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How to: Upgrade your space without spending extra money

Steven demonstrates how to upgrade your front hallway with a few simple DIYs, by recycling old items you'll already have in the house.
CBC ·

Watch Steven's demonstration in today's full episode!

We're all about reducing, reusing and recycling, especially when it comes to our homes. With these simple DIYs from Steven, you can actually upgrade your space by recycling old items that are probably collecting dust in your basement. It's all about using what you have, and taking those pieces to a whole other level. These 3 fabulous home decor projects will give your front hallway a lift, while saving money — and the planet, too!

DIY floor mat

What you'll need:

  • Old rubber mat
  • Fabric of your choice (we used a heavy cotton blend)
  • Fabric scissors
  • Hot glue gun
  • Spray glue
  • Decoupage Glue
  • Foam or bristle brush
  • Clear acrylic sealer

Directions:

1. Precut fabric 1" wider than the width and length of the mat

2. Notch out each corner

3. Spray glue flat on the smooth side of the mat

4. Lay fabric down on top of glued surface and smooth out any air bubbles

5. Flip mat over and hot glue excess fabric to back of mat

6. Brush decoupage glue onto fabric to seal. Do 2 coats OR one coat, and then apply a clear acrylic sealer

DIY kids' art wall

What you'll need:

  • Old kitchen cabinet doors
  • Fine grit sandpaper
  • Primer
  • Paint colour of your choice
  • Bulldog clips
  • E-6000 glue
  • Metal name plates

Directions:

1. Sand and prime doors. Let dry.

2. Paint entire panel in semi-gloss paint. Let dry between coats.

3. Use heavy duty glue to attach clip to top of door.

4. Attach name plate to bottom of door. Insert name of artist/your child

5. Use panels to swap out your child's art frequently

DIY Front hall bench

What you'll need:

  • Old wooden bed frame with interesting detail (easily found at 2nd hand stores)
  • 2x4s
  • Power drill
  • Table saw
  • Acrylic paint (colour of your choice)

Directions:

1. Cut footboard in half using tablesaw

2. Create a simple box frame using 2x4s, based on the size of your bed

3. Screw frame from the inside of bench to attach. This creates the base of your seat.

4. Cut plywood for seat. Screw in.

5. Use one of the leftover side rails as the front apron of the bench. Attach using screws.

6. Paint out, as desired. Keep some areas in the original wood finish, if desired.

7. Add cushions to the seat and the backrest for maximum comfort.

How'd your projects turn out? Let us know on our Facebook page.