Do-it-yourself projects are a fun, easy, and inexpensive way to spice up home decor. With a few supplies, a trip to a second-hand store, and a little time, DIY home furnishings can rival those found at retail stores. Jump start the creative process with several simple projects.

•    Add life to vertical blinds

Old vertical blinds don't need to be thrown away. Adding a few coats of paint can turn them in to a work of art. First, remove the blinds and lay them flat on a hard surface. Spray the blinds with a clear primer and let it dry. For fabric blinds, spray them with fabric spray paint, available at craft stores. For vinyl or metal blinds, a semi-gloss latex home paint applied with a roller will be effective. Choose a colour that complements the design of the room. Use two to three coats and let them dry before re-hanging them.

•    Revamp a dresser

A dresser or wardrobe found at a second-hand store or even in one's own attic can be stylish piece for the bedroom when given a distressed ivory finish. First, remove the contents and clean the dresser thoroughly. Be sure to dust to get rid of any debris. Then, apply primer to the dresser making sure to spray the knobs and any pieces of the drawers the stick out. If there is any hardware, such as metal knobs, cover them with painter's tape. Let the primer dry. Spray one coat of medium-brown outdoor paint on the furniture. When that is dry follow with two coats of ivory outdoor paint. Allow the dresser or wardrobe to dry completely. Sand the edges and raised areas with sandpaper so that the brown paint is visible. Wipe clean. When the project is finished use two light coats of a matte finish, clear sealer spray to protect the surface.

•    Wall decor

Stencils are a simple, cost-effective way to decorate walls and no artistic experience is necessary. Cut off the front or back panel of an old cereal box. Or use any type of thin, flexible cardboard. Draw a stencil onto the inside of the cardboard. Those who would rather not draw can find a stencil online, print it, and trace it. Use a sharp, small knife to carefully cut out the stencil. Hold the stencil up to wall. If the pattern will go around the room, measure where each stencil will be placed to avoid mistakes. Using stencil creme or acrylic paint, paint the cut-out portions of the cardboard. Repeat the process as many times as necessary. If the stencils are featured in a high traffic area of the home, finish with a clear coat of sealer or finish two to three days after painting.

Do-it-yourself projects are the perfect way to reinvent old furniture or bland walls. Craft stores carry a variety of supplies and thrift shops often have inexpensive furniture and fabrics. There are endless ways to breathe new life into a home.