Just when you thought your bookcases couldn’t get any cuter?

They can.

I went looking for a carved wooden chain for a stack of books for the bookcase and fell down a rabbit hole.

So many cute finds that were SO AFFORDABLE.

It’s like everyone who designs home decor all had a conference and decided everyone needed to decorate their bookcases on a budget.

I’m here for all of it.

And because we are friends I had to share.

So just in case you have a bookcase and a budget?

This is the post for you.

Here are 15 things to make your bookcase smile.

1. Felted plants

My sister made this for me.

It’s a felt succulent in a terra cotta pot.

I found super similar options on Etsy including these polka-dotted cactuses.

And the best part?

You never have to water.

And while I was looking? I found this creative vase idea for garden cuttings.

2. Metal galvanized boxes

Nothing makes a bookcase happier than a set of metal boxes.

These are discontinued, but I found some that are super similar here.

And this one with a wooden lid.

And this galvanized metal bread box.

See what I mean? Hello rabbit hole. Nice to meet you.

3. Galvanized metal sphere

I have these metal spheres everywhere.

They look cute and don’t take up a lot of room and are perfect for stacking on top of boxes or books or adding to a bookshelf as a bookend or putting on top of a pedestal.

Here’s another great option, too, that I have on my downstairs bookcase.

4. Lanterns

I love lanterns on a bookcase for height.

And my favorite lanterns have metal and wood like this one from Walmart.

It also comes in a black and white version, too.

5. Candlesticks

See those wooden candlesticks at the top of the bookshelf?

I have them everywhere.

They are affordable and cute and you can add them in groups of three or four to add even more visual interest.

You can find them at yard sales and here’s a really cute version here.

And see that flower box on the first shelf? It’s actually a diffuser. You use it without electricity and just add oil to the inside of the diffuser.

You can see it here.

6. Terrariums

Just typing that word makes me so happy.

I love this SUPER affordable terrarium here.

And this spray atomizer that looks like it stepped out of the pages of a movie.

7. Wooden chain

But are you thinking—what about the wooden chain that started this search?

No worries.

I found this one.

And this one.

But in the end? I decided to DIY it.

That’s the thing about rabbit holes (and home decor) you just never know where you’re going to end up.

PS Stay tuned for the DIY on the chain coming to a bookcase near you.

The pictures in this post were taken by the amazing Kenna Lynn Photo.

disclosure: affiliate links are used in this post.

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Posted On: July 26, 2021

Written By: KariAnne Wood

Comments

  1. Image for CRISTIE A MORTON CRISTIE A MORTON

    I need your Help! I bought one of those Flower Box defusers BUT I don't know What Kind of oil to buy‼️ Can you point me in the right direction?

    Reply
    1. Image for jillian jillian

      You can find a large selection of essential oils at your health food store. Lavender is nice for relaxing, and there are also nice blends. Many people like multilevel companies like Doterra etc, but they are way overpriced and the "therapeutic" claim is not a real thing. I like NOW and Oshadi as well as Auracacia, I have used these oils since the 70's. (!) You can look on etsy for ideas and make your own mixes. There is one called "Theives" to copy which is good to protect from flus and viruses.

      Reply
  4. Image for DeMarie Ingraham DeMarie Ingraham

    Great finds, and look wonderful where you placed them. You have the most infectious smile. It would brighten any room.

    Reply
  7. Image for kim kurpita kim kurpita

    I think I have already told you that you are by far my favorite. I spend hours on weekends going through all you send, ( I clean up the house first ) LOL. But you and I have spent many weekend hours together. My Husband on the other hand isnt as fond. He wanted me to tell you he is happy you make me so happy BUT it always costs him money. Oh well You cant make everyone happy right. Im on the bookcase thing right now and planning which I should order. Keep up the good work. Kim

    Reply
  11. Image for Michele M. Michele M.

    You and your bookcases look pretty danged spiffy, KA. Your photographer is awesome! As for your chain, can't wait for its reveal. Always thought they were so cool looking.

    Reply
  12. Image for Stacy Stacy

    You inspire me constantly! You look amazing and so happy! I’m 5’ tall and working on my weight! It’s so hard at 51! But every time I see you It makes me feel like I can do it! Thank you! I also LOVE “What I bought Wednesdays!” 🥰

    Reply

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