Design on a dime

No matter where you live, it’s nice to come home to something that actually feels like your home. For just a few dollars, you can create a comfortable, functional space that reflects your personal style. Here are a few do-it-yourself ideas to get you started.

LESS THAN $5
Fabric patterned wall art — [1] Find shoeboxes and fabric you like. [2] Staple the fabric to the shoebox lids. [3] Assemble on your wall for pops of color.

Fridge decor — [1] Glue an assortment of bottle caps to small round magnets (or try wine corks, buttons or marbles). [2] Display all those A’s.

 Desk organizers — [1] Empty out an old can or jar. [2] Use a hot glue gun to decorate it, or spray paint it. [3] Use it as an organizer for pens, office supplies, etc.

LESS THAN $10
String chandeliers — [1] Get balloons, yarn and glue. [2] Blow up balloons. [3] Mix glue with water. [4] Dip the yarn in glue mix and wrap around the balloon. [5] Pop the balloon when the glue has dried. [6] Use more yarn to hang from ceiling.

Wall squares — [1] Buy scrapbook paper. [2] Use spray adhesive to glue it to a foam board. [3] Arrange it on a wall (it looks great above a desk or table).

Reminder board — [1] Frame a piece of scrapbook paper. [2] Hang and write on the glass with whiteboard markers.

LESS THAN $20
Knobs — By just replacing the knobs on a dresser, cabinet or desk, you can make it seem brand new.

Personal posters — [1] Find a favorite photo (if you want it to look more artsy, manipulate it in a free photo editing look like picnik.com. [2] Go to a copy store and blow it up as big as you want. [3] Frame it or use spray adhesive to attach it to a canvas.

Paint — Paint any hard surface (like a table, bookshelf or even your fridge) with a paint that does more than change the color. Try chalkboard or magnetic paint.