16 DIY Decor Tricks Pennsylvania’s Baby Boomers Swore By (That Still Hold Up)

Back in the day, Pennsylvania’s baby boomers didn’t wait for trends. They rolled up their sleeves, picked up a paintbrush, and decorated with what they had.

Their style was simple, smart, and full of personality.

These classic baby boomer DIY tricks still work just as well in homes today.

Painting Furniture to Give It New Life

Boomers didn’t toss out an old dresser just because it looked worn. They grabbed a paintbrush and gave it a second chance.

From pastel vanities to bold side tables, painted furniture became a signature look in many homes. It was a cost-effective way to refresh a room.

This trick still works today. A coat of paint can completely change the feel of a piece, whether you go vintage or modern with your color choice.

It’s a great way to reuse what you already own and avoid buying something new.

Framing Fabric or Wallpaper as Wall Art

If a room needed color, boomers knew exactly what to do. They framed pieces of wallpaper, fabric scraps, or even vintage scarves to create custom wall art.

It was a simple project with a big impact. No fancy tools needed, just a frame and something interesting to display.

Today, this idea is just as effective. It’s a clever way to tie a room together or bring texture to a blank wall.

Plus, it’s affordable and easy to swap out as your style changes.

Stenciling Borders and Patterns on Walls

Before peel-and-stick decals or removable wallpaper, stenciling was the DIY method of choice for adding charm to a wall.

Boomers used stencils to create patterns along ceilings, borders, and even on furniture. It gave rooms a handmade touch without looking messy.

Done right, stenciling still works beautifully. Modern designs make it easy to add visual interest without overwhelming the space.

It’s a great weekend project that adds personality without a big budget.

Using Contact Paper to Update Surfaces

Contact paper was a boomer favorite for updating countertops, lining shelves, or giving cabinets a new look. It was easy to apply, came in lots of patterns, and didn’t require any tools.

It worked best on smooth surfaces and added a little flair where it was needed most.

Today, contact paper has made a comeback with better designs and more durable materials. People still use it for everything from kitchen updates to temporary desk makeovers.

It’s perfect for renters or anyone who wants to test a look before committing.

Making Curtains from Sheets or Fabric Scraps

Boomers didn’t always buy ready-made curtains. Instead, they stitched them up using extra fabric, old bed sheets, or anything with a nice pattern.

It was a practical way to add softness and color to a room without spending much. Even a basic sewing machine could handle the job.

This trick still holds up, especially for those who want custom window treatments without the custom price tag.

With modern fabrics and tutorials, it’s easier than ever to get a polished look with a handmade touch.

Decorating with Mason Jars and Glass Bottles

Long before mason jars became trendy, boomers were using them as vases, storage, and even candle holders.

These simple glass containers added charm to kitchens, bathrooms, and patios. They were functional, attractive, and often free.

Today, mason jars still have that vintage appeal. They work well with both farmhouse and minimalist styles, and they’re easy to repurpose.

You can paint them, fill them, or just line them up on a shelf for instant character.

Hanging Plates on the Wall as Art

In many boomer homes, the dining room or kitchen wall wasn’t complete without a collection of decorative plates.

They were arranged carefully to create a focal point, often using family heirlooms or thrifted finds with bold patterns.

This look is still going strong in homes that favor charm and personality. It’s a great way to display beautiful items that might otherwise stay hidden in a cabinet.

All it takes is a few plate hangers and a bit of planning to create a stylish display.

Turning Crates and Ladders Into Storage

Boomers were pros at repurposing everyday items. Wooden crates became bookshelves, and old ladders turned into towel racks or vertical plant stands.

It wasn’t just about saving money. These pieces gave homes a lived-in, creative feel that felt personal and practical.

Today, the same approach works in apartments, studios, and small homes. These pieces add warmth while solving storage problems.

It’s proof that the best decor sometimes starts with what you already have.

Creating Gallery Walls with Family Photos

Boomers loved decorating with meaning, and nothing made a house feel more personal than a wall full of family photos.

They used mismatched frames, handmade collages, or even old-school photo corners to create displays that told a story.

Today, gallery walls are still one of the most popular ways to add warmth to a space. Whether it’s black-and-white prints or colorful snapshots, the idea remains timeless.

You can mix old and new styles to keep the display fresh while honoring the tradition.

Reviving Wood Furniture with Simple Polish

Instead of throwing out scuffed wood furniture, boomers often reached for lemon oil or homemade polish to bring it back to life.

It didn’t require sanding or heavy tools, just a little time and elbow grease. Even worn pieces could shine again with regular care.

This simple practice still works today. A little maintenance can extend the life of solid wood pieces for decades.

It’s one of the easiest ways to preserve quality furniture and keep it looking its best.

Building Custom Shelves from Scratch

Boomers weren’t afraid of a hammer and a level. If they needed storage, they made it.

Floating shelves, built-in bookcases, or corner units were often homemade and designed to fit the space perfectly.

They used simple tools and basic materials, proving you didn’t need a professional to add useful features to your home.

The DIY spirit behind them hasn’t gone out of style, it’s just gotten a little easier with modern guides and materials.

Repurposing Old Doors and Windows as Decor

Old doors became headboards. Windows became mirrors or wall art. Boomers found creative ways to reuse architectural elements that others might toss aside.

These pieces added charm and a sense of history to any space. They were often one-of-a-kind and made great conversation starters.

Repurposing items like this is still a strong trend in vintage and rustic decor. It’s a sustainable and stylish way to bring character into your home.

And the best part is, no two pieces ever look the same.

Covering Tables and Couches with Handmade Slipcovers

Boomers often protected and refreshed their furniture with handmade slipcovers. Whether sewn from floral fabric or made with stretchy knits, these covers extended the life of sofas, chairs, and tables.

They offered a quick fix for stains, tears, or fading and made it easy to switch up a room’s look without buying new furniture.

This trick still works well today, especially for people with kids, pets, or older furniture.

With modern fabrics and tailored designs, slipcovers remain a smart, stylish solution.

Adding Decorative Trim or Molding for a Custom Look

Boomers knew how to dress up a plain room using wood trim, chair rails, or crown molding. These simple additions gave walls and ceilings a more finished appearance.

Even without professional tools, they found ways to measure, cut, and paint trim pieces that elevated the entire room.

This DIY technique is still popular because it works. Trim adds depth and texture to flat walls and helps define a space.

It’s a timeless upgrade that never feels out of place.

Using Mirrors to Make Small Rooms Look Bigger

Hanging mirrors in tight spaces was a favorite trick among boomers. It helped reflect light and made rooms feel brighter and more open.

Mirrors were often placed across from windows or above buffets and dressers to expand the visual space.

This simple idea still works wonders, especially in apartments, hallways, and small bedrooms.

It’s an easy and affordable way to change how a room feels without knocking down walls.

Creating Statement Lamps with DIY Shades

Boomers loved personalizing their lighting. Whether using fringe, fabric, or paint, they often customized plain lamp shades to match their decor.