5 Stylish DIY Projects to Spruce Up Your Home (Before You Call a Contractor)

Refresh your home with 5 trending DIY projects—plus pro tips on when to call a contractor. Smart, stylish, and Pigybak-approved.

So you’re itching to freshen up your space, but you’re not quite ready to knock down walls or demo the kitchen. Good news: you don’t need a sledgehammer to make a big impact.

Whether you just moved in or want to add a little charm before the pros arrive, these five DIYs are budget-friendly, beginner-approved, and seriously satisfying. Plus, we’ll let you know exactly when to roll up your sleeves—and when to call in the experts. We’ve also sprinkled in some of the latest design trends for 2025 that are taking homes by storm.

This is part of our Green Home Blog series, powered by Pigybak—a smarter way to book trusted contractors for home projects. With group deals, real-time scheduling, and filters for licensed, bonded, and insured pros, Pigybak helps homeowners save time, money, and stress.

1. Wainscoting for Instant Elegance

Source: TruValue Hardware

Wainscoting adds texture, character, and an old-school charm that works in modern homes, too. You don’t need power tools or a workshop—just some pre-cut molding, adhesive, and paint.

Tools Needed:

• Level
• Measuring tape
• Miter box (or miter saw)
• Construction adhesive or nail gun
• Caulk + paint

Best For: Dining rooms, entryways, bathrooms

Trend Tie-In: Combine wainscoting with color drenching—paint the walls, trim, and molding the same deep, saturated color for a luxe, enveloping look.

Call a Contractor If: You want full-height paneling or plan to add electrical behind the walls.

Related Blog: The Eco-Friendly New Home Checklist: 8 Steps to Save your Wallet and the Planet

External Resource: DIY Wainscoting Guide – The Spruce

2. Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper for a Low-Stress Pop

Source: Emily A. Clark

Forget the mess of glue and buckets—peel-and-stick wallpaper is renter-friendly and surprisingly durable. Use it for an accent wall or behind open shelves for a curated vibe.

Tools Needed:

• Utility knife
• Squeegee or flat edge
• Measuring tape
• Ladder or step stool

Best For: Bedrooms, backsplashes, powder rooms, closets

Trend Tie-In: Look for patterns in botanical prints, bold stripes, or faux textures like cane and grasscloth to stay on trend.

Call a Contractor If: You’re removing old wallpaper that’s been painted over (a nightmare) or prepping damaged drywall.

External Resource: How to Use Peel and Stick Wallpaper – HGTV

3. Painted Murals or Wall Stencils for a Custom Look

Source: The Inspired Room

Whether you’re channeling your inner artist or just tracing a pattern, murals and stencils are a creative way to add personality without spending much.

Tools Needed:

• Painter’s tape
• Stencil or projector
• Brushes/rollers
• Acrylic or latex paint

Best For: Kids’ rooms, home offices, laundry rooms

Trend Tie-In: Geometric patterns and hand-drawn abstract forms are making a comeback—especially when layered over neutral or moody base tones.

Call a Contractor If: You notice bubbling or cracking walls—this might signal moisture or insulation problems.

Related Blog: Bee-Friendly Garden Design to Safeguard Our Buzzing Benefactors

External Resource: Stencil How-Tos from Cutting Edge Stencils

4. Shiplap That Doesn’t Look Like a Fixer Upper Episode

Source: Fancy House

Yes, shiplap is still a thing—but it’s evolving. Try vertical boards, natural wood stains, or painted panels for a more modern spin.

Tools Needed:

• Stud finder
• Nail gun or construction adhesive
• Level
• Saw (manual or circular)
• Paint or stain

Best For: Feature walls, hallways, stairwells

Trend Tie-In: Pair vertical shiplap with earthy tones and natural wood finishes to tap into the growing organic modern aesthetic.

Call a Contractor If: You’re dealing with uneven walls, need to run new outlets, or are mounting it over brick or tile.

External Resource: DIY Shiplap Guide – This Old House

5. Painting with a Purpose (Yes, It Still Works)

Source: YesColours

Never underestimate the power of a fresh coat of paint—especially when paired with creative color blocking, matte finishes, or painted ceilings.

Tools Needed:

• Angled brush + roller
• Painter’s tape
• Drop cloth
• Stir sticks

Best For: Anywhere! But especially rooms that feel dark or outdated.

Trend Tie-In: Try the color drenching trend—use the same bold hue for walls, ceiling, trim, and even doors. Jewel tones and warm neutrals are dominating 2025 color palettes.

Call a Contractor If: You’re dealing with lead paint in older homes or need drywall repairs first.

External Resource: Color Drenching Explained – House Beautiful

DIY Projects – DIY What You Can, Pigybak the Rest

These easy weekend upgrades can refresh your home with minimal cost and maximum style. But when it’s time to open up a wall, run electrical, or fix what’s behind the paint—Pigybak makes it easy to bring in trusted pros.

🛠️ Pro Tip: Use Pigybak to post your project and invite your neighbors—group deals mean better rates and faster scheduling.

🔗 Explore more upgrade ideas at Green Home Blog