Going back to college after winter break can be a bummer for several reasons. Returning to school means that you actually have to get back to your school work which, if you’re anything like me, is not necessarily at the top of the list of things you look forward to. Being back at school also means being back in your dorm room or apartment which, compared to the comforts of home, might seem a little bit dull upon your return. While I can’t help you with the inevitability of school work, I can give you some tips on how to brighten up your living space and hopefully make the start of the new semester a little bit better.

1. Get gluin’

I’ve seen these yarn letters around Pinterest and the blogosphere and couldn’t help falling in love with them. Not only are they endlessly customizable but they’re also super easy to make. Whether you spell out your name, just stick to your initials, or go all out with some song lyrics, these yarn letters are a great way to personalize your space. All you need is some wooden letters, some yarn or twine in the color of your choice, and a little bit of glue and you’re good to go. I even saved you some time and did the shopping for you! Snag some goods from Typo and get yourself crafting.

2. Get tapin'

Wall art is always a perf way to add personality to your room, but it can be a little bit expensive. Seriously, a cool poster or a print can cost you almost $50. Instead of spending your food budget on something to hang on your walls, hack this decor trend buy using postcards and greeting cards instead.

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These postcards from Valfre are really stinking cute AND really stinkin' cheap. They’re, as Hannah Montana would say, the best of both worlds. Frame ‘em or stick them to your wall with some cool tape, either way these postcards-turned-wall art will add some spunk to your walls and trick your friends into thinking you’ve shelled out the big bucks.

3 Get hangin'

Bring a little earthiness indoors with this DIY Dreamcatcher from Typo OR this DIY Hanging Geode Terrarium from Urban Outfitters. The end result of these DIY kits will give your room that nature vibe without actually requiring you to keep something alive.

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Since the dreamcatcher and terrarium both come in kits, you’ll have everything you need to make them without having to make a single stop at the craft store. And even though these kits do provide you with everything you need, there’s nothing stopping you from adding something that you found in actual nature. The sky, or, uh, at least the ceiling, is the limit!