15 Beautiful DIY Nursery Decor Ideas (That Won’t Break the Bank)
Decorating your baby’s nursery is one of those sweet, exciting projects—until the receipts start piling up. Trust us, after three boys (and three nursery setups), we’ve learned that DIY is the way to go.
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The best part? You don’t have to be crafty or have a ton of time. These ideas are simple, budget-friendly, and actually fun to put together. We’ve even included a few personal wins (and fails) to keep it real.
Let’s dive in.
1. Name Banner
Craft your baby’s name using felt, fabric, or cardboard letters. String them up with twine or ribbon for a personal wall touch.
We made one for our youngest using leftover felt and hot glue. It’s still hanging above his crib—and no, it hasn’t fallen yet!
2. Hand-Painted Wall Art
You don’t need to be an artist. Simple shapes like stars, clouds, or rainbows on canvas or cardstock can look adorable in frames.
Our 4-year-old added a green scribble to one—now it’s part of the “art.” Authentic, right?
3. Upcycled Dresser
Thrift a small dresser and repaint it to match your nursery colors. Swap the knobs for something fun—animals, stars, or pastel shapes.
We got one for $15 at a yard sale. A coat of white paint and new knobs, and it looked like something from a boutique.
4. Fabric Wall Hoops
Pop cute fabrics into embroidery hoops and hang them in clusters. It’s easy, colorful, and adds soft texture to the room.
We used leftover baby blanket fabric and got so many compliments from visiting grandparents.
5. Hanging Mobile
Create your own mobile using felt, string, and a wooden hoop. Go with clouds, stars, or animals—whatever fits your theme.
Just remember to hang it high and safely out of reach!
6. DIY Bookshelves
Mount spice racks or narrow ledges on the wall to display books with covers facing out. Practical and decorative.
This has saved us from digging through toy bins looking for That’s Not My Bunny every night.
7. Washi Tape Wall Designs
Use washi tape to make simple shapes, patterns, or faux frames on the wall. It peels off easily—great for renters or commitment-phobes.
Plus, you can change the look in five minutes flat.
8. Growth Chart Ruler
Measure and mark your child’s height on a giant wooden ruler you hang on the wall. It’s one of those keepsakes you’ll treasure.
We started this when our oldest turned one. Now all three boys have little hash marks—and scribbles.
9. Personalized Wall Quote
Use vinyl letters or stencils to add a meaningful phrase or verse. Think: “Dream big, little one” or “Let them be little.”
Every time we read it, it reminds us to slow down (even during 2 a.m. diaper changes).
10. Peg Rail Organizer
Install a simple wooden peg rail for hanging baby hats, tiny coats, or small baskets. Adds charm and storage.
Ours holds diaper bags and a tiny hoodie that makes me tear up every time I see it.
11. DIY Crib Skirt
Use fabric to sew or even tape a crib skirt (we’re not judging). It hides storage underneath and adds a custom touch.
I made one during nap time with zero sewing—just fabric tape. Still holding strong two years later.
12. Mason Jar Storage
Paint and label mason jars for storing pacifiers, hair bows, or cotton balls. Cute and practical.
Bonus if you glue little animal figurines on the lids and paint them gold. Fancy without the fancy price tag.
13. Paper Flower Wall
Craft big flowers out of colored cardstock or tissue paper. Arrange them above the crib or changing table for a 3D effect.
We went with soft pinks and whites for a friend’s baby shower nursery gift—looked so sweet.
14. Painted Wooden Letters
Buy plain wooden letters of your baby’s name and paint them in nursery colors. Stand them on a shelf or mount to the wall.
Let your toddler help with the painting if you want a touch of chaos (and glitter).
15. Framed Baby Clothes
Frame one tiny onesie or pair of booties. Instant nostalgia and a beautiful piece of wall art.
Our middle child’s first dinosaur onesie is still in a shadow box in his room. He calls it his “baby superhero costume.”
Bonus: Simple Tips for DIY Nursery Success
1. Choose a color palette first.
Stick to 2–3 main colors to keep everything looking cohesive (even if the styles vary).
2. Don’t overcrowd.
Less is more—especially when your baby’s toys start multiplying like rabbits.
3. Use command strips for wall items.
They’re renter-friendly and save your walls (and sanity) later.
4. Involve your older kids.
Let them “help” with paint or decorations. Even if it’s messy, it gives them a connection to the space too.
5. Always check safety.
Anything hanging above a crib or changing table should be secure and lightweight. Safety first, always.
Final Thoughts:
Your nursery doesn’t have to be fancy to be perfect. These little projects add love, personality, and warmth—without maxing out your credit card. Plus, when you’re up at 3 a.m., it’s nice to be surrounded by things that make you smile.
Let us know if you try any of these! Or share your favorite nursery DIY—we’re always looking for our next fun idea between diaper changes and snack runs.
