Developing an Eye for Decor Potential

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When shopping at mass discount stores or thrift stores, it’s important to not only see what is there, but to see what could be there. For instance, sometimes I’ll catch myself wishing an item came in a certain color when in fact it’s usually pretty easy to DIY that myself for a few extra dollars in spray paint.

Let’s take a look at this $10 light-up question mark I bought from Target’s dorm section. I loved the ?, thought it’d be great in my blogging space (since most of my inspiration to blog comes from questions I think of or you send in), but I wasn’t digging the matte teal finish.

I really wanted something gold and metallic that would look like it was purchased from ModCloth or Urban Outfitters. Using pieces of Scotch Blue Painter’s Tape (my fave!), I covered up all the little lights and spray painted it with some gold spray paint from True Value (I SWEAR it is the best gold spray paint ever!!)

Two coats of spray paint and 20 minutes later, I had this GORGEOUS gold question mark begging for a spot on my wall. I have big plans for a gorgeous gallery wall near my blogging desk, and this will be part of the display. I am in love with the final result.

And it even looks great all lit up. (In the photo below you also get a sneak peek of another project for the office)

This same method of thinking also works for items you think you have no use for. Now, don’t take this as an excuse to become a hoarder, but some items can be upcycled instead of tossed.

This Jack Daniel’s glass came free with some random gift set, and it was literally on its way to Goodwill when I decided to save it from dusty doom.

The super thick bottom and square-ish shape made it a perfect DIY project. I got to use my beloved Krylon Gold Leafing Pen again (I swooned all about it over on this post). I put about 3 thick coats on the bottom (I usually let it dry about 5 minutes between coats)—you should basically put enough coats that you can’t see through the bottom anymore. This photo below shows how it looks after 1 coat.

The result is that the bottom ends up sending a subtle gold glow throughout the whole glass that makes it look chic and high end. Plus, it’s the perfect little sidekick to my ribbon storage/dispenser and no one will ever know or guess it was a random glass in a Jack Daniels gift set.

So whether you’re a seasoned DIY warrior or just starting out, I challenge you to try to revamp or upcycle items in your home AND to see the potential in inexpensive decor at mass retailers. Plus, this is a really cheap way to hop on board current DIY and decor trends without spending a lot of dough.

What is your favorite item to upcycle? For me it’s definitely fun to find new ways to use glasses, vases, and frames.