Having a large budget for home decor doesn’t have to make your home look stylish. In fact, your space can feel beautiful and inviting without spending a lot of money. With a few affordable materials, thrift store finds, and some creative ideas, cheap DIY projects can help you make gorgeous decor pieces that look far more expensive than they really are.
These budget-friendly home projects are perfect for those who are looking to spruce up their home without overspending, and are looking to get started. Whether it be for everyday items such as planters to store adoratively, for wall art and for simple lighting projects, there are many ways to create an upscale appearance for the ordinary.
The best part? A lot of these budget friendly home decor ideas are easy to do with items that you already have or can buy at a dollar store or thrift shop.
If you’re looking for quick inspiration, explore these 30 Crafts You Can Finish in One Afternoon for simple projects you can complete without spending all day crafting.
1. Cheap DIY Projects: Turn a Thrifted Vase Into Faux Mercury Glass
An inexpensive glass vase can be dressed up into something elegant. Simply mix a mirror-effect spray paint and light mist of vinegar to create the mottled look of vintage mercury glass.
Find a simple glass vase at a thrift store, and make sure to clean the glass thoroughly. Instead of using a heavy coat of paint, use multiple light coats and be sure to sparingly apply the vinegar mixture to desired areas.
2. Cheap DIY Projects: Make a Floating Candle Centerpiece
A glass vase, decorative stones, faux greenery, and floating candles can be used to create a simple centerpiece.
Arrange the stones and greenery on the bottom of a clear container with water and float a candle on top. Use this idea on your bathroom counter, dining room table, or outdoor furniture.
For a more sophisticated look, use neutral tones and greenery that looks natural.
For more creative inspiration, check out these 20 Miniature Crafts From Recycled Materials and turn everyday items into charming little projects.
3.Cheap DIY Projects: Give Mason Jars a Farmhouse Makeover
Plain mason jars can be transformed into cute organizers with a little paint and some distressing.
Use a paint that is meant for glass and apply two thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely. Then, sand a few raised places on the jars to expose some of the original material underneath.
You can then use the painted jars to hold cotton balls, makeup brushes, toothbrushes, kitchen items, and more.
If you enjoy giving everyday items a creative makeover, explore these 15 Crochet Upcycle Ideas to Give Old Materials a New Life for more budget-friendly inspiration.
4. Cheap DIY Projects: Decorate a Small Ceramic Piece With a Rub-On Transfer
Rub-on transfers are a good way to personalize cheap ceramic decorations without having to have any special painting skills.
Take a clean heart, plaque, tray, etc. in ceramic, place your transfer where you want it and smooch it down on the plate with a flat card. Remove the paper backing.
It’s one of those thrifty things that are really easy to do that make great small gifts and holiday decor.
For another fun handmade project, try these 20 DIY Clay Bag Charms That Are Cute, Easy, and Customizable for simple ways to personalize your favorite bags.
5. Cheap DIY Projects: Upgrade Dollar Store Soap Dispensers
You can totally upgrade basic soap dispensers using adhesive stencils and multi-surface paint. Firstly, you need to clean the dispenser surface from any dust and oil.
Then, take a stencil and apply several dots of the paint on the dispenser using a light dabbing motion. The stencil should be removed right after you apply the paint in order to make sure the paint sticks to the dispenser properly (always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines).
Secondly, you can make stencil labels for hand soap, lotions, or sanitizers. This way, your bathroom will look neater.
6. Cheap DIY Projects: Create Decorative Decoupage Coasters
Decorative napkins can be made into the main design elements for cheap DIY coasters.
Trace a coaster or a small ceramic plate, cut your napkin to size, and glue it to the surface with decoupage medium. Finish with a top coat and let it dry.
Select botanical prints, small patterns, flowers, or muted designs that will complement the interior.
For more budget-friendly inspiration, explore these 20 Recycled Household Item Crafts for a Creative Home and turn everyday items into useful and decorative pieces.
7. Cheap DIY Projects: Make a Mini Cloche Display
A miniature glass dome may transform an ordinary accent piece into something extraordinary. Try placing a small statue, artificial flowers, holiday ornament, or other accents on a sturdy base and tuck a few sprigs of greenery around the objects. Then, enclose the collection under a glass dome.
You can use this method to great effect with seasonal accents. Just remember that you can easily replace the objects tucked under the dome when the holiday is over.
8. Cheap DIY Projects: Make a Simple Coastal-Inspired Wall Sign
A basic wooden sign can be transformed from a cheap decor purchase into a personalized piece of inexpensive wall art with a little bit of paint.
Pick a phrase that you love, attach a stencil with painter’s tape, and begin dabbing the paint on until it doesn’t come through on the bottom.
If you want to achieve a casual coastal look, you can use light blues, whites, beiges, or distressed wood colors.
9. Cheap DIY Projects: Turn a Glass Block Into a Decorative Light
Glass blocks can be surprisingly attractive accent lighting!
Use removable decals, stickers, or designs for glass on the outside and battery operated LED lights on the inside, then place them strategically to illuminate the desired areas.
A glass block light could be used as a bathroom night light, hallway accent, bedroom decoration, or holiday display.
10.Cheap DIY Projects: Make Gold Pedestal Candle Holders
Combine cheap candle holders in order to form a nice looking pedestal design.
Use compatible pieces that have stable bases, and glue them together with the adhesive that is suitable for the materials being bonded. Allow the adhesive to cure until its fully dry, and then add a candle on top.
The metallic finish gives the appearance of more elegant shapes, especially when grouped together in pairs, or in different heights.
11.Cheap DIY Projects: Build a Picture Frame Lantern
Four cheap picture frames can be used to create a nice geometric shaped lantern
Remove any picture backing and glass if necessary then put them together to make a box type shape. Put a candle that uses batteries instead of an open flame in the middle.
Place some faux greenery around the bottom as a more decorative touch.
12. Give an Inexpensive Lantern a New Look
Don’t overlook plain lanterns at dollar stores, thrift shops, or discount retailers. Their basic shape can often be improved simply through styling.
Add a battery-operated candle, a small amount of greenery, or seasonal accents. Place the lantern on a porch, entryway table, fireplace mantel, or patio.
Sometimes the easiest cheap DIY home decor ideas are simply about changing how an inexpensive item is finished and styled.
13. Paint a Terracotta Pot
Terracotta pots are affordable, versatile, and easy to customize.
Use paint specially made for the surface, and add stripes, arches, blocks of color, simple patterns, or a single sophisticated shade.
To give it a high-end look, go for a more muted neutral, warm earthy tone, or soft green rather than masking the pot with a riot of colors.
14. Create a DIY Plant Stand
A small wooden board and inexpensive legs can become a simple plant stand.
Keep the design clean and minimal for a modern appearance. Sand the wood thoroughly and finish it with paint or stain appropriate for the material.
Use the finished stand to elevate a houseplant and add another level of visual interest to a room.
15. Make a Blanket Ladder
A blanket ladder is both decorative and practical. It provides a place to display throws without taking up much floor space.
Use inexpensive wood boards and dowels or smaller pieces of wood for the rungs. Sand rough edges and finish the ladder in a shade that works with your existing decor.
Lean it securely against a suitable wall and use it only for lightweight blankets or textiles.
16. Transform a Dollar Store Basket
An inexpensive plastic or wire basket can look considerably more decorative after being wrapped with natural rope or jute.
Work around the basket gradually, securing the material as you go. Keep the wrapping even so the finished surface looks intentional.
Use the basket for blankets, towels, toys, magazines, or extra pillows.
17. Make a Stylish Macrame Plant Hanger
Macrame is an affordable way to add texture and handmade character to your home.
A basic plant hanger requires cord and a few simple knots. Beginners can start with a straightforward pattern before moving on to more complicated designs.
Hang one near a window with suitable lighting for the plant, but make sure the hardware and mounting point can safely support the finished weight.
18. Paint Simple Tea Towels
Plain flour-sack towels or inexpensive fabric towels can become custom kitchen accents with fabric paint.
Use painter’s tape to create clean stripes or try a simple stencil. Keep the pattern minimal if you want the finished towel to have a more refined appearance.
Neutral stripes, botanical motifs, and small geometric patterns can work particularly well in modern kitchens.
19. Make a Clay Ring Dish
A small piece of air-dry or modeling clay can become a useful jewelry holder.
Shape the clay into a shallow dish and smooth the edges before allowing it to dry according to the product instructions. Add a simple painted detail once completely cured.
Place the finished dish on a nightstand, bathroom counter, or vanity to keep everyday rings in one convenient spot.
20. Build a Small Tiered Planter Box
If you enjoy beginner woodworking projects, a compact tiered planter box can add dimension to an outdoor space.
Use affordable lumber and keep the design relatively simple. Sand the edges thoroughly and choose an exterior-appropriate finish if the planter will be exposed to weather.
Fill each level with compatible plants or herbs to create a layered display.
21. Create a Modern Wall Hanging
You can make simple wall art without purchasing an expensive decorative piece.
Start with a wooden dowel, hoop, or basic frame and add cord, yarn, fabric, or other lightweight materials. Keep the shapes and colors restrained for a contemporary appearance.
This type of DIY works especially well above a small console, reading corner, or bedroom nightstand.
22. Turn Ordinary Glass Jars Into Stylish Storage
Before buying new storage containers, look around your home for empty glass jars.
Clean them thoroughly and remove labels. Add simple labels, paint, ribbon, or decorative lettering to give them a coordinated appearance.
Use matching jars to organize pantry ingredients, craft supplies, bathroom accessories, or small office items.
23. Create Simple Hanging Photo Frames
Instead of placing every family photo in a traditional frame, try turning several prints into a coordinated wall display.
Print photos in black and white or another consistent style. Mount them on lightweight boards or simple frames and hang them in a balanced arrangement.
Keeping the photographs visually consistent can make an inexpensive display feel much more intentional.
24. Upgrade a Bulletin Board With Fabric
A basic bulletin board doesn’t have to look like an office supply.
Cover the surface with attractive fabric and secure it neatly around the back. Add decorative ribbon or trim if desired.
Use it in a home office, craft room, bedroom, or entryway to create a practical organization station that also contributes to the room’s decor.
If you’re looking for more ways to refresh your space without a major expense, explore these DIY projects to upgrade your home for additional decorating inspiration.
How to Make Cheap DIY Projects Look Expensive
The difference between an inexpensive DIY and a polished-looking one often comes down to the finishing details.
Stick to a Simple Color Palette
Choose two or three complementary colors rather than using every shade you like. Neutral combinations such as cream, black, wood, white, and muted greens can create a sophisticated appearance.
Choose One Decorative Finish
Metallic gold, aged wood, matte black, ceramic white, and natural jute can all create different looks. Repeating one finish across several projects helps your decor feel coordinated.
Focus on Clean Edges
Careful painting, straight stencil lines, smooth sanding, and properly trimmed materials can make a budget project look significantly more polished.
Shop Thrift Stores and Dollar Stores
Look beyond the original purpose of an item. A plain vase can become a decorative centerpiece, an inexpensive frame can become a lantern, and a basic basket can become attractive storage.
Don’t Overdecorate
A few well-finished pieces usually have more visual impact than a room filled with unrelated DIY projects. Give each piece enough space to stand out.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need expensive materials to create a home that feels thoughtfully decorated. A thrifted vase, dollar-store frame, plain planter, or basic glass jar can become something completely different with a little creativity.
The key to successful cheap DIY projects is not simply spending less. It’s choosing simple materials, paying attention to the finish, and creating pieces that work with the style you already love.
Start with one small project, use supplies you already have when possible, and let your creativity do the expensive-looking part.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Some Low-Cost Craft Ideas?
Some easy low-cost crafts include painted terracotta pots, decorated mason jars, decoupage coasters, clay dishes, glass jar organizers, fabric-covered bulletin boards, and simple wall hangings. Reusing jars, leftover fabric, thrifted items, and supplies you already have can make these projects even more affordable.
What Are Some Expensive-Looking DIY Gifts I Can Make?
You can make custom coasters, personalized ceramic decorations, painted storage jars, candle holders, small ring dishes, decorative signs, and framed artwork. A careful finish and simple packaging can make an inexpensive handmade gift feel much more polished and special.
What Homemade Craft Makes the Most Money?
There isn’t one homemade craft that consistently makes the most money for every seller. Profit depends on factors such as material costs, production time, demand, pricing, packaging, shipping, and selling fees. Personalized gifts, home decor, and niche handmade products can offer opportunities for higher margins when the costs are managed carefully.
What Is the Hottest-Selling Craft Right Now?
Craft trends change regularly, so there isn’t one craft that remains the hottest seller all the time. Personalized gifts, handmade home decor, accessories, seasonal crafts, printable products, and niche items are examples of categories that can attract buyers. If you’re planning to sell crafts, research demand on the specific marketplace you want to use before investing heavily in supplies.
