Damage-Free DIY Projects That Are Perfect For Renters

Instagram | sarahshermansamuel

So you've moved into an apartment. Your landlord hands you a list of rules, and on it are the dreaded words, "No painting, wallpaper, or excessive hanging." What's a girl to do? Well, thanks to a host of creative bloggers, we've got more rental-friendly decor ideas than you'll know what to do with! From storage solutions to gallery walls, these DIY projects will make your apartment feel like home, without losing your security deposit.

01
Use caging to create more hangable wall space.
Hello Lidy

Use caging to create more hangable wall space.

If you're dead set on a framed gallery wall, try utilizing metal caging to minimize the number of holes hammered into your wall. You'll need to secure the caging itself with screws, but it requires far fewer than multiple different picture frames! Then you can simply hang your pictures and framed art from the caging instead of the wall itself.

02
Make a flower wall.
Inspired by This

Make a flower wall.

Using wall-friendly washi tape, try this simple flower wall DIY — you can use real or silk flowers for your desired effect.

03
Don't hang a towel rack — lean a ladder.
Brittany Makes

Don't hang a towel rack — lean a ladder.

If you don't want to drill holes into your apartment's walls, try hanging towels and linens from a chic DIY towel rack instead. No damage necessary!

04
Show off photos with a nail-free gallery.
My Fabuless Life

Show off photos with a nail-free gallery.

If you've got a lot of pictures to show off but don't want to hang multiple frames, try creating a photo display that can lean against your wall.

05
Only make one hole for all of your photos.
Hello Lidy

Only make one hole for all of your photos.

This boho-inspired branch picture hanger only requires a single nail for support, but allows you to show off many photos. By minimizing damage this way, you can feel good when you move out of your rental!

06
Cover walls with a curtain.
Thou Swell

Cover walls with a curtain.

To cover unsightly walls or change up the color of your apartment, try hanging curtains behind your furniture. It makes a dramatic change!

07
Use Post-its to create brightly colored art.
Say Yes

Use Post-its to create brightly colored art.

If you like to decorate for the seasons or get bored of designs quickly, try making wall art with Post-it notes! Their safe adhesive doesn't damage paint, so you can change up your colorful art anytime without fear of permanent marks.

08
Create interesting texture with vinyl decals.
Hello Lidy

Create interesting texture with vinyl decals.

An artistic hole punch and bits of tape-backed vinyl are all you need to create fun decals for your walls. Try a few or a bunch — they'll come off when moving day comes!

09
Hang a full gallery wall with colorful washi tape.
Instagram | beloved_mama

Hang a full gallery wall with colorful washi tape.

If you're comfortable displaying photos and art prints without frames, try arranging a washi tape gallery wall. This printed, colorful tape won't harm your walls and creates a beautiful effect when paired with creative prints.

10
Get the wallpaper look without wallpaper permanence.
Wallstar Graphics

Get the wallpaper look without wallpaper permanence.

Removable decals (like these, from Wallstar Graphics) allow renters to decorate walls as they please without risking permanent damage. You can essentially create printed wallpaper without harmful adhesive!

11
Show off your collections without shelves.
Handmade Charlotte

Show off your collections without shelves.

If you've got a collection that usually requires shelves to display, try mixing things up. Skip the floating shelves (which require quite a few permanent fixtures to hang securely) and organize these clutter-free art displays for stones, ticket stubs, stamps, or any other collection that you're interested in showing off.