DIY with paint: Simple upgrade ideas

by Ann Hayward 06/16/2025

If you’re searching for ways to upgrade existing furniture and decor, DIYs with paint might be perfect for your next project. A little paint can go a long way, whether it’s on walls, cabinets, furniture or decorative accessories.

DIY paint projects for your walls

Painting your walls might seem like an enormous undertaking, but the reward is well worth the time and effort. A new coat of paint can transform an entire room without making any other major changes.

However, for a smaller scale project, consider painting an accent wall in your room of choice.

You can create bold geometric shapes and patterns using painter’s tape to mimic the appearance of wallpaper. Try a colorful honeycomb motif in your bathroom, or a more subtle herringbone in the bedroom using neutral tones.

Another great idea for DIY projects with paint is to paint the inside walls of your closets. A quick coat of white or another light shade will instantly make your closet seem bigger and brighter.

DIY ideas with spray paint

Spray paint offers a wealth of possibilities for DIY projects, especially when it comes to upgrading existing pieces. The key is to choose the right type of paint primer for the material you plan to refurbish.

Do you have old metal filing cabinets taking up space in your home office? Try spray-painting them in a bold hue to turn them into statement pieces.

For decorative pieces, don’t forget you can spray paint glass or ceramics. Turn unused mason jars into decorative containers with your choice of spray paint in a high gloss finish. Try transforming an old glass vase or pitcher into charming farmhouse style accent pieces.

Are you ready to grab a paint brush, roller or spray can? With painting projects, you can upgrade your existing pieces and create design statements with bold like-new decor. Keep these ideas in mind the next time you need ideas for DIY paint projects.

About the Author
Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]