Disclosure: This post is in partnership with TD Bank & HGTV Magazine.
I recently returned from Lexington, South Carolina, where I presented at the Rolling Renovation Home Tour on behalf of TD Bank and HGTV Magazine. I spoke about how to create a home you love on a budget with DIY, and today I’ll highlight a few of my tips for you. First of all, the purpose of the TD Bank Rolling Renovation Tour is to help spread the word that TD Bank can help your renovation dreams come true with a home equity line of credit. They’re giving away prizes and setting up their traveling “glass house” at various locations throughout the Eastern part of the country, and I had the opportunity to hang out at their tour stop in Lexington, SC. I’ll also be presenting on May 29 at the Ft. Lauderdale Home Design & Remodeling Show, along with DIY host Jason Cameron who will be at the show that weekend as well.
Here’s a look at their glass house. It was set up to look like a real kitchen inside, which was really neat to see.
Now, let’s talk DIY. I firmly believe that you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a home that you love. Learning DIY skills is not only empowering and fun, but it can save you so much money. My presentation included several of my decorating and DIY tips, but a few of my favorite basic tips are:
See things for what they could be, not for what they are.
Here are some examples of seeing things for what they could be rather than for what they are. This console table was pretty ugly when I first laid eyes on it, but I knew I liked the size and detailing, and that I could transform it to look totally different.
Here it is now:
Here’s another example. This basic bookcase got a fun makeover for our playroom.
After:
This basic IKEA Billy bookcase also got a whole new look. After:
Never underestimate the power of paint.
It’s a relatively inexpensive change and can make a dramatic difference. The projects above are a great illustration of this point, but here are a few more examples. This was our family room when we moved into our home. Dark, dated, and that brick made the room feel even darker.
I whitewashed the brick fireplace which instantly brightened the room. It was an inexpensive fix.
It’s never too late to learn new skills.
I decided four years ago that I wanted to learn how to use power tools and build furniture. I had never even touched a power tool before, but it’s never too late to learn! The resources are available, all you have to do is research, practice, and give it a try. I taught myself how to use the tools, and then I saved thousands of dollars building things for our home. Here are a few of the projects I’ve built in the last few years.
DIY Wood and Nailhead Headboards
Ultimately, DIY is a great way to save money while also creating a unique and personal space, and pouring your heart into making your home a reflection of your family. I hope to see some of you in Ft. Lauderdale on May 29!
For more blog posts, check out my project gallery here!
You can also connect with me here:
I absolutely love the sun mirrors! The other ideas are awesome too, thanks for sharing!
Wow this is amazing! I LOVE those bookshelves that you did. The backs of the cases are beautiful. Did you use fabric or contact/wallpaper? Thanks for sharing!
Thank you! I used removable wallpaper. You can find all the details here: https://www.erinspain.com/bookshelf-makeover/
I love the before and after photos. Your projects all turned out fabulous. Also — when I look at your work, it seems like something that I might be able to achieve, too, and without spending a ton of money. I really enjoyed this post! Great job!
Thank you, Carol! I appreciate that!