How To Make Different Accents

I still remember the first time I tried to make a decorative accent for my living room — I used leftover paint and a piece of wood from a broken shelf. It wasn’t perfect, but it made me realize how much joy a small, handmade touch can bring to a space. If you’re looking for ways to make different accents that reflect your personality and style, this guide is your starting point. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, these ideas will help you add character to your home.

The beauty of making different accents lies in the freedom to be creative. You can use materials you already have, or source affordable ones from local shops or online. I’ve made everything from painted wall art to concrete planters, and each project taught me something new. The key is to start small and build confidence as you go. With a few tools and a bit of time, you can transform ordinary items into stunning additions to your space.

If you're wondering how to make different accents without breaking the bank or spending hours in the workshop, you're in the right place. I’ll walk you through step-by-step how to create unique pieces that not only look great but also fit your lifestyle. These accents can be functional, like a concrete candle holder, or purely decorative, like a custom wall hanging. Whatever your goal, the process is rewarding and surprisingly simple.

Start with a Simple Painted Accent

As of September 2026, I used a small wooden board from a broken shelf and some leftover emulsion paint to make a wall accent. I painted the board in two contrasting colors, created a geometric pattern, and hung it above my sofa. It took about 30 minutes and cost me nothing but a bit of time.^[1]

The key is to choose a design that complements your existing decor. You can use stencils, freehand shapes, or even create your own pattern using a ruler and pencil. Let the paint dry completely before hanging to avoid smudges.

If you're unsure about your skills, start with a solid color and work your way up to more complex designs. I've made several painted accents over the years, and they've become some of my favorite decor pieces.

Part of our Where to put accent guide.

Concrete Planters: A Modern Touch

I made my first concrete planter using a silicone mold, Portland cement, and a few mixing tools. The process took about 2 hours and cost me around $20. After letting the concrete cure for a week, I had a unique planter that I still use today.^[2]

The beauty of concrete planters is their durability and versatility. You can make them in different shapes and sizes, and even add decorative elements like colored sand or pigments to make them stand out.

I recommend starting with a simple planter before moving on to more complex shapes. Once you're comfortable with the process, you can experiment with different textures and finishes.^[3]

Concrete gives you a timeless, modern look that lasts for years.

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Upcycled Furniture Accents

I once turned an old wooden chair into a statement piece by adding a new coat of paint and some decorative hardware. It took about 3 hours and cost me less than $30. Now, it's one of the most popular pieces in my home.^[4]

The key to upcycling is to choose a piece that's in good condition and has a solid structure. Sand down any rough edges, apply a primer, and then paint or stain the piece to match your decor.

If you're unsure about the final look, test the paint or stain on a small area first. I've found that doing so helps avoid any unwanted surprises later on.

“I still remember the first time I tried to make a decorative accent for my living room — I used leftover paint and a piece…”— DIY Furniture with Concrete Accents editors

Wooden Wall Art: A Classic Accent

I made a simple wooden wall art piece using leftover scrap wood and some wood glue. I cut the pieces into different shapes, painted them in bold colors, and arranged them in a triangle pattern. It took about an hour and cost me nothing but a bit of time.

The key to creating a visually appealing wall art piece is to play with color and shape. You can use different wood types or paint them in various colors to create a unique look.

I've found that wooden wall art is especially effective in rooms with neutral tones. It adds a pop of color and texture without overwhelming the space.

Fabric Pouches: A Touch of Softness

I made a set of fabric pouches using leftover fabric from an old curtain. I cut the fabric into squares, sewed the edges together, and added a fabric button to each one. They took about 45 minutes to make and cost me nothing.

Fabric pouches are versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, such as holding keys, holding makeup, or even as decorative wall hangings. The key is to choose fabric that matches your room's color scheme.

I recommend using a strong sewing thread and taking your time to ensure the seams are even and secure. I've made several fabric pouches over the years, and they've become some of my favorite functional accents.

Metal Accents: A Bold Statement

I made a small metal accent using scrap metal pieces and some metal welder. I cut the pieces into different shapes, welded them together, and painted them in a bold color. It took about 2 hours and cost me around $50.

The key to making a metal accent is to choose a design that complements your existing decor. You can use different metals or add decorative elements like colored paint or metal inlay to make it stand out.

Metal accents are a bold way to make a statement in any room.

Textured Wall Accents: Add Depth to Your Space

I made a textured wall accent using a piece of cardboard, some paint, and a few household items. I cut the cardboard into a wave pattern, painted it in a bold color, and attached it to the wall using strong adhesive. It took about 30 minutes and cost me nothing.

The key to creating a textured wall accent is to choose a design that complements your existing decor. You can use different materials or add decorative elements like colored paint or fabric to make it stand out.

I've found that textured wall accents are especially effective in rooms with neutral tones. They add a pop of texture and interest without overwhelming the space.

DIY Concrete Mosaic Tiles: A Unique Accent for Floors and Walls

Concrete mosaic tiles are a fantastic way to add both texture and color to any space. Begin by mixing a standard concrete mix with water, following the ratio of 1 part cement to 2 parts sand. Pour the mixture into silicone molds, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top for expansion. Let the concrete cure for 24 hours before proceeding.

Once the base has cured, press colored glass or ceramic pieces into the surface, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Use a small trowel to press the pieces firmly into the wet concrete. Allow the tiles to cure fully for 72 hours, keeping them in a dry, dust-free area. This ensures the tiles are strong and durable.

After curing, carefully remove the tiles from the molds and clean them with a damp cloth. You can now use them as floor tiles, wall accents, or even as table coasters. I spent about $25 on materials for a set of 12 tiles, and the process took around 4 hours. The result was a stunning, personalized accent that elevated the look of my living room.

How To Make Different Accents