2 Minute Ballard Designs Inspired Bird Finial: Easy $5.00 DIY Decor Hack

Do you remember when I made that Hobnail Ballard Designs Lamp Look-Alike? Well, today I’ve added the perfect DIY Bird Finial for only $5.00. It looks just like their pricey designer version, and it only took two minutes to make.

When I saw the cute bird finial in their catalog, I remembered that I had a set of small ceramic birds that looked just like theirs. Since I wasn’t willing to pay $40.00 for a finial, I pulled out my birds and made my own. It was so quick and easy—it took just as long as the glue to dry! Let me show you how.

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Supplies For DIY Bird Finial

As I mentioned, I already had a set of 6 mini-ceramic birds that were a perfect fit. Although I’ve had mine for several years, they are still available to purchase. I also have several vintage finials that could be used for this project. However, I decided to purchase an inexpensive brass finial for this high-end style.

• Mini-Ceramic Birds – Set of 6 for $15.99 = $2.66 each
• Solid Brass Finials – Set of 4 for $6.43 = $1.60 each
• Fast Drying Permanent Glue

Step 1 – Prepare Finial and Bird

The first step is to determine where to attach the finial to the bird. Each of the birds has a hole in the bottom, and I inserted the finial to see which one fit the best.

You also want to wipe the items with rubbing alcohol to remove any oils or dirt before applying the glue.

Step 2 – Apply Glue To Secure

• Apply glue to the area of the finial where the bird will be attached.
• Insert the finial and hold in position
• Add additional glue along the edge of the finial and the hole on the outside.
• Hold in place until the glue dries.

Step 4 – Add DIY Bird Finial To Lampshade

That’s it, folks! Just add the DIY bird finial to your favorite lampshade for instant charm.

I’m using mine on our living room lamp, which is also a Ballard Designs knock-off. The sweet little birds add a touch of modern heritage and creative farmhouse style to the lamp.

How To Avoid Paying Designer Prices For Home Decor!

To be honest, I’ve fallen in love with items from boutiques, and occasionally it’s worth paying the higher designer price. However, before you do so, always break down the item and ask yourself if you can duplicate the look for less. Here are the questions I ask myself.

• Can I purchase a similar item for less?
  • Snap a photo of the item and use Google Lens or Amazon Lens to find similar items and compare prices.
• Could I make this item?
  • What materials would be required?
  • How much will the materials cost in comparison to the item’s price?
  • Do I have the skill level to make this project?
  • How long will it take to make it, and is it worth the time?
• Can I find thrifted items to create a similar look?
  • If so, ask yourself the same questions concerning cost, time, and skill level.

If the cost or time doesn’t justify a DIY project, you have to ask yourself, “How badly do you want to add this to your decor?”

Similar DIY Hacks

Here are a few designer items that I’ve duped or transformed from thrifted finds.

• Budget DIY Flower Lampshade for Wall Sconces With Air Dry Clay – $65.00 for two vs. $450.00 for one.
• Cheap and Easy DIY Pottery Barn-Inspired Basket Tray Tutorial – $12.00 vs. $129.00
• DIY Anthropologie-Inspired Decorative Trays On A Dollar Tree Budget – $10.00 vs. 80.00 plus…
• Easter Egg Bowls – Pottery Barn Dupe with Air Dry Clay

Additional Ideas For DIY Finials

I’m loving the bird finial, but there are other modern heritage-style finials that you can easily make. Here are just a few that I found.

• Colorful Birds would make adorable finials.
• These adorable bunnies would be so cute as finials.
• I may have to make a finial with this sweet little owl.
• And how cute is this ceramic elephant?
• Also, keep your eyes open for small ceramic animals at thrift stores that can be transformed into fun finials.

Thank you for stopping by and I look forward to sharing my next adventure with you!

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