Image Credit: Kim Lucian
by LISA FREEDMAN
Image Credit: Diana Paulson
You don’t need to spend a small fortune making your kitchen better. To prove it, we’ve rounded up 10 of our smartest ideas for a more pleasing, more functional kitchen — all for $5 or less.
Image Credit: Sylvie Li
First, round up stuff you already have (think: recipe cards, menus, napkins, magazine covers, etc.!) and then either find frames for everything at the dollar store or just try one of these smart ways to hang stuff without frames.
Image Credit: Lisa Freedman
It takes just minutes to put on (even for the less crafty among us) and adds a nice pop of color every time you open up your cabinet doors.
Image Credit: Esteban Cortez
A little greenery can go a long way. Hit up your local nursery or hardware store and you can certainly find a little guy for just $5 or less.
Image Credit: Lauren Kolyn
Table lamps are probably a misnomer — because they look great on counters too! Steal one from another room and set it up on your counter.
Image Credit: Joe Lingeman
Style it up with your salt, pepper, and other frequently used ingredients and you’ll have everything you need within reach. Plus, it looks more purposeful this way versus if you just lined it all up against the wall.
Image Credit: Joe Lingeman
Pick up chalkboard labels like the ones above from your local craft store, or just get a set of glass pens (less than $5 each!) and write directly on your jars.
Image Credit: Ellie Arciaga Lillstrom
Got any extra vases sitting around? Put one to use holding your utensils. If you have a few vases, sort like tools with like. No more digging around in a drawer!
Image Credit: Maria Siriano
After being closed up these last few months, things are probably a little stale. Try simmering lemon wedges in some water to freshen up the room.
Image Credit: Joe Lingeman/Kitchn
Just take two cake pans and some marbles to make a DIY lazy Susan on the cheap.
Image Credit: Ellie Arciaga Lillstrom
Order some cup hooks and screw them into the bottom of a shelf or your upper cabinets. This way, you can display your favorite mugs and free up some cabinet space.