DIY Clothespin Starburst Wall Art: A Budget-Friendly Decor Project

Can you guess what inexpensive material this starburst is made from?

Hello everyone! I’m Holly, and I’m absolutely thrilled to be sharing my very first guest blog post. I’m hoping it all goes smoothly!

I’m a bit (okay, maybe more than a bit) obsessed with vintage sunbursts and starbursts – whatever you prefer to call them – as wall art. I have a collection of brass urchins displayed on my home office wall. I also have a quirky vintage starburst hanging planter that adds charm to my bedroom. And, I can’t forget the West Elm mirrored starburst that brightens up the space above my stove. I even collect a specific brand of vintage mid-century dinnerware called Franciscan Starburst.

Now, you might think that would be enough to satisfy my starburst cravings, but that’s definitely not the case! I had a brilliant idea (if I do say so myself!) to create a starburst installation on a bare wall in my home. As an interior design intern, I’m always conscious of budget constraints. This “working for free” situation has me constantly brainstorming ways to create stunning starbursts that are incredibly cheap and awesome. I’m excited to share my newest creation using clothespins to kick off this installation!

If you love the idea too, here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Materials and Tools (Under $10)

96 wooden clothespins (I found mine at a local store for around $4 per pack of 96)
Embroidery hoops (I had some leftover from a previous project creating wood veneer pendant lights)
A can of spray paint (I used Rust-O-Leum Specialty Metallic paint in a shiny gold finish)
Thin wire

Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Your Clothespin Starburst

Attach the Clothespins: Clip the clothespins evenly around the wooden embroidery hoops. Space them out to create a balanced and visually appealing design.
Spray Painting: Once the clothespins are securely attached, it’s time to add some color! Use your chosen spray paint to coat the hoops and clothespins. Ensure you achieve an even and consistent finish. Gold spray paint provides a classic and elegant look, but feel free to experiment with other colors to match your personal style. Allow the paint to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Adjust the Size: The beauty of this project is its versatility! You can make your starburst as large or as small as you desire. I originally planned on using just two hoops but got excited and decided to incorporate all 96 clothespins, adding a third hoop to the design. My final piece measures approximately 20 inches in diameter. Consider the available space on your wall and adjust the number of hoops accordingly to create a proportionally pleasing piece.
Connecting the Hoops: To assemble the final starburst, connect the hoops using thin wire. Securely fasten the wire at multiple points around the circumference of each hoop to create a stable and cohesive structure. This step ensures that the starburst maintains its shape and can be easily hung on the wall.

Displaying Your Clothespin Starburst

Now that your stunning clothespin starburst is complete, it’s time to display it proudly! Hang it on your wall and enjoy the unique and eye-catching addition to your home decor. You can connect the hoops with wire, as I did, or scatter them individually on the wall for a more whimsical and eclectic look. Let your creativity shine and experiment with different arrangements to find the perfect fit for your space.

This fabulous creation also makes a stunning table centerpiece. Simply place a pillar candle in the center (perfect for the upcoming holidays!) or add a round mirror to create a dazzling focal point. The possibilities are endless!

This simple craft repurposes everyday items into beautiful and unique decor, making it a fun and rewarding project for anyone looking to add a personal touch to their home without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting out, this clothespin starburst is a great way to explore your creativity and add a touch of vintage charm to your living space.

More Ideas and Inspiration

Don’t stop with just one starburst! Consider creating a gallery wall featuring multiple starbursts of different sizes and colors. You can also experiment with different materials, such as wooden skewers or craft sticks, to create variations on this design. Get inspired by online resources and tutorials, and let your imagination run wild!

Another variation involves adding embellishments to the clothespins. Consider gluing on small beads, sequins, or glitter to add a touch of sparkle and glamour. You can also paint the clothespins individually with different colors or patterns to create a more vibrant and playful design.

For a more rustic look, consider using unfinished wooden clothespins and staining them with a dark wood stain. This will give your starburst a more natural and earthy feel. You can also incorporate natural elements, such as twigs or dried flowers, into the design to add texture and visual interest.

This DIY clothespin starburst is not only a great way to decorate your own home, but it also makes a thoughtful and unique gift for friends and family. Handmade gifts are always appreciated, and this starburst is sure to be a conversation starter in any home.

Experiment with different sizes and configurations. Try creating a large, statement-making starburst for your living room or a smaller, more delicate starburst for your bedroom. You can also hang multiple starbursts together to create a dramatic and eye-catching display.

So there you have it – a simple, affordable, and fun DIY project that will add a touch of vintage charm to your home. Gather your supplies, unleash your creativity, and get ready to create your own stunning clothespin starburst!

Until next time…

Holly Westhoff is the founder of Adventures of an Almost 40 Year Old Intern, where she chronicles her experience of starting over from executive to intern and also shares lots of intern budget-friendly projects. (She works for free).