4 Decor Trends You Can DIY

trendy living room

Incorporating décor trends into your own home can be quite the task. Often, the process seems intimidating and expensive. However, it doesn’t always need to be that way. You can easily adopt today’s décor trends with a few DIY tricks. These handy secrets also do not require crazy skills or materials. They make it super easy to feature trends and ensure that your space is kept current and modern. It’s always an excellent way to refresh an old space. To get you started, here are four décor trends that you can DIY — promise!

1. Banana Leaf Print

diy banana leaf throw pillows

When it comes to classic and traditional patterns, you can’t go wrong with a good leaf print. It’s a standard design option, along with stripes, polka dots, and flowers. Looking for a new spin on this pattern? Consider banana leaf prints for your home.

Characterized by narrow shapes and a medley of green hues, banana leaves are perfect for adding a laid-back, tropical vibe. Often, the leaves overlap and are placed against a white background. It is ideal for cheering up a gloomy space even during the winter months.

Luckily, you don’t have to be an artist to take this on. If you own a printer, you can simply print out banana leaf patterns and showcase them in frames. For best results, use a basic frame that will not clash with the print.

Alternatively, you could sew a few throw pillows using patterned fabric to incorporate the look without being too bold.

Patterned wallpaper, which has made a comeback, can also be used to DIY the banana leaf trend. Try adding leaf wallpaper to small rooms to liven up the space. You can also apply the wallpaper to a bookcase or single wall.

If you’re feeling adventurous, use a stencil to create a banana leaf print on practically any surface. Another option is use decoupage glue to apply printed banana leaves to items such as storage boxes, drawers, and vases.

This trend pairs well with the minimalist trend, gold finishes, and bold prints such as stripes or polka dots. Green and white elements can also really bring the space together.

2. Mixed Metals

A few seasons later and the concept of mixed metals is still going strong. Gone

A few seasons later and the concept of mixed metals is still going strong. Gone are the days of perfectly coordinating silver with silver, gold with gold. Combining different hues of metals doesn’t just create a less staged look; it also exudes edginess and creativity.

In each décor project or space, experts recommend combining a warm metal with a cold metal. For example, a copper piece (warm) would work well with a dark bronze piece (cool). This ensures that there is a contrast and juxtaposition between the two metal finishes.

Wondering how you can DIY this trend? Spray paint is your friend. These days, you can find spray paint in a variety of colors. These shades include luxe metal finishes, available in matte or glossy. You can then apply this spray paint to household items. Check out your local hardware or craft store for metallic spray paint.

Otherwise, it’s all about the selection process. You can DIY a trendy collection of knick-knacks or hardware details simply by paying attention to the metal finishes.

3. Brush Strokes

brush stroke artwork

When it comes to décor, artwork can be a tricky thing to take on. There are just so many options to choose from. It can be especially intimidating if you know very little about artwork, but still appreciate the form.

Fortunately, one of the latest trends in décor involves free-form brush strokes. This abstract style is ideal for adding a laid-back, artistic vibe to practically any space. The best part is that it can be created by even the most novice artist. Simply dip a brush in some paint and create random lines. There is really no wrong or right way to do this.

To create a décor project out of this trend, take a blank canvas and paint away. Acrylic paint works best for this surface. Don’t think too much about placement and size of each stroke. Just go for it! The more random and organic, the better.

You can also use the same technique on household items such as bookcases or candle holders. Alternatively, you can create a small pattern on watercolor paper and frame it in a small frame. Simply use a color scheme that fits your space and you’re good to go.

4. Rustic Dark Wood

dark wood stained surface

Thanks to social media and the minimalism trend, Mother Nature has become quite the star of design and décor. From beautiful mountain scenery to breathtaking woodlands, the rustic vibe of nature is something to look out for.

One of the most popular nature-inspired elements is dark-colored woods. Stains such as espresso and dark walnut work really well for this look. These shades can add a moody yet cozy vibe to virtually any décor project.

However, you won’t have to trek into the wild to take on this trend. The hardware store is home to a wide range of wood stains. This allows you to add a beautiful wash of color to plain wood pieces, such as desks or storage boxes.
Don’t stress about creating a perfect stain. In fact, your project will be more on trend if the stain is not perfect. You can even purposely wear down the wood with sandpaper to create a worn-in look.

When it comes to styling, keep it sweet and simple. Again, this trend works especially well with minimalism-inspired designs. Consider adding branches, pressed flowers, and feathers to your decor. Materials such as plaid flannel, faux fur, and marled wool also compliment rustic dark wood.