A bedroom refresh can start with what is already on hand, then build out with simple projects such as painted wall art, string lights, layered textiles, or a rearranged furniture layout. Thrifted mirrors and frames, floating shelves, baskets, plants, temporary decals, and personal keepsakes add texture, storage, and character without requiring a full renovation.
Cheap Easy Bedroom Decorating
DIY Artwork for the Walls
Create wall art with blank canvases, paint, or printable designs. Paint and blank canvases can become personal wall art, while printable designs can be framed. A gallery wall with photos and meaningful quotes also supports space personalization and adds character.
Create artwork for the bedroom walls and frame meaningful items to give the room a unique feel. DIY art projects are cost-effective and can add bedroom personality. Interior designer and blogger Orlando Soria of Hommemaker also recommends using meaningful items in the artwork and frames.
Ambient String Lights
Beside a mirror, string lights can hang along the wall, drape over the mirror, or wrap around the headboard. They are inexpensive and use little energy, so they add warmth without increasing the electricity bill while creating a cozy, inviting glow.
Cozy Textiles for a Bedroom Makeover
Layered fabrics can make a plush bed, and this textile update has a low cost. Add throw pillows and a soft throw blanket, then use colorful pillowcases with a textured duvet cover.
Wall Statement Pieces
Rich accent paint can create a focal point, and patterned wallpaper can do the same. Wall treatment options include peel-and-stick wallpaper, wall decals, and paint; one of these options is easy to apply, changes the room mood, and costs less than a full renovation.
Bedroom wallpaper can create a cozier feel and achieve a high-end look, according to Emily Henderson, a stylist and TV host. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is affordable, comes in fun patterns, and works well for renters, making it an option for a DIY decorator.
Thrift and Secondhand Finds
A secondhand mirror, lamp, or picture frame can cost only a fraction of a new item. Sand and repaint secondhand pieces so they match the room aesthetic.
Flea markets and thrift stores are good places to seek unique pieces. Co-host Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s Fixer Upper has shown how low-cost vintage finds can add bedroom character and support personalization.
Rug Layers for Texture
On bare floors, start with a larger neutral rug and place a smaller patterned rug on top. This layering works particularly well with hardwood or tiled floors, adding visual interest, warmth, and depth.
Throw Blanket at the Foot of the Bed
Drape a throw blanket at the foot of the bed to support the bedroom style and provide extra utility on cold nights. Choose one that works with the color and texture of the bedding.
Amber Lewis, founder of Amber Interiors, recommends building the bed with layers of throws and pillows. Pair patterns with different textures, since the combination can bring depth and coziness while giving the room a collected look.
Floating Shelves for Small Bedrooms
In a small bedroom, floating shelves provide practical storage and add visual appeal without taking up floor space. Use them to display framed photos, candles, and books while helping keep other surfaces clutter-free.
Real or Faux Bedroom Plants
Faux plants have zero maintenance and require no watering, while real plants can look just as good. Beginners can choose snake plants or pothos, both of which have low maintenance needs.
Color and texture are two things plants bring to a bedroom. They can also make the space feel vibrant and alive, and plants are affordable. Justina Blakeney is the designer and founder of The Jungalow.
Custom Headboard
String lights create a magical effect and offer a quick choice when you are short on time. Arrange them above a DIY headboard made from reclaimed wood, fabric, or an oversized tapestry to emphasize the bed frame.
Bedroom Furniture Rearrangement
In a small bedroom, try angling the bedside table and moving the old furniture and bed to a different wall. Experimenting with the layout can give the room a new feel.
Room Curtains
Long curtains can make the windows appear taller, even when they are used behind the bed instead of only at the windows. Hang sheer or light-colored curtains there to create a canopy illusion and make a small room brighter.
Basket Storage
Books, electronics, and blankets can all go into woven baskets, keeping those items stored and helping conceal clutter. Basket storage also supports a more organized room.
Bedroom Mirror
A full-length mirror can lean against the wall, reflecting light and making the room appear brighter and larger. You can also hang a decorative mirror above the dresser.
Personal Memento Display
Frames and shadow boxes can hold favorite photos, travel souvenirs, and other keepsakes in a personal display. These personal items add warmth to the room and support a personal feeling.
Family photos and travel souvenirs add warmth to a bedroom and can make the space feel more intimate. Designer Erin Gates, who wrote Elements of Style, says personal touches create a more intimate bedroom.
Decorative Wall Hooks
Wall hooks come in many shapes and designs, so you can choose ones that match the room decor. Use the hooks to hang hats, scarves, and jewelry while keeping them part of the decoration.
Affordable Artwork Prints and Inexpensive Frames for Free Downloads
In inexpensive frames, prints can be replaced seasonally to give the space a fresh, updated feel. Affordable artwork prints are available to purchase, and free downloads are another option.
Mason Jar Vases Candle Holders and Storage
Mason jars can be painted or decorated to fit the room theme. They hold flowers or candles, and they also work for storing makeup brushes and pens.
Temporary Wall Decals
Wall decals are easy to apply and easy to remove, making them a temporary choice that suits renters. Designs include florals, geometric patterns, and motivational quotes for bedroom walls.
Room Decluttering
The room looks better when unnecessary items are removed and stored neatly. With the clutter gone, the space feels peaceful and inviting.
Start by finding storage solutions for the bedroom items that remain. Bobby Berk, an interior designer and TV personality, says a decluttered bedroom gains a more spacious and serene feel. He recommends keeping items that are loved and used, while storing everything else.
