DIY Home Decor
Handmade pieces add warmth and personality to any room. These projects are designed for adults and teens, with options to involve younger helpers.
Painted Terracotta Pots
A set of painted pots can transform a windowsill, balcony or desk. Use simple geometric patterns or freehand botanical designs.
What you need
- Terracotta pots and saucers
- Acrylic paint
- Paint brushes and a water cup
- Clear acrylic sealer
Steps
- Clean the pots and let them dry completely.
- Paint a base coat and let it dry.
- Add patterns, stripes or shapes in contrasting colours.
- Once the paint is dry, seal the outside with clear acrylic sealer.
- Plant succulents, herbs or small houseplants.
Tip: Masking tape helps create clean geometric lines between colours.
Simple Macramé Plant Hanger
No loom required. This beginner macramé project uses just four cords and a few basic knots to hold a small pot.
What you need
- 4 metres of cotton macramé cord, cut into 4 equal lengths
- A small ring or carabiner
- Scissors
- A small potted plant
Steps
- Fold all four cords in half and thread the loop through the ring to create a lark's head knot.
- Divide the cords into four pairs.
- Tie a square knot in each pair, about 15 cm down from the ring.
- Drop down another 15 cm, then pair each cord with its neighbour from the next group and tie another square knot.
- Gather all cords at the bottom and tie a large wrapping knot to hold the pot.
Tip: Hang the ring on a hook while you knot so the cords stay even.
Gallery Wall Collage
Create a personal gallery wall using a mix of paper crafts, prints, pressed flowers and small frames. It is an affordable way to fill a blank wall.
What you need
- Assorted frames or washi tape
- Your own artwork, photos and paper cut-outs
- Pencil and tape measure
- Command hooks or picture nails
Steps
- Collect pieces you want to display: drawings, postcards, origami, pressed leaves.
- Lay everything on the floor and arrange until the composition feels balanced.
- Measure the wall space and mark the centre point lightly in pencil.
- Start hanging from the centre and work outward, keeping spacing consistent.
- Step back often to check the overall balance.
Tip: Use frames in one or two colours for a cohesive look, or mix styles for an eclectic feel.
Decorate with intention
- Group objects in odd numbers for visual balance
- Leave empty space so each handmade piece can breathe
- Rotate seasonal decor to keep the space feeling fresh