4 Denim DIY Ideas to Upgrade Your Tired Old Jeans

Rustoleum Tub & Tile Refinishing Kit ($50)

I know this gained recent traction because a few years ago, it was available everywhere. Now? It’s a miracle to find it in stock — and withs good reason. This smelly, yet simple product gives your bathtub or dated tile a total facelift. I used this to “paint”both of my 1980s almond-colored bathtubs and shower inserts. Yes, painted. This is the budget-friendly alternative to ripping out your bathtub or shower surround. The two-step kit comes with 1) your color of choice (I picked bright white), and 2) a sealant that makes it waterproof.

Rustoleum Floor Coating Kit ($70)

Tile can be really expensive to replace and even more tedious to remove yourself. This user-friendly kit is designed to cover and seal your floor while giving it a brand new look. Our bathroom floors were also that awful off-white color, and painting them black was exactly what the room needed. The product description boasts that it can be applied to “a wide range of flooring types including ceramic tile, porcelain tile, concrete, hard wood, laminate, vinyl and more.” It comes in several colors with a matte or semi-gloss finish.

Paint & Sealant Grout Pen ($9)

Maybe your tile is in good shape, but your grout has probably seen better days. It’s not uncommon for grout to get dingy over the year, even when properly maintained. If your tile’s grout needs a bit of a touch up, this fine-tip grout pen can save you hundreds of dollars. It has a precision tip, low odor, and dries quickly for an instant refresh.

Touch-Up Paint Pen (Pack of 2 for $20)

Save yourself a headache or two and stock up on a few of these touch-up paint pens. The refillable pens allow you to keep paint inside and easily cover scruffs, marks, or scratches that inevitably happen in a lived-in home. It keeps paint fresh for up to 7 years so you don’t have to worry about the mess and hassle of finding the paint color, opening the can, and painting the wall — all for just a tiny spot. Bonus points for labeling each color so you know which room it corresponds to.

Brick White Wash Kit ($50)

If your home features brick interior accents, or you have a brick fireplace that feels dated, you can easily refresh it by whitewashing it. This kit eliminates most of the guesswork when it comes to proper measurements and application. You can customize how dark of a wash you want and easily complete this project in a week.

Stain Markers ($15)

No need to panic over scratches or stains on your wood furniture — this pack of markers and wax crayons allows you to discreetly cover up imperfections. The pack comes with a variety of shades that can be used by themselves, or in tandem to customize the color. If you’re shopping secondhand, these are a must. They revive well-loved pieces and restore them to their former glory without much effort.

Leather Repair Kit ($25)

Leather that’s been used and loved often tends to show wear and tear that seem irreversible. I’m here to tell you it’s possible to revive that beat up leather couch of yours, and it luckily doesn’t involve spending hundreds of dollars for it to be reupholstered. This leather repair kit allows you to mix the perfect shade of leather and bring your old couch back to life.

Peel-and-stick Wallpaper ($36)

Renter-friendly wallpaper has been around for awhile, but if your earlier experiences were negative, I highly encourage you to try again. Peel-and-stick wallpaper has come a long way in terms of durability, available patterns, and ease of installation. Most brands make their wallpaper in this less permanent design, which relies on a self-adhesive to hold to your wall rather than a wallpaper paste. The best part is that if you change your mind or move out, it peels right off. You can find every pattern under the sun, as well as some finishes to get your creative wheels turning. For example, this marble wallpaper/contact paper can adhere to countertops or desks for a faux marble finish that looks expensive but isn’t. Additionally, removable wall decals are hugely popular if paint isn't an option, or you’re worried about getting clean lines.

Decorative Window Film For Style And Privacy ($10)

If you live close to your neighbors, you may always be choosing between privacy and natural light. These decorative window films allow light to filter in without having your home on display to the whole neighborhood. Not to mention, some bounce light in a fun and unique way that acts as art itself. You can even find some pretty stunning “stained glass” variations that add character and charm to your home while also being practical. It’s absolutely simple to do and can even be cut to fit your specific window.

Magnetic Garage Door Accents ($17)

Curb appeal can be a big expense and headache. But small changes can ultimately make a big impact, and that’s what I love about these magnetic garage door accents. They stick right to your garage door without impeding its use, but still add a custom, high-end look. It seems silly to ever invest in a new garage door or “real” accents when something this realistic and easy exists.

So we’ve already shown you how to repurpose your old stacks of magazines, but in case none of those tickled your fancy we’ve got one more DIY for you. DIY magazine wall art! Ta dah! This DIY Basic is super simple. In just five easy steps you can create wall art that is fun, original, and packed with color.

Materials:

• Magazines
• Canvas/wood/board
• Hot glue sticks
• Pattern
• Tape

Tools:

• Hot glue gun
• Scissors

Instructions:

1. Print and cut out a silhouetted shape.
2. Tear out a bunch of magazine pages. Fold in half twice to get four small rectangles.
3. Start to roll! Try to keep the magazine rolls as tight as possible. Tape the end to avoid it from unraveling.
4. Hot glue your magazine roll-ups to your silhouette. Once the silhouette is covered, trim off the extra magazine pieces. This will reveal your silhouetted shape.
5. Glue magazine silhouette to your wood board.

Time to get started! Cut out your silhouette from scrap paper.

Next you want to tear up those pages. First fold the page in half and tear down the center, then fold in half again and tear. Now you will have tons of small rectangles ready to roll.

Start at the edge and tightly roll the page into a cylinder. Secure the end with a piece of tape.

You’re going to need a lot of roll-ups ;) Try to pick magazine pages that have fun colors!

Using the hot glue gun, glue the roll ups onto your silhouette. Don’t worry about covering the smaller sections. Once you trim off the excess roll up you will have smaller pieces that will fit into those tiny spaces quite perfectly!

Trim the excess magazine to reveal your silhouetted shape. Remember, don’t throw away those tiny pieces.

Patch up those paws!

Look at those colors!

Time to mount your silhouette to a board. We used a thin wood board that we found at the art store. You can use wood, cardboard, illustrator board, etc. You could even go directly on the wall. Wait, do I see one brown hand?!

This bear is ready to hang.

I spy San Francisco! :)

We couldn’t do a post about wall art without doing a geometric pattern! Try grouping the same colors together, this gives it a fun color blocking effect.

Italian Hand Pies

Follow this exact recipe for a fully vegan Christmas appetizer, or choose your own adventure by making swaps for the plant-based picks. No matter how you make them, these savory hand pies will taste amazing for a pre-dinner snack.

Chocolate-Covered Cheese Bites

You'd never guess it, but certain kinds of chocolates and cheeses work well together, kind of like snack and wine pairings. This appetizer-ready recipe combines Parmigiano Reggiano and bitter dark chocolate for a mind-blowingly merry munchie.

Greek Stuffed Mushrooms

To make these bite-sized Christmas appetizers, you'll essentially stuff mushrooms full of the contents of Greek salad. That means this pick is super healthy, but also super customizable, too. If you'd rather stuff your mushrooms with melty cheese, there's nothing stopping you!

Sesame Shrimp Puffs

This savory, layered snack takes flavor inspiration from Asian dishes, which will totally make it a standout among the more traditional holiday dishes you're serving this season.

Butter Candles

If you make a butter candle as a Christmas appetizer, just know it's gonna be the talk of the table. When lit, it will not only generate some seriously melty butter to dip crusty bread in, but it will add to the cozy Christmas dinner ambience, burning warm light.

Bacon Pastry Twists with Beer Cheese Dip

All you have to say is "cheese dip," and your dinner guests will flock to the snack area. To complete the appetizer, make these easy bacon twists that are crafted with pre-made pastry dough. (via Brit + Co.)

Keto Cheese Ball

Keto or not, you'll be blown away by this cheese ball. It's covered in chives and bacon crumbles, the ultimate duo to pair with crunchy crackers.

Spinach Dip

Spinach dip is a no-fail Christmas appetizer. You can serve it hot or cold, and it's going to be delicious every single time.

Smoked Salmon Poke Bites

If you love sushi but don't want to eat a whole roll before Christmas dinner, this appetizer is the perfect pick for you. With smoked salmon, rice, avocado, and onions, everyone will want more of these delicious bites. They're super easy to customize too, so you can leave out (or add) whatever toppings you want.

Baked French Onion Meatballs

Meatballs are one of the greatest Christmas appetizers because they're bite-sized and delicious. We'd definitely consider that a win-win. This French-themed recipe features cremini mushrooms, garlic, and gruyere cheese for some seriously rich flavor.

Vegan Butter Board Recipe

Butter boards are one TikTok trend that we can totally get behind, and this updated version gives the dish a sweet (and healthy) twist with vegan butter and plenty of berries. Coconut flakes and almonds add some texture, but if your guests have allergies, simply leave them off!

Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potatoes

This delicious Christmas appetizer is a great way to complement the all kinds of recipes that you'll be having throughout the holiday season. Since they take less than an hour to make, they're great as a pre-dinner snack while the ham is in the oven. They're easy, they're delicious, and they're Paleo!

Beet Hummus

Add some vibrant color to your holiday appetizer game with this superfood dip. Dress it up with festive veggies like rainbow carrots, watermelon radish, and golden beets. Talk about eye candy!

Sweet Potato + Feta + Honey Appetizer

This holiday appetizer provides a mouthwatering balance between sweet and salty that will definitely make its way to your table year after year. Spice it up with some extra seasoning or leave it as-is based on your preference. Either way, don't worry about setting out the Tupperware — you won't have any leftovers!

Vegan Baked Brie Recipe

Baked brie is one of our favorite Christmas appetizers, but if you usually can't take part in the creamy goodness, have no fear. This vegan recipe swaps regular cheese for a cashew-based alternative. You can use cashews to make a convincingly creamy dip, and the nutritional yeast in this pick gives it a cheesy flavor that's almost too good to be true.

Vegetable Pinwheels

You can make these cream cheese and veggie pinwheels with any filling you prefer, making it a dish that gives you a ton of variety at the snack table. They're so colorful, too! Try this Christmas appetizer with different types of wraps or try filling them with fruit for even more snackage.

Easy Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers

These flaky, cheesy, and spicy poppers are *the* go-to Christmas appetizer idea when you want big flavor, but are short on time. Use veggie cream cheese instead of regular to give this snack a fuller flavor.

Cranberry Brie Pastry Tarts

What's more festive than cranberries and brie? Bright, cheery, and just a bit sweet, this Christmas appetizer recipe is exactly what any party needs to get going. And they're simple to make, too!

Red Cooking Wine Caramelized Onion Baked Brie

Baked brie is not only a fan-favorite Christmas hors d'oeuvre, but it's quick to throw in the oven while you're working on your other appetizers. This recipe uses caramelized onions and a little bit of wine to bring out the flavors of the cheese. We love eating this cheese with crackers and fruit.

Vegan Smoked “Salmon” Cheese Rolls

If you love the elegance of sushi but don't want to leave fish out all night, this might be the best Christmas appetizer recipe for you. You'll never guess what the vegan salmon is made from. These are also a great way to make sure any vegan family members at the party aren't excluded.

Citrus Marinated Olives and Feta

For something tangy and savory to snack on, look no further than this recipe. Besides being full of tasty flavor, telling your family that you marinated your own olives will make for a toothsome conversation starter!

Need Menu Ideas? Steal These Christmas Finger Food Recipes.

Let's save the forks and knives for dinner! Finger foods are easy for both prep and clean up. All you need is a few small plates and napkins, and your friends and family can enjoy these holiday appetizers at their leisure. Finger foods are also great for kids because they're often bite-sized, but that doesn't mean that everyone can't enjoy them! From bacon-wrapped scallops to Chinese chicken egg rolls, don't be surprised if these Christmas appetizers leave your guests speechless.

Holiday Pomegranate Guacamole on Roasted Sweet Potato Toasts

What's red and green and sweet underneath? These festive Christmas party appetizers topped with pomegranate seeds and guacamole! With so many different consistencies and flavors coming together, this recipe really provides an appetizer experience like no other.

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Shrimp cocktail is always a hit — especially when you serve it in a fancy glass! These shrimp are served with a zesty cocktail sauce and to add that Mexican flair, they're topped with a refreshing tomato and avocado relish to make them a holiday appetizer recipe to remember.

Vegan Walnut, Sage, and Cranberry Stuffed Holiday Mushrooms

Mushrooms were meant to be stuffed — and when you pop one of these tasty and easy holiday appetizers into your mouth, you'll agree. The nutty, herbaceous, and slightly sweet filling creates a palate pleaser that will wow all your friends.

Charcuterie Wreath

The only thing we love more than a Christmas appetizer is a themed Christmas appetizer, and this charcuterie wreath is just perf! It's a cute (and festive) take on the usual cheese board. Use plenty of rosemary sprigs for some greenery and throw in a few chocolate pieces for good measure.

Bacon-Wrapped Scallops With Cajun Cream Sauce

The bacon-wrapped scallop is kicked up with a creamy and dreamy Cajun sauce. This is one recipe that's tasty enough to be made all year long!

Maple Rosemary Roasted Nuts

Warm, aromatic roasted nuts help you stay cozy when it's cold outside, and the maple and rosemary flavors in this holiday hors d'oeuvre work so nicely together. Not only do these make a tasty appetizer, but you can fill your go-to candy jar with them for a snack all holiday season long.

Chinese Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Egg Rolls + Sweet Chile Pomegranate Sauce

You've never seen egg rolls like this. The crispy egg rolls become swoon-worthy bites when mixed with the sweet, tart pomegranate dipping sauce. Since pomegranates are in season in wintertime, make sure to get a few to make some extra holiday recipes.

Crispy Caprese Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

We understand that people share a deep love for crock pots full of Swedish meatballs, but these babies take the cake. Stuffed with gooey mozzarella, these meatballs will totally become a holiday tradition.

Try These Delicious Dip Ideas For Christmas Eve!

By the time Christmas Eve comes around, you've probably already made half a dozen appetizers for your office party, your friend's White Elephant gift exchange, and your family's Christmas dinner. If you're feeling burnt out on regular finger foods, go for a dip instead! Dips are a great way to make a customizable appetizer that everyone will be able to enjoy. Make some sweet and savory dips to give guests a few different options, and pair 'em with your favorite cracker, veggie, or even cookies. Chef's kiss!

Cheesy Artichoke Dip

A party just isn't a party without a melty dip! Get ready for a little extra indulgence with this ooey-gooey mixture that's packed with plump artichokes and topped with toasty breadcrumbs for an easy Christmas appetizer. Our mouths are watering!

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

A pop of dried cranberries makes this holiday cheese ball a tart and savory Christmas-themed appetizer to make for your next holiday bash. It's an unconventional take on a cheese ball that uses your favorite traditional holiday ingredients.

Curry Hummus

Why have run-of-the-mill appetizers for a Christmas party when you can have curry hummus? This recipe is easy to follow, even if you've never made your own hummus before. We love to dip carrots and cucumbers, but the veggies you pick are totally up to you.

Bacon Wrapped Potatoes with Warm Apple Cream Cheese Dip

The apple cream cheese dip paired with these fluffy and crunchy potato bites will add a nice, sweet touch to your Christmas dinner table. It's safe to say that no one else will have an appetizer quite like this!

Cheesy Chicken Fritters

What's better than tender chicken, mozzarella that help prepare your taste buds for Christmas dinner? We highly suggest you cook this easy recipe.

Vegan Jalapeno Poppers

If you want something that's cheesy and gluten-free, try prepping these vegan jalapeño poppers for a spicy Christmas appetizer idea.

Hot Cheesy Spinach Dip

This tasty spinach dip is the icing on the cake for all the other holiday appetizers you'll be serving. Just ensure that you bake it to bubble perfection, that way your cheese pulls will be epic.

Southern Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried green tomatoes are a southern staple that 1000% deserve a seat at your Christmas table this year. The salty, crunchy outer contrasts beautifully with the tender inner veg, but the real magic lies within the dipping sauce you make to serve this app.

Olive Artichoke Crostini

If the idea of eating a finger sandwich doesn't sound fancy enough for your holiday soiree, this olive + artichoke crostini recipe is going to hit the spot. This Christmas appetizer is unbelievably easy too customize, too, so you can accomodate for the vegans and vegetarians in your life.

Bang Bang Chicken

This recipe is a take on Bonefish Grill's famous Bang Bang Shrimp – yum! What makes this holiday appetizer recipe extra-special is that it doesn't exclude those who may have a seafood allergy, using chicken instead.

Shrimp Cocktail

Should you have some seafood-lovers stopping by on Christmas, cater directly to them by whipping up this quick and easy shrimp cocktail recipe! Here's how to make it:

(via Clamato)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, deveined and chopped
• 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ cup Clamato®
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 Hass avocado, diced
• ½ mango, diced (optional)
• Cilantro for garnish

Directions:

1. In a bowl, add the lemon juice, olive oil, cilantro, sugar, Clamato, hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir for a few seconds and set the salsa aside.
3. Add in the avocado, mango (if you like mango), and shrimp.
4. Put the shrimp in a schooner-type glass and pour salsa on top.
5. Garnish with cilantro and serve.