10 Quick Kitchen Improvements

All you need is a weekend and a willing kitchen for these low-cost, low-effort kitchen rejuvenation ideas.

1 Wake Up Your Walls

Get a new look with a fresh coat of paint. Or try something different. Use a projector to trace and paint your own specialized details. Add texture with a do-it-yourself Venetian finish, which includes a layer of plaster that goes directly over walls (available at paint and craft stores).

2 Change Your Hardware

Drawer pulls and knobs are easy to install and come in a range of prices and styles, form whimsical to historical to classic. Go head: Mix and match two, three or even four different styles in the same space.

3 Re-Dress Your Windows

Look at your window coverings with new eyes. Maybe it's time to revive those plain old blinds, or replace those outdated curtains with some sheer panels.

4 Add Elegant Details

Cabinetry add-ons, no matter how small, can effect dramatic change. Add bun feet to existing lower cabinets. Place crown molding above upper cabinets. Add elegant architectural touches with onlays (decorative trim or wood appliques) or corbels (under-cabinet brackets).

5 Upgrade and Update

Replace old or outdated items, big or small. Buy a new set of dish towels in a cheery shade, or change the display items in the space between your cabinets and the ceiling. Trade in that old dented toaster for a deluxe model, or spring for that one awesome appliance you've always dreamt of. Retro styles and fresh color choices (and function) abound!

6 Re-Coat Your Cabinets

Painting or refinishing your cabinets costs less than redoing your entire kitchen, but can change a lot. Two more ideas: Paint one part of your cabinets, such as the trim or the main panel, or leave your lower cabinets as is and paint your upper cabinets white.

7 Glamorize with Glass

Exchange wood panels in a couple of your cabinet doors for panes of textured, seeded or frosted glass that gleam in the spring sunshine.

8 Recover and Rejuvenate

To change their old personalities, paint your wood chairs, barstools or breakfast nook benches a bright, new color. Another option: fresh upholstery. Seat covers alone require minimal investment, but provide maximum effect.

9 Beautify Your Backsplash

For a dramatic new look, use the space for eye-catching elements like glass, ceramic or terra-cotta tile, glazed or tumbled marble -- even metallics. To economize, save the high-end tile for the area behind your cooktop.