The Vikings, seafaring warriors from Scandinavia, are known for their unique and captivating history, filled with tales of exploration, conquest, and mythological beliefs.
If you are looking to infuse your living space with some of this intriguing culture, we have compiled a list of 5 easy DIY projects to create Viking-inspired home decor. From wall art to textiles, these ideas will help you transform your space into a Norse haven.
Rune-Inspired Wall Art
Runic alphabets were a writing system used by the Vikings and other Germanic tribes. Create eye-catching wall art by painting or drawing runes on canvas, wood, or any other material that suits your space.
Choose a meaningful quote or phrase in Old Norse, then use a reference guide to represent each letter with a corresponding rune.
You can use natural colors like brown, grey, and black to maintain an authentic feel or go for bolder shades to make the artwork pop.
Materials:
- Canvas, wood, or other preferred material
- Acrylic paints or markers
- Paintbrushes
- Old Norse phrase or quote
- Runic alphabet reference guide
Viking Shield Wall Decor
Viking shields were round and often decorated with intricate patterns and designs. To make your own shield wall decor, find a large, round wooden piece or cut a circle from a plywood sheet.
Sand the edges for a smooth finish, then paint the shield with a base color, such as black or dark red. Add your desired pattern or design using contrasting colors. Once dry, attach a wall-mounting bracket and display your Viking-inspired shield proudly.
Materials:
- Round wooden piece or plywood sheet
- Sandpaper
- Acrylic paints
- Paintbrushes
- Wall-mounting bracket
Norse-Themed Throw Pillows
Incorporate Viking-inspired textiles into your home by creating your own Norse-themed throw pillows. You can either sew your own pillowcases or purchase plain, ready-made ones.
Add Viking patterns and symbols, such as the Helm of Awe, Valknut, or Mjölnir, using fabric paint or embroidery. Choose colors that complement your existing decor for a cohesive look.
Materials:
- Plain pillowcases or fabric
- Fabric paint or embroidery thread
- Paintbrushes or embroidery needles
- Viking patterns and symbols references
Viking Longboat Model
Pay tribute to the famous Viking longboats with a miniature model to display on a shelf or mantle. Purchase a wooden model kit online or at a local hobby store and follow the assembly instructions.
Customize your longboat by painting the hull, sail, and shields with authentic Viking designs and colors. Alternatively, you can create a simplified, rustic version using popsicle sticks and fabric scraps.
Materials:
- Wooden longboat model kit or popsicle sticks
- Acrylic paints
- Paintbrushes
- Fabric scraps (for sails)
- Scissors
- Glue
Nordic-Inspired Plant Holders
Bring a touch of Viking-inspired greenery to your home with Nordic-inspired plant holders. Repurpose old wooden bowls or purchase new ones, then stain or paint them to achieve a rustic, weathered appearance.
Attach twine or leather straps to the bowls, creating a loop for hanging. Choose plants like ferns, ivy, or mosses, which are reminiscent of the lush Scandinavian landscapes, and plant them in your new holders.
Hang the planters near windows or on walls to add a natural, Viking-inspired touch to your space.
Materials:
- Wooden bowls
- Stain or paint
- Paintbrushes
- Twine or leather straps
- Screw-in hooks or wall brackets
- Plants (ferns, ivy, mosses, etc.)
- Potting soil
Summary
Transforming your home into a Viking-inspired haven doesn’t require an extensive budget or expert crafting skills. With these 5 easy DIY projects, you can create unique and stylish decor pieces that pay tribute to the fascinating culture of the Norse people.
Whether you choose to create rune-inspired wall art or Nordic-inspired plant holders, these projects will help you infuse your space with a sense of adventure and history. Happy crafting!
