Before and After


Quick Roll Top Desk Makeover with Contact Paper

This roll top desk makeover with contact paper and hardware was affordable and easy. It was a fun way to update the look of oak furniture without painting! Post contains affiliate links. We picked up this roll top desk on marketplace when we needed an extra office hidden in plain […]


Dollar Tree Linen Closet Organization

Get your space organized on a tight budget with these ideas for Dollar Tree linen closet organization! Post contains affiliate links. Tired of opening your linen closet only to be greeted by falling towels and scattered toiletries? I’ve been there too (for years)—and with a small hallway closet and a […]


Paint a Mirror with Chalkboard Paint, Best Chalkboard Paint for Glass

Easily paint a mirror with chalkboard paint in this simple tutorial. Try this foolproof method to apply chalkboard paint on glass, be it a picture frame, a glass door, or an old window! I have wanted to brighten up this wall in the dining room for awhile now. The brown […]


Stripping a Table, A Method for Lightening Dark Wood Furniture

Give furniture a new look with this simple method for stripping a table top. I’m sharing the best way I have found for lightening dark wood furniture (with no sanding necessary!) When I picked up this oak foyer table on Craigslist years ago, I loved the look of dark stained […]


how to stain a steel door to look like wood

How to Stain a Steel Door to Look Like Wood

Learn how to stain a steel door, even over existing paint. Easily get a wood look for your door on a budget with gel stain! Wood front doors are so timeless and beautiful. I was on the hunt to purchase one for our home. Unfortunately, I had a bit of […]


Over Washer Dryer Storage Idea: Mount a Hutch Top to the Wall!

When I was first working out how to make over our laundry room on a $100 budget, the largest dilemma was over washer dryer storage.  I love the clean look of wall cabinets with a hanging rod, so I went to Facebook Marketplace in search of an affordable kitchen cabinet […]


Farmhouse Chic Bathroom Remodel, One Room Challenge Week 1

I am so excited to complete this bathroom remodel as part of the One Room Challenge! If you are hopping over from the ORC blog, Welcome! I’m Joy, just an average girl… creating a beautiful home on a budget, hoping to help others do the same! We have been saving […]