Feeling like your home needs a fresh look, but worried about the rising costs? You’re not alone. With inflation pushing prices up, many people hesitate to start home makeovers. But here’s the good news: home decor ideas on a low budget prove you don’t need a fortune to transform your space.
Refreshing your home can immediately boost your mood, improve how your rooms work, and even add value to your house — all without putting you in debt. Imagine changing your living room or bedroom for less than $50! That’s not just a dream; it’s completely doable.
Why Focus on Home Decor Ideas on a Low Budget?
We all want beautiful homes, but when budgets tighten, decorating can feel impossible. That’s exactly why focusing on home decor ideas on a low budget is so important.
- Economic sense: Inflation and price hikes mean buying new furniture or expensive decor can cost 70-90% more than thrifty alternatives.
- Eco-friendly: Repurposing and upcycling reduce waste and give old items new life.
- Customizable: DIY projects allow you to tailor your space exactly how you want it.
- Instant gratification: Many low-budget projects deliver quick results, so you don’t have to wait weeks to enjoy your new look.
Top 15 Budget-Friendly Home Decor Ideas Under $50
Thrifted Picture Frame Gallery Wall
Total Cost: $20-30
Creating a gallery wall with thrifted frames is an affordable way to add personality to any room. It’s perfect for displaying family photos, art prints, or even inspirational quotes.
How to do it:
- Hunt thrift stores or flea markets for 5-7 picture frames ($5-10).
- Spray paint the frames in a neutral color, such as white, black, or gold ($5 per can).
- Print free art or family pictures at home or at a local shop ($5).
- Arrange the frames on the wall asymmetrically for a modern look.
Materials:
- Thrifted picture frames
- Spray paint
- Printed photos or art
DIY Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper Accents
Total Cost: $25 per roll
Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a renter-friendly and mess-free way to add texture or color to your walls, shelves, or furniture.
How to do it:
- Measure the area you want to cover to buy the right amount.
- Carefully peel and stick the wallpaper onto clean surfaces, such as walls, bookshelves, or drawer fronts.
- Seal the edges with clear tape or a light coat of glue for durability.
Materials:
- Peel-and-stick wallpaper roll
Mason Jar Hanging Planters
Total Cost: $15
Bring greenery into your home with charming hanging mason jar planters. They look great indoors or on balconies.
How to do it:
- Drill two holes near the rim of each mason jar (safety first!).
- Thread twine or macramé cord through the holes.
- Fill jars with soil and plant succulents or small houseplants.
- Hang near a window or in a corner.
Materials:
- Mason jars (pack of 4-6)
- Twine or macramé cord
- Succulents or small plants
Faux Greenery Tabletop Arrangements
Total Cost: $12
Fake plants can look surprisingly realistic and last forever. Dollar stores often have a great selection of faux stems.
How to do it:
- Pick a thrifted vase or jar.
- Arrange faux greenery stems inside.
- Place on coffee tables, shelves, or dining tables.
Materials:
- Faux greenery stems
- Thrifted vase or jar
Painted Furniture Upcycle
Total Cost: $20
Give old furniture a fresh new look with just a can of paint and a brush. Nightstands, chairs, or small tables are perfect for this.
How to do it:
- Lightly sand the furniture to prepare the surface.
- Apply a primer if needed.
- Paint with your chosen color (chalk paint works great for a smooth finish).
- Let dry and add a protective coat.
Materials:
- Paint (chalk or latex)
- Paintbrush
- Sandpaper
Fabric Scrap Curtain Tiebacks
Total Cost: $10
Upgrade plain curtains with creative tiebacks made from leftover fabric scraps.
How to do it:
- Cut fabric scraps into strips.
- Sew or knot the fabric into a loop or bow.
- Wrap around the curtain and secure with glue or sewing.
Materials:
- Fabric scraps
- Needle and thread or fabric glue
Dollar Store Tray Styling
Total Cost: $8
A simple tray can instantly organize and glam up any surface.
How to do it:
- Buy a decorative tray from a dollar store.
- Layer with candles, remotes, small plants, or books.
- Place on coffee tables, ottomans, or kitchen counters.
Materials:
- Decorative tray
- Candles, small decor items
Wall-Mounted Floating Shelves from Scrap Wood
Total Cost: $25
Floating shelves add storage and style to your walls without taking up floor space.
How to do it:
- Find or buy scrap wood boards.
- Sand, stain, or paint.
- Attach with inexpensive brackets.
- Style with books, plants, or small decor.
Materials:
- Scrap wood boards
- Brackets
- Screws and tools
Repurposed Ladder Towel Rack
Total Cost: $30
Old wooden ladders can be transformed into stylish towel racks or blanket holders.
How to do it:
- Hunt for a used ladder at thrift stores.
- Sand and paint or seal.
- Lean against a wall or mount securely.
- Hang towels, throws, or magazines.
Materials:
- Wooden ladder
- Paint or sealer
Custom Throw Pillow Covers from Old Tees
Total Cost: $10
Give old T-shirts new life as unique pillow covers.
How to do it:
- Cut old T-shirts to fit your pillow size.
- Sew or glue edges together, leaving one side open.
- Insert the pillow and close the open side.
Materials:
- Old T-shirts
- Sewing supplies or fabric glue
- Pillow inserts
Layered Rugs from Remnants
Total Cost: $40
Layering rugs adds texture and warmth to any floor.
How to do it:
- Find cheap rug remnants or small rugs at thrift stores.
- Place the largest rug on the bottom.
- Layer smaller rugs on top, off-center, for a stylish look.
Materials:
- Rug remnants or small rugs
String Light Canopy Over Bed
Total Cost: $20
Create a cozy, magical vibe with string lights draped over your bed.
How to do it:
- Purchase battery-operated or plug-in string lights.
- Use hooks or adhesive strips to hang the lights in a canopy shape.
- Tuck lights behind the headboard or curtains.
Materials:
- String lights
- Hooks or adhesive strips
Painted Plant Pots Gallery
Total Cost: $15
Simple terra cotta pots get a chic makeover with paint.
How to do it:
- Buy plain pots or reuse old ones.
- Paint geometric patterns, stripes, or solid colors.
- Fill with plants or succulents.
Materials:
- Plain pots
- Acrylic paint
- PaintbrushesMirror Magic for Bigger Rooms
Total Cost: $25
Mirrors bounce light, making rooms feel larger and brighter.
How to do it:
- Find thrift store mirrors.
- Clean and repaint frames if needed.
- Hang strategically opposite windows.
Materials:
- Thrifted mirrors
- Paint (optional)
Tip: Combine with Idea 3’s hanging planters for a fresh look.
Seasonal Wreath from Foraged Branches
Total Cost: $10
Celebrate the seasons with a wreath made from natural materials.
How to do it:
- Collect branches, leaves, or flowers from outside.
- Shape into a circle and secure with wire.
- Add ribbon or seasonal decorations.
Materials:
- Foraged branches
- Wire and ribbon
Budget Shopping Tips for Home Decor Ideas on a Low Budget
- Use apps like OfferUp or Facebook Marketplace to find free or cheap decor.
- Hit up dollar stores for candles, greenery, and decorative accents.
- Attend local garage sales for unique furniture and accessories.
- Practice upcycling: Turn old items into new treasures.
Savings Example Table
ItemRetail PriceLow-Budget PriceSavings
Picture Frames (5-pack) $75 $20 73%
Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper $60 $25 58%
String Lights $40 $20 50%
Total (3 items) $175 $65 $110 saved
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best home decor ideas on a low budget for small spaces?
Ideas like Mason Jar Hanging Planters (Idea 3), Dollar Store Tray Styling (Idea 7), and Mirror Magic (Idea 14) are perfect for small spaces since they add style without taking up much room.
How to source materials under $50?
Look for thrift stores, dollar stores, and use DIY tricks. Repurposing old items saves money and adds personal flair.
Can these ideas work for renters?
Absolutely! Peel-and-stick wallpaper (Idea 2) and lightweight decor like string lights (Idea 12) won’t damage walls and are easy to remove.
What’s the quickest, cheapest home decor idea?
Dollar Store Tray Styling (Idea 7) can be done in 30 minutes or less, instantly organizing and beautifying your space.
Are there eco-friendly, low-budget options?
Yes! Repurposed ladder towel racks (Idea 9) and seasonal wreaths made from foraged branches (Idea 15) are green, affordable, and stylish.
