Jacob from Home Tree Atlas really liked the shadow boxes from Restoration Hardware that display sea fans. With the right shadow boxes (thanks to IKEA) and fabric, he knew it could be done quite simply. Jacob says, “Next time I’m by the beach I’ll be looking for more decor pieces to frame – but for now, a walk around the neighborhood proved to be quite lucrative.” I love the classic black and white, but, like Jacob, think this nature art would be fun with a pop of color for a more modern and funky twist!

While looking through the Ballard catalog, Jen from Life, Crafts, & Whatever couldn’t help but notice the rope spool side table. However, the price and nautical vibe just weren’t agreeing with her budget and style. Jen instead created a Mini Me version using wood plaques and a paper mache cylinder. At seven inches tall, it looks super cute sitting outside Jen’s bedroom door!

Got some scrap wood and chalkboard paint left over in your garage? Jen from The House of Wood shares a fun little project at Shanty 2 Chic for putting those DIY staples to use! Jen created the cutest little chalkboard tablets that are great for making lists and entertaining the kiddos on car trips. Jen says she also hangs hers by the front door when the kiddos are napping so any visitors will knock instead of ringing the doorbell. Genius! I am just drooling over that aqua-colored chalkboard paint!

Living in an older home with smaller rooms, Shannon from So Pretty is as Pretty Does has one place to put her bed, and that’s in front of the window. A search online turned up some great headboard options that would still allow light into the room, but they all came with hefty price tags. Instead of breaking the bank, Shannon started a full-on Craigslist search that landed her a headboard with the openness and detail she desired. A few coats of paint, and Shannon says she loves her one-of-a-kind piece even more than her inspiration!

Jae from Design O.C.D. has a love affair with trays and uses them in pretty much every room of her home. When she found a tray at the Goodwill for only $2, she of course scooped it up for her collection. Jae decided she wanted her new tray to have a flashy, metallic look and pulled it off with a gold leafing kit. Jae also offers same great suggestions to make your own tray if you aren’t fortunate enough to nab one for a bargain like she did.