Weekend decorator

CLEVER TRICKS AND MINI DECOR PROJECTS... WE ROUND UP THE SIMPLEST, QUICKEST WAYS TO MAKE YOUR HOME MORE BEAUTIFUL NOW

1 EXPERIMENT WITH NEW PLANTS

Bring some new houseplants into your home, whether it's a leafy monstera, some trailing hanging varieties or a terrarium or two.

Play around with different types, sizes and styles, and bring a lush feel to your rooms this season.

2 PAINT A SQUIGGLE BORDER

We've seen curves, waves, scallops and squiggles take hold of homeware in a big way, so why not transfer those patterns onto your walls? Paint a fun freehand squiggle line in place of a border, picture rail or even around a door or window frame to add a playful touch to any room.

3 Upgrade your exterior with a house sign Yester Home has a great selection in slate, enamel, wood, granite or solid cast metal or pick a bespoke option.

4 HIDE THE CLUTTER

Whether it's kids' toys, your collection of Ideal Home mags or the remotes, a storage stool is invaluable for hiding smaller items neatly away, while giving you an extra spot to sit or put your feet up on.

5 HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN HOUSEHOLD CLEANER

Swap out the chemicals and use natural essential oils to refresh your home with a lovely, uplifting scent.

• First, take some essential oils and combine them together: 10 drops each of clove and lemon, five drops each of cinnamon and eucalyptus and two of rosemary. Mix well.

• Add eight drops of the mixture to 250ml witch hazel distillate and again, mix well.

• Take a clean spray bottle and pour your mixture in. Add a label to the front to remind you what it is and use as you wish, to clean surfaces and leave a nice, refreshing fragrance.