I’ve always believed that decorating a home should be a slow, intentional process. When you rush to finish a space too quickly, it can end up feeling overly curated—almost too perfect. A home should feel effortless, a true reflection of who you are and what matters most to you. Creating that kind of space takes time, which is why I’ve always found it challenging to choose artwork for my home.
To me, artwork should spark conversation, tell a story, or tie together different design elements in a way that feels natural. And let’s be honest—that kind of piece isn’t always easy to find. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve definitely grabbed a few pretty prints from Hobby Lobby or At Home in a pinch to complete a room. But more often than not, I end up losing interest within a few months and start hunting for something new to replace it.
As my style has evolved, I’ve found myself craving artwork that feels truly one-of-a-kind—something I won’t see in every home tour on Pinterest. I’ve even toyed with the idea of picking up painting as a hobby just to see if I could create something worthy of hanging in my living room (TBD on that one, LOL!). But funny enough, inspiration struck in the most unexpected place—a vintage flea market. I went in searching for unique clothing finds and walked out with a completely new idea for DIY artwork!
One particular booth instantly caught my eye—it had a mix of cool home décor pieces, fun costume jewelry, and stacks of vintage magazine ads. The vendor had carefully tucked these stunning ads from the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s into long manila folders, selling them five for $20. I must have spent a solid 15 minutes (though it felt like an hour) flipping through them, completely mesmerized by the colors, the design, and the messaging behind each one.
As a marketing girlie, I can’t help but dissect ads and commercials—basically anything meant to grab attention. I love thinking about what the creators were trying to sell and how they conceptualized their ideas. And then, right there, mid-scroll through decades of vintage brilliance, it hit me: “Marie, why not pop these ads into simple frames and turn them into beautiful, vintage DIY artwork for your home?”
I grabbed what felt like ten pieces—but in reality, was only five—and walked away feeling so excited to create my own vintage DIY artwork. Now that they’re framed and styled, I can’t wait to share how they turned out and how I’m incorporating them throughout my home.
What I love most about this DIY artwork project is how versatile these pieces are. Since they’re not too big, I can easily move them from shelf to shelf or room to room, letting my inspiration shift with the seasons. Every time I look at them, I’m reminded of how resourceful I can be when I set out to find something truly special. It’s also a creative way to honor the industry I work in—one that I deeply appreciate for its endless depth of creativity and inspiration.
Tips for Shopping Vintage to Create DIY Artwork for Your Home
If you’re feeling inspired to do some vintage shopping of your own and hunt for artwork pieces, I want to share a few of my favorite tips for finding the perfect vintage gems to turn into DIY artwork for your home.
Know Where to Look
Flea markets, antique shops, thrift stores, and estate sales are goldmines for vintage paper goods. Online spots like eBay, Etsy, and even Facebook Marketplace can also have some hidden gems—you just have to dig a little!
Look for Pieces That Feel Unique
When sifting through vintage ads, focus on colors, typography, and themes that fit your style. The best part about DIY artwork for your home is that it’s personal, so choose pieces that spark joy or nostalgia when you see them!
Check the Condition
A little wear and tear can add to the charm, but you don’t want something that’s falling apart. Look for pieces with minimal creasing, fading, or stains—unless you love that perfectly imperfect, well-loved look.
Think About Sizing and Framing
Before buying, picture where you’ll display the piece. Standard frame sizes make life easier, but you can also get creative with floating frames or custom matting for a high-end feel.
Mix and Match for an Eclectic Look
Don’t feel like you have to stick to just one era or style! Pair a ’50s fashion ad with a ’70s travel poster, or mix bold graphics with softer illustrations to create a gallery wall that feels collected over time.
Get Creative with How You Display It
Frames are great, but don’t sleep on other fun ways to showcase your finds! Try pinning them to a mood board, layering them on bookshelves, or using clipboards for a more relaxed, artsy vibe.
Make It Meaningful
The best part about DIY artwork for your home is that it tells a story. Whether it’s a vintage Chanel ad, an old-school food campaign, or a retro print that reminds you of childhood, choose pieces that feel special to you. That way, your home truly reflects your style and personality!
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