Outfitting a first apartment can be a real struggle. Spaces are often small, and budgets are likely tight. DIY [1] projects, therefore, can be a lifesaver. With a little ingenuity and elbow grease, inexpensive materials can be transformed into special pieces. No project is too big or too small for a custom touch.
We've created the ultimate guide to first apartment DIY projects, from large furniture undertakings to intricate decor flourishes. Together, these projects will turn a first apartment into a very special home.
Braid a Bench
Create a braided coffee table or bench for your living room with Brittany Makes's tutorial [2].
Build a Farmhouse Table
You can even DIY [3] furniture for your living room thanks to this tutorial from Love Grows Wild [4].
Sew Roman Shades
DIY Roman Shades [5] with our no-sew tutorial.
Upgrade Your Sofa
Upgrade your starter sofa with this Ikea sofa makeover [6].
Add a Hanging Pendant Light
Create your own light fixture with this pendant light DIY from A Beautiful Mess [7].
Paint a Welcoming Mat
Give your entryway some pizazz with a customized mat like the one seen on Sarah Hearts [8].
Upgrade a Basket
Take a basket from basic to beautiful with Honestly WTF's DIY project [9].
Paint a Zebra Rug
Use a drop cloth to create your own inexpensive rug by following the Decor Fix's zebra rug tutorial [10].
Customize a Mirror
Create a statement mirror with Sugar and Cloth's DIY [11].
Hang a Light Fixture
Hello Lidy's light fixture DIY [12] will bring brightness to your new place.
Redo a Darling Dresser
Make an inexpensive Ikea dresser look like a higher-priced option from Room & Board with these DIY instructions [13].
Put Together Planters
You'll be able to exercise your green thumb after building Sugar and Cloth's planters [14].
Create Colorful Coasters
Impress your guests by creating DIY agate coasters [15] with Thou Swell [16]'s instructions.
Build a Bright Side Table
If you're lucky enough to have outdoor space, Hello Lidy shows how [17] to create a darling citrus table.
Put Together a Neon Mirror
Add a pop of color to your room with this standing mirror DIY project [18] from Francois et Moi [19].
Hang a Photo Rail
Prominently and proudly display your photos by making Little Green Notebook's photo rail [20] project.
Hang Your Own Art
Customize a wall hanging by turning a bathmat into art [21], a project thought up by Brittany Makes [22].
Paint Playful Placemats
Make dinner parties colorful by following The Crafted Life's painted placemat instructions [23].
Add Flair to a Pillow
Customize simple throw pillows with M Loves M's tutorial [24].
Customize an End Table
Turn a simple end table into something special with Kristi Murphy's instructions [25].
Put Together a Luxe Ladder
The Crafted Life's ladder DIY project [26] will make storing blankets and towels a breeze.
Make a Printed Pouf
Blogger Kristi Murphy's pouf DIY [27] will give you a new seating option.
Create a Cheery Cheeseboard
Serving wine and cheese will be a breeze when you create Say Yes's platter [28].
Make a Wood Table
Francois et Moi's timber side table DIY [29] would look lovely inside or out.
Create a Console
Use Ikea pieces to create a custom console by following these DIY steps [30].