None of these achievements would have been possible without your unwavering support, kind comments, and continuous encouragement. Your engagement fuels our passion, providing the motivation we need to constantly innovate and develop creative, budget-friendly DIY solutions that we hope empower and inspire you in return. I am profoundly grateful for each and every one of you!

To celebrate what has been a truly remarkable year for Bless’er House, I’ve compiled a list of our top 20 most beloved DIY posts from 2016. This curated collection deliberately excludes seasonal projects, focusing instead on our most popular year-round home improvement ventures, stunning room reveals, and practical decorating guides. Get ready to dive into a retrospective of creativity, frugality, and farmhouse charm!

Our Most Popular DIY Projects of 2016

20. Faux “Rusted” Vintage Scale Makeover

Kicking off our countdown is a project that still holds a special place in my heart: the Faux “Rusted” Vintage Scale Makeover. I discovered this ordinary stainless steel metal scale at a thrift store, and with a vision for vintage charm, I transformed it into a beautifully chippy and authentically rusted piece using nothing more than simple craft paint. This project perfectly illustrates how a touch of creativity and inexpensive materials can elevate a discarded item into a treasured decorative accent with significant character. It’s a testament to the magic of paint and imagination!

19. DIY Faux Fireplace (Updated)

Next up, Robert and I gave our faux fireplace a much-needed refresh, leading to its impressive update. This project wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was also an opportunity to reconfigure our living room layout, creating a more sophisticated and inviting atmosphere. The update significantly enhanced the room’s comfort and overall appeal, proving that even a faux element can become a stunning focal point with a little ingenuity. Olivia, our little helper, even lent a hand, making this a truly memorable family project!

18. DIY Faux Enamel Bread Box Makeover

Coming in at number 18 is another fantastic thrift store transformation: our DIY Faux Enamel Bread Box Makeover. This project is a shining example of the undeniable power of spray paint. With just a can or two, a plain old bread box was given a vibrant, fresh lease on life, mimicking the look of expensive enamelware. It’s an easy, impactful, and incredibly budget-friendly way to update kitchen decor or create a charming storage solution, proving that sometimes, all it takes is a little spray paint to work wonders.

17. Eclectic Farmhouse Playroom Reveal

This year, we took on our very first One Room Challenge, and while it was an intense six weeks, we not only survived but thrived! The result was our Eclectic Farmhouse Playroom Reveal, a space that truly exceeded our expectations. This playroom is now a wonderfully functional area, thoughtfully designed to be both stylish and practical for little ones. It perfectly blends eclectic elements with cozy farmhouse charm, creating an inspiring and organized environment where imagination can flourish. This project was a huge accomplishment and a testament to what focused effort can achieve.

16. Weathered Oak Dining Table Makeover

Our dining table was desperately in need of a dramatic facelift, and its transformation using my new favorite weathered oak stain quickly became a reader favorite. This Weathered Oak Dining Table Makeover demonstrated just how simple it can be to achieve a high-end, rustic look. The weathered oak finish added immense character and warmth to our dining area, completely revitalizing the space. It’s a versatile technique that can breathe new life into any wooden furniture piece, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a farmhouse aesthetic.

15. How to Hang Decor On Siding

Sometimes the simplest solutions are the most impactful. This post, “How to Hang Decor On Siding,” proved to be incredibly popular, addressing a common problem many homeowners face when trying to decorate their home’s exterior. It shared straightforward, effective methods for securely hanging outdoor decor without damaging siding. The overwhelming response confirmed that while seemingly minor, finding reliable ways to enhance curb appeal is a priority for many. It’s a truly practical guide that empowers you to easily add charm to your home’s exterior.

14. Distressed Charcoal Scroll Mirror Makeover

Another fantastic thrift store find, this outdated mirror received a dramatic Distressed Charcoal Scroll Mirror Makeover. By applying a simple yet effective distressing technique, I transformed it into a chic and character-filled piece that looks far more expensive than its original price tag. This project demonstrated my favorite method for achieving a beautifully aged finish, perfect for adding a touch of vintage elegance to any room. It’s an accessible way to customize decor and infuse your home with unique style.

13. How to Decorate a Small Patio

Our tiny patio was transformed into a charming outdoor oasis, inspiring our guide on “How to Decorate a Small Patio.” This post resonated with many readers, as it offered practical and creative tips for maximizing small outdoor spaces. We shared smart strategies for furniture selection, vertical gardening, and strategic decor placement to make even the smallest patio feel expansive and inviting. It’s all about creating an extension of your living space, no matter its size, and this guide provides the blueprint for achieving just that.

12. How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets Like a Pro

A perennial favorite, our “How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets Like a Pro” post continues to be a go-to resource for anyone looking to refresh their kitchen on a budget. Even after more than six months, our painted cabinets retain their pristine, factory-like finish, a testament to the detailed process and quality products we shared. This comprehensive guide covers every step, from preparation to selecting the perfect paint, empowering homeowners to achieve professional results without the hefty cost. It’s a game-changer for kitchen makeovers!

11. Antique Printer’s Cabinet Makeover

Witnessing the transformation of a plain buffet we found on Craigslist into an incredible Antique Printer’s Cabinet Makeover was truly astounding. This project is a powerful illustration of what can be achieved with a few basic woodworking techniques and a clear vision. The detailed enhancements made it almost unrecognizable from its humble beginnings, showcasing how creative modifications can elevate a generic piece into a unique, custom-look furniture item with tons of character. It’s a testament to the potential hidden in pre-loved pieces.

10. Favorite Budget-Friendly Blue Vintage Rugs

While on the hunt for the perfect rug for our master bedroom, I compiled a list of my “Favorite Budget-Friendly Blue Vintage Rugs,” which proved to be incredibly timely and popular. With deep blue tones predicted to be a major trend in home decor for 2017, this post was ahead of its time, offering stylish yet affordable options to introduce this rich color into any space. It’s a fantastic resource for anyone looking to add warmth, texture, and a touch of vintage elegance to their floors without breaking the bank.

9. How to Create a Weathered Wood Look With Paint

Finding a beautiful sofa table at a consignment shop inspired this highly popular tutorial: “How to Create a Weathered Wood Look With Paint.” This post offered an easy and mess-free way to achieve a coveted weathered finish using only paint and wax, completely bypassing the dreaded and messy process of paint stripping. It’s an ingenious technique for transforming any wooden furniture piece into a rustic, charming accent, making it perfect for farmhouse or coastal-inspired decor. Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to beautiful, aged wood effects!

8. Apothecary Jar Printable Labels

Who knew that a simple printable could be so popular? Our Apothecary Jar Printable Labels became an instant hit, offering an incredibly easy way to elevate everyday jars and bottles into charming decorative pieces. If your recycling bin is brimming with interesting glass containers, these vintage-inspired labels are the perfect solution. Slap them on, and suddenly, they’re ideal for displaying florals year-round, making flower arranging beautifully simple and effortlessly stylish. It’s a quick and clever trick for creating bespoke decor.

7. Decorating 101: Vignette Styling

Styling vignettes can often feel intimidating, but our “Decorating 101: Vignette Styling” post aimed to demystify the process. It offers practical decorating rules and helpful guidelines to simplify the art of arranging mantels, shelves, and tabletops. By providing clear principles for balance, scale, and layering, this guide takes the guesswork out of creating beautiful, cohesive displays. It’s an essential resource for anyone looking to style their spaces with confidence and a designer’s eye, bringing harmony to every corner of their home.

6. 18 Inexpensive DIY Wall Decor Ideas

Having completed numerous wall decor projects over the years, I curated our absolute best ideas into “18 Inexpensive DIY Wall Decor Ideas.” This comprehensive round-up provides a wealth of inspiration for creating stunning wall art with a farmhouse and industrial flair, all on a tight budget. From repurposed items to simple craft projects, these ideas empower you to personalize your walls and infuse your home with unique style that reflects your personality. It’s the ultimate guide for adding character without spending a fortune.

5. My Whole30 Body Makeover + Beginner’s Guide

For those seeking a fresh start in the New Year, “My Whole30 Body Makeover + Beginner’s Guide” offers an authentic and highly effective path to wellness. This isn’t a fad diet; it’s a powerful program focused on clean eating and detoxifying your body to kickstart a truly healthy lifestyle. I was astounded by the weight loss and incredible sense of well-being I experienced in just 30 days. Robert and I are so committed to its benefits that we’re embarking on another round this January 1st, and I wholeheartedly recommend it as a sustainable way to transform your health.

4. DIY Irish Blessing Sign and Entryway

Our “DIY Irish Blessing Sign and Entryway” project was a wonderful way to add a touch of heartfelt charm to our home, originally shared just in time for St. Paddy’s Day. This post includes a free printable and a step-by-step tutorial for crafting your own beautiful Irish Blessing sign. While perfect for themed celebrations, its timeless message of warmth and welcome makes it a lovely addition to any entryway or living space throughout the entire year. It’s a simple yet meaningful DIY that truly enriches your home’s ambiance.

3. DIY Feather Finish Concrete Countertops

Evidently, concrete countertops are experiencing a massive surge in popularity, as our “DIY Feather Finish Concrete Countertops” post truly went viral this year! This comprehensive tutorial walks you through our entire process, sharing not only the steps to achieve this modern, durable look but also crucial warnings about potential pitfalls to avoid. It’s an incredibly detailed guide that demystifies a seemingly complex project, making professional-looking concrete countertops an achievable dream for any DIY enthusiast. This project is proof that big impact doesn’t always require a big budget.

2. Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Makeover Reveal

Our “Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Makeover Reveal” was, without a doubt, one of our most anticipated and rewarding projects of the year, and it was certainly worth the wait! This extensive post shares the full reveal of our transformed kitchen, complete with a detailed source list and step-by-step tutorials for how we achieved this stunning look. We proudly accomplished this entire kitchen makeover at a mere fraction of the cost typically charged by professional contractors, showcasing the power of diligent planning and dedicated DIY effort. It’s a testament to creating a dream kitchen on a realistic budget, blending modern functionality with timeless farmhouse aesthetics.

1. 10 Items to Always Buy at Thrift Stores

Taking the top spot as our most popular post of 2016 is the incredibly practical and insightful “10 Items to Always Buy at Thrift Stores.” If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or unsure what treasures to hunt for in a thrift store, this guide is your ultimate companion. It highlights ten highly versatile items that I consistently seek out due to their transformation potential and inherent value. Crucially, I also included a list of items to avoid, ensuring your thrifting adventures are both successful and safe. This post empowers you to confidently discover unique, budget-friendly decor and furniture, proving that second-hand finds can truly elevate your home’s style.