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

5 Easy Afternoon Projects to Refresh Your Home

Afternoons are perfect for tackling small projects that make a big difference in your home. Whether you have an hour or just 30 minutes, these creative ideas will help you refresh your space without a major time commitment. Let’s dive into some simple, fun, and inspiring projects you can complete today!

Beautiful home and decor and DIY inspiration for your home

A gallery wall doesn’t have to be a big project. Start small with a mini version in a cozy corner or above a side table.

How to Do It

  • Gather 3-5 small frames (mix and match for charm)
  • Choose photos, postcards, or even fabric scraps as art
  • Arrange them on the floor first to test layouts
  • Hang using removable strips for easy adjustments

Tip: Use washi tape to mark the wall before hammering nails!

2. Refresh Your Throw Pillows

Give your living room or bedroom a quick update with new pillow covers or simple DIY touches.

Easy Ideas

  • Sew or iron-on patches to plain covers
  • Dye faded pillows with fabric dye
  • Switch pillow inserts for a fluffier look

No sewing machine? No problem! Many stores sell affordable, stylish covers that just zip on.

3. Organize a Problem Drawer

We all have that one junk drawer or messy cabinet. Spend 20 minutes giving it a fresh start.

Quick Steps

  1. Empty everything out
  2. Wipe down the drawer
  3. Sort items into keep/donate/trash
  4. Use small containers or dividers to organize

Bonus: Add a drop of essential oil on a cotton ball for a fresh scent.

4. Make a Simple Terrarium

Bring life to any room with an easy-to-make terrarium. It’s like a tiny garden in a glass container!

What You’ll Need

  • A clear bowl or jar
  • Small stones for drainage
  • Potting soil
  • Small plants like succulents or air plants

Arrange the layers, add your plants, and enjoy your new green decor piece!

5. Update Cabinet Hardware

Switching knobs and pulls is one of the easiest ways to modernize furniture or kitchen cabinets.

How to Choose

  • Measure existing holes for easy replacement
  • Pick a finish that matches your style (brass, black, ceramic)
  • Consider shapes - round knobs or long pulls

This takes minutes per cabinet but makes a huge visual impact.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a whole weekend to make your home feel fresh and new. These afternoon projects prove that small changes can bring big joy. Which one will you try first?

FAQs

What if I don’t have tools for these projects?

Most of these ideas require basic household items like scissors, tape, or a screwdriver. For gallery walls, use removable adhesive strips instead of nails.

How can I make my terrarium last longer?

Use plants with similar light/water needs. Succulents need very little water, while ferns prefer moisture. Don’t overwater!

Where can I find affordable pillow covers?

Check discount home stores, Etsy, or even Amazon. Measure your inserts first for the perfect fit.

What’s the easiest hardware to install?

Knobs are simplest since they use one screw. Pulls require two holes but come with templates.

Pick pieces that make you happy! Family photos, vintage postcards, or even pretty wrapping paper work great.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have tools for these projects?

Most of these ideas require basic household items like scissors, tape, or a screwdriver. For gallery walls, use removable adhesive strips instead of nails.

How can I make my terrarium last longer?

Use plants with similar light/water needs. Succulents need very little water, while ferns prefer moisture. Don’t overwater!

Where can I find affordable pillow covers?

Check discount home stores, Etsy, or even Amazon. Measure your inserts first for the perfect fit.

What’s the easiest hardware to install?

Knobs are simplest since they use one screw. Pulls require two holes but come with templates.

How do I choose art for a mini gallery wall?

Pick pieces that make you happy! Family photos, vintage postcards, or even pretty wrapping paper work great.