How to Create DIY Boho Decor for Your Home – the Complete Guide 2025

Hey there, fellow decor lover! Looking to add some boho charm to your space without breaking the bank? You’ve come to the right place.

I’ve spent many hours testing different DIY boho decor projects (some successful, others… learning experiences), and I’m excited to share what actually works.

In this guide to DIY boho decor, we’ll explore easy projects, thrifty finds, and clever ways to mix boho with other styles. I will share some creative ideas for every budget and skill level.

By the end of this blog post, you’ll be an expert at mixing patterns, layering textures, and creating a Bohemian vibe in your entire space.

Ready to start your boho journey? Let’s begin!

What’s Boho Style All About?

Boho style brings together global patterns, natural materials, and a “collected over time” feel. Unlike more rigid design approaches, boho celebrates personality and mixing unexpected elements.

The beauty of boho? There are no strict rules. Your space should tell YOUR story through items that bring you joy.

Origins and Philosophy of Boho Design

Did you know boho style began in 19th-century France? It started with artists and writers who lived life as they pleased.

This spirit of rebellion is what bohemian decor is all about today. It’s about being bold and not being afraid to express yourself!

Key Elements of Boho Style

Boho style is all about layers and personality. Use different textures, such as throws, pillows, and rugs. Feel free to mix patterns—the more, the better! And don’t forget plants. They add life and clean the air.

• Natural Materials: Rattan, jute, bamboo, and woven seagrass are boho staples.
• Rich Textures: Mix smooth ceramics with rough wood, soft textiles with harder elements for that perfect balance. Try pairing smooth glass with faux-leather accents for a nice contrast.
• Warm, Earthy Colors: Start with neutrals (beige, cream), then add pops of terracotta, sage, or mustard. These colors will create a grounded, natural feel in your home.
• Plants: Plants will add life and organic shape to your boho space. More is more here!
• Global Textiles: Patterns from around the world bring color, texture, and visual interest. Think Moroccan rugs, Indian throws, or Mexican embroidery.

Boho Color Theory and Pattern Mixing

Playing with colors and patterns is one of the most fun aspects of boho style. Here’s how to mix and match like a pro.

Boho Colors That Just Work

Boho color palettes typically fall into two main approaches:

1. Warm Earth Tones:

• Base: Warm whites, cream, beige, and tan
• Accents: Terracotta, rust, mustard, olive green
• Pops: Burnt orange, deep teal, or burgundy

This boho color palette will help you create a space that feels grounded, natural, and inviting. It works especially well with natural materials like wood, rattan, and jute.

2. Jewel-Toned Bohemian:

• Base: Charcoal gray, navy, or chocolate brown
• Accents: Emerald green, sapphire blue, amethyst purple
• Pops: Fuchsia, turquoise, or gold

If you’re not afraid of bold colors, use this richer palette. It will create drama and depth. I like it best in spaces like boho living rooms or boho patios.

The secret to boho colors? They’re never flat or dull. Look for shades with depth and richness—like an amber with golden undertones or a teal with hints of green.

These layered colors will create that effortlessly collected-over-time feel that defines boho style.

How to Mix Patterns Like a Pro

The thought of mixing patterns scares many people, but it’s actually pretty simple if you follow these guidelines:

1. Mix up the sizes: Always mix patterns of different scales. For example, a large floral with a small geometric print or a wide stripe with a tiny dot pattern. When you use patterns in different sizes, they complement rather than compete with each other.

2. Tie it together with color: Make sure your patterns share at least one common color—it’s the secret to a cohesive, effortless look. For example, if your rug has touches of blush pink, include that same blush pink in some of your pillows or boho wall art.

3. Give the eye a break with solids: Not everything needs a pattern! Mix in solid-colored pieces to create balance and keep things from feeling too busy. I always add a few solid pillows among my patterned ones—it makes all the difference in creating a cohesive, relaxed look.

4. The rule of three: For beginners, stick to the rule of three: combine a floral/organic pattern, a geometric pattern, and a stripe or solid. This foolproof combination works every time. As you get more comfortable, you can add more patterns to the mix.

5. Let natural textures be your neutrals: Woven materials like jute, rattan, and seagrass act as neutrals in your space. They add texture without competing with your patterns.

When I first started experimenting with patterns, I gathered all my pillows on the floor and arranged them until they felt right—then took a photo to remember the combination. Don’t be afraid to play around until you find what works for you!

DIY Boho Projects Anyone Can Make

Alright, now that you know the basics, let’s get to the good stuff! I’ve gathered some fun DIY boho decor projects that are perfect for beginners and easy on the wallet 😉.

I’ve tried most of these myself (with varying degrees of success – more on that later!) and can vouch that they’re totally doable, even if you don’t consider yourself crafty.

Macrame Wall Hanging (My Personal Favorite!)

I spent one whole weekend learning macrame from YouTube videos. The first few hours were… interesting (let’s just say my puppy thought the dangling cords were toys made especially for her). But once I got the hang of it, I created a macrame wall hanging that’s now the pride of my bedroom 😊.

What you’ll need:

• Cotton rope (3-4mm thickness works well)
• Wooden dowel or driftwood piece
• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Wooden beads.

How to make it:

1. Cut your rope into equal lengths (8-10 pieces, each about 4 feet long).
2. Fold each piece in half and attach to your dowel using a larks head knot.
3. Start creating your pattern using basic macrame knots (square knots and half hitches are easiest for beginners).
4. Trim the bottom into your desired shape.

Check out this step-by-step macramé guide for more detailed instructions.

Upcycled Coffee Tub Planters

Don’t toss those plastic coffee tubs! Transform them into Moroccan-inspired planters with just a few materials.

What you’ll need:

• Empty plastic coffee container
• Metallic spray paint
• Rope or jute cord
• Hot glue gun
• Optional: adhesive gems or patterns

How to make it:

1. Clean your container and remove labels.
2. Spray paint with your chosen color (copper or gold look amazing).
3. Once dry, wrap sections with rope, securing with hot glue.
4. Add optional embellishments like small mirrors or beads.

Pillow Covers

You can turn thrifted scarves, shawls, or even old sweaters into cozy pillow covers.

What you’ll need:

• Fabric piece (scarf, shawl, small blanket)
• Existing pillow insert
• Safety pins or fabric glue
• Optional: fringe, tassels, or pom-poms

How to make it:

1. Lay fabric flat and place pillow in center
2. Fold fabric around pillow like wrapping a gift
3. Secure with safety pins or fabric glue
4. Add decorative elements to corners or edges.

Yarn Wall Hanging

This might be the easiest project on the list, but it looks so high-end when finished!

What you’ll need:

• Wooden dowel or branch
• Various yarns in complementary colors
• Scissors
• Optional: wooden beads

How to make it:

1. Cut yarns into lengths about twice as long as you want your finished hanging.
2. Fold each piece in half and attach to the dowel with a simple loop.
3. Vary your yarn colors and textures for visual interest.
4. Trim the bottom into a V-shape, curved shape, or leave straight.
5. Add wooden beads to some strands if desired.

I made one of these during a particularly stressful week at work. It was so therapeutic – the best meditation ever! The simple, repetitive process was surprisingly calming.

Boho Mirror Makeover

If you have a plain mirror and wonder what to do with it, try giving it a boho makeover!

What you’ll need:

• Basic round or square mirror
• Jute rope or twine
• Hot glue gun
• Shells, wooden beads, or small dried flowers
• Optional: spray paint for the frame

How to make it:

1. If desired, spray paint the mirror frame a warm color like gold or copper.
2. Once dry, wrap sections of the frame with jute rope.
3. Glue your decorative elements (shells, etc.) at intervals around the frame.
4. For extra boho flair, add small tassels at the bottom.

I have a similar mirror in my bathroom, and it looks great!

Dip-Dyed Curtains

You have some old plain white curtains, and you think of throwing them away? Don’t do it before trying this DIY boho decor hack!

What you’ll need:

• Plain white cotton curtains
• Fabric dye in your chosen color
• Large bucket or tub
• Salt (to help set the dye)
• Rubber gloves.

How to make it:

1. Prepare your dye bath according to package instructions, adding salt.
2. Dip just the bottom portion of your curtains into the dye.
3. Leave for 5-10 minutes for a subtle ombré effect.
4. For a more dramatic look, leave the very bottom in longest, then gradually pull more of the curtain out of the dye bath over time.
5. Rinse until the water runs clear, then wash separately and hang to dry.

When a friend of mine tried this in her first apartment, she accidentally splashed purple dye all over her white bathroom 😂.

Pro tip: lay down trash bags around your work area! Despite the cleanup drama, the curtains turned out so beautiful and added the perfect boho touch to her living room.

Wooden Bead Garland

You know those pretty wooden garlands you can find on Amazon? Guess what? You can do it yourself!

What you’ll need:

• Wooden beads in various sizes (you can find them in craft stores or online)
• String, thin rope, or fishing line
• Wooden or clay disc beads (optional)
• Tassel or small pompom (optional)

How to make it:

1. You can plan your pattern or simply create a random mix of bead sizes.
2. String beads onto your rope.
3. Add a tassel or pompom at the end if desired.
4. You can use it as a small wreath, drape it over picture frames, or wind it through a table centerpiece.

I keep mine draped over a stack of books on my floating shelves in the living room. I’ve also seen friends wrap theirs around candles, hang them from doorknobs, or even use them as Christmas tree garlands. They’re so versatile!

Hanging Plant Shelf

This DIY boho decor project is so easy to make! You can create a simple hanging shelf and use it to display small succulents, other decor items, or even a collection of essential oils.

What you’ll need:

• Small wooden board (about 12-18 inches long)
• Drill
• Rope or macramé cord
• 4 wooden beads (optional)

How to make it:

1. Drill four holes in the corners of your board.
2. Cut two pieces of rope, each about twice as long as you want your shelf to hang.
3. Thread each rope through two holes and knot underneath.
4. Thread beads onto rope if desired.
5. Tie the ropes together at the top and hang from a hook.

I made one of these for my growing plant collection when I ran out of windowsill space. It took less than an hour and cost about $5 since I already had the rope from my macramé projects!

Vintage Furniture Transformation

I love finding some old treasures and giving them a new look.

Thrifting is my favorite way to score great deals. Honestly, most trips don’t turn up anything major—maybe only 10-20% of the time. But when you do stumble upon something amazing, it’s so worth it! I once snagged a vintage dresser for just $15, and after a little love and DIY magic, it became the star of my bedroom.

Here are some quick tips for your upcycling adventures 😀:

• Try peel and stick wallpaper to cover scratches or worn surfaces.
• Use chalk mineral paint for a smooth, matte finish (two coats usually do the trick).
• Mix vintage and modern pieces to achieve that eclectic boho vibe.

I love how upcycling lets me create unique pieces. It’s also good for the planet! By giving old furniture a new life, we reduce waste and support local causes.

See? DIY boho decor is easier (and more fun) than you think! There’s something so satisfying about getting your hands dirty and creating your own boho decor pieces!

But where do you find all those gorgeous boho materials without spending a fortune? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Let’s talk about the best places to score budget-friendly boho treasures.

Where to Find Boho Materials on a Budget

Now that you have some DIY projects in mind, let’s see where to find materials on a budget.

Thrift Store Gold Mines

Thrift stores are treasure troves for boho style items. Look for:

• Woven baskets – they can become stunning wall art when grouped together.
• Vintage frames – you can paint them all white for a cohesive look or use different colors to get that eclectic boho vibe.
• Ceramic vases – odd shapes and textures are perfect.
• Old jewelry – can be repurposed into wall hangings.

Pro tip: Look for interesting shapes rather than ones in perfect condition. A $1 woven trivet might not seem like much, but when you group it with a few thrifted baskets and boom—you’ve got yourself some eye-catching wall art!

Dollar Store Surprises

Don’t underestimate dollar stores – they are great places to search for boho materials:

• Rope and twine – You can use it for macramé and wrapping projects.
• Shower curtain rings – can be used for wall hangings.
• Bamboo placemats – You can use these as drawer liners or table runners.
• Plastic planters – You can turn them into boho art pieces with some paint and texture.

Nature’s Bounty

Some of the best boho diy supplies come free from nature:

• Driftwood for wall hangings and shelves
• Pinecones for table scatter
• Dried flowers and grasses
• Interesting stones and pebbles
• Branches for wall art or hanging displays.

Room-by-Room Boho Styling Tips

Now, let’s break down how to bring boho style to each room in your home. I’ve lived in everything from tiny studios to larger houses, and these tips work for spaces of any size.

Boho Kitchen Vibes

Your kitchen is the perfect place to kickstart that boho vibe:

• Show off your wooden cutting boards and unique ceramic pieces instead of hiding them away.
• Hang copper or brass utensils on an open wall for a mix of function and style.
• Lay down a colorful runner on a wooden table to bring warmth and personality.
• Swap out cabinet hardware for ceramic, wooden, or brass pulls—small change, big impact!
• Bring in some greenery with plants in handmade or textured pots for that effortlessly organic feel.

Living Room Boho Magic

Your living room should be the heart of your boho style space:

• Layer rugs for instant texture – try placing a smaller jute rug over a larger neutral one.
• Create a gallery wall mixing thrifted baskets and macrame pieces.
• Pile on textured pillows in complementary colors.
• Add floor cushions for extra seating and casual vibes.
• Incorporate plants at varying heights (hanging, floor, table).

In my living room, I layered a simple jute rug over my existing beige carpet. It immediately changed the feel of the space, even before I added a single plant or pillow!

Boho Bedroom Retreat

Here are some ideas how to turn your bedroom into a peaceful boho sanctuary:

• DIY a canopy bed using PVC pipes and sheer fabric.
• You can add dried palm leaves or pampas grass in simple vases.
• Layer different textured bedding (linen, cotton, chunky knits).
• Place a woven rug under the bed, extending generously on all sides.
• Hang a statement piece like a dream catcher or macramé above the bed.

Boho Bathroom Touches

Even your small bathroom can get the boho treatment. You can try some of these ideas:

• Replace standard shower curtain with a macramé-trimmed or globally-inspired design.
• Add small potted plants (real or faux) on shelves or windowsills.
• Use woven baskets for storage.
• Display essentials like cotton pads in glass jars with wooden lids.
• Hang a small wall hanging or framed textile art.

Sadly, my bathroom has no natural light. But I found that small faux succulents in beautiful terracotta pots still add that boho touch.

By now, you’ve seen how easy it is to bring boho charm into every room, whether it’s through cozy textures, earthy tones, or eclectic accents. But here’s the best part—boho isn’t just a standalone look. It blends effortlessly with other styles, from modern minimalism to rustic farmhouse.

Mixing Boho With Other Popular Styles

Boho plays well with other design styles! Let’s see how to create beautiful hybrid looks.

Boho Farmhouse Blend

Have a beautiful farmhouse home, but you love boho and want to mix it up? No worries, that’s actually my case. My home is the perfect mix of farmhouse charm and boho flavour (at least for me 😄). Here’s how you can do it, too.

• Start with the clean lines and neutral palette of farmhouse style.
• Add boho texture through rugs, pillows, and wall hangings.
• Incorporate natural wood elements like open shelving.
• Mix in metal accents (copper, brass) for warmth.
• Keep the farmhouse structure but add boho accessories.

Here’s a perfect example from my home: I put a textured kilim rug under my classic farmhouse dining table and added woven pendant lights overhead.

When I moved into a house with very farmhouse-style bones, I worried my boho pieces wouldn’t work. But mixing my colorful textiles with the neutral farmhouse backdrop actually created the perfect balance.

My macrame wall hanging pops against the light sage shiplap in a way it never did against my previous apartment’s colored walls.

Boho Minimalist Balance

Yes, boho and minimalism can coexist beautifully. Here’s how:

• Keep the lines clean and use the “less is more” minimalism approach.
• Choose just a few statement boho pieces (perhaps one amazing wall hanging).
• Stick to a tight color palette (neutrals with 1-2 accent colors).
• Focus on quality natural materials rather than quantity.
• Allow for plenty of negative space around your boho elements.

Boho Industrial Edge

If you have an industrial loft or apartment, the warmth of boho can soften it. You can try one or a few of these ideas:

• Keep your industrial elements like exposed brick, pipes, and metal shelving.
• Soften them with textiles – drape a colorful throw over a leather sofa.
• Add plenty of plants to balance metal and concrete.
• Incorporate woven pendants or lampshades over industrial fixtures.
• Use a large textured rug to anchor the space.

Modern Boho Fresh Take

For a more contemporary approach, you can try these ideas:

• Start with simple, clean-lined furniture.
• Add boho textiles and wall art.
• Keep the color palette more restrained.
• Focus on a few statement pieces rather than many small items.
• Mix in some sleek, modern lighting with natural materials.

Blending boho with other styles is all about balance—too much of one element, and the whole space can feel off. The same goes for DIY boho decor! It’s easy to get caught up in the creativity and end up with a look that feels cluttered or mismatched. Let’s go over some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

DIY Boho Decor: Avoiding Common Mistakes

As someone who’s made plenty of boho styling mistakes, let me save you the trouble:

Mistake #1: Buying Everything New

Boho is all about collected, personal, and unique items. New mass-produced “boho” items often miss the point (and cost way more).

Fix it: Shop second-hand, make your own DIY boho decor, and collect items over time. Your space will feel more authentic and personal.

Mistake #2: Prioritizing Aesthetics Over Function

It’s easy to get caught up in the boho vibe and forget that your space needs to work for everyday life.

Fix it: Style should never come at the expense of comfort! That gorgeous macrame chair might be Instagram-worthy, but will you actually enjoy sitting in it? Choose pieces that look great and feel good to use—comfort should always come first!

Mistake #3: Overdoing It

Too much of anything becomes overwhelming, even in boho style.

Fix it: Balance is key. If you have lots of patterns, leave some solid-colored breathing space. If you have many textural elements, include some simpler pieces too. The goal is a collected, effortless look—not a visual overload!

Mistake #4: Ignoring Your Personal Style

Copying boho looks exactly from Pinterest without adding your own twist misses the whole point of this personal style.

Fix it: Ask yourself what parts of boho really speak to you. Maybe it’s the plants but not the patterns, or the natural materials but not the maximalist approach. That’s okay! Incorporate what YOU love.

My Boho Journey – Personal Lessons Learned

When I first started with boho decorating, I went all in. I bought every plant, textile, and basket I could find. Before I knew it, my apartment felt cluttered rather than cozy.

Finding Meaning Over Clutter

The turning point came when I focused on quality over quantity. Instead of impulse buys, I started creating my own DIY boho pieces.

One weekend, I decided to learn macrame. Sitting cross-legged on my living room floor, tangled in rope, I followed a YouTube tutorial.

• First attempt? A disaster. Uneven knots, crooked lines, total frustration.
• By Sunday? I had a handmade wall hanging I was genuinely proud of.

That feeling of “I made this!” is what boho style is all about.

The Stories Behind My Favorite Pieces

Now, my most cherished decor isn’t store-bought—it’s filled with stories:

• The wall hanging I made myself.
• The basket I found in a tiny thrift shop while traveling.
• The pillow cover repurposed from a scarf my friend brought from India.

A designer friend once asked me where I got my “expensive” wall hanging—she couldn’t believe I made it myself! And that’s the beauty of DIY boho decor—it doesn’t have to cost much to look like a million bucks.

The Biggest Lesson?

Boho style isn’t about perfection or trends—it’s all about creating a space that feels uniquely yours.

Let’s Start Your Boho Journey!

Boho style is perfect for DIY lovers because it celebrates imperfection and personality. There’s no need for perfection—just creativity and a love for unique, handmade touches.

Start small—try a simple project like a wooden garland or an easy macrame wall hanging. The magic of boho isn’t about getting it “right”—it’s about creating a space that feels like you: warm, welcoming, and wonderfully unique.

Have you tried any DIY boho projects? I’d love to see them! Share your creations in the comments or tag @CozyNestPlace on Instagram to inspire us all.

Ready to begin? Grab a thrifted basket and some rope, and let your creativity flow. Your boho journey starts now! 

Other posts you might like:

• How to Find Your Home Decor Style – A Simple Guide (2025)
• How to Create Boho Look in Your Home: A Complete Guide (2025)