The new year is almost here!
Before we turn the page, I’ve been looking back over 2017 and reflecting on the creative projects featured here on the Harbour Breeze Blog. Earlier I shared collections of favorites from the year — including the Recipes of 2017 and the Top Room Makeovers of 2017. Today I’m rounding up the craft and DIY projects that caught my attention this year.
The Craft & DIY Projects of 2017
I also contribute a monthly guest post to Kenarry Ideas for the Home, so I’ve included a few of those projects here as well in case you missed them the first time around. Below you’ll find links and brief descriptions of each project. Click the link beneath each picture to read the full tutorial and materials list on the original post.
Spring Tablescape with Folded Flower Napkins
This spring tablescape shows how a few simple folding techniques turn ordinary napkins into charming folded flowers that instantly brighten a table. The post walks through the folding steps and offers styling tips to create a cohesive, fresh look for seasonal gatherings.
Painted Dresser Makeover
The painted dresser makeover highlights quick, budget-friendly techniques to transform an outdated piece. The post focuses on “cheater” tricks—simple paint choices, hardware updates, and finishing touches—that deliver a big visual change without a lengthy or expensive process.
Burlap Anchor Pillow
This project pairs rustic burlap with a coastal anchor motif. The tutorial covers basic image transfer and attachment methods that let you apply custom designs to fabric pillows for a personalized, seaside-inspired accent.
Printed Burlap Pillow
Published as a guest post, this printed burlap pillow project demonstrates methods for transferring text and simple graphics onto textured fabric. It’s an approachable craft for beginners looking to make custom decor for weddings, holidays, or everyday styling.
Painted Plywood Dresser Makeover
Another dresser update that proves paint works wonders, this makeover focuses on transforming a plywood dresser through color selection, sanding, and simple hardware swaps. Ideal for renters or thrifters who want an impactful, affordable update.
DIY Lampshade Makeover
This lampshade makeover offers an easy way to refresh an Ikea wall lamp by covering the shade with fabric or trim. The post includes tips on measuring, attaching fabric neatly, and choosing materials that improve light diffusion and style.
Winter Wonderland Ornament
A simple holiday craft that’s perfect for decorating trees, packages, or seasonal vignettes. The ornament project emphasizes easy-to-assemble materials and techniques so crafters of all skill levels can create small, wintry decorations.
Christmas Tablescape
This holiday tablescape demonstrates how small details—a pocketed place setting, simple tags, and seasonal accents—can make a table feel festive and thoughtfully styled without a lot of fuss or expense.
Painted Noel Sign
The Painted Noel Sign was part of a thrifted makeover challenge, showing how upcycling an item from Goodwill and adding paint and lettering can create charming seasonal decor. The post outlines prep, painting, and finishing suggestions to get a polished result.
If you’re planning craft projects for the new year, I’d love to hear what you have lined up. I’m already sketching a few ideas and planning projects to share in the months ahead—so stay tuned for more DIY inspiration, tutorials, and approachable home decorating ideas.
