Editor’s Note
At Decor Your Room, we believe that an empty wall is a missed opportunity for creativity. You don’t need to spend thousands on expensive art galleries. Our mission with this guide is to show you how everyday household items and a little bit of time can result in high-end wall decor that leaves your guests asking, “Where did you buy that?”
The Art of Thrifty Decorating
The living room is the heart of the home, but often the walls are left bare because professional art is incredibly expensive. However, cheap DIY wall decor ideas for living room projects have become a global trend for a reason they allow for personal expression without breaking the bank.
Decorating on a budget doesn’t mean your home has to look “cheap.” It’s about being resourceful. Whether you are an experienced crafter or someone who has never touched a glue gun, these projects are designed to be simple, effective, and visually stunning. Let’s dive into how you can turn your plain walls into a designer’s masterpiece.
The Botanical Pressed Frame
Nature is the best designer. You can create high-end botanical art by simply picking interesting leaves or flowers from your backyard. Press them between heavy books for a week until they are dry.
Place them inside a simple glass frame with a white background. Hanging a grid of six or nine of these creates a “Natural History Museum” vibe that looks incredibly sophisticated and costs almost nothing.
Abstract Canvas with Joint Compound
If you want that textured, 3D look seen in luxury lofts, use joint compound (used for drywall) on a cheap canvas. Use a putty knife or even a comb to create swirls, lines, or waves.
Once it dries, it leaves a beautiful white-on-white texture. You can leave it raw for a minimalist look or spray paint it a solid matte black or metallic gold for a dramatic effect.
Floating Basket Gallery
Woven baskets are perfect for adding warmth and texture. Instead of buying expensive wall hangings, check thrift stores for flat baskets or trays.
Arrange them in an asymmetrical cluster on your wall. The different patterns and natural fibers bring a “boho-chic” style to your living room that feels expensive and globally inspired.
Geometric Washi Tape Murals
Washi tape is a renter’s best friend. You can create huge geometric patterns like mountains, hexagons, or abstract lines directly on the wall.
It is low-cost and, most importantly, completely removable. This allows you to experiment with bold designs without the commitment of paint or wallpaper.
Fabric Panel “Tapestries”
Do you have a beautiful piece of leftover fabric or a vintage scarf? Instead of hiding it in a drawer, wrap it tightly around a large wooden frame or a piece of foam board.
Secure it with staples on the back. These large fabric panels act as massive pieces of art that add softness and color to a room, and they are much cheaper than buying a large-scale painting.
Reclaimed Wood Shelving
Find old wooden planks or pallets, sand them down, and stain them. Mount them using simple “L” brackets.
The raw, rustic look of reclaimed wood adds “architectural character” to a living room. Decorate these shelves with small plants and books to create a wall that is both functional and beautiful.
Plate Wall Arrangement
Don’t hide your pretty dishes in the cabinet. Collect mismatched plates with interesting patterns from second-hand shops.
Using adhesive plate hangers, arrange them in a flowing pattern above your sofa. This adds a “cottage-core” or vintage charm that feels curated over time.
Oversized Map Art
Large-scale art can cost hundreds of dollars. A cheap alternative is to buy a large paper map or print a high-resolution vintage map from the internet.
Attach wooden dowels to the top and bottom with some twine for a “scroll” look. It’s an instant conversation starter that fills up a huge wall space for under $20.
Mirror Tile Mosaic
Instead of one large mirror, buy small square mirror tiles from a craft store. Glue them to a backing board in a diamond pattern with small gaps in between.
This creates a “glam” mosaic effect that reflects light in different directions and looks like a custom-made designer piece.
String Art Designs
With a piece of wood, some small nails, and a spool of thread, you can create intricate shapes or even words.
Map out your design with the nails and then “weave” the string between them. It’s a meditative DIY project that results in a very modern and personalized piece of wall decor.
FAQs
How can I make DIY art look more professional?
The secret is in the “framing.” Even a simple drawing looks expensive if it has a large white mat board and a clean, high-quality frame.
What is the cheapest way to cover a large wall?
Fabric panels or oversized paper maps are the most cost-effective ways to fill a big space without spending a lot of money.
Is DIY wall decor durable?
Yes, as long as you use the right mounting hardware. Always ensure your wall art is secured properly to avoid damage to your walls or the art itself.
Conclusion
Decorating your home should be a journey of self-expression, not a financial burden. By using these cheap DIY wall decor ideas for the living room, you are taking control of your environment. You are proving that style is about creativity, not just a price tag.
Each of these projects allows you to customize colors, textures, and sizes to fit your specific space. So, pick one project this weekend, clear some space on your floor, and start creating. Your walls are waiting to tell your story!
