Top Ten DIY Projects: 2014 Edition

As the curtains close on another remarkable year, it’s the perfect moment to look back at the creative endeavors that filled our homes with charm and our hearts with accomplishment. 2014 was a year brimming with exciting DIY projects, each bringing unique challenges and immense satisfaction. From transforming forgotten furniture pieces into vibrant statements to crafting personalized home accessories, these projects reflect a passion for making and redesigning. Join me as we revisit the top ten DIY projects that captured your imagination and became fan favorites throughout the year. Get ready to be inspired by the power of paint, imagination, and a little elbow grease!

The Most Popular: Spray Painted Dining Chairs

Without a doubt, the Spray Painted Dining Chairs project was the undisputed hit of 2014! This transformation truly resonated with so many of you, and it’s easy to see why. The secret to its popularity might lie in the surprisingly simple yet effective technique of wet sanding, which I detailed in a comprehensive video. Or perhaps it was the sheer efficiency of tackling six dining chairs in a single afternoon! This project proved that with the right approach and a burst of vibrant color, outdated furniture can be given a stunning new lease of life, quickly and affordably. It’s a testament to how a bold color choice and a little prep work can completely revitalize a dining space, making it feel fresh and inviting.

Many people shy away from painting chairs due to the intricate details and perceived difficulty, but spray paint truly makes it a breeze. The smooth, even finish achieved with a sprayer, coupled with the wet sanding technique, creates a durable and professional-looking result. This project wasn’t just about aesthetics; it highlighted the practicality of DIY, empowering homeowners to achieve high-end results on a budget. The joy of seeing those chairs go from drab to fab in a matter of hours was incredibly rewarding, and the positive feedback from readers confirmed its status as a top DIY triumph. This project perfectly illustrates the impactful difference a well-executed paint job can make, turning tired pieces into focal points of modern design.

Turquoise Desk Makeovers: A Signature Style

My affinity for turquoise furniture is no secret, and 2014 saw another beloved desk makeover join the ranks of popular projects. This isn’t my first turquoise desk rodeo; a similar project from 2012 also garnered significant attention, proving that this cheerful hue has a timeless appeal. This year’s rendition continued the tradition of breathing new life into forgotten pieces with a splash of vibrant color. Desks, often overlooked, offer a fantastic canvas for creative expression, transforming mundane workspaces into inspiring nooks that motivate and delight.

The beauty of a desk makeover lies in its potential to dramatically alter a room’s aesthetic. A fresh coat of paint can turn a utilitarian piece into a focal point, injecting personality and style. Turquoise, in particular, offers a refreshing pop of color that pairs beautifully with various decor styles, from coastal to bohemian to contemporary. It’s a versatile shade that consistently delivers an “after” picture far more exciting than the “before,” proving that bold choices can lead to spectacular results. These desk transformations are a prime example of how thoughtful color application can revitalize any piece of furniture, making it both functional and beautiful.

Stained Top, Painted Bottom Desk Transformation

Among the desk makeovers, this particular project held a special place in my heart: a desk with a beautifully stained top and a vibrant painted bottom. This combination is, hands down, my favorite kind of furniture transformation. It offers the best of both worlds: preserving the natural beauty and grain of wood on the surface while allowing for a playful burst of color on the base. The contrast creates an elegant yet lively piece that truly stands out, showcasing a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary styles.

Achieving this look involves careful preparation and execution. The process of stripping, sanding, and staining the top to highlight its original character, juxtaposed with the meticulous cleaning, priming, and painting of the base, creates a sophisticated finish. This technique not only enhances the desk’s visual appeal but also celebrates the craftsmanship of the original piece while infusing it with modern flair. It’s a sophisticated DIY approach that yields stunning, personalized results every time, proving that a two-tone approach can elevate a piece from ordinary to extraordinary, fitting perfectly into diverse interior designs.

From Old Door to Stylish Shelf: A Creative Upcycle

There’s something inherently captivating about giving an old, discarded item a brand new purpose. This year, one of my most satisfying upcycling projects involved an Old Door Makeover, transforming it from a “gross” relic into a refreshing, functional piece of home decor. This particular door now serves as a delightful spot for serving refreshments, proving that with a little vision, almost anything can be repurposed into something beautiful and useful for contemporary living.

My fascination with old doors runs deep; I’m constantly on the lookout for them, recognizing their potential beyond their original function. Their solid construction and unique character make them ideal candidates for creative repurposing. In fact, I’ve even married an old door to a chest to create unique hall-trees in the past, demonstrating the versatility of these architectural salvage finds. This door shelf project involved thorough cleaning, sanding, painting, and the addition of sturdy shelves, turning a once forgotten item into a stylish statement piece that adds character and charm to any room. It’s an eco-friendly approach to decorating that results in truly one-of-a-kind pieces that tell a story, making sustainable home design both accessible and incredibly rewarding.

Custom Pillow Projects: Adding Personality to Every Space

My creative endeavors weren’t limited to furniture transformations; 2014 also saw a delightful foray into fabric arts with customized pillow projects. I discovered and shared an incredibly easy way to personalize pillows, making it simple for anyone to add a touch of unique personality to their living spaces. Take, for instance, the playful Crabby Pillow, a charming addition that instantly evokes a seaside vibe, perfect for coastal-themed decor or adding a whimsical touch.

Custom pillows are a fantastic way to refresh a room without a major overhaul. They provide an opportunity to introduce color, pattern, and texture, all while reflecting individual style. Whether it’s a witty graphic, a monogram, or a bold print, the ability to create bespoke pillow covers allows for endless possibilities in home decor. This project underscored the idea that even small details can make a significant impact on a room’s overall feel and aesthetic, making spaces feel more personal and inviting. It’s a quick, affordable, and fun way to update your home’s look seasonally or whenever the mood strikes, allowing for creative expression that’s both accessible and impactful.

Outdoor Living with Colorful Fabric Pillows

The pillow-making fun continued with a vibrant project focused on enhancing outdoor living spaces. By combining several one-yard pieces of fabric, I created a collection of colorful pillow covers designed to withstand the elements and bring cheer to any patio or deck. This project emphasized the importance of extending personal style beyond the indoors, making outdoor areas just as cozy and inviting as your interior spaces, perfect for entertaining or quiet relaxation.

Selecting durable, weather-resistant fabrics in complementary patterns and colors allows for a cohesive yet dynamic look. It’s an affordable way to refresh outdoor furniture and create a welcoming ambiance for entertaining or simply relaxing. The process involves simple sewing techniques, making it accessible even for novice crafters. The result is a vibrant, refreshed outdoor space that feels like an extension of your home, perfectly blending comfort with personalized style. These pillows are not just decorative; they invite you to sit back, relax, and enjoy your beautifully curated outdoor oasis, proving that outdoor styling can be just as sophisticated as indoor decor.

More Painted Chairs: A Love Affair with Color

If it wasn’t clear already, 2014 further cemented my deep affection for painted chairs! Indeed, I embarked on yet another set of chair makeovers, this time opting for a different hue that brought a fresh energy to the pieces. There’s something uniquely satisfying about transforming a worn, uninspiring chair into a statement piece with just a few coats of paint. Each chair tells a story, and a new color provides a captivating new chapter, allowing for endless customization and personalization.

The versatility of painted chairs is unparalleled. They can serve as accent pieces in a living room, add a pop of color to a hallway, or complete a dining set with a custom touch. This particular set received a striking green finish, demonstrating how a change in color can drastically alter the perception and style of a piece. It’s a testament to the fact that painting furniture isn’t just about covering imperfections; it’s about reimagining and revitalizing, giving new life to old forms. Whether it’s a glossy finish, a distressed look, or a bold solid color, painted chairs always bring joy and personality to a space, making them a consistently rewarding DIY project for any home enthusiast.

A Career Highlight: Featured in Better Homes and Gardens

Some moments in a DIY journey are so monumental, they feel like a dream. For me, one such highlight of 2014 was being featured in Better Homes and Gardens! Even now, I find myself pinching myself, returning to the article occasionally just to read it again and beam at my computer screen. It’s one of those deeply gratifying experiences that affirms years of hard work and passion, making you do silly, joyful things like smiling at a screen. This recognition was not just personal; it was a testament to the power of DIY and the beauty of home transformation.

Being recognized by such a prestigious publication is an incredible honor and a powerful validation of the creative work shared on this blog. It’s a reminder that every small project, every detailed tutorial, and every shared transformation contributes to a larger story of inspiration and community. This feature wasn’t just about the projects themselves; it was about the journey, the dedication, and the joy of creating a home that reflects personal style. It truly was a standout moment that will forever be cherished, fueling future DIY adventures and inspiring even more ambitious creations. It solidified the belief that with passion and perseverance, anyone can create a home they love and inspire others along the way.

You can read about one of the most exciting things that happened in 2014 right here:

The Treasure Find: Upcycling an Old Locker

Sometimes, the best DIY projects begin with an unexpected discovery – a true “treasure of a lifetime.” This year, my sprayer came out again for just such a find: an old locker! You know the kind of find I’m talking about – something you search high and low for, and then, miraculously, you find two! One went to my daughter, and the other became a fantastic project for my home, brimming with potential.

While perhaps not literally the treasure of a lifetime, this old locker was an undeniably cool find with immense potential. Lockers, with their sturdy metal construction and industrial charm, are perfect candidates for a creative transformation. A fresh coat of spray paint can turn a rusty, forgotten piece into a vibrant, functional storage solution or a unique accent piece. This project involved thorough cleaning, priming, and carefully applying paint to achieve a smooth, durable finish that completely changed its character. It’s a testament to the beauty of upcycling and the thrill of discovering hidden gems that can be repurposed with imagination and effort. This old locker now stands as a quirky, stylish, and highly practical addition, proving that beauty can indeed be found in the most unexpected places and given new life through DIY.

Tackling the Unseen: Silverware Drawer Felt Replacement

Not all DIY projects are about grand furniture transformations; some are about improving the overlooked details that make a significant difference in daily life. And fair warning: this next one might be a little “gross” before it gets glamorous! I’m talking about that old, worn-out felt lining in silverware drawers. It’s a common culprit for collecting dust, crumbs, and looking generally unappealing. Well, in 2014, I decided to tackle this often-neglected area and show you exactly how to replace it, transforming an unhygienic space into a pristine one!

For too long, many of us have passed up beautiful vintage dressers or charming antique hutches simply because of the grubby felt lining their drawers. This project empowers you to look past the superficial and see the potential. Replacing old felt with fresh, clean material not only vastly improves hygiene but also elevates the entire aesthetic of the piece. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying update that makes a practical item feel luxurious again. This DIY proves that even the smallest, most hidden areas of our homes deserve attention and can be transformed with a bit of effort, giving new life to those “beauties” you might have otherwise ignored. Don’t let dirty felt deter you from a perfect find again, as a clean and refreshed drawer interior can truly elevate a piece of furniture.

Reflections on 2014: A Year of Growth and Joy

Beyond the sawdust and paint, 2014 was a year of significant personal milestones and, like any year, its share of trials. While most of the projects detailed above were successful and brought immense joy, life itself presented unique challenges. In June, my little sister underwent major surgery, which meant I spent a considerable amount of time in Houston, offering support and care. These moments remind us of what truly matters and the importance of family, putting the focus back on relationships above all else.

The latter half of the year was a whirlwind of activity. We embarked on a home move, racing against the clock to unpack as many boxes as possible before a very special event: my baby boy’s wedding! It was a truly beautiful celebration, marking a new chapter for our family and bringing immense happiness. Just weeks later, right before Christmas, we were once again busy helping him and his new bride move into their own place. It was a busy, busy, busy year, filled with emotional highs and logistical challenges that tested our endurance. As 2015 approached, I found myself hoping for a slightly less eventful pace, yearning for a little more calm amidst the beautiful chaos, to savor the quiet moments of home and family.

Home Tours: Seasonal Decorating in a New Space

Rounding out my top highlights for 2014, especially given our recent move, were my Fall and Winter Home Tours. These tours felt particularly significant as they documented the process of transforming a new house into a home, imbuing it with seasonal charm and personal touches shortly after settling in. It’s a rewarding challenge to decorate a fresh space, especially when balancing comfort with style, and doing so while unpacking made it even more of an accomplishment, truly testing creative limits under a tight schedule.

Fall Home Tour: Take 2

The Fall Home Tour was an opportunity to embrace the cozy aesthetics of autumn in our new surroundings. It focused on natural elements, warm textures, and inviting arrangements that celebrated the season of harvest and change. Creating a welcoming atmosphere after a move, especially during a transitional season like fall, requires thoughtful planning and an eye for detail. This tour showcased how to layer decor to build depth and warmth, making a new house feel instantly more like home. It highlighted budget-friendly ways to incorporate autumnal themes, proving that beautiful seasonal decor doesn’t have to break the bank and can be achieved with creativity and resourcefulness.

Budget-Friendly Christmas Decor Ideas

Following closely, the Winter Home Tour focused on creative and budget-friendly Christmas decor. Transforming a new house for the holidays, especially so soon after moving, presented both a challenge and a joy. This tour was all about creating a festive, magical atmosphere without overspending, utilizing DIY ornaments, natural greenery, and thoughtful placements to evoke holiday cheer. It offered practical tips for decorating a flocked tree with golds and silvers, blending traditional elegance with contemporary sparkle, proving that holiday magic doesn’t require a large budget.

The goal was to demonstrate that a stunning holiday display is achievable with creativity and resourcefulness, rather than an endless budget. From handmade embellishments to clever repurposing of existing decor, every element was chosen to maximize impact while minimizing cost. This tour served as a guide for readers looking to infuse their homes with holiday spirit in a way that is both beautiful and economical, proving that the magic of Christmas can be crafted with love and ingenuity, making the season special for everyone regardless of their financial constraints.

It’s been a truly memorable year, filled with challenges and triumphs, both in life and in DIY. I sincerely hope you’ve had a wonderful 2014 too, and I’m eagerly looking forward to another year of shared creativity and inspiration in 2015. Your readership, comments, and shares mean the world to me, and I deeply appreciate every single one of you! Thank you for being a part of this amazing journey, and for constantly inspiring me with your enthusiasm and support.

Sincerely,

Debbie

Discover More Inspiration: Top Ten Posts from My Blogger Friends

A huge thank you to my amazing blogger friends for sharing their own incredible “Top Ten” posts from 2014. Be sure to visit their sites for even more DIY inspiration, decor ideas, and creative projects that will spark your imagination!

• Domestically Speaking
• Cupcakes and Crinoline
• Yesterday on Tuesday
• Sand & Sisal
• Setting for Four
• Refresh Restyle — that’s me!
• Inspiration for Moms
• At Home with the Barkers
• Debbiedoo’s
• Artsy Chicks Rule
• On Sutton Place
• Our Southern Home
• Fox Hollow Cottage
• My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia
• Confessions of a Serial Do-It-Yourselfer
• Clean and Scentsible
• Restoration Redoux
• Town and Country Living
• Sew a Fine Seam

Be Sure to Come Back Tomorrow and Link Up Your Projects from 2014!

Get ready to share your own creative achievements! Join our special link-up tomorrow and showcase all your fantastic DIY projects from 2014. It’s a wonderful opportunity to inspire others and celebrate your hard work with our vibrant community of makers and creators. We can’t wait to see what you’ve accomplished!

Featured On

We’re proud to have shared these projects and inspirations on other wonderful platforms, reaching an even wider audience of DIY enthusiasts:

Southern Hospitality, Funky Junk