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EASY DIY INTERIOR DOOR MAKEOVER PROJECT FOR YOUR HOME

Transform Your Interior Door with an Easy DIY Makeover

Sometimes, doors can feel flat and plain with little to no character. But don’t worry—there’s an easy way to upgrade your door using wood strips! In this post, we’ll guide you through the materials and steps for a simple interior door makeover.

Accent walls with geometric and linear patterns are all the rage right now, but a full wall might not suit everyone’s aesthetic or budget. A door makeover is a great alternative! It allows you to add stylish details to your space on a smaller, more affordable scale.

A DIY door makeover is a perfect low-budget project that can significantly enhance a room with minimal effort. Let’s face it—sometimes, doors just feel boring! By adding a few simple upgrades, you can make your door a statement piece without spending a fortune.

For example, our master bedroom door is visible from both the dining and kitchen areas, and it needed a little more life—but in a subtle way. We didn’t want to add a pop of color (though you definitely can!), just something to elevate its look.

This DIY project is quick and easy, and we’ll show you everything you need to get started—materials, inspiration, and step-by-step instructions for your door transformation.

Let’s dive into our interior door makeover!

Door Makeover Materials

  • Paint of Choice – Ours was Behr “White” with Eggshell finish
  • 3/4” wide by 3/16″ thick pine strips
    • Option 1: Purchase 1/4” x 3/4″ pine trim pieces
    • Option 2: Purchase 1×4 8ft. pine board and cut into 3/16″ thin strips
    • Option 3: Use leftover scrap wood pieces like we did. Yay reuse!
  • 1/2″ nap Paint Roller or Paint Sprayer
  • Sandpaper or Handheld Sander
  • Wood Glue
  • Painter’s Tape
  • Speed Square
  • Tape Measure
  • Miter Saw OR Jigsaw OR Handsaw
  • Table Saw (optional if splitting boards)

DIY Interior Door Makeover Steps

STEP 1: FIND INSPIRATION & CREATE A PLAN

As I mentioned, there are endless accent wall ideas out there, and Pinterest is a fantastic source for design inspiration! Simply search for keywords like “geometric patterns,” “linear designs,” or whatever style you’re drawn to, and you’ll definitely find something that sparks your creativity. Whether you’re looking for bold shapes or subtle lines, Pinterest is a goldmine for ideas that can be adapted to your interior door makeover!

As a highly visual person, I knew I needed to create a quick mockup of my accent door design before diving in. Since I’m using wood scraps for the makeover, I took a few cut pieces and used painter’s tape to experiment with different design ideas. I only had five pieces of varying lengths, so I couldn’t always create my full vision. But it worked perfectly for a quick visioning session and gave me a sense of how the design would look before committing to it. It’s a great way to test out ideas without making any permanent changes!

After that, I took it a step further as I’m a planner and want a detailed idea of what I’m doing. Additionally, I’m a heavy user of Photoshop with my design background. It’s great for quick visualizations on top of a photo you took. So even with the quick mockups, I had to take it further and fully realize what this DIY door makeover might look like when painted. Below are a couple final options.

We were looking for a subtle accent that was more about the shadow lines. However, you could totally paint it a fun color like many of the accent wall examples.

If you don’t have Photoshop or any editing software, don’t worry! You can always sketch your design out with pen and paper, or use the draw function in your phone’s editing app. Having a plan in place before starting the DIY project will make a huge difference. It acts as a guide and helps you stay on track, ensuring you don’t waste time or materials. After all, nothing’s worse than finishing a project only to realize you don’t love the final result!

STEP 2: PREP THE DOOR

Depending on the condition of your door, some prep work will usually be needed before attaching your accent pieces. You might need to fill any holes and sand the surface to ensure a smooth finish.

While some people prefer to remove the door and handle the prep and painting in a garage or workshop, we decided against taking our bedroom door off the hinges since we didn’t want to be without it. Ultimately, it’s up to you—do whatever works best for your space and convenience!

Fill Holes & Sand
If your door has any dents, scratches, or holes, now is the time to fill them. For wood doors, wood filler works great for patching up imperfections. Once it’s dried, sand the area smooth.

Additionally, be sure to lightly sand the spots where the wood strips from your design will be attached. This creates a slightly rougher surface, which helps the wood glue adhere better.

Don’t Mix Paints
A quick tip: latex and oil-based paints don’t mix well and can peel apart over time. If you’re unsure what kind of paint was previously on your door, it’s best to sand it down first to prevent any peeling issues later.

Most basic doors are usually painted with latex paint, but it’s worth checking—especially if you’re reusing an old door. To be safe, do a small test paint spot before you start the full project. That’s exactly what we did when patching up our door, as you can see in the photos!

STEP 3: MEASURE & CUT THE ACCENT WOOD STRIPS

Now that you have your design mockup or sketch plan, it’s time to measure and cut your accent wood strips.

For our design, which featured linear pieces with straight ends, I simply measured a distance and drew a straight line across the wood. If your design involves angles, be sure to use an angle guide to ensure that each strip is cut consistently.

It’s important to mark which side of each piece is the “correct” one. This helps avoid confusion when cutting and ensures you won’t mix up pieces later on. Since there were several strips of varying lengths, I also labeled each one with its length, making it easier to match them up with my design plan as I went along.

Once all your pieces are marked and labeled, it’s time to cut them to the desired length. We used a miter saw for quick and precise cuts, but don’t worry if you don’t have one—you can also use a jigsaw or handsaw. Just be sure to practice safety when cutting the wood!

As you cut, create two piles: one for your finished pieces and one for the leftovers. It’s a good idea to save the leftover pieces for future projects, as this is both eco-friendly and budget-friendly. Even the smallest scraps that can’t be used later make great kindling for a fire!

STEP 4: LAYOUT THE ACCENT WOOD STRIPS

Execute The Plan
Now that all the cutting is done, it’s time to lay out the wood pieces on the door!

Having a dimensioned layout plan makes this part much easier. Use a measuring tape, pencil, and speed square to lay out your pieces and mark where they need to go. Mark the top and bottom sides to ensure everything aligns when gluing.

It’s crucial to make sure the pieces are straight. I highly recommend measuring along the full length of each piece in several spots. Wood can warp or bow, which can cause what should be a straight line to appear wavy.

For example, the 45” long piece was supposed to be 2 inches from the edge of the door and the next piece. While the top and bottom were spot on, the middle section bowed, so the distance varied between 1 ¾” and 2 ¼” on either side. To correct this, I measured 2 inches from the edge in the middle as well and drew a straight line. This gave me a clear guide for aligning the pieces when gluing.

Make sure to measure in multiple spots on all your longer pieces to ensure they are straight. Also, check that the pieces along the edge won’t interfere with the door frame when you close the door.

STEP 5: GLUE ALL THE PIECES

After marking the door, it’s time to glue your wood strips in place. There are many types of glues available, but for this project, simple wood glue works best. It doesn’t harden immediately, giving you time to adjust the pieces if needed to ensure your design stays straight. Plus, it doesn’t add moisture or cause the wood strips to warp, which is important for achieving a smooth, even finish

DIY Tip – Avoid using liquid nails or construction glue! While these glues harden quickly, they can add moisture to the wood, causing it to warp. We’ve learned from experience that this can lead to pieces falling off after all your hard work, so stick with wood glue for a more reliable result.

Use Painter’s Tape to Hold in Place
Since the door is still hanging upright, painter’s tape is a great tool to help secure the wood strips while the glue dries.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Apply glue along the back of each wood strip.
  • Place the strip onto the door, adjusting it to align with your marks.
  • Use painter’s tape to secure the strip in place in multiple spots.
  • If the wood is bowed, use tape in the middle to gently pull it back into alignment with your marks.
  • Repeat this process until all the pieces are attached.

    DIY Tip – Be mindful of the door frame and flooring around your door. You may need to adjust your wood strips slightly to ensure they don’t interfere with the door’s function, such as opening and closing smoothly.

    To ensure everything stayed secure, I went back and added a little extra glue and tape at the ends of the wood strips. Gravity was pulling them away, and I didn’t want them popping off while drying. If your door has been removed and is laying flat, this extra step may not be necessary, but it was a helpful precaution since mine was still hanging upright.

    Now, just let all the glue dry! We allowed ours to dry overnight since wood glue typically requires about 24 hours to fully cure. However, drying times can vary depending on the product, so be sure to check the label on your specific glue to ensure you’re allowing enough time for it to set properly.

    STEP 6: PAINT IT

    Before you start painting, make sure to check for any touch-ups that might be needed. There could be some excess glue around the edges of the wood that will need to be sanded or scraped off. This ensures that the surface is smooth and ready for paint, giving you a clean, professional finish when you’re done.

    We own a paint sprayer, but in this case, it was easier to just roll the paint on. I laid down a drop cloth and used a heavier ½” nap roller to apply the paint. It covered most of the wood edges, though I did have to go back and touch up a few spots that the roller missed.

    If you decide to spray the paint, I highly recommend removing the door and spraying in a well-ventilated garage or workshop. Make sure to set up a tarped area to catch any overspray, and you’ll be able to skip taping off the door frame and walls for protection.

    For our door, we chose basic Behr white paint to match the rest of our doors and trim. We wanted the wood accents to blend in subtly but still complement the existing decor. However, you could opt for an accent color instead to make the door stand out and add contrast—choose what works best for your space!

    Depending on your paint, a second coat might be needed to achieve full coverage.

    STEP 7: FINISHING TOUCHES

    If you’re planning to add new handles or hinges, now is the time to do so. We decided to stick with the existing ones since they still worked well and looked nice. If you removed the door for painting or other steps, now’s the time to rehang it and enjoy your refreshed door!

    Once everything is done, you’ve successfully completed your DIY door makeover! Step back, admire your work, and enjoy the transformation. It’s amazing how such a simple project can make such a big impact on your space!

    DIY Door Makeover Tips & Methods

    Here are a few additional notes and tips for your DIY door makeover:

    • Detailed Plan vs. Random: We’re detail-oriented, so we prefer creating a detailed plan and layout. But you can also use what pieces you have and lay them out until it looks just right, then attach them. If you’re someone who likes to wing it and eyeball the design, that works too!
    • Removing the Door: You can absolutely remove the door for this project to avoid fighting gravity. However, keep in mind that you’ll be without a door for a while while the glue and paint dry, so make sure you’re okay with that.
    • Spraying Paint vs. Rolling Paint: This comes down to personal preference. Using a sprayer will give you a smoother finish but requires some experience and isn’t always ideal for the typical DIY setup. Rolling the paint may give you a slightly different texture but is easier for most DIYers to manage.

    No matter which method you choose, the key is to enjoy the process and get creative with your design!

    CONCLUSION

    In conclusion, a DIY door makeover is an easy, budget-friendly project that can make a big impact on the look and feel of your space. Whether you prefer a detailed plan or a more spontaneous approach, you can create a unique design that reflects your style. By following the simple steps of prepping the door, measuring and cutting the wood, gluing and securing the pieces, and finally painting, you’ll achieve a refreshed, personalized look for your door. With a little creativity and effort, you’ll have a beautiful accent door that enhances your home’s decor!

    BRILLIANT CAR HACKS EVERY CAR OWNER NEEDS TO KNOW BEFORE THEIR NEXT ROAD TRIP

    If you own a car, you already know they can sometimes be a handful, with problems popping up unexpectedly—and often costing a pretty penny to fix. The good news? Many car troubles can be resolved without spending a fortune. With a little creativity and a few common household items, you can tackle these issues with ease.

    Here, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of genius car hacks every owner should know. Whether you’re gearing up for a big road trip or just want to make your daily drives smoother and more enjoyable, these tips and tricks will revolutionize your car experience!

    “Dude, Where’s My Car?”

    There’s nothing more frustrating than walking around a parking lot, thinking you’ve lost your car, only to realize that a dozen other cars look just like yours. We’ve all been there, and it can feel like an endless search before finally spotting your vehicle. Luckily, there’s a simple hack to avoid this confusion next time!

    To avoid the frustration of forgetting where you parked, take a photo of the area and the floor number if you’re in a parking garage. For outdoor lots, simply drop a pin in your maps app and label it “parked car.” This way, you’ll always be able to find your vehicle with ease when you return!

    Foggy Headlights No More

    Over time, your car’s headlights can become foggy due to dirt, grime, and oxidation, which can reduce their brightness and make nighttime driving hazardous. To improve visibility and safety, try this simple trick to clear up those foggy headlights and restore their shine!

    Grab a tube of toothpaste and apply a coin-sized amount to each headlight. Using your fingers or a clean cloth, rub the toothpaste in circular motions to scrub away the grime. Let it sit for about two minutes, then wipe it off with a different clean cloth. Your headlights will look clearer and brighter in no time!

    Increase Your Key Fob’s Range

    One of the most frequent frustrations with keyless entry systems is the limited range of the key fob. Surprisingly, the solution might be closer than you think—your own head! By holding the key fob near your head while pressing the “Unlock” button, you can actually increase its range. The science behind it? Your head acts as a conductor, amplifying the signal and extending its reach. Give it a try the next time you need to unlock your car from a distance!

    Alternatively, try holding the key fob under your chin while pressing the button. The water molecules in your body—particularly in your brain—interact with the signal, effectively amplifying it and extending its range. It’s a quirky but effective hack to unlock your car from a greater distance!

    Look For the Arrow

    If you’ve ever driven a car you’re not familiar with, you’ve likely had the awkward moment of pulling up to the wrong side of the gas pump and then having to move your car to the correct side. It’s a common mishap, but there’s a simple way to avoid it!

    Fortunately, you can easily figure out which side your gas tank is on without stepping out of the car. Simply look at the gas gauge on your dashboard, and you’ll see an arrow next to it. This arrow points to the side of the car where your gas tank is located, saving you from any embarrassing mix-ups!

    Keep Your Windshield Wipers Warm

    If you live in colder climates, you’ve probably experienced having your windshield wipers freeze during the winter. Not only will this make driving during snowy days difficult, but it can also cause damage and cost you money in the long run.

    To prevent your windshield wipers from freezing, take a pair of long socks and slip them over the wipers while your car is parked. This simple trick helps keep the wipers warm and protected, preventing them from freezing during cold winter days and nights.

    Unfreezing the Door Locks

    Living in a place with harsh winters means dealing with the hassle of clearing snow and ice from your car each morning. One common frustration during freezing temperatures is discovering that your car’s door locks are frozen shut—especially when you’re in a hurry. Thankfully, there’s a simple solution to this chilly dilemma!

    To quickly unfreeze door locks, simply apply a generous amount of hand sanitizer directly into the lock. The alcohol in the sanitizer lowers the freezing point of water, helping to melt the ice and free up the keyhole. It’s a quick and effective fix for those frosty mornings!

    Keep Cup Holders Crumb-Free

    Cup holders are incredibly convenient, but they can get dirty quickly. To keep them clean with minimal effort, line them with cupcake liners. These will catch crumbs and debris, making cleanup as simple as replacing the liners—no need to lug out the vacuum every week!

    Cupcake liners come in various sizes, so you can choose the perfect fit for your cup holders. When they get dirty, simply toss them out and replace them with new ones. For an eco-friendly option, opt for silicone cupcake liners—they’re washable, reusable, and just as effective at keeping your cup holders clean.

    Don’t Get Locked Out of Your Car

    Many new cars come equipped with keyless entry systems, making it easy to unlock and enter your car without a traditional key. But what do you do when the keyless entry stops working? Fortunately, most cars with this system also have a manual lock option, ensuring you can still access your vehicle in case of an emergency.

    If your keyless entry system fails, check for a small plastic cover on the edge of the door handle. Underneath it, you’ll find a manual lock mechanism. Simply remove the cover to access the lock, allowing you to unlock your car’s doors and get inside, even without the keyless entry working.

    Open a Key Ring With Ease

    Opening a keyring to add new keys or tags can be a painful task, especially when it’s hard to avoid hurting your fingers or nails. Fortunately, there’s a simple trick to open keyrings without any discomfort or hassle!

    To easily open a keyring without hurting your fingers, use a staple remover to gently pull the metal pieces apart while adding a new key or tag. This method saves your fingers from discomfort, but be careful not to stretch the keyring too much, as your keys could slip off.

    Keep Food Warm

    Heated seats are a fantastic feature for keeping you cozy during cold winter drives, but they can also serve other purposes you might not have considered!

    Don’t let your pizza or fast food get cold during a long drive or traffic jam! Simply place the food on your heated seat and turn the seat warmer to its highest setting. It’s a clever way to keep your meal warm and ready, no matter how long the trip takes.

    Keeping It Cool

    Getting into a hot car on a sweltering summer day can be unbearable. While many people think rolling down all the windows will help cool it faster, this approach is often ineffective. Luckily, there’s a better method to beat the heat!

    To cool down a hot car more effectively, roll down just the driver’s and passenger’s side windows. This encourages better air circulation throughout the car, allowing it to cool much faster. While it won’t make your car icy, it will certainly feel more comfortable in no time.

    Get Rid of Bad Smells

    Cars can start to smell after a while, especially with dogs, kids, and multiple passengers coming in and out. If left unchecked, the odor can become overwhelming. Luckily, there’s an easy and affordable trick to keep your car smelling fresh without spending a lot of money.

    Head to your laundry room or the nearest supermarket and grab a box of dryer sheets. Place one sheet under each seat to help neutralize any unpleasant odors. You can also tuck them into your car vents for a quick and easy air freshener, leaving your car smelling fresh and clean in no time!

    Keep Your Windshield From Fogging Up

    Driving with a foggy windshield can make it nearly impossible to see and is extremely dangerous. While it’s normal for your windshield to fog up occasionally, there’s a quick and easy way to get rid of the condensation, ensuring a safer drive.

    To prevent your windshield from fogging up, simply place some dry rice inside a cloth pouch and set it on the dashboard. The rice will absorb the moisture, keeping your windshield clear. You can refresh the rice by microwaving the pouch occasionally to dry it out and maintain its effectiveness.

    The Penny Test

    Regularly checking your car’s tires is essential for safety and performance, as they naturally wear down over time. To determine if it’s time to replace them, try the simple penny test. This quick and easy method can help you assess your tire tread depth and decide if a new set is needed.

    Take a penny and insert it into the tire tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s a clear sign that your tire tread is too worn, and it’s time to replace your tires. If part of his head is still covered, your tires are likely in good shape.

    Remove Bumper Stickers With Ease

    Bumper stickers can be fun and expressive, but removing them can be a real hassle. They often leave behind sticky residue and, if removed improperly, can even damage your car’s paint. If you can, it’s best to avoid applying stickers directly to your car to save yourself the trouble later on.

    If you decide to put bumper stickers on your car, there’s a safe way to remove them without damaging the paint. Simply use a hairdryer to heat the sticker, which will loosen the adhesive. Once warmed, the sticker should peel off easily, leaving minimal residue behind.

    Never Lose Your Garage Door Remote Again

    It’s frustrating when you pull up to your driveway, only to realize that your garage door remote is missing. After a long day at work, the last thing you want is to deal with this hassle. Fortunately, there’s an easy fix!

    Many new cars come with a built-in remote control feature that lets you open and close your garage door, eliminating the need for a separate remote. If your car doesn’t have this feature, you can easily have a professional install it and connect the remote control to your garage door system.

    Stick to the Speed Limit

    Many people exceed the speed limit in the hopes of reaching their destination faster. However, this can backfire, as driving at high speeds puts extra strain on your brakes when you need to slow down or stop at a red light or in traffic. This extra wear can shorten the lifespan of your brakes and increase the risk of brake failure.

    It may sound surprising, but speed limits are actually designed to help drivers hit more green lights. By sticking to the speed limit, you’re more likely to synchronize with traffic flow, which can reduce the number of times you need to stop at red lights. As a result, you might actually reach your destination faster than if you were speeding.

    Remove Dents With a Plunger

    Dents and scratches are inevitable for most cars over time. If you’ve had a minor fender bender and need a quick fix for a dent, all you need are two simple items: boiling water and a plunger. This DIY trick can save you time and money on minor repairs!

    Start by pouring boiling water over the dented area to make the surface more pliable. Then, position a plunger firmly in the center of the dent and pull it outward. Repeat the process until the dent pops out to your satisfaction. With a little patience, your car can look as good as new in no time!

    Use Nail Polish to Cover Scratches

    Even with the best care, scratches can happen on your car’s surface. If you’re someone who can’t stand the sight of even the smallest scratch, there’s a simple solution to help cover them up and keep your car looking pristine.

    To cover up scratches on your car, grab a bottle of nail polish in a color that matches your car’s paint. Simply apply it to the scratched areas for a quick and easy fix. Nail polish is not only affordable but also comes in many shades, making it a handy item to keep in your car for those unexpected scratch touch-ups.

    No Expensive Cleaning Materials Needed

    While the exterior of your car often gets the most attention, keeping the interior clean is just as important. Thankfully, you don’t need to splurge on pricey cleaning products—there’s a simple household item that works wonders for maintaining a spotless interior!

    Head to your kitchen and grab a few coffee filters to clean your car’s interior surfaces. They’re great for picking up dust and dirt without leaving streaks, and they’re incredibly affordable—you can buy a pack of hundreds for just a few dollars!

    Keep Your Car Trash-free

    Have you ever gotten into your car only to be greeted by a mess of trash everywhere? If you’d like to keep your car tidy and prevent it from turning into a garbage dump, here’s a simple solution that can help you stay organized and clutter-free!

    Head to your kitchen or the nearest dollar store and grab a plastic cereal container. Line it with a plastic bag, then place it inside your car. This simple, improvised trash can gives you a convenient spot to dispose of trash, helping you keep your car clean and organized on the go!

    Melt Ice Quickly

    Winter driving can be challenging, and icy windshields are one of the most common issues. If you’re running late and don’t have time to wait for your car to warm up and melt the ice, there’s a quicker solution to help clear your windshield and get you on your way.

    To speed up the process, mix a solution of 3 parts vinegar and 1 part water in a spray bottle. When you’re ready, spray it onto your frozen windshield. Let it sit for a minute to break down the ice, then wipe it off with a clean cloth or use your windshield wipers to clear it away. This quick hack can save you time and make sure you’re driving safely in no time!

    CONCLUSION

    In conclusion, these brilliant car hacks are simple yet effective solutions that can help make your driving experience safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable. From easy fixes for common issues like frozen locks and foggy headlights to clever ways to keep your car clean and organized, these tips can save you time and money. By using everyday household items and a bit of creativity, you can tackle many car-related challenges without needing professional help. Keep these hacks in mind for your next road trip or daily commute, and you’ll be well on your way to a smoother ride!