Ballard Designs has that classic, collected look with a touch of European charm, and these DIYs capture it beautifully.
I pulled together a handful of projects that recreate their timeless furniture, charming wall decor, and refined finishes with real creativity.
You’ll find elegant pieces generously shared by creative DIY bloggers, made with care and purpose, all without the designer price tag.
These ideas are perfect if you want upscale style that feels personal, warm, and totally achievable with your own hands!
1. DIY Burlap Bulletin Board
This project turns a basic cork board into a textured, stylish message center using burlap.
It’s wrapped tight and trimmed with nailhead detail to give it a polished, designer look.
Inspired by Ballard’s pricey version, but made for just a few dollars.
Perfect for home offices, kitchens, or a command center wall.
A quick win that’s both functional and budget-friendly!
2. DIY Tufted Bench Cushion
A simple bench gets the soft Ballard Designs touch with this easy DIY tufted cushion.
The tutorial shows you how to make perfectly spaced tufts using a plywood base and foam.
Fabric choice changes the look completely, from classic to modern.
No sewing machine required—just some patience and a staple gun.
Great for built-ins, window seats, or entryway benches!
3. Knockoff Garden District Mirrors
These wall mirrors look just like Ballard’s Garden District pieces but are built for a fraction of the price.
The frames use wood and mirror tiles to get that arched, windowpane look.
Paint and glaze finish the project with that vintage-inspired charm.
They make a huge statement on a blank wall or over a console.
Big savings with major designer impact!
4. Wine Barrel Wall Décor
This project uses real wine barrel staves to create rustic wall art with European farmhouse flair.
The metal banding gives it an authentic touch that feels straight out of a Ballard catalog.
Mounted on the wall, it adds depth and texture with minimal effort.
It’s a great way to reuse materials and keep costs low.
Perfect for dining rooms, kitchens, or even patios!
5. Turn Dollar Store Bins into Metal Baskets
Plastic bins from the dollar store get a high-end upgrade with metallic spray paint and new hardware.
They end up looking like wire mesh storage baskets from a designer showroom.
Handles and tags add those extra details that sell the look.
You’ll spend just a few bucks instead of the usual $30 per bin.
Perfect for organizing shelves with style!
6. French Farmhouse Dining Table Makeover
A basic dining table gets the French country look with white paint and a distressed finish.
The base is lightly sanded to reveal curves and detail, adding charm.
The stained wood top warms up the whole piece and keeps it grounded.
It looks straight out of a Ballard Designs catalog, but without the price tag.
Beautiful way to refresh an old table with classic style!
7. DIY Wood and Metal Coffee Table
This coffee table pairs a simple wood top with crisscrossed metal legs for a chic, Ballard-inspired style.
The industrial base gives it a modern edge, while the wood adds warmth.
It’s built from affordable materials but feels designer-level.
Perfect for living rooms that need a little contrast and personality.
Looks like a splurge but isn’t!
8. DIY Pom Pom Shower Curtain
This charming shower curtain gets its playful look from rows of hand-tied pom poms.
You can customize the color of the trim to match your space perfectly.
A plain curtain becomes a boutique-style upgrade with just a bit of effort.
Way cheaper than ordering from a catalog—and way more fun to make.
Adds texture and a light, cheerful vibe to the bathroom!
9. Knotted Jute Demijohns with Bling
These jute-wrapped bottles are a dead ringer for Ballard’s demijohn decor.
The jute is hand-knotted to give it that nautical, vintage feel.
Glass beads or charms can be added for a little extra sparkle.
They look great grouped together on shelves or dining tables.
Perfect combo of earthy and elegant!
10. Seagrass Lampshade
This DIY takes a plain lampshade and wraps it in seagrass rope for natural texture.
Hot glue keeps everything in place while the wrap technique creates a tight, clean look.
It captures that casual coastal vibe Ballard is known for.
You’ll save a ton compared to store-bought woven shades.
Great way to refresh old lighting with a designer touch!