How To Add Accent From Keyboard
π Table of Contents
I remember the first time I tried adding an accent to my keyboard β not the kind you type with, but the kind that makes your furniture pop. It was a small, inexpensive chair I bought from a local thrift store, and I wanted to give it a new life. I had no idea how easy it would be to transform it with a few strategic additions. I used a simple fabric wrap, a couple of buttons, and a small accent piece that I had lying around. The results were surprising β not only did it look better, but it felt more like mine.[2]
Adding an accent from your keyboard might sound odd at first, but it's a fantastic way to personalize your furniture without breaking the bank. Whether it's a chair, a table, or even a shelf, the right accent can turn an ordinary piece into something truly unique. I've made it a habit to keep a few extra materials on hand β buttons, fabric scraps. Even little trinkets β just in case I ever need to add a touch of personality to a piece of furniture.[3]
What I love most about this approach is that it's not just about aesthetics; it's about making your space feel more like you. I've had friends ask me how I always manage to make my furniture look so put together, and the truth is, I don't. I just add small, thoughtful accents that speak to me. That's where the keyboard comes in β I use it to look up ideas, find inspiration, and even test out different combinations before I commit. It might seem like a small thing, but it makes all the difference.[4]
Why You'll Love This DIY Project
- Personalize your furniture with unique, handmade accents.
- Save money by repurposing old items and using inexpensive materials.
- Easily adapt the project to fit any furniture style or room.
- Gain confidence in your DIY skills with a low-effort, high-reward project.
Gather Your Materials
As of September 2026, the first step is to gather all the materials you'll need. I usually keep a few items on hand, like fabric scraps, buttons, and small trinkets. If I don't have them, I'll go to a local thrift store or even a dollar store to find something that speaks to me. The key is to find something that feels right β it doesn't have to be perfect, just something that adds a little personality.
I've found that using items you already have on hand is the most cost-effective way to go. I once used a broken watch I had lying around to add a small, vintage feel to a chair. It wasn't expensive, but it made the piece feel more unique. I always recommend starting with what you have before heading out to buy anything new.[1]
If you're looking to buy new materials, make sure to choose something that's easy to work with. I've found that soft fabrics, like cotton or felt, are the easiest to use and give the best results. Just make sure to have some glue and a few tools handy β I always keep a small set of scissors, a needle, and some thread in my toolkit.
Before heading to the store, check your closet or garage. You might find a fabric scrap or a button that's just waiting to be used.
Part of our Where to put accent guide.
Choosing the Right Accent

I always start by thinking about what kind of look I want to achieve. If it's something modern, I'll go for sleek, minimalist accents like simple buttons or geometric shapes. If it's more rustic, I might use a piece of wood or even a small metal accent. The key is to choose something that complements the overall style of your furniture.
I've made the mistake of choosing something that didn't match the rest of my furniture. It looked out of place and didn't feel right. I've learned that the best way to choose an accent is to make sure it fits with the existing color scheme and style of the room. I like to take a few pictures of the furniture and the accent to see how they look together.
I've also found that mixing different textures can add a nice contrast to your furniture. I once used a rough piece of wood on a smooth chair, and it created a nice balance. It's all about experimenting and seeing what works best for you.
Less is more β pick an accent that complements your furniture.
Related: How to do an accent wall in living room
Adding the Accent
I always start by preparing the surface of the furniture to make sure it's clean and dry. I've found that using a small amount of glue works best for most materials. I usually apply the glue to the back of the accent and press it firmly onto the furniture. I've found that using a small amount of pressure and letting it sit for a few minutes helps the glue set properly.
If I'm using fabric, I like to sew it on for a more secure attachment. I've found that using a needle and thread is the best way to make sure the fabric stays in place. I've used a simple running stitch to attach fabric to furniture, and it's worked well for me. It's also a great way to make sure the fabric doesn't slip or move around once it's attached.
I've found that taking your time during this step is important. Rushing can lead to mistakes, and I've learned that it's easier to fix something now than to deal with it later. I always make sure to double-check the placement and make sure it's secure before moving on to the next step.
It's easy to rush through this step, but taking a few extra minutes can make a big difference in the final result.
“I remember the first time I tried adding an accent to my keyboard β not the kind you type with, but the kind that makes⦔— DIY Furniture with Concrete Accents editors
Related: How to correct pronunciation
Finishing Touches

I like to take a step back and check the overall look of the furniture. I've found that sometimes the accent might not look as good as I thought it would. If that's the case, I'll make a few adjustments β maybe move the accent to a different spot or try a different material. It's all about finding the right look that feels right.
I've also found that adding a small amount of paint or a different texture can help make the accent stand out even more. I've used a small brush to add a bit of paint to the edges of an accent, which gives it a nice contrast and makes it look more intentional. It's a small detail, but it can make a big difference.
Once everything looks the way I want, I like to give the furniture a quick wipe down to make sure it's clean and ready to use. I've found that this last step helps make sure the accent is secure and the furniture looks its best. It's the final touch that makes the whole project feel complete.
Related: How to improve your pronunciation
Testing the Accent
I always test the accent by gently pulling on it to make sure it's attached properly. I've found that using a small amount of glue or sewing it on is usually enough to make it secure. I've had a few times where the accent didn't stick properly, and I had to reapply the glue or adjust the placement. It's a small step, but it can save a lot of trouble later on.
I've also found that testing the accent before using the furniture is a good way to make sure it's safe to use. If the accent comes off or feels loose, it might be a sign that it's not attached properly. I've learned that taking a few extra minutes to test it now is better than dealing with it later.
I've also made the mistake of not testing the accent and ended up with an accent that came off after a few uses. It was a small inconvenience, but it taught me the importance of testing it before using the furniture. I now make sure to test it every time I add a new accent to my furniture.
Related: What is home accents
Maintaining Your Accent
I've found that regular maintenance is the best way to keep your accent looking good. I like to give the furniture a quick wipe down with a soft cloth to make sure it's clean and free of dust. I've also found that using a mild cleaner can help keep the fabric or material in good condition. It's a simple step, but it can help extend the life of your accent.
I've had a few times where the accent started to look worn out, and I knew it was time to replace it. I've found that using a small amount of glue or resewing the accent is usually enough to make it look new again. It's a simple fix, but it can help keep your furniture looking its best.
I've also found that using a small amount of fabric protector can help keep the fabric in good condition. I've used a fabric protector spray on a few of my accents, and it's helped keep them looking clean and new for longer. It's a small investment, but it can help keep your furniture looking its best.
A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your accent looking great.
Related: What is an accent wall
Experimenting with New Ideas
I love the idea of experimenting with different accents and materials. I've tried using different fabrics, buttons, and even small trinkets to see what works best. It's a great way to find out what looks good on your furniture and what doesn't. I've found that trying out different materials is the best way to find the right look for your furniture.
I've also found that mixing different styles can create a unique look. I've used a simple button on a chair, and it gave it a nice contrast. I've also used a small piece of wood to add a rustic feel to a table. It's all about finding the right combination that works for you.
I've learned that experimenting is a great way to find out what works best for your furniture. I've made a few mistakes along the way, but each one has taught me something new. It's all part of the process, and I've found that the best results come from trying out new ideas and seeing what works best.
π° Budget Build
Repurpose old fabric or items from your home to create a unique accent without spending a lot.
β° Weekend Version
A quick and easy way to add an accent using pre-cut materials and simple tools.
β¨ Upgraded Finish
Use high-quality materials and finish your accent with paint or a protective coating for a more polished look.
π Small-Space Adaptation
Create a smaller accent that fits perfectly in a compact space like a tiny apartment or office.
πͺ Rental-Safe Option
Use removable adhesives or non-permanent materials to make the project easy to take down when moving.
| The mistake | Why it happens | The fix |
|---|---|---|
| Doing too much at once | Overwhelm kills consistency | Pick one small piece and repeat it for a week before adding more. |
| Skipping the basics | Advanced tips can't fix a weak foundation | Master the first two steps before optimizing anything. |
How To Add Accent From Keyboard
Common Questions
Can I use any fabric for this project?
How do I make sure the accent sticks?
What if I don't have any fabric on hand?
Can I add more than one accent?
References
- Typing Accents and Special Characters | Ask the Viking (ask.salemstate.edu)
- Accents & special characters - AVC (avc.edu)
- accents (columbia.edu)
- How to make accent marks on a computer (faculty.weber.edu)
Cite this guide
DIY Furniture with Concrete Accents (2026). How To Add Accent From Keyboard. https://concreteshape.com/how-to-add-accent-from-keyboard/
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