2011 New DIYear Resolutions

Just like last year, I've compiled a list of New DIYear Resolutions for 2011.  My "DIYear" resolutions are goals I'd like to accomplish in my house this year (you can see how I did on my 2010 goals here).  This year I've also set modest budgets for each of my goals and I'm hoping all 5 of my resolutions come in under $360.

Here's what's on the agenda for 2011:

Powder Room Update:  When we first moved into our house, the powder room was painted this frightfully bright blue color (it was even more electrifying in person than in this photo).  One of the first projects we did in the house was to paint this room a much more subtle tone, but we haven't done much to the room since then.  The plan is to change the lighting, hardware, mirror, and add art- all for under $75!




Master Bedroom Update:   Our master bedroom is actually one of my favorite rooms in our house.  I love our bedroom furniture and the room's big window.  However, I've grown tired of our bedding and the room needs new accessories and art.  I'd like to reuse accessories from other parts of the house, so I'm hoping to revamp the room for $100 or less -including the new bedding!




Sew New Pillows:  I can't really remember sewing anything since 8th grade home economics class!  I think it's about time I got behind a sewing machine again and created some new pillows for our family room.   We used to have these blue pillows in our family room, but they've since been moved upstairs because I'd like to have a green color scheme in the family room instead.  Sew So, I'd like to make new green pillows for the family room for under $35.




Get (& Stay) Organized:  This resolution is rolling over from last year because there's always room for more organizing.  I made some good strides in getting organized in 2010, but there are still some trouble spots in the house which desperately need to be organized.  My goal for 2011 is to clean up the trouble spots and keep the already organized areas in shape.  There are a few organizational items I'll need to get the job done, but this project is more about getting rid of stuff than buying new stuff, so I'd like to keep the budget to $50.

Basement Improvement:  This goal is still on the list from last year.  We currently have an unfinished basement with a gym, pool table, and storage area.  Finishing a basement is very costly and since we know we want to sell the house within the next few years (and probably won't recoup our investment), I don't want to spend a lot of money on the basement.  However, I would like a warmer feeling space so I've been thinking of creative ways to make the basement feel more finished (without actually finishing it) by using paint and fabric.  If you have any suggestions for this space, I'd love to hear them!  Total budget (crosses fingers) will be $100 or less.

Have you set household goals for yourself in 2011?  Any suggestions for how I can accomplish mine?