Does the need to sit around a fire outside go back to our days as cave-dwellers? Probably, but we have way better stuff to roast over the fire now, and beer to drink with it. Just like our pre-historic ancestors (except with access to hardware stores, and power tools, and computers), you can make your own DIY backyard fire ring with these tutorials on how to build a DIY fire pit.
If you've ever tried to make s'mores in the...
We've rounded up one hundred IKEA hacks that prove you can have champagne tastes on a beer budget. Each of these hacks illustrates the power of transformation - basic warehouse pieces are cleverly altered in beautiful ways that make them feel custom. This round up has me feeling like Aladdin on a magic carpet ride - so come along with me! I can open your eyes, take you wonder by wonder, over, sideways and under on a magic IKEA hack ride. All...
Have you ever struggled to find the perfect pattern for something? Then you see it...but it's the wrong product? That happened to me when I was searching for an outdoor rug, so actually decided I used an IKEA shower curtain to recover an outdoor rug, making a simple statement rug that was exactly what I wanted! Because shower curtains are already waterproof, you can makeover any rug with the pattern from a simple shower curtain.
September is National Sewing Month, and in honor of the occasion, we're taking a deep look at one of the most versatile materials out there: fabric! From sewing pillows to creating statement wall pieces, there's no limit to the way you can use fabric in the world of interior design. Here are 99 of our favorite tips on how to use fabric to decorate every room of your home. You don't have to be a tailor to use textiles in your space. From no-sew curtains to fabric as wallpaper, there's a project out there for everybody!
Hanging a mirror is a painless way to add depth and interest to a wall. Mirrors reflect light and movement in a room, they're eye-catching, and they can make a space appear bigger than it is. If you know us here at Curbly, you know we LOVE a good IKEA hack. Today we're reflecting (sorry!) on some of our favorite IKEA mirror hacks and transformations, all in uniquely awesome ways. Keep reading!
The holiday season is well and truly upon us! If you’re hosting a party this December — or just want to make the home feel extra special for your family — it’s time to pick out a festive centerpiece.
Upcycled Christmas decorations are my favorite. And this one is up there with the best!
A glass-bottle centerpiece, filled with seasonal greenery and berries, makes for a stylish and colorful addition to your holiday table. And it’s really easy to make! Just follow the steps below…
Now that the weather is getting cooler in most places, you may be pulling your sweaters from last year out of the back of your closet. And maybe there are a few that you decide won't be making it into your wardrobe rotation. Before you get rid of an unwanted sweater, consider whether it could have a new life as a sweater pillow. Here's how to add a bit of knit texture to your decor by sewing your own sweater pillow.
There are lots of reasons why you might not want to wear an old sweater any more. Maybe the fit, color, or style is off, or perhaps there are stains or holes that developed while it was sitting around unworn (thanks, moths!). Especially if the stains or holes are on the sleeves, you may be able to salvage the rest of the sweater by turning it into a pillow. And if you don't already have a suitable sweater, you should be able to find one at a thrift store.
I loved the stitch pattern on this dusty pink sweater, but the color and fit just didn't suit me. When I realized that it would look much better in my living room than on me, I started figuring out how to turn it into a sweater pillow. Here's how I did it:
Turn the sweater inside-out, and place the pillow form inside it. Pin around the form so that the sweater fits it snugly, but don't stretch it out.
Cut the sweater outside the lines you pinned, leaving about a 1/2-inch seam allowance.
Sew around the perimeter of the sweater on the lines you pinned. Be careful not to stretch the sweater as you sew, or you'll end up with wavy seams. I like to round off the corners and trim them, so that my finished pillow won't have pointy, empty corners. Be sure to leave an opening for inserting the pillow form! The exact size of the opening depends on your pillow size, but the one here would have been easier to deal with if it had been an inch or two larger.
Hand sew the opening closed using an invisible stitch/ladder stitch/blind stitch/slip stitch.
Sewing a sweater pillow is much faster than knitting a pillow cover from scratch! Do you have any old sweaters that would make good throw pillows?
BOO! Did I scare you? If not, this might give you a fright: it's almost October, which means it's almost time for Halloween! Now that's truly terrifying. Halloween is one of the most fun holidays to decorate for, and there are so many ways you can celebrate. Whether you prefer creepy crawlies, or more glitz and glam, there's no end to the DIY Halloween decorations you can make to adorn you home - inside and out! Here are a few of our favorites. Prepare to be spooked!
When the air starts to crisp up, wearing layers is key to being comfortable. Fingerless gloves can be a fun and practical addition to your fall wardrobe. They add warmth, style, and keep your fingers free for devices and other dexterous tasks. Read on for a roundup of DIY, buy, and up-cycled options. You will want to get this kind of cozy into your life.
Raise your hand if you have trouble finding jewelry that you like! Modern and interesting jewelry at affordable prices can be such a unicorn, don't you think? Which is why jewelry is the perfect candidate for some good old DIY intervention!
I love rolling up my figurative sleeves to create unique, handmade accessories. My latest jewelry project is one you minimalists will love: DIY leather circle earrings.
I have a love-hate relationship with light fittings. I totally get that they can transform the look of a room, but I've put off changing ours for aaaages because the ones I love best are always out of my budget. And when it comes to the crunch, I can't justify spending $150+ on a pretty light fixture when there are bills to be paid! That's where this IKEA lighting hack comes in.
When you only have a small budget for outdoor furniture, finding the right pieces can be a bit dissapointing at times. If you don't feel like waiting for those end-of-summer deals, try exploring your local thrift store. With some good scouting and creative imagination, you might find the perfect piece for your patio.
Growing herbs is an easy way to get into gardening, and there are plenty of ways to make an herb garden even if you're short on space. So to get you inspired, today we're sharing 22 of our favorite creative herb garden ideas - both indoors and out. Click through to check 'em out!
Blooming flowers and fresh rain can only mean one thing: spring has definitely sprung! That means summer will be here before you know it. If getting your backyard in order is on your to-do list but you're having trouble getting started - don't fret! You don't need a total landscaping overhaul for your yard to feel refreshed and inviting. Sometimes it's just a matter of hanging up some string lights or creating a simple fire pit. We've rounded up 62 outdoor DIY projects to get you excited to be outside again as the weather warms up. From plants to playhouses, keep scrolling for more inspiration!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Pallet Couch: Doesn't this space look inviting? The good news is that it's made from free pallets and a few cushions!
2. Summer Hammock: Nothing says "ahhhhhhh" like a gently-swinging hammock. Get ready to relax in the fruits of your labor with this DIY.
3. Colorful Chair Makeover: There are no rules to how bright colors can be outside. See how these once bland lawn chairs got their day in the sun.
4. DIY Porch Swing: As Liz Lemon says, "I want to go to there!" Swinging in the spring breeze is a total DIY reality with this project from A Beautiful Mess.
5. DIY Fringed Hammock: This hammock brings boho to the backyard with the addition of fringe.
6. Macramé Hammock Chair: I can"knot" get over how gorgeous this hammock chair is!
7. DIY Outdoor Cushions: Update your existing patio furniture by stitching up some of these quick and easy DIY outdoor cushions.
8. Easy Outdoor Bench: Emphasis on "easy!" Instant seating comes to life with wood beams, concrete blocks, and a bit of paint.
9. Modern Outdoor Sofa: This number is so sleek I might want to bring it inside my house! The good news is it's built to withstand the elements, which means you can make your back deck super classy.
10. Simple Grilling Cart: Grillin' on the go! With a built-in drink cooler, what more could you ask for out of an outdoor DIY project?
11. Outdoor Bar: If you're not really the grill master type, but more of a whiskey woman, why not make a drink bar for your backyard?
12. Wall-Mounted Serving Station: Want to entertain but don't have space for a full outdoor kitchen? Go vertical by building this simple serving station with drop-down tabletop!
13. Built-in Beer Cooler Table: Woah Nelly, what is this ingenious contraption? Never get up from your chair again with this DIY.
14. S'mores Station Centerpiece: Acting as both a lovely centerpiece and a warming station for marshmallow and chocolate, party guests are sure to be impressed by this s'mores machine (made from glass dishes!).
15. Cinder Block Bar: Combining two awesome things (plants and booze), this bar provides an easy builder's solution.
16. DIY Grill Countertop: Basically like having an outdoor kitchen, this brick counter space built around a grill surely makes outdoor entertaining a breeze.
17. Drink Cooler Stand: If you're constantly entertaining outside, or if you just enjoy having a cold beverage available whenever, this drink stand provides a classy solution to the standard cooler.
18. IKEA Outdoor Bar Cart: This entertaining station falls under the category of "why didn't I think of that?"
19. Built-To-Last Concrete Fire Pit: With a little elbow grease, you can build your own fire pit that you can enjoy for many summers to come.
20. Minimal Fire Pit: If clean lines are more your style, explore this fire pit put together by The Brick House.
21. Upcycled Fire Pit: I don't want to pick favorites, but this outdoor DIY project is high on the list. See what unusual upcycled material this flaming beauty was made from!
22. Bug-Repelling Citronella Candles: These outdoor lights do double-duty by providing light and shooing away unwanted pests.
23. Fire Column: Nothing says "class" like fire in glass. Shed a little light in your outdoor dining space with this simple DIY project.
24. Pendant Light: This DIY might make you want to eat outside for every meal! Create a classy dining nook by hanging some proper light fixtures.
25. Ping Pong Ball Lights: Maybe the easiest outdoor DIY project on this list, these ping pong ball lights instantly add charm to any space.
26. String Light Hanging Poles: If you want to hang string lights outside but don't have anywhere to put them, City Farmhouse has an easy solution that also involves plants!
27. Portable Fire Pit: This flame is on the move! Which is perfect if you are an renter or apartment-dweller.
28. Recycled Bottle Tiki Torch: Old wine bottles get new life as mounted tiki torches with this outdoor-friendly DIY!
29. Tin Can Lights: This project is a classic, and couldn't be left off the list! If you need a quick, easy, and cheap solution for your outdoor lighting situation, grab some tin cans, tea lights, a hammer and a large nail, and get to punching!
30. Mason Jar Lamps: Another classic, these jar lights are a simple and sweet way to brighten your backyard.
31. Pool Noodle Luminaries: Even if you don't have a pool, you can set these floatable candles off in a large container of water to add ambiance to any space.
32. Flower Pot Fire Pit: Who says fire pits can't be cute? Beautiful in blue, this outdoor DIY project only requires a flower pot, stones, and a little flame.
33. DIY Trellis with Planter Box: Give crawling plants somewhere to go by building them a trellis. This project is also great if you're looking to fill visual space in your patio or deck area!
34. Hose Housing Station with Built-In Planter: Gardening hoses are hard to keep neat and pretty. This project solves that solution by keeping the hose hidden! Plus there are flowers involved, which is always a bonus.
35. Homemade Flower Beds: Bump up your home's curbside appeal by installing these flower beds you can make on your own.
36. Window Boxes: Aren't these just the sweetest? Deuce Cities Henhouse (local gal to us!) has tips on creating the perfect window boxes.
37. Vertical Planter: Take your plants a step up. Perfect if you're low on space but big on greenery!
38. Plant Chandelier: Ooh la la! Who needs lights when you can have leaves?
39. Succulent Letters: Say it with succulents! Create "wall art" to hang in your outdoor space.
40. Tapered Cedar Planter: Giant planters are not cheap, but with a little woodworking you can craft your own from cedar.
41. Geometric Cinder Block Planters: Cinder blocks are at it again! With a simple paint job, you can create a modern-looking planter to house all kinds of greenery.
42. Wooden Plant Stand: If you're looking for ways to add visual height to your plant-scape, Shanty 2 Chic has the plans to build a wooden plant stand.
43. Gardening Table: Got a green thumb? You're going to need a place to work! Learn how to make your own gardening table, courtesy of Design Sponge.
44. Colorful Patio Tiles: I can't get over what a simple and transformative idea this is! If you can't commit to painting your patio, try chalk for a temporarily colorful time!
45. Painted Patio: If you're looking for a way to bring bold to the backyard, this paint job takes the cake.
46. Stenciled Concrete: This stencil job mimics the look of a rug with the low-maintenance factor of concrete! Try this look on for size if you're trying to create a more intimate outdoor living space.
47. DIY Rug from Drop Cloth: Personalize the patio by making a rug from a drop cloth. It'll withstand the elements, too!
48. Pallet Walkway: A couple of pallet boards bridge the gap in this DIY. Totally doable, and totally cheap!
49. Painted Outdoor Rug: Most outdoor rugs are "blah," but painting them is easy enough. See how with our tutorial for this modern and simple design!
50. Pea Gravel Patio: Want to build your own patio? Pea gravel makes it easy to create a patio space without all the pavers.
51. Tree Swing: How sweet is this swing? Even if you're grown, there's nothing quite like swaying under a tree.
52. Circular Rope Swing: If you're working on your balance, try this swing on for size!
53. Sandbox with Lid: It's a gross reality, but if you have cats, you have to have a sandbox with a lid. Ana White has the plans for how to build one of your own.
54. Sandbox with Seating and Awning: Keep the kiddos safe from the sun by adding an awning to your sandbox. Plus these plans come with adorable seating!
55. DIY Bungalow Play House: With chalk board panels, this playhouse can be imagined into any space.
56. Play Tent: Can I move in? This cloth tent is also collapsible, so it's easy to move inside and out!
57. Hula Hoop Hideout: Give each kid their own special space with some fabric and a few hula hoops.
58. Tire Teeter Totter: Alliteration aside, this teeter totter is adorable. Plus it's made from recycled materials, so it's good for the kids and the earth.
59. DIY Tether Ball: This DIY feels like a throwback! Do you guys remember playing tether ball long into the afternoon? Turns out it's pretty easy to make one of your own for you or your offspring to enjoy!
60. Mini Bowling Lane: How adorable is this?? Bowling never looked so cute, plus it's small so it doesn't take up a lot of space!
61. Giant Four-in-a-Row: Everything better when it's bigger. Fair warning: you may end up being house-party-central if you build one of these.
62. Giant Jenga: Last but not least, this thrilling game is the perfect addition to a summertime backyard party.
By their nature, containers require more frequent watering than plantings in the ground. Smaller containers in full sun can need watering twice a day during hot spells. Go large when choosing new containers to save on time and water demands.
Choose a group of plants that are compatible in looks and culture. Match up their needs for light and water first, then play with combining colors and texture.
Sedums
These perennials are my first 'go-to' s for drought tolerant containers. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors with blooms that benefit pollinator insects and ask for little in terms of water and fertilizer. Most will overwinter and also combine well with other drought tolerant plants.
Herbs for garden and kitchen
Culinary and ornamental herbs are another group happy in well drained soil and sun. Those with variegated foliage are stunning accents planted solo in a container. Among my top favorites are:
Variegated lemon thyme
Sages that are edible and ornamental: 'Berggarten', 'Aurea', 'Purpurescens' and 'Tricolor'
Oregano 'Kent Beauty' trails beautifully out of hanging baskets and into the marinara sauce.
Perennial favorites
These garden perennials make a successful leap between garden beds and containers and back again:
Coral bells, Heuchera 'Green Spice', 'Peppermint Spice' and 'Moonlight'
Geranium x 'Johnson's Blue' and other hardy geranium
Oxalis tetraphylla 'Iron Cross'
Dusty Miller -
Sunrose, Helianthemum 'Wisley Pink' and 'St. Mary's'
Hardy fuchsia
Cape fucshia
Add these grasses and grass-likes for contrasting texture
New Zealand Flax, Phormium and variegated iris both offer tall, strappy, striped leaves.
Low growing glack mondo grass has dramatic dark foliage and and small white or purple flowers.
Variegated lily turf, Liriope muscari 'Variegata', 'Silver Dragon' and 'Sunproof' all have white edged leaves and purple blooms.
Annuals that can take the heat (and a bit of drought)
Many of the popular annuals used for seasonal color do best with regular water and fertile soil. Be sure to keep these birds-of-a-feather together. Here are some great annuals that don't like as much water and fertilizer and that combine well with other types of plants listed in this article:
African daisy, Osteospermum Symphony series
Sweet allysum, Lobularia maritima
Coreopsis tinctoria
Dwarf snapdragons, Chinese Lantern series
I have a hard time spending a lot of money on wall art. I feel horrible saying that. I got my Bachelor's degree in art, so I - of all people - totally understand the effort and talent that's required to create good art. Honestly, I'm just cheap. While I might occasionally splurge for a print or photo I really love, my home is hardly a museum. I can't afford to fill my walls top to bottom with one-of-a-kind art pieces. So yeah, I might be cheap, but I'm pretty dang thrifty, too! Whether it's sprucing up some existing wall art, or creating my own with found items, I can fill a wall for under $40. The best place to find forgotten and dirt-cheap wall decor is your local second-hand store (think Goodwill, Savers, Salvation Army, etc.). I set out to create a cheap gallery wall using only things I found at the thrift store, and here's how it worked out.
If you're like me, you want to be more eco-friendly but you're not quite sure what the next step would be after recycling and turning off the lights when you leave the room. Here are 11 DIY projects from around the web that will help you live a more environmentally conscious lifestyle.
Summer is right around the corner, which means it's time to step up our patio game... and lighting is one of the most important elements of a functional outdoor space. So today we're sharing 23 of our very favorite outdoor lighting projects. Click through to check 'em out!
There are two things that I'm currently obsessing over: plants and sparkling water. My love of greenery has been ramping up since the springtime, but my La Croix crush is still pretty fresh. I don't know how it happened - I've never cared for carbonated, unsweetened beverages before this, but I'm literally poppin' a can of La Croix every day now. To combine these two trends, I present to you the La Croix planter project. If you have five minutes to spare, this is the craft for you!
Growing your own herbs is incredibly satisfying. Not only do they take up very little space, they take your cooking to new heights as you start experiment with different flavor profiles, you can even read our guide to choosing your own here.