Turn Those Egg Cartons From Trash To Designer With This Faux Brick DIY

Exposed brick walls are a timeless trend inviting a unique textural element to any space. While it may be overwhelming to have an entire room devoted to the construction material, adding an accent area is a game changer. Brick is an expensive material though, and building a single wall runs between $3,700 to $7,000 on average. It's also quite a permanent medium, lending to a big decision on the future look of your home. Fortunately, with a little creativity, you can implement a faux version of this style with no contractor needed.

Creating your own home decor is a fun and rewarding experience. Reducing your carbon footprint on the planet while doing so is even better. Using recycled materials in your accent wall does just this. If you're looking for a simple and affordable faux block, there's a solution you've probably never thought of before – egg cartons. This humble kitchen staple comes in several varieties. For this project, you'll use the cardboard version, which is made from pulped paper products. It's hard to believe an old egg carton will change the way you look at your space, but it's true. Check out how to make designer DIY brickwork on a budget.

There's no one way to DIY a fake brick wall. From peel and stick to wallpaper to paint, the options are endless. This simple hack is a cheap, hands-on way to update a space. All you need is a large supply of recycled egg cartons (the 30-egg flats are a good choice), some white glue or gypsum powder, water, and a brick mold. You can make your own out of a cardboard box in the approximate size and shape you want, or buy one. Walmart sells a stone paver cast for $12.40. One thing to keep in mind before beginning is that due to drying times, this is quite a time-consuming project.

The first step is the same no matter which binding agent you use. Tear the cardboard into tiny pieces and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Once soft, drain it and add either white glue or gypsum to bind it. For a simple short-term look, you can also use it as is without any additional ingredients. Next, press the paper clay product into your chosen mold and let it dry. Remove from the cast and apply to your walls with an interior adhesive like Liquid Nails Latex from The Home Depot for $2.78. Repeat until the chosen area is covered, and paint it to reflect your desired aesthetic. Whether you go with water, gypsum, or glue, this project will transform egg cartons into stylish DIY home decor without breaking the bank.