10 outdoor decor ideas that won't break the bank

DIY tin-can lanterns

Lighting is one of the most important elements of an outdoor space when the sun goes down, but finding the right lights can be challenging. We recommend using lots of candles and tea lights to create a warm glow. Make your own perfect candle holders with this easy DIY:

1. Scour garage sales for interesting cans and canisters.

2. Drill through them with a metal drill bit to create tiny holes. 3. Pop a candle inside and enjoy the decorative pattern of light. 

Outdoor cushions

Layer cushions to bring the cozy, relaxed vibe of your living room outdoors. We are seeing more luxe materials being used for outdoor accessories, cushions included. Make sure you have lots on hand for picnic-style dining in case you need to seat more people. Leticia ikat print lumbar pillow, $52, Pottery Barn. 

DIY rustic-chic chandelier

Ditch those unflattering florescent porch lights! If you have time for a weekend project, our DIY weatherproof outdoor chandelier is the perfect alternative, and will add major style to your next outdoor party. 1. Gather gnarled branches and a couple of strands of exterior string lights (holiday lights work perfectly). 2. Bind the branches together with twine to create a chandelier shape. 3. Wrap the lights around them, and plug it in. 

Charming bird feeder

This is a great way to add some character (and birds) to your outdoor space. Choose a vintage lantern for a romantic feel, or a modern one (on right) for a more contempory look. To turn into a bird feeder, remove the glass, place a bowl into the bottom of the lantern and glue it in place so the birds can't tip it over. White lantern, $9, Ikea.

DIY colourful silverware

All that mismatched cutlery in the back of your drawer is perfect for outdoor use. Unify the pieces, and add a pop of colour to your space, with our easy DIY using Plasti Dip. 1. Dip cutlery handles into coloured Plasti Dip rubber coating, following package instructions. 2. Hang to dry from silver ends (we used bulldog clips). 3. Let rubber set (about four hours), then add a second coat. Leave to set again and you're done. 

Easy table topper

Succulants make the perfect outdoor centerpiece because they're hardy and low maintenance (which means no running to the grocery store to buy fresh flowers every time you have a dinner party!). To make the centrepice pictured above, choose cans in a variety of shapes and sizes. Plant a succulent in each one and place on a tray. Fill the tray with a handful of rocks and you're done. 

Hardware napkin rings

Search your local hardware store for interesting hardware to use as napkin rings. We’ve seen a lot of people use copper pipe — brilliant idea! Leaf cabinet pull, $4, Brass metal curtain rings, $6/12, Crimp copper compression ring, $.20, Home Hardware. Copper pipe, $7/25, Metal worm gear clamp, $2, Canadian Tire.  

Make your own placemats

We can't get enough of these easy-to-make chargers. All you need is jute, a hot glue gun and some felt or cardboard. Start by tracing around an existing plate. Cut out your circle. Starting at the outside of your cutout, wind the rope around and glue it down as you go along until you get to the centre. They're a simple way to add a casual element to your table. Photo. Nikki Wills of Tikkido. 

The perfect string lights

If making your own chandelier isn't for you, try stringing decorative lights around your outdoor space — on fences, bushes or tree branches — instead. Decorative 10 light set with hood and cage style lights, $19, Home Depot. 

DIY pastel flowerpots

Up the look of your flowerpots with our easy DIY. Tip: Play around with different hues to set off your blooms, or create a unified look by painting everything a colour that matches your landscaping. 1. Wash pots with diluted bleach to clean thoroughly. Use a wire brush to remove tough stains or mildew. 2. Paint pots with exterior masonry paint, inside and out. 3. Let dry, then add a second coat if necessary. Get this look: Exterior masonry paint, $99/gallon, all Farrow&Ball. Top group: Calluna, Churlish Green, Dix Blue, Brassica. Left group: Oval Room Blue, Mizzle, Oxford Stone. Right group: White Tie, Blackened, Vert de Terre, Strong White.

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