Budget Friendly Room Decor Crafts: 5 Cheap DIY Projects

Refreshing a room when you are a college student on a tight budget can feel impossible at first, especially when inspiration photos seem to be filled with expensive furniture, custom art, and décor pieces that cost more than an entire month of groceries.

The good news is that a room can look completely different with only a few budget friendly room decor crafts, because color, texture, lighting, and thoughtful details change the overall vibe far more than brand-new furniture ever will.

With some cheap DIY decor projects, a little creativity, and a willingness to recycle and upcycle what you already have, you can turn a basic dorm room or small bedroom into a space that feels pulled together, cozy, and personal without spending more than twenty dollars per project.

This guide walks you through five complete projects, each with materials under that price point, clear time and skill levels, safety notes, recycling tips, and photo ideas so you can easily imagine how everything will look and even plan your own pictures or social posts later.

By the time you reach the end, you will have a mini “home makeover menu” you can pick from, whether you want a quick one-hour craft on a Sunday afternoon or a slightly bigger weekend project that transforms an entire wall.

Budget Friendly Room Decor Crafts

1. Before You Start: Budget, Basic Tools, and Safety

Diving straight into hot glue and paint is tempting, yet spending a couple of minutes setting up a tiny DIY system saves money, time, and stress.

1.1 Set a Realistic Craft Budget

When you already have limited cash, clear boundaries keep these budget friendly room decor crafts fun instead of stressful.

Try this simple approach:

Decide how much you can comfortably spend this month on décor (for example, the cost of one takeout meal).
Split that total across your chosen projects, aiming for materials under $20 per craft.
Prioritize buying items you can reuse across projects, such as paint, brushes, tape, or glue.
Keep receipts in one envelope or photo album, so you know exactly what you spent.

This mindset helps you see crafts as planned investments in your space rather than random impulse buys.

1.2 Build a Tiny Craft Toolkit

Most of the cheap DIY decor projects in this guide can be done with a handful of basic tools.

Useful items to have on hand include:

Scissors (one good pair for fabric and paper).
Craft knife or box cutter (used carefully on a protected surface).
Ruler or measuring tape.
Pencil and washable marker.
Painter’s tape or masking tape.
White glue and/or a small hot glue gun with glue sticks.
One or two basic paintbrushes or foam brushes.

You may already own several of these; if not, start with the ones that appear in more than one project so they pay off quickly.

1.3 Safety First, Even With “Simple” Crafts

Creative projects should be relaxing, and that stays true when you respect a few safety basics.

Keep these rules in mind:

Always cut away from your body, never towards your fingers or lap.
Protect your desk or floor with cardboard, old magazines, or a plastic tablecloth when using paint or glue.
Use good ventilation when working with spray paint, stronger glue, or permanent markers.
Unplug your hot glue gun when you take a break, and keep the hot tip away from cords and fabrics.
Store sharp tools and hot tools out of reach if you share the room with younger siblings, pets, or roommates who might bump into them.

With the basics in place, you are ready to move into the fun part: five budget friendly room decor crafts tailored for small spaces and small wallets.

2. Project #1 – Washi Tape and Collage Gallery Wall

A gallery wall instantly makes a plain room feel intentional and stylish, and it is one of the easiest cheap DIY decor ideas because the “frames” and art can be made from paper you already have.

2.1 Quick Project Snapshot

Estimated Cost: Typically under $15, especially if you print at home or use magazines.
Time Needed: Around 1–2 hours, depending on how many pieces you create.
Skill Level: Beginner friendly.

2.2 Materials

Washi tape or painter’s tape in 2–3 colors or patterns.
Old magazines, flyers, scrap paper, or printed quotes and photos.
Scissors and ruler.
Pencil and a small piece of masking tape for marking layout.

2.3 Step-by-Step Instructions

Choose your color story.
Pick two or three main colors that match your bedding, rug, or favorite items in the room, because repeating those colors helps everything look cohesive even when the pieces are different styles.
Gather images and paper pieces.
Flip through magazines, class notebooks, or old posters to find interesting patterns, words, photos, or colors, then cut out rectangles, circles, and organic shapes that you like.
Plan your gallery layout on the floor.
On the floor or bed, arrange your pieces in a loose grid or organic cluster, keeping similar sizes slightly apart so your eye moves naturally and does not get stuck on one area.
Mark the wall lightly.
Using a tiny piece of tape or pencil dot, mark the approximate corners of the area where your gallery wall will live, so you do not drift too far off-center as you hang the pieces.
Create faux frames with washi tape.
For each piece, use strips of washi tape around the edges to mimic a frame shape, or simply tape the corners diagonally for a lighter look.
Stick your art to the wall.
Start with the largest pieces at eye level, then fill in around them with medium and small artwork, always stepping back every few pieces to check balance.
Adjust spacing and angles.
Move items slightly up or down until the arrangement feels like one connected group instead of random floating pieces.

2.4 Photo Idea and Safety Notes

Photo idea: Take a straight-on shot of the finished gallery wall with your bed or desk in the bottom of the frame to show how the art anchors the space.
Safety notes: Avoid using strong tape or adhesives that could rip paint when removed; washi tape and painter’s tape are usually gentler, but test a small area first.

2.5 Recycling Tips

Reuse magazine images, old lecture notes, or wrapping paper by turning them into abstract art pieces.
When you get bored with the gallery, peel off the paper art and collage it into a notebook instead of throwing everything out.

3. Project #2 – Thrifted T-Shirt Cushion Covers

Throw pillows add instant softness and personality, and sewing is not required when you use old T-shirts or thrift store finds as fabric.

3.1 Quick Project Snapshot

Estimated Cost: Often under $10 if you already have tape or glue.
Time Needed: Around 45–60 minutes per cushion.
Skill Level: Beginner, no sewing experience needed.

3.2 Materials

One large T-shirt or thin sweatshirt per cushion (thrifted or from your own closet).
Existing flat pillow or inexpensive cushion insert.
Fabric glue or strong white glue.
Scissors and measuring tape.
Binder clips or clothespins.

3.3 Step-by-Step Instructions

Choose the shirt.
Look for shirts with fun graphics, bands you love, or simple solid colors that match your room; make sure the fabric is not too thick or stiff so it wraps easily.
Cut along the side seams.
Lay the shirt flat and cut up both side seams and across the shoulders, creating a front and back panel of fabric.
Measure your pillow.
Measure the width and height of the pillow, then add a few extra centimeters on each side to allow for overlapping and glued seams.
Trim the fabric panels.
Cut both fabric pieces to your measured size so they match, keeping the design you want on the front panel.
Glue three sides.
Place the right sides of the fabric panels together, run a thin line of fabric glue along three edges, and press the pieces together, securing with binder clips while they dry.
Turn the cover right side out.
Once the glue is dry, remove the clips and gently turn the cover inside out, which should now show the design on the outside.
Insert the pillow and close.
Slide the pillow inside and glue the last edge closed, or fold it inward and secure with clips until dry, leaving a neat seam.

3.4 Photo Idea and Safety Notes

Photo idea: Arrange the finished pillows on your bed or a chair and take a photo from above showing the graphics, textures, and mixed colors.
Safety notes: Use fabric glue in a well-ventilated space and protect your work surface, because spilled glue on textiles or furniture is hard to remove.

3.5 Recycling Tips

Turn old team shirts, event shirts, or college merch into decor instead of sending them to landfill.
If a pillow gets worn, cut it open, save the stuffing for another project, and reuse the fabric pieces in quilts or patchwork banners.

4. Project #3 – Painted Glass Jar Lanterns and Storage

Glass jars from pasta sauces, jams, or candles can become cozy lanterns or stylish storage containers with just a bit of paint and creativity.

4.1 Quick Project Snapshot

Estimated Cost: Often under $12 for several jars if you already have some at home.
Time Needed: Around 1–2 hours including drying time.
Skill Level: Beginner.

4.2 Materials

Clean glass jars in different sizes.
Acrylic paint or glass paint in 2–3 colors.
Foam brushes or small paintbrushes.
Twine, ribbon, or scrap fabric strips.
Battery-operated tea lights or string lights.

4.3 Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the jars.
Remove labels by soaking the jars in warm soapy water, then scrub off any remaining glue so the glass is smooth and ready for paint.
Plan your color scheme.
Choose colors that already appear in your room so the jars feel like they belong, such as shades from your bedding, rug, or wall art.
Paint the outside or inside.
Decide whether to paint the outside of the jars for a matte look or the inside for a smooth finish; thin layers create a translucent effect that glows nicely when lit.
Add patterns or shapes.
Use tape to create stripes, freehand dots and stars, or sponge on paint for a soft ombre; mixing a few different designs keeps the group visually interesting.
Wrap the rims.
Once the paint dries, tie twine, ribbon, or fabric strips around the neck of each jar to add texture and hide any leftover glue marks.
Add lights or storage items.
For lanterns, place a battery tea light or small cluster of string lights inside; for storage, use jars to hold pens, makeup brushes, or small craft supplies.

4.4 Photo Idea and Safety Notes

Photo idea: Line several jars along a shelf or windowsill, turn on the lights, and photograph them at dusk so the glow shows against the darker background.
Safety notes: Use only battery-operated candles or lights inside jars, especially in dorms or rentals where open flames may be banned; glass can become hot with real candles and pose a fire risk.

4.5 Recycling Tips

Keep collecting glass jars over time and update the colors or designs whenever you want a new look.
When you repaint, lightly sand or scrape old paint layers and use them as base texture instead of throwing jars away.

5. Project #4 – DIY Wall Grid Organizer from Wire Rack

A wall grid looks modern, keeps small items off your desk, and can hold photos, notes, and accessories, turning a blank wall into functional decor.

5.1 Quick Project Snapshot

Estimated Cost: Under $20, especially if you repurpose a basic wire rack or cooling rack.
Time Needed: Around 1 hour plus drying time if painting.
Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate.

5.2 Materials

Wire rack, cooling rack, or inexpensive wire grid.
Spray paint or acrylic paint (optional, for color).
Mini binder clips, clothespins, or metal hooks.
Strong adhesive hooks or removable wall hooks rated for the weight.
Small photos, postcards, notes, or accessories to hang.

5.3 Step-by-Step Instructions

Choose your wire base.
Look for a simple rectangular rack with an open grid; thrift stores and kitchen aisles often have affordable options.
Paint if desired.
If you want a specific color, paint the rack in thin, even coats, letting each layer dry fully before the next so the paint does not drip or clog the grid.
Plan your hanging method.
Decide whether the grid will hang vertically above your desk, horizontally near your bed, or even lean against the wall on a shelf; measure the space so it fits.
Attach removable wall hooks.
Place adhesive hooks on the wall according to the rack’s width and height, pressing firmly and waiting the recommended time before hanging anything.
Hang the grid.
Slide the rack onto the hooks and gently test that it feels stable and does not wiggle or slide when tapped.
Add clips and accessories.
Attach binder clips or clothespins around the grid, then hang photos, class schedules, to-do lists, small plants in lightweight holders, or jewelry.

5.4 Photo Idea and Safety Notes

Photo idea: Capture the grid from a slight angle that shows both the wall and your desk, with photos, notes, and a few lightweight items hanging to show its use.
Safety notes: Respect the weight limit on adhesive hooks, and avoid placing heavy items like full glass jars or large bags on the grid; always follow any dorm or rental rules about wall mounting.

5.5 Recycling Tips

If you move or change rooms, reuse the grid as a jewelry display, plant hanger, or kitchen organizer.
Swap out paper items seasonally rather than buying new decor, turning it into a rotating mini gallery.

6. Project #5 – Upcycled Crate or Box Side Table

A sturdy crate, storage box, or stack of boxes can transform into a mini side table with hidden storage, perfect for small rooms where every piece needs to work hard.

6.1 Quick Project Snapshot

Estimated Cost: Under $20 if you use a free crate or sturdy box and basic paint or contact paper.
Time Needed: Around 2–3 hours including drying time.
Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate.

6.2 Materials

Wooden crate, strong cardboard box, or stackable shoe boxes.
Acrylic paint and brush, or decorative contact paper.
Sandpaper (for wooden crates).
Optional felt pads or small wheels.
Painter’s tape for clean lines.

6.3 Step-by-Step Instructions

Choose the base.
Select a crate or box that can hold your weight if you accidentally lean on it, and that is deep enough to store books, snacks, or chargers.
Prepare the surface.
For wood, sand rough edges to avoid splinters; for cardboard, check that corners are reinforced with tape so the structure is stable.
Plan the design.
Decide whether the crate will stand with the open side facing forward, acting as a shelf, or with the open side facing sideways beside your bed.
Paint or wrap the outside.
Use acrylic paint for a matte, solid color, or wrap surfaces in contact paper, smoothing out bubbles with a card; painter’s tape can create color blocks or stripes.
Add floor protection.
Stick felt pads to the bottom corners to avoid scratching floors, or attach small wheels if allowed and if the crate feels strong enough to handle movement.
Style the top.
Place a tray, coaster, or small cloth on top, then add a lamp, jar lantern from the earlier project, or a plant, keeping heavy items towards the center for stability.

6.4 Photo Idea and Safety Notes

Photo idea: Take a photo of the crate beside your bed or chair, showing both the styled top and the storage inside, such as books or blankets.
Safety notes: Do not stand or jump on the crate if it is made from lightweight materials; check that it sits flat and does not wobble before placing breakable objects on top.

6.5 Recycling Tips

Use found crates from markets or deliveries whenever possible, giving them a second life instead of throwing them away.
If you outgrow the side table, repurpose the crate for closet storage or as a shoe organizer near the entry.

7. Simple Maintenance and Mini Makeover Calendar

Crafts feel exciting when they are new, yet a little maintenance keeps your budget friendly room decor crafts looking fresh long after the paint dries.

7.1 Weekly Mini Check

Once a week, take five or ten minutes to:

Dust shelves, gallery walls, and jars with a soft cloth.
Straighten any art that has slipped or started to peel.
Tuck loose pillow threads or repair tiny seam issues before they grow.
Put away extra craft materials in a box so your room stays tidy.

7.2 Monthly Refresh

At the end of each month, or whenever a new term starts, use this checklist:

Remove any wall pieces you no longer love and replace them with new collages or printouts.
Wipe down your upcycled side table and check that it still feels stable.
Rotate photos or notes on your grid organizer to match your current goals and mood.
Repaint or touch up chipped jars and plan one small new craft to keep things fun.

This light upkeep schedule means your projects never become clutter and always feel like intentional parts of your space.

8. Quick Reference: Project Cost, Time, and Skill Level

To help you choose which cheap DIY decor idea to start with, here is a quick overview.

Project	Approx. Cost (Materials)	Time Needed	Skill Level
Washi Tape and Collage Gallery Wall	Under $15	1–2 hours	Beginner
Thrifted T-Shirt Cushion Covers	Under $10 per cushion	45–60 minutes	Beginner
Painted Glass Jar Lanterns and Storage	Under $12 for several	1–2 hours	Beginner
DIY Wall Grid Organizer from Wire Rack	Under $20	About 1 hour	Beginner–Intermediate
Upcycled Crate or Box Side Table	Under $20	2–3 hours	Beginner–Intermediate

Choosing projects based on your current energy, time, and tools makes it easier to actually finish them and enjoy the results instead of feeling overwhelmed.

9. Turning Craft Time Into Your Own Budget Home Makeover

Creating budget friendly room decor crafts is more than gluing things together; it is a way to take control of your space, express your personality, and prove to yourself that a tight budget does not block you from having a room that feels like home.

With just these five projects, you can fill a blank wall with art, soften your bed or seating area, add warm lighting, organize your desk, and create a side table with hidden storage, all while keeping materials under twenty dollars per craft and recycling items that might otherwise be thrown away.

As you complete each project, you also build skills: cutting more confidently, planning color stories that match your room, and balancing safety with creativity in a way that will help with future home makeover ideas.

Every time you look around and see a pillow you made, a lantern you painted, or a crate you turned into furniture, you get a quiet reminder that your room is not just a place you sleep; it is a space you actively shaped with your own hands, even as a college student on a budget, one small craft at a time.