Color is often the first thing people think of when decorating, but texture is the secret ingredient that makes a room feel rich, layered, and complete. It’s the tactile and visual element that gives a space depth and personality. The good news? You don’t need a big budget to add plenty of texture to your home.

Here are some budget-friendly ways to add texture to any room, using everything from DIY projects to clever shopping strategies.

Table of Contents

1. Textiles: The Easiest Way to Layer

Textiles are your best friend when it comes to adding texture on a budget. They are easy to change, relatively inexpensive, and come in an endless variety of materials.

Pillows and Throws: Swap out pillow covers to introduce new textures like chunky knits, faux fur, or woven cotton.¹ Drape a throw blanket—a soft fleece, a textured linen, or a tassel-edged design—over your sofa or the foot of your bed to instantly add a cozy feel.²
Rugs: A rug can anchor a room and add a significant amount of texture to the floor.³ Look for affordable options made from materials like jute, sisal, or a shag-pile synthetic for a tactile and visual impact.⁴
Curtains: Don’t settle for flat, plain curtains. Opt for textured fabrics like linen or velvet to add a soft, elegant layer to your windows. Sheer curtains also add a delicate, airy texture that plays beautifully with light.

2. DIY and Upcycling for Textured Walls

You don’t need expensive wallpaper or professional plasterwork to create a textured accent wall. With a little creativity, you can achieve a high-end look for less.

DIY Textured Art: Use materials you can find at any hardware store, like joint compound or spackle, to create abstract, raised patterns on a canvas.⁵ Paint over the dried compound with a single color for a sophisticated, sculptural piece that looks incredibly high-end.
Fabric Wall Hangings: Make your own wall hanging by weaving a simple macrame piece, or use a beautiful patterned scarf or piece of fabric stretched over a wooden dowel.⁶
Reclaimed Wood: Search for free or inexpensive reclaimed wood pallets, old fence planks, or barn wood.⁷ You can create a stunning accent wall, a headboard, or a unique piece of furniture that brings a rustic, natural texture to your space.

3. Natural Elements and Found Objects

Bringing nature indoors is one of the most effective and affordable ways to add organic texture.

Houseplants: Plants are a decorator’s secret weapon.⁸ They introduce a natural, living texture with their varied leaf shapes and forms. The pot itself is another opportunity for texture—think woven baskets, terracotta, or a hammered metal planter.
Woven Baskets: These are a fantastic multi-tasker.⁹ They add a natural, woven texture and can be used for storage, as a planter, or simply as a decorative accent on a shelf or on the floor.
Found Objects: Look for interesting stones, driftwood, or pinecones on your next walk. Displaying them in a simple bowl or a glass vase can add a subtle, organic texture and a personal touch to your decor.

4. Accessories and Furniture Finishes

Even the smallest details can make a big difference. Think about the surfaces and finishes of your accessories and furniture.

Mix and Match Materials: When arranging accessories on a shelf or coffee table, try to combine different materials.¹⁰ Pair a smooth ceramic vase with a textured stone coaster and a shiny metal tray. This creates visual interest and makes the space feel more curated.
Textured Furniture: Look for furniture with interesting finishes. A rustic wood side table, a rattan chair, or a piece of furniture with a leather or upholstered finish can all add a new textural layer. Thrifting for furniture is a great way to find unique pieces with character and a worn-in texture that tells a story.¹¹
Books: The spines and pages of books add a wonderful texture to any bookshelf or tabletop.¹² Stack them horizontally and vertically to create a dynamic display.

By focusing on these budget-friendly strategies, you can transform a flat, one-dimensional space into a layered, inviting home that’s rich with personality and style. Happy decorating!