Okay, can we talk about how cottage core became the aesthetic we didn’t know we needed? Like, one day we were all minimalist everything, and then suddenly we’re dreaming about wildflower meadows, vintage linens, and homes that look like they belong in a fairy tale. And honestly? I’m here for it.
I fell into the cottage core rabbit hole during one of those late-night Instagram scrolling sessions, and now my apartment is slowly transforming into what I like to call “city cottage” – all the cozy, romantic vibes without having to actually move to the countryside and figure out how to grow my own vegetables.
The best part about cottage core DIY is that it’s all about embracing imperfection and making things feel lived-in and loved. No stark white walls or perfectly curated spaces – we’re talking about creating a home that feels like a warm hug and looks like it has stories to tell.
What Makes Cottage Core Special
Embraces Imperfection Wonky handmade pottery, slightly faded fabrics, and furniture with character marks aren’t flaws – they’re features. Finally, an aesthetic that celebrates the beautifully imperfect.
Sustainable by Nature Cottage core is all about repurposing, making do, and creating beauty from what you already have. It’s basically the anti-fast-fashion of home decor.
Budget-Friendly Philosophy The cottage core look comes from creativity and resourcefulness, not expensive purchases. Thrift stores, yard sales, and your own two hands are your best tools.
Seasonal Living This aesthetic changes with the seasons – pressed flowers in spring, herb drying in summer, cozy quilts in fall, and candlelit evenings in winter.
1. Painted Hairbrushes
2. Mushroom Charms
3. Decoupage Frames with Pressed Flowers
4. Painted Furniture
5. Decorative Broom with Herbs and Flowers
6. Quilted Bag
7. Pocket Altar
7. Pressed Flower Candle Sticks
8. Secret Victorian Love Letter
9. Summer Cottage Witch Hat
10. Rag Quilt
The Sustainability Angle
Cottage core naturally aligns with sustainable living practices. You’re repurposing instead of buying new, growing some of your own food, making things by hand, and choosing quality pieces that last. It’s good for the planet and good for your wallet.
Time Investment Reality Check
Some cottage core projects are quick weekend activities, others are long-term lifestyle changes. Start with simple projects that give you immediate satisfaction, then work toward bigger transformations as you figure out what aspects of the aesthetic you love most.
The Bottom Line
Cottage core DIY is all about creating a home that feels peaceful, welcoming, and authentically you. It’s not about perfection or spending tons of money – it’s about finding beauty in simple things and making your space feel like a sanctuary.
Start with one or two projects that genuinely excite you. Maybe it’s pressing flowers from your next walk, or finally turning that pile of fabric scraps into something beautiful. The cottage core aesthetic develops organically over time, so don’t feel pressure to transform everything at once.
The best cottage core spaces feel lived-in and loved, not like museum displays. Focus on creating a home that makes you smile when you walk through the door, where you can curl up with a good book and feel completely at peace.
P.S. – Don’t feel like you need to live in the countryside to embrace cottage core. City cottages are totally valid, and sometimes the contrast between urban life and cozy home vibes makes it even more special.