Hey DIY family! Sonja here, and I am beyond thrilled to kick off 2026 with my very first NEW DIs of the year! If your bank account is still recovering from the holidays but your home is craving a fresh, cozy update, then you are in the perfect place. Today, we’re diving deep into the world of high-end dupes, transforming everyday thrift store finds into stunning pieces inspired by the timeless aesthetics of Pottery Barn and Amber Interiors.
The Christmas decorations are packed away, and that blank slate can feel a little… uninspired. But it doesn’t have to! In this video, I’ll show you how to navigate that “Winter After Christmas” decor dilemma with budget-friendly DIYs that bring warmth, texture, and that coveted luxury look into your home.
Why “High-End Look For Less” is My Mantra
You know my passion: creating a home you absolutely adore without breaking the bank. Those gorgeous catalogs from Pottery Barn, West Elm, or the beautiful designs from Amber Interiors might seem out of reach, but with a little paint, some clever techniques, and a trip to the thrift store, we can achieve remarkably similar results. This isn’t just about saving money; it’s about the satisfaction of creating something beautiful with your own hands!
Sneak Peek: What We’re Making Today!
In my latest video, I’m tackling three fantastic projects that will elevate your winter styling:
The Rustic Winter Sleigh Transformation: I found a simple wooden sleigh at the thrift store, and while cute, its original color wasn’t giving “designer.” With some Dixie Belle No Pain Stain, we’ve transformed it into an organic modern showstopper that looks like it cost a fortune. It’s the perfect centerpiece for your coffee table!
Amber Interiors Inspired Stone Bowl Dupe: Those hand-carved stone bowls can retail for hundreds of dollars! I found a humble bowl and, using a simple mixture of paint and baking soda, replicated that raw, earthy texture that Amber Interiors is famous for. You won’t believe the before and after!
Pottery Barn Rustic Ribbed Vase Dupe: If you’ve ever admired Pottery Barn’s rustic vase collection, you know they come with a hefty price tag. I snagged a ribbed vase for under $10 and, with some strategic dry brushing and layering of Dixie Belle Chalk Paint, created a stunning piece that looks incredibly similar to the designer original.
Ready to Get Started? Watch the Full DIY Tutorial Here!
I’ve put together a comprehensive video tutorial walking you through every single step, with all my tips and tricks for getting that perfect finish. You don’t want to miss seeing how these pieces come to life and how I’ve styled them for a truly cozy, high-end winter home refresh.
Don’t Forget Your Supplies!
For these projects, I swear by Dixie Belle Paint for their incredible coverage and beautiful finishes. You can find all the products I used (like the No Pain Stain and various Chalk Paint colors) directly through my affiliate links:
- 🇨🇦 Shop Dixie Belle (Canada): https://diy-supplies-canada.myshopify….
- 🇺🇸 Shop Dixie Belle (USA): https://dixiebellepaint.com/?_ef_tran…
Join the Conversation!
I’d love to know which of these projects is your favorite, or what high-end pieces you’d love to see me dupe next! Drop a comment below or head over to my YouTube channel to share your thoughts.
Happy DIYing and happy decorating for a beautiful 2026!
Warmly, Sonja DIYs with Sonja
Life with sonja 
Leave a comment