just eyeballing it. Precision is overrated. Painted each section. When the paint was dry, I peeled off the tape… and wow. Crisp lines, bold colors. It looked like I paid a lot. My roommate said, “Did you buy that? It’s nice!” I even made a second one for my sister. She hangs it in her apartment. Her roommate thought it was from a furniture store—the expensive kind. Pro tip: If the tape peels a little paint, just touch it up with a tiny brush. No one will notice. I had to touch up a corner on mine, and you’d never know.

6. Abstract Art with a Squeegee:

Yes, a window squeegee. I stole this idea from TikTok. It’s so fun—like an art experiment that actually works. I had an old canvas lying around. From that “potato” abstract fail. Squeezed blobs of paint on it: pink, purple, white. Soft, pretty colors. Grabbed the squeegee from under my sink. The one I use to clean windows—total repurpose, no extra cost. Dragged it across the canvas. The colors blended into this cool, swirly pattern. It’s totally unpredictable. Every time you drag, you get something different. I was worried it would look messy. But it actually looks like a professional abstract piece. The kind that sells for hundreds. I hung it in my living room. People always ask how I did it. Spoiler: I just… dragged a squeegee. And got paint on my shirt. Worth it. Pro tip: Don’t overthink the paint blobs—more is more here. The messier the blobs, the cooler the pattern.

7. Minimalist Line Art on Canvas:

Simplicity is key here. I’m not a great drawer. Seriously, I can barely draw a stick figure without making it look like it has a broken leg. But this doesn’t require skill. Just a steady hand. Or a pencil first, if you’re nervous. I took a white canvas. Grabbed a black paint pen ($3 at craft stores—game-changer). Drew a single, continuous line. Made a flower: started at the center, curved out for petals, ended back where I began. It’s so simple, but elegant. You could do a face, a moon, even an abstract shape. Whatever feels right. The black-and-white contrast is so modern. It fits any decor. My friend has one in her minimalist bathroom, and it looks amazing. My friend did this with a gold paint pen on a black canvas—stunning. Pro tip: If your line is a little wobbly? Embrace it. It looks like it’s supposed to be that way. “Organic,” designers call it. I had a wobbly petal, and it just makes the flower feel more real.

8. DIY Textured Art with Plaster:

This is the trend you’ve seen all over Instagram. Those cool, textured white paintings that look so expensive. Like, “this belongs in a million-dollar home” expensive. I tried it last month. It was way easier than it looks. I bought a small bucket of drywall joint compound from the hardware store ($5). Way cheaper than “art plaster.” Got a putty knife. Spread the compound on a canvas. Swirling it, making ridges, just playing around. No plan, just fun. Got some on my jeans. Now they’re part of my DIY uniform. Let it dry overnight. By morning, it was hard as a rock. I left it white, but you could paint it if you want. Pastel pink would be cute. It hangs above my entryway. Every time someone touches it, they’re surprised it’s made of drywall compound. Total “wow, you made that?” moment. Pro tip: Don’t make the compound too thick. You don’t want it to crack when it dries. A thin, even layer with ridges is perfect.

C. Rustic and Farmhouse Charm: Cozy and Inviting

If your ideal living room feels like a hug—warm, cozy, full of character—these projects are right up your alley. They’re the kind of art that makes you want to curl up with a blanket and a hot drink. Preferably with marshmallows.

9. Reclaimed Wood Wall Art:

I’m obsessed with reclaimed wood. It has so much character. Like it’s been around for decades (which it probably has). Last summer, my dad gave me old fence posts he was gonna throw away. He’s a handyman, so he has tons of random wood. I sanded them down. To get rid of splinters—again, no pokey art. Cut them into different lengths. Arranged them on plywood in a herringbone pattern. I looked up a tutorial, but mostly just guessed. One post had a nail hole. So I stuck a tiny fake flower in it. Added a cute touch, and covered the hole. Glued them down, let it dry, hung it over my fireplace. It’s rough around the edges, but that’s the point. It feels like it’s been in my family forever. If you don’t have old wood, thrift stores sell wooden crates or pallets for cheap. Just sand them well. Pallets can have splinters and nails, so be careful. Pro tip: Stain a few pieces darker for contrast. It makes the pattern pop. I stained two pieces dark brown, and it made the whole thing look more put together.

10. Large-Scale Farmhouse-Style Sign:

There’s something about a big, cozy sign that says “home” or “gather.” It warms up a room. Like a hug from your wall. I made one last year. Used a piece of plywood ($8 from the hardware store) and paint. Painted the whole thing white—matte paint, no shine, more rustic. Let it dry. Then used a stencil. I printed one from the internet and cut it out with scissors. Messy edges, but that’s okay. Painted “gather” in black. The stencil slipped a little. So the “g” is slightly tilted. But it looks like a hand-painted sign from a country store. The good kind, not the touristy one. Perfect. It’s 3 feet wide, hangs above my dining table. Every time we have people over, someone comments on it. “Oh, that’s so cute!” “Where’d you get that?” You could do your family name, a favorite quote, or even just “joy.” Pro tip: Sand the edges a little to make it look distressed. Like it’s been in your family for years. I sanded the corners until they were soft, and it added that “lived-in” vibe.

11. Woven Basket Wall Display:

This is the easiest project on the list. No glue, no paint, just hanging baskets. I went to a thrift store and bought 5 woven baskets. Total cost: $12—score! They were different sizes and shapes. Some round, some oval, some wicker, some seagrass. One had a loose string. So I tied a little bow in it. Fixed it and added charm—two birds, one stone. I arranged them on the wall in a cluster. No pattern, just whatever looked good. Trust your gut. Hung them with small nails. It adds so much texture. Feels like a global, collected look. Like you traveled the world and picked up baskets along the way. Even if you just went to the thrift store. I even put a small potted plant in the one with a flat bottom. Extra greenery, no effort. Pro tip: If you’re worried about holes (renters, I see you), use removable adhesive hooks. They work great for lightweight baskets. I used them in my last apartment, and the walls were fine when I moved out.

12. Fabric-Covered Canvas Art:

This project requires zero artistic skill. Just a love of texture. I bought a 16x20 canvas ($5) and a yard of burlap fabric ($3) from a craft store. The burlap had a small hole. So I patched it with a tiny piece of lace from an old curtain. My grandma gave me the curtain, so it’s another little memory. No one notices, but I know it’s there. I stretched the fabric over the canvas. Pulling tight to avoid wrinkles—wrinkles = messy look. Stapled it to the back of the wooden frame. That’s it. It looks like a high-end textured piece. Fits my rustic decor perfectly. You could use any fabric: linen, grain sack, even a pretty patterned sheet. I saw a sheet with a floral print at the thrift store last week—would’ve been perfect. My friend used a vintage tablecloth she found at a flea market. So unique, and no one else has anything like it.

D. Bohemian and Eclectic Vibes: Free-Spirited and Full of Life

If you love mixing patterns, textures, and things that feel “collected”—matchy-matchy is boring—these projects are for you. They’re bold, fun, and full of personality. Just like you.

13. Macrame Wall Hanging with Beads:

Macrame is back, and for good reason. It’s soft, textured, so boho. Think: festival vibes, but for your wall. I made one last month. Used a wooden dowel ($2 at craft stores—super cheap) and cotton cord. Thick cord = easier to work with. I watched a quick tutorial on square knots. Super easy—just cross cords like tying a shoelace, but fancier. Wove in wooden beads. Bought a bag for $3—they’re plain, but you could paint them if you want. The beads are easy to thread with a bobby pin. Genius hack I found online. Who knew bobby pins were so useful? My bobby pin was sparkly. So the beads have a tiny glitter spot that catches the light. Little secret, but it makes it feel special. I hung it above my bed, but it would look great in a living room too. Above a side table, next to a window—sunlight makes the beads shine. Pro tip: Use different cord lengths to make it dynamic. Some long, some short. It adds movement, like the macrame is dancing.

14. Yarn Fringe Wall Hanging:

This is a simpler alternative to macrame. No knots required. Perfect if you’re scared of macrame (I was, at first). I used a thick wooden stick I found in my backyard. Score! Free supplies are the best. Got colorful yarn: pink, orange, and yellow. Bright, happy colors that make me smile. Cut the yarn into 3-foot lengths. Folded each in half, looped it over the stick. Lark’s head knot again—we’re pros now. Mixed the colors randomly. No plan, just fun. Even dip-dyed a few strands in blue. Used a mason jar, spilled some on the counter. Had to scrub it for 10 minutes, but the yarn looked great. It took 30 minutes. And it’s the most cheerful piece in my living room. Every time I walk by, I want to touch the fringe—it’s so soft. Pro tip: Trim the ends at an angle for a polished look. I trimmed mine with fabric scissors (sharp scissors = clean cut), and it made a big difference.

15. DIY Mandala Dot Painting:

This project is so meditative. I could do it for hours. It’s like coloring, but for adults. And no staying inside the lines. I took a black canvas (8x10, $3). Used the end of a paintbrush to make dots. Started with a small dot in the center. Worked my way out—bigger dots, different colors: teal, purple, gold. Rich, boho colors. You can use q-tips if you don’t have a dotting tool. Whatever works. I used a q-tip for the tiny dots, paintbrush for the big ones. It’s all about symmetry, but don’t stress if it’s not perfect. Mine has a few lopsided dots. And I love it more because of that—it feels human. It hangs in my reading nook. So calming to look at while I read. Pro tip: Practice on paper first if you’re nervous. You’ll get the hang of it quickly. And if a q-tip breaks mid-dot? Use the end of a pencil—works just as well. I broke two q-tips, so pencil became my backup.

16. Tapestry or Rug Hanging:

I have a vintage rug my grandma gave me. It’s too pretty to walk on. And too fragile—probably 50 years old. So I hung it on the wall. It’s 5x7 feet. Adds so much color and pattern to my living room. Like a big, cozy blanket on the wall. Hanging it was easy. I bought a curtain rod the same length as the rug. From a hardware store, $15. Sewed a simple casing on the back. Just a strip of fabric folded over and stitched. No fancy sewing, just a straight line. Slid the rod through. Then hung the rod like a curtain. The rug has a small stain. Grandma said it’s from a “party in the 70s”—no details. So I positioned it so the stain is behind the curtain rod. Hides it, and the rug still shines. If you don’t have a vintage rug, thrift stores have tons. Look for bold patterns: geometric, floral, tribal. You could also use a tapestry. Cheap online, lightweight enough to hang with pushpins. Great for renters.

E. Upcycled and Budget-Friendly Brilliance: Trash to Treasure

If you love turning “junk” into something beautiful—saving money and helping the planet (win-win)—these projects are for you. They’re proof that one person’s trash is another’s art.

17. Canvas Art from Old Picture Frames:

I had a stack of old picture frames in my closet. Dated gold, totally out of style. My mom gave them to me, said they were “vintage.” But they were just old. Instead of throwing them away, I painted them black. Spray paint is easiest—$3 a can, and it dries fast. Stretched blank canvas over the back. Stapled the canvas tight (no wrinkles!). Now I have custom-framed art. I even painted a simple abstract design on one. Just a few swipes of blue and white—nothing fancy, but it works. The frames had chipped gold. So I left a tiny chip on one corner—on purpose. Adds character, like it’s been loved for years. It looks like a designer frame, but it cost nothing. Since I already had the frames. Pro tip: Mix frame sizes. Hang a few together for a gallery wall look. I have three frames: one big, two small. They look great together, and no one knows they were once outdated gold frames.

18. Wine Cork Wall Art:

I’ve been saving wine corks for years. Every time I have a glass (or a bottle) with friends, I toss the cork in a jar. It’s become a tradition. We write the date on the corks sometimes. When I had enough (about 50), I made art with them. Bought a small shadow box ($4). Glued the corks inside in a chevron pattern. I drew the pattern first with a pencil—no guessing. Cut some corks in half and stained them dark brown for contrast. Stain is $3, and a little goes a long way. One cork had a wine stain. So I put it in the center—looks like a focal point, not a mistake. It’s a fun, quirky piece that hangs in my kitchen. But it would look great in a living room too. Above a bar cart, next to a wine rack. If you don’t drink wine, ask friends to save corks for you. Most people are happy to help. They’ll think you’re doing a cool project. Pro tip: Use hot glue—it dries fast and holds the corks tight. I tried craft glue first, and the corks fell off. Hot glue is the way to go.

19. DIY Abstract Art Using Leftover Paint:

I have a drawer full of half-used paint sample pots. Leftover from painting my bedroom, bathroom, even my front door. I’m a serial painter; I change colors every year. Instead of letting them dry out (such a waste), I grabbed a canvas and started painting. Used a sponge for some areas (texture!), a brush for others. Even my fingers (messy, but fun) for small details. I didn’t have a plan. Just layered colors until it looked good. Trust your eye. Got paint on my fingers. So I pressed a fingerprint on the corner—my secret signature. The result? A colorful abstract piece that cost $0. It’s not perfect, but it’s full of personality. And memories—each color reminds me of a room I painted. Pro tip: Stick to 3-4 colors. Too many can look messy. Less is more here. I used blue, green, and yellow—bright, but not overwhelming.

20. Shoebox Lid Wall Art:

I was about to throw away a shoebox lid when I thought—wait, this could be art. The shoebox was from a pair of my favorite old sneakers. They’re worn out, but I can’t bear to throw them away. So the lid has the brand logo on the back—another little secret. I painted the lid white. Acrylic paint, leftover from another project. Then used markers to draw a simple pattern: dots and lines—nothing fancy. Hung it with a pushpin. So lightweight, it doesn’t need a nail. Above my desk. I liked it so much, I made three more. Each with a different pattern: stripes, polka dots, squiggles. Hung them in a grid. It’s a quirky, affordable way to add color to a small wall. You could also cover the lids in fabric or decorative paper. Whatever you have on hand. I saw a shoebox lid covered in vintage newspaper once—so cool.

F. Easy and Instant Impact Projects: Quick Transformations

If you want a big change fast—no waiting for paint to dry, no complicated steps—these projects are for you. Perfect for busy people. Or anyone who wants to spruce up their space in an afternoon. Before Netflix calls.

21. Washi Tape Geometric Wall Design:

Washi tape is a game-changer. It’s decorative, removable. Comes in every color and pattern you can imagine: stripes, polka dots, glitter—yes, glitter. I used it to create a simple mountain range on my living room wall. Measured roughly—no precision needed. Imperfect mountains are cute. Taped off triangles in different sizes. Used blue and white tape for a fresh look. You could use any colors: pink and gold would be fancy, black and white would be modern. One mountain was lopsided. So I added a tiny sun next to it. Fixed the balance, and made it cuter. The best part? If you get tired of it, peel it off. No paint damage. I’ve changed the design three times already. Each time, it feels like a new room. Pro tip: Use a level if you want straight lines. But don’t stress if they’re off—imperfection is part of the charm. My mountains are all wonky, and I love them.

22. DIY Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper Frame:

I love bold, patterned art. But I don’t want to commit to painting a canvas. What if I hate it later? So I bought a sample of peel-and-stick wallpaper. $5 from a home improvement store—bold black-and-white stripes. Cut it to fit a large poster frame. $8 from a thrift store. The wallpaper sample was a little too small. So I added a border of washi tape around it. Made it look bigger, and added a fun detail. Stuck the wallpaper to the frame’s backing board. Popped it in the frame, hung it. It looks like a custom piece, but it took 10 minutes. If I get tired of the stripes, I can peel off the wallpaper and put a new sample in. So easy—no repainting, no mess. Pro tip: Look for wallpaper samples in the clearance section. Even cheaper. I saw a sample last week for $2—bright floral pattern, perfect for a boho room.

23. Framed Scarf Art:

I have a silk scarf my mom gave me. It’s beautiful, with a floral pattern. But I never wear it. I’m more of a hoodie person. So I framed it. Ironed it first— to get rid of wrinkles. Wrinkled silk looks messy. Placed it on a white mat inside a frame. Thrifted for $4. I didn’t even need glue. Just closed the frame, and it stayed. The scarf had a loose thread. So I tied it into a small knot on the corner. Looks like a design element, not a mistake. It looks like a high-end textile art piece. Adds luxury to my living room. Even if I still wear hoodies most days. You could use any scarf: vintage, thrifted, even one that’s a little worn. The wear adds character. My friend framed a vintage bandana—so cool, and it reminds her of her dad. He used to wear bandanas. Pro tip: Use a shadow box frame if you want the scarf to look 3D. Adds depth, like the scarf is floating.

G. Interactive and 3D Art: Off the Wall

If you want art with depth—something you can look at from different angles, something that feels “alive”—these projects are for you. They’re not just on the wall—they’re part of the room.

24. DIY Paper Flower Wall:

This project is a little time-consuming, but so worth it. It’s like having a garden on your wall (without the bugs). I found a free template for large paper flowers online. Just Google “free large paper flower template.” Printed it on cardstock—thick paper = sturdier flowers. The printer was low on ink, so some petals are lighter. Adds depth, like the flowers are in the sun. Cut out the petals. Scissors are fine, but a craft knife is easier for straight lines. Folded them to make them 3D. Just fold the edges slightly—no complicated folding. Glued them together (hot glue again—fast and strong). Made 10 flowers in different sizes: pink, white, cream. Attached them to the wall in a cascading pattern. Like a floral waterfall. Did it for a party, but loved it so much I kept it up. Every guest takes a photo with it—it’s become a “photo op” wall. Pro tip: Use double-sided tape to attach the flowers. Easy to remove later, no wall damage. I moved them once, and the wall was fine.

25. Origami Wall Art Installation:

I learned to fold origami birds as a kid. My grandma taught me—another memory! So I turned that into art. Folded 50 small birds out of colored paper. Some solid, some patterned—mix it up. Hung them on the wall in a “flying” pattern. Like they’re soaring across the room. Folded one bird wrong. So it looks like it’s flying upside down. Now it’s my “rebellious bird.” Makes me laugh every time I see it. The shadows they cast add even more depth. Especially in the afternoon sun, when light comes through the window. It’s a fun, playful piece that always makes people smile. If you don’t know origami, there are tons of easy tutorials online. Start with cranes or butterflies. Butterflies are easier than birds, trust me. Pro tip: Use fishing line to hang the birds. It’s invisible, so they look like they’re floating. Bought a spool for $2, and it’s still going.

26. DIY Honeycomb Shelves:

These are technically shelves, but they’re so pretty, they count as art. Functional art—my favorite kind. Why choose between pretty and useful? I bought thin wood planks from the hardware store ($10). Cut them into hexagons. Used a template I printed online to make sure they were even. No lopsided hexagons here. Cut one hexagon too small. So I used it as a tiny shelf for a thimble. My grandma’s thimble—another memory! Cute mini display. Nailed the hexagons together to make small shelves. Painted them white (matte paint, no shine). Hung them in a honeycomb pattern. Put small plants, candles, and favorite books on some shelves. Left others empty. Negative space is good—don’t overcrowd. They’re beautiful and functional. Perfect for small spaces. My living room is tiny, so extra storage is a lifesaver. Pro tip: Use drywall anchors to hang them. They’re a little heavy, so you want them secure. I learned this the hard way. Once a shelf fell and broke a candle. Melted wax everywhere, not fun. Drywall anchors = no more broken candles.

Pro Tips for a Professional Finish

You’ve made your masterpiece—now let’s make sure it looks its best. These are the little tricks I’ve learned over the years. They make DIY art look like it came from a store (the expensive one).

The Importance of a Focal Point: Your DIY art can be the star. Let it. I hung my big geometric painting above my sofa—it’s the biggest wall in my living room. I kept the area simple. No clutter, just a few small plants. Now when you walk in, your eye goes straight to the painting. It’s the focal point. It makes the whole room feel put together. Like I know what I’m doing. Pro tip: If you have a small piece, group it with similar pieces. To make a bigger focal point. Strength in numbers—three small paintings look better than one.

Creating a Cohesive Gallery Wall: Gallery walls can look messy if you don’t plan. I always lay all frames on the floor first. Arrange, rearrange, until I find balance. This can take 20 minutes, but it’s worth it. Start with the largest piece in the center. Build out from there. Keep spacing consistent—about 2-3 inches between frames. It makes the whole thing look clean, professional. I did this with my botanical prints. It looks like I hired a designer (spoiler: I didn’t). Pro tip: Take a photo of the floor arrangement with your phone. So you can reference it when hanging. No more “wait, how did that go?” I once forgot the arrangement and had to start over. Not fun.

Lighting Your Artwork: Good lighting makes art look 10x better. It’s like putting makeup on—good lighting makes everything look nicer. I have a floor lamp next to my driftwood macrame. When I turn it on, light washes over the macrame. Highlighting the texture. The knots look so much cooler in soft light. You don’t need a fancy gallery light. Just a lamp positioned to shine on the art. I also have a small picture light above my vintage rug hanging. It makes the colors pop, even at night. Pro tip: Avoid harsh overhead lights. Warm white bulbs are softer and make art look better. Harsh light = harsh shadows, which make art look flat.

Proper Hanging Techniques: Nothing ruins great art like a wobbly frame. For lightweight pieces (paper flowers, shoebox lids), pushpins or adhesive hooks work. For heavier pieces (wood art, framed rugs), use drywall anchors. I learned this the hard way. Once a heavy wooden sign fell off my wall and broke a vase. It was my favorite vase, I cried a little. Now I always use anchors for heavy stuff. Pro tip: Use a stud finder to find wall studs. Hanging on a stud is even more secure. No more heart-stopping “thud” in the middle of the night (trust me, that sound is terrifying).

You've Got This!

That blank wall isn’t scary. It’s an invitation. A chance to add something yours to your home. I know DIY can feel scary at first. I’ve been there—staring at a blank canvas, wondering if I’ll mess up. But here’s the thing: Even if you do? It’s okay. My first macrame had lopsided knots. My first abstract painting had a big paint blob in the middle. But I hung them anyway. They were mine. They had my story.

And when you finish? When you step back and see that piece you made with your own hands hanging on the wall? That feeling is unbeatable. It’s not just art—it’s a reminder that you can create something beautiful. Even if you don’t think you’re “creative.” Creativity isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being brave enough to try.

So pick a project that excites you. Grab your supplies. Most of which you probably already have—check your closet, your junk drawer, your grandma’s attic. Put on your favorite music. And let yourself have fun. Your perfect DIY wall art isn’t in a store—it’s inside you, waiting to come out.

Now go make something beautiful. And when your friends ask where you got it? Smile and say, “I made it.” Their faces will be priceless.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the easiest DIY wall art ideas for beginners?

Start simple. You don’t need to be Picasso. My top picks: geometric color block painting (tape does the hard work—you can’t mess up), botanical print gallery walls (free prints + cheap frames = easy win), and fabric-covered canvases (no painting, just stretching). I started with color block painting. It gave me confidence to try harder projects. If I can do it, you can. And if you mess up? Paint over it. No one will know. I’ve painted over so many fails—it’s a skill now.

How can I make my DIY art look more expensive?

Size and finish are everything. First, go big—larger pieces always look more luxurious. I made a 36x48 canvas for $15. It looks like it cost $100 (my mom still doesn’t believe I made it). Second, finish properly: Paint the sides of the canvas (so it doesn’t look “unfinished”—exposed canvas sides look cheap) or put it in a frame (thrifted frames work—just paint them black or white to make them look sleek). Third, stick to 2-3 colors max. Too many colors can look cheap, but a limited palette feels sophisticated. I once made a white plaster piece and framed it in a black floating frame. Total high-end vibe (people thought I bought it from a gallery).

Where can I find affordable art supplies?

Skip fancy art stores—they’re overpriced. I once saw a small canvas for $20—no thank you. Big-box craft stores (Michaels, Hobby Lobby) have sales every week. Wait for 50% off canvases, stock up. I have a closet full of canvases now. Hardware stores are great for plaster, wood, and paint samples. Most under $5—paint samples are tiny, but perfect for small projects. Thrift stores are goldmines for frames, baskets, fabric. You can find brand-new frames for $1-2. I once found a $50 frame for $1—score! And don’t forget your house: old shoebox lids, wine corks, leftover paint—all free (free is the best price). Pro tip: Dollar stores have painter’s tape, q-tips, and even small canvases. I buy all my q-tips there—$1 for 100, can’t beat that.

How do I choose the right colors for my living room wall art?

Look at what you already have. Pull a color from your sofa, favorite throw pillow, or rug. This makes the art feel like it belongs, not like it’s floating in space. If you’re nervous, stick to neutrals (white, gray, beige) with one accent color. Safe, but still pretty (neutral + pink = soft, neutral + blue = calm). If you want to be bold, go for a complementary color. Opposite on the color wheel—like blue and orange, yellow and purple. My living room is mostly gray, so I added a yellow macrame. Yellow is opposite gray, and it makes the whole room pop. Like a ray of sunshine. No need to overthink it—if it looks good to you, it’s right. Decor is about making you happy, not anyone else.

I’d love to help you put together a custom DIY wall art plan tailored to your living room’s vibe (farmhouse, boho, minimalist—whatever you love) and your skill level. It’ll include a step-by-step breakdown of your perfect project, a supply list with budget tips (so you can save money), and even color suggestions that match your existing decor (no more guessing if the blue matches your couch). Would you like that?

Bland to Grand: 26 Stunning DIY Wall Art Decor Living Room Ideas That Look Expensive (But Aren't!)