When I left you last week, I was showing off my if-money-was-no-object nursery mood board. And sure, it was fun to pretend that I can drop thousands of dollars decorating this baby’s room, but let’s face it: I don’t live in that world. In reality, I’ll be using what I already have, doing a lot of projects myself, and looking for inexpensive alternatives to finish things off. But here’s the fun thing: I actually like my “reality check” mood board even more than the expensive one. After all, I am more of a do-it-myself kind of girl. Wanna see?

This super sweet-yet-affordable nursery skips the high-end wallpaper, in favor of a DIY paint project like this one from the Brick House blog. Since they were actually the most reasonable items from my previous mood board, I think I’m actually going to buy the graphic French and colorful raindrop prints, and I’ll round those out with this leaping pig print that I already own. I also snagged a model sailboat from my parents basement, and I’ll mount that to the wall with the rest of the artwork. After pining for the expensive rug from last week, I found this star-flecked Dwell Studio rug and I am crazy for it. Like, beyond reason. This may have to be my one splurge (though it’s less than half the price of the inspiration rug!). I dream of a highly collectible mid-century modern dresser, but I found one similar to this on Craigslist for $50 that will hold a diaper change pad and clothing to boot. For lighting, this tiered brass pendant from Urban Outfitters looks like it costs about five times more than it actually does, and it pairs perfectly with this vintage-inspired constellation globe. I wisely held on to my old Dwell Studio for Target glider (no longer available), and I’m going to give the cushions an update with some cute new fabric. Fancy cribs are fun to daydream about but you can’t beat the $99 Ikea classic I already own. I’ll dress it with inexpensive striped percale sheets and a blanket made from this adorable scooter-printed fabric. And you’ll have to stay tuned for an upcoming Weekday Crafternoon to see me take a classic rocking horse and an Ikea sheepskin and make a super cute custom riding toy.

Which do you prefer? The high-end nursery from last week, or this week’s more approachable take? I was surprised to fall hard for the less expensive option, but I’m kind of relieved. Check back next week to see the embarrassing “before” pictures of my guest/junk room. I’ve got a lot of work to do.

P.S. For more fun, follow my Nursery Inspiration Pinboard!