Renter-Friendly DIYs and Decor

Today, we’re excited to share over 25 decor projects that are perfect for renters.

We’re going to focus on the important things—like minimizing nails in the wall, using color and texture to maximize your space, and more. Let’s get to it!

Related: 25+ Renter-Friendly DIYs and Decor Tips (Part 2)

Hang Wall Decor with Command Strips or Hooks

Command Strips (or Command hooks) work like magic—they are our go-to when we want to avoid nailing into a wall. They have different sizes depending on the weight of your decor—perfect for renters (and homeowners!).

One of the most cost-effective ways to add a large art print to your space? Have an engineer print made. Have your favorite photo printed at your local Staples or online. And, adding a frame is easier than you think—here’s a DIY tutorial.

Make a Statement (Add a Wall Hanging or Mirror)

If you can’t change the paint color of your walls, add a large statement weaving instead.

Emma’s faux weaving DIY and Elsie’s large-scale braided wall hanging are both easy options, and the kind of projects you can make while watching your favorite show.

Mirrors can make a room appear larger, so the more the merrier! We love how these copper mirrors and this cute flower mirror only require a few supplies and steps.

Place a framed art print like this on top of a mantle or table instead of hanging it on the wall. You could also frame a wallpaper sample like Laura did here.

If you don’t have enough space to hang a gallery wall, you could always make a mini version like Elsie did above. Looking for more ways to use photos? Here are five ways Elsie displays photos in her home.

A photo that doubles as a giant dry erase board? Such a cute idea for a kids room.

Have a collection of movie or concert tickets? Create a pop-art inspired display.

Use Peel and Stick Wallpaper or Washi Tape

What did we do before removable wallpaper existed? It’s such a fun, versatile way to add personality to your space.

Here are five ways to incorporate removable wallpaper in your home.

Elsie gave her kitchen a mini makeover using removable tile stickers. It looks so good, and it’s a great way to give you kitchen a new look.

What about using removable tile on a bathroom floor? We have a renter-friendly DIY for that, too!

Washi tape! You can apply it pretty much anywhere —in an arched doorway like this or you can make a cool patterned wall.

Organize Everything

Keep household items and rooms organized (and pretty things like jewelry and makeup brushes) organized without taking up drawers or closet space.

We love this lucite earring holder and this desktop calendar (it can be used as a photo frame, too!).

Keep your kitchen utensils organized with this easy utensil holder DIY using contact paper that looks like marble.

Make a wooden display shelf to keep your essential oil bottles or perfume organized.

Where should you keep your mail and magazines? In a cute magnetic holder on the fridge, of course.

But wait, there’s more! Here are 8 more ways to add storage to your home.

Personalize Your Space

Rentals don’t have to be plain and boring, i.e., beige walls and carpet. You can still make your space fun and unique.

Make a set of pillows using actual photos or dyed velvet pillows to add some color and texture to your bedroom or living room.

If you’re looking for a way to store jewelry or car keys, we love these marbled clay dishes.

Swap out a plain hand towel bar or bath towel bar with lucite. Fancy without the price tag!

Add campaign hardware to a dresser for a bold, polished look. You can do the same thing to a picture frame.

If you can’t find a rug that’s big enough to cover that area under your bed, combine two smaller ones to make a larger rug.

This easy DIY stenciled rug is perfect for an outdoor space! If you want to go the full DIY route, you could make your own rope rug.

Make a pretty floral garland like Elsie did to hang across a fireplace or window.

Check out more easy garland DIYs here.

You can add more personality to a bathroom with a bold shower curtain.

We love this one Emma made a few years ago, and if you’re looking for another option, Elsie’s macrame fringe curtain is so delicate and pretty. No sewing required!

Plants can make your home feel extra cozy. We have a bunch of planter DIYs to choose from like this pink wooden ball planter and this one made from fabric.

Save Space

Regardless of your square footage, finding cute ways to store your belongings is easier than you think.

You can make your own ladder to hang items like extra blankets and magazines. Be sure to read our ladder styling tips, too!

If a full-size ironing board isn’t ideal for your space, make a magnetic ironing mat to keep on top of the dryer.

What about bedroom storage? It’s easier than you think to make a wooden wardrobe to store extra clothing and shoes.

Laura also shared ways to organize a closet in a non-permanent way that are super helpful!

If you’re looking for ways to organize or kitchen or a kitchen pantry, click here to see what Elsie used to organize her pink pantry.

We also have a podcast about Episode #25: Decor Inspiration For Renters as well as 25+ Renter-Friendly Decor DIYs and Decor Tips (Part 2!).

Thanks for reading! If you know someone who would love this roundup, we would love for you to share it on Pinterest. xo, The ABM Team