25 Essential DIY Projects For Your First Apartment
Outfitting a first apartment can be a real struggle. Spaces are often small, and budgets are likely tight. DIY 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.
Build a Farmhouse Table
You can even DIY furniture for your living room thanks to this tutorial from Love Grows Wild.
Sew Roman Shades
DIY Roman Shades with our no-sew tutorial.
Upgrade Your Sofa
Upgrade your starter sofa with this Ikea sofa makeover.
Add a Hanging Pendant Light
Create your own light fixture with this pendant light DIY from A Beautiful Mess.
Paint a Welcoming Mat
Give your entryway some pizazz with a customized mat like the one seen on Sarah Hearts.
Upgrade a Basket
Take a basket from basic to beautiful with Honestly WTF's DIY project.
Paint a Zebra Rug
Use a drop cloth to create your own inexpensive rug by following the Decor Fix's zebra rug tutorial.
Customize a Mirror
Create a statement mirror with Sugar and Cloth's DIY.
Hang a Light Fixture
Hello Lidy's light fixture DIY 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.
Put Together Planters
You'll be able to exercise your green thumb after building Sugar and Cloth's planters.
Create Colorful Coasters
Impress your guests by creating DIY agate coasters with Thou Swell's instructions.
Build a Bright Side Table
If you're lucky enough to have outdoor space, Hello Lidy shows how 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 from Francois et Moi.
Hang a Photo Rail
Prominently and proudly display your photos by making Little Green Notebook's photo rail project.
Hang Your Own Art
Customize a wall hanging by turning a bathmat into art, a project thought up by Brittany Makes.
Paint Playful Placemats
Make dinner parties colorful by following The Crafted Life's painted placemat instructions.
Add Flair to a Pillow
Customize simple throw pillows with M Loves M's tutorial.
Customize an End Table
Turn a simple end table into something special with Kristi Murphy's instructions.
Put Together a Luxe Ladder
The Crafted Life's ladder DIY project will make storing blankets and towels a breeze.
Make a Printed Pouf
Blogger Kristi Murphy's pouf DIY 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.
Make a Wood Table
Francois et Moi's timber side table DIY would look lovely inside or out.
Create a Console
Use Ikea pieces to create a custom console by following these DIY steps.