Nicole Daily Blog
Beautiful DIY and home and decor inspiration for your home

5 Easy Afternoon Projects to Refresh Your Home

Do you ever find yourself with a free afternoon and the urge to do something creative? I know I do! Whether you're looking to spruce up your space or just want a fun little project, these easy afternoon ideas will give your home a fresh look without taking up your whole day.

Photo by Odile on Unsplash

Beautiful DIY and home and decor inspiration for your home

Gallery walls can seem intimidating, but you can start small! Pick a blank wall in your home—maybe in your hallway, bedroom, or even above your desk.

What You'll Need

  • 3-5 small frames (mix and match styles for charm!)
  • Photos, postcards, or printable art
  • Command strips or small nails

How to Do It

Lay your frames on the floor first to arrange them. Play with different layouts until you find one you love. Then, hang them up! This project takes less than an hour and instantly adds personality to any room.

2. Refresh Your Throw Pillows

New throw pillows can change the whole vibe of a room, but they can be pricey. Instead, give your old pillows a makeover!

Ideas to Try

  • Swap the covers: Sew or buy inexpensive pillow covers in a new color or pattern.
  • Add texture: Tie a chunky knit blanket around a pillow for a cozy look.
  • DIY tassels: Glue small tassels to the corners for a boho touch.

This is a quick way to update your living room or bedroom without spending much.

3. Organize a Junk Drawer

We all have that one drawer that collects everything. Take 30 minutes to tackle it—you'll feel so much better afterward!

Simple Steps

  1. Empty the drawer completely.
  2. Sort items into keep, toss, and donate piles.
  3. Use small containers or dividers to organize what you keep.

Bonus tip: Add a small liner or pretty paper to the bottom of the drawer for a cheerful surprise.

4. Make a Seasonal Centerpiece

A simple centerpiece can brighten your dining table or coffee table. You don’t need fancy supplies—just get creative with what you have!

Quick Ideas

  • Fill a bowl with lemons or oranges for a pop of color.
  • Arrange a few candles with sprigs of greenery.
  • Use a tray to corral small plants or books.

Switch it up with the seasons to keep your home feeling fresh.

5. Paint Something Small

Painting a whole room is a big project, but painting something small—like a picture frame, vase, or stool—can be done in an afternoon.

Tips for Success

  • Use spray paint for a smooth finish (do it outside!).
  • Try chalk paint for a matte, vintage look.
  • Add a coat of sealant if the item will get a lot of use.

This is a great way to give old items new life.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a whole weekend to make your home feel special. These afternoon projects are easy, affordable, and totally doable. Pick one that speaks to you and have fun with it!

Which project will you try first? Let me know in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don't have a lot of crafting supplies?

No problem! Many of these projects use everyday items like frames, pillows, or fruit. Get creative with what you already have.

How can I make a gallery wall look cohesive?

Stick to a color scheme or theme (like all black-and-white photos or nature prints) to tie everything together.

What's the easiest way to organize a junk drawer?

Use small containers, like old gift boxes or Tupperware, to separate items. Even folding socks can work as dividers!

Can I paint furniture without sanding it first?

Yes! Chalk paint often adheres well without sanding. Just clean the surface thoroughly before painting.

How often should I update my home decor?

There's no rule! Small refreshes like swapping pillows or centerpieces can be done seasonally or whenever you feel like a change.