PSA: Your walls don’t have to be boring! Try these 7 unexpected (and easy!) decor ideas instead—including a genius Pottery Barn dupe and my favorite basket trick!
7 Ways to Transform Blank Walls
Blank walls are like blank canvases—full of potential but intimidating to tackle. If you’re tired of the same old framed prints and predictable gallery walls, I’ve got seven fresh, unexpected ways to transform your walls. These projects are creative, budget-friendly, and best of all, they don’t require a major DIY commitment. From nature-inspired accents to thrifted treasures, these ideas will help you create a space that feels uniquely you.
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Woven Basket Wall Art
Why it works: Texture, warmth, and boho charm—without breaking the bank!
In this popular project, I transformed budget-friendly baskets into a showstopping wall display by focusing on three key elements: varied sizes, natural materials, and organic arrangement.
The best part? This was inspired by a $500 Pottery Barn version, but mine cost under $65! .
Pro tip: Use a mix of rattan, seagrass, and wicker for depth, and hang them with Command strips for a renter-friendly solution ( I used small nails to hang mine)
Dried Flower Peg Rack
Why it works: It’s functional and pretty—a win-win!
I repurposed a vintage accordion-style coat rack into a dried flower display. I used my secondhand find to dry flowers that I grew in my garden.
Simply clip bundles of eucalyptus, pampas grass, or dried hydrangeas to the pegs for an ever-changing seasonal touch. It’s like a wall-mounted vase that never needs watering!
Tip: Keep flowers out of direct sunlight to prevent flower fading. My rack is on a wall between the kitchen and the living room with no windows.
Searching for your own peg rack? Check out vintage shops or thrift stores first but you can find them new (but smaller) online. Here are a couple I found on Amazon: Peg Rack, Walnut Peg Rack
Faux Succulent Wall Art (Pottery Barn Dupe)
Why it works: High-end look, DIY price tag.
Inspired by Pottery Barn’s pricey succulent art, I created my own using faux plants and a shadowbox frame. The trick? Layer different shades of green and vary the heights for a realistic effect. No one will guess it’s not real!
Pressed Flower Plaques
Why it works: Brings the garden indoors—year-round.
I used pressed flowers (some from my garden & some from Trader Joe’s) in simple wooden frames for delicate, romantic wall art. You could even use grocery-store flowers or pre-pressed flowers. Bonus: They make sweet gifts!
DIY Abstract Paintings
Why it works: No artistic skills required—just fun!
I grabbed a canvas, some acrylic paints, and let myself play. The key? Pick a color palette that complements your room, and don’t overthink it. Abstract art is supposed to be imperfect.
I did the above painting as part of my cozy home on a thrifted budget article. I’ll walk you through the technique I used to create my abstract wall art (plus you will learn some other cozy decorating ideas!)
Here is another idea for DIY abstract wall art to try!
The Artful Mix Gallery Wall: Combining Portraits, Landscapes & Abstracts
I used to think that every piece of art on a gallery wall had to ‘match.’ Same colors, same style, same vibe… until I tried it and realized my wall looked like a showroom, not my home.
That’s when I embraced the magic of mixing. Modern abstracts alongside vintage portraits? Yes. A serene landscape next to a bold floral? Why not. The result? A gallery wall that actually feels like me—collected over time, full of stories, and way more interesting to look at.
If you love the idea of a gallery wall but don’t want yours to look like everyone else’s, this is your sign to break the ‘rules.’ Here’s how I combined [modern art/portraits/landscapes/florals/etc.] for a look that’s cohesive but never cookie-cutter.
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Moss Wall Art
Why it works: Brings organic texture and serene greenery without any maintenance!
In this nature-inspired project, I created lush moss art using various mosses in a shadowbox frame. The secret? The different moss varieties (like preserved moss and reindeer moss) create a visually pleasing set of art with the different colors and textures. This is the perfect solution for dark corners that need life – no sunlight or watering required!
Design tip: Pair it with wood tones for a Scandinavian spa vibe or black frames for modern drama.
Wall Decor Should Tell Your Story
At the end of the day, your walls are the perfect place to showcase what makes your home uniquely yours, whether that’s with foraged moss, thrifted baskets, or a gallery wall full of mismatched treasures. The best part? None of these ideas require a big budget or expert skills—just a little creativity and the courage to try something unexpected.
So go ahead: Hang that quirky vintage plate collection. Experiment with texture using woven fibers or preserved greenery. Mix art styles without overthinking it. Your home should reflect you, not just what’s trending.
Which of these ideas are you most excited to try? Have you already experimented with unexpected wall decor? Share your projects (or questions!) in the comments. I’d love to see what you create.
P.S. Don’t forget to pin your favorite ideas for later! And if you’re craving more outside-the-box inspiration, check out these related posts:
- Framed Pressed Flower Art
- Wall Art On A Dime (there are some free art downloads)
- The High-Low Secret To Decorating
See your projects featured! If you are inspired by this or any of my other DIY projects I would love to see them and add you to the Reader’s Spotlight gallery. Send a photo to me at jennifer@cottageonbunkerhill.com
xo, Jennifer
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