Simple DIY Art Projects

Typhanie Peterson, an interior decorator and blogger (typhaniepeterson.com) from Orange County, Calif., set out to make her own art and accessories look store bought. Her motto: "If you don't have the money, you can make the time!" First up: custom artwork. "I've seen ombré paintings online, but I couldn't afford them," says Peterson. "Then I came across a DIY technique on another blog and tried it out myself. The final look is upscale, modern and 100-percent custom."

"I wanted to add some character to this boxy room, but I didn't have the budget for wood trim and installation. So I got a gallon of paint (around $30), and did this in a weekend," she says.

Peterson knows embellished lampshades can be expensive. "I wanted to give plain ones a custom look for next to nothing," she says.