My blogger friend and crafting buddy Marlene is stepping in today with a summery roundup that’s sure to get your creative wheels turning. Marlene is the genius behind the oh-so-chic blog Idle Hands Awake… you’ll want to check out her work if you haven’t already. She shares simple projects that are approachable for beginners and well-seasoned DIYers alike. Today she’s sharing ten of her favorite summer home decor DIY projects. Take it away Marlene!
Summer is supposed to be that time of year when we all slow down and just savor. Long nights on the patio with café lights and candles, sipping wine and nibbling on crostini…that’s what all the tv commercials show, right?
In the real world, we know that between travel plans, weddings to attend, and keeping the kids entertained, summer can be just as stressful as the rest of the year. But this year, I’m saying “NO” to all the craziness — at least for one day of the week. We can make that work, you guys! One day of the week, even just a few dedicated hours, where we put the chores and errands on hold, mute those pesky notifications, and just…savor.
For me, crafting is a huge part of how I choose to revel in the summer season. And I imagine if you’re here on Faith’s beautiful blog, you find joy and relaxation in crafting, too. So grab that bottle of vino and a snack, and indulge in some “me time” by making one of these 10 summer DIYs for the home!
1. (above) Don’t those flowers just scream “summer?” The House that Lars Built shares how to make this gorgeous paper flower garland (with printable templates!), which can adorn your home all summer long.
2. Francois et Moi’s modern bench cushion with leather straps is a great project for the sewists among you, and would look stunning indoors or out!
3. This easy terrazzo tile wall hanging project reminds me of Italy! Except, it’s much more affordable than a European vacation. Grab the tutorial on Idle Hands Awake.
4. Summer may be garden season, but those indoor plant babies still need a little love! See how Fall for DIY turned these simple baskets into modern raised planters.
5. Give a plain runner a quirky, colorful update with Paper & Stitch’s embroidery DIY. This is another project that would look just as beautiful on your patio as in your entryway.
6. I just love the summery, California cool vibes of Always Rooney’s space, don’t you? You can recreate her DIY blanket ladder with a surprising IKEA hack.
7. Ok, so this pressed leaf stained glass hanging by Jojotastic is my favorite project of the bunch. Just LOOK at how beautiful those green summer leaves look hanging in the window!
8. Here’s a home decor DIY where the end result looks waaaaay more chic than the materials and ease of crafting would have you believe. You can make a super stylish large-scale wood frame using canvas stretchers — no woodworking skills required! Check out how on Alice and Lois.
9. We did talk about the quiet magic of sitting out on the patio on slow summer evenings, yes? Lia Griffith’s DIY macrame table runner is the perfect craft to spruce up that outdoor space!
10. Another planter DIY? OF COURSE! It’s summer after all, help those plants flourish. The Merrythought are known for their beautiful woodworking tutorials, and this birch plant box is no exception.
Now that you’ve got some summer home decor DIY inspiration, do you know what you’ll be making? Or do you have other plans for unwinding this summer? Will you join me on my mission to have one true summer day a week all season long??
Here are even more summer DIYs that might come in handy if you’re having friends over for a dinner party or a backyard barbecue.