There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from creating something beautiful and functional with your own hands. But for many, the perceived cost of DIY—the specialty lumber, the high-end paints, the fancy tools—can be a barrier to entry. What if we told you that you could transform your living space, get organized, and unleash your inner crafter without a major financial investment?
Welcome to the world of Dollar Store DIY. Stores like Dollar Tree, Dollar General, and Family Dollar are treasure troves for the creative and budget-savvy. Behind their unassuming doors lie the raw materials for stunning home decor, practical organization solutions, and delightful gifts, all waiting for a little vision and elbow grease.
In this guide, we’re sharing 10 complete weekend projects, each with a total cost of under $20. We’ve prioritized projects that require minimal tools and are accessible to absolute beginners, while still offering stunning results that look far more expensive than they are. So, grab your reusable shopping bag and a $20 bill, and let’s get crafting!
Project 1: Faux Concrete & Wood Planters
Cost: ~$6 | Skill Level: Beginner | Time: 1 hour (plus drying time)
Why You’ll Love It: This project transforms flimsy plastic pots into modern, high-end looking planters with a stunning concrete and natural wood aesthetic.
Materials Needed:
- (2-3) Plastic plant pots of varying sizes (from Dollar Tree)
- (1) Can of Stone Textured Spray Paint (e.g., Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch 2X Ultra Cover, available at hardware stores for ~$5)
- (1) Pack of Wooden Grilling Skewers or Craft Sticks
- Twine or Jute
- Hot glue gun & glue sticks
- Painter’s tape (optional)
- Sandpaper (optional, for light prep)
- Tool Needed: Scissors, well-ventilated workspace (outside is best).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prep the Pot: Ensure your plastic pot is clean and dry. If it has a glossy finish, lightly sand it with sandpaper to help the paint adhere better. If you want a clean, geometric look, use painter’s tape to mask off sections of the pot.
- Create the “Wood” Accent: Take your wooden skewers. For a small pot, you can use them individually. For a larger pot, line up 5-7 skewers side-by-side and use a dot of hot glue at the top and bottom to secure them to a small cross-piece made from a cut skewer, creating a flat “plank.”
- Spray Paint Transformation: Take your pots and the wooden accent to a well-ventilated area (outside, on a cardboard box). Shake the spray paint can vigorously for one minute. Holding the can 10-12 inches away, apply the first coat of stone-textured paint in light, even sweeps. Don’t try to cover it completely in one go; this leads to drips. Let this tacky coat dry for 15-20 minutes. Apply a second, full coat for complete, opaque coverage. Allow to dry completely as per the can’s instructions (usually 1 hour).
- Assemble: Once the pot is completely dry, use your hot glue gun to attach the wooden skewer accent to the front of the pot. Tie a small piece of twine or jute around the wooden piece for an extra touch of rustic charm.
- Style: Add a succulent, air plant, or a small faux plant from the Dollar Store. The contrast between the faux concrete and the natural wood is incredibly stylish.
Pro Tip: For a more authentic concrete look, use a mix of gray primer spray paint and a light dusting of the textured stone paint on top.
Project 2: Woven Rope Basket
Cost: ~$4 | Skill Level: Beginner | Time: 45 minutes
Why You’ll Love It: This basket is perfect for storing throw blankets, toys, or magazines. It’s surprisingly sturdy and adds a wonderful, organic texture to any room.
Materials Needed:
- (1) Medium or large plastic bowl or bin (as your form)
- (2-3) Rolls of 1/4″ or 3/8″ Diamond Braided Cotton Rope (Dollar Tree often has this in the hardware aisle)
- Hot glue gun & LOTS of glue sticks
- Scissors
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Create the Base: Turn your plastic bowl upside down. Put a large dollop of hot glue on the very center of the bottom of the bowl. Quickly press the end of your rope into the glue. Hold it securely until the glue sets.
- Coil and Glue: Apply a continuous, generous line of hot glue along the rope, about 2-3 inches at a time. Immediately press the rope down onto the bowl, coiling it around the center point. Work slowly and methodically, ensuring each new coil is pressed tightly against the previous one.
- Build the Walls: Once your base is the size you want (we recommend the entire bottom of the bowl), you will continue coiling the rope upward onto the sides of the bowl. The bowl acts as your mold, giving the basket its perfect shape.
- Finish the Rim: When you reach the top rim of the bowl or achieve your desired height, cut the rope. Put a final dot of glue on the end and tuck it neatly under the previous coil to hide it.
- Remove and Enjoy: Once the glue has completely cooled and hardened (about 10 minutes), gently flex the plastic bowl and pop your new, sturdy rope basket out!
Pro Tip: For a colorful basket, you can spray paint the rope before you start coiling. Just make sure it’s completely dry before using hot glue.
Project 3: Floating Corner Shelves
Cost: ~$8 | Skill Level: Beginner | Time: 1 hour
Why You’ll Love It: Utilize unused corner space with these elegant, floating shelves. They are perfect for displaying small plants, perfume bottles, or framed photos.
Materials Needed:
- (2) Wooden Craft Circles or Small Cutting Boards (for the shelf surface)
- (1-2) Packages of Wooden Paint Stir Sticks (free at any hardware store paint department)
- Wood Glue
- Hot glue gun (for temporary holds)
- Acrylic paint and brush (optional, for color)
- Sandpaper (optional)
- Tool Needed: A small level.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Build the Support Brackets: This is the key to the “floating” look. For each shelf, you will create a right-angle bracket. Take two paint stir sticks and form a perfect 90-degree angle. Use wood glue along the edge where they meet and clamp them together (or use a heavy book) until the glue dries. For extra strength, you can reinforce the inside corner with a small triangle cut from another stir stick.
- Attach Bracket to Shelf: Decide how deep you want your shelf to sit in the corner. Apply a generous amount of wood glue to the top horizontal edge of your L-shaped bracket. Position your wooden circle or cutting board on top, ensuring it is centered. Press down firmly. Use a hot glue dot for a temporary hold while the wood glue cures (follow wood glue instructions, usually 30 minutes to set).
- Reinforce (Optional but Recommended): From underneath the shelf, drill two small pilot holes through the shelf surface and into the bracket. Use small screws to secure it. If you don’t have a drill, wood glue, when fully cured, will be strong enough for light items.
- Finish: Lightly sand any rough edges. You can leave the wood natural, stain it, or paint it. A crisp white or a warm wood tone works beautifully.
- Installation: Find the corner where you want to hang it. Hold the shelf in place and use a level to ensure it’s straight. Mark the spot on the wall through the back of the L-bracket. Use appropriate wall anchors and screws to securely fasten the bracket to the wall. Then, simply slide the shelf onto the bracket.
Project 4: Marbled Monogram Art
Cost: ~$3 | Skill Level: Beginner | Time: 30 minutes
Why You’ll Love It: This is a incredibly easy and mess-free way to create stunning, custom wall art. No two pieces are ever the same!
Materials Needed:
- (1) Wooden or Cardboard Letter (available in the craft aisle)
- (1) Can of Shaving Foam (the cheap, basic kind is perfect)
- Acrylic Craft Paint in 2-3 coordinating colors
- A toothpick or skewer
- A scraper (an old ruler or a piece of cardboard works)
- A baking sheet or tray lined with wax paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Create the Marbling Base: On your lined tray, spray a generous layer of shaving foam, about 1/2 inch thick. Smooth it out with your scraper to create a flat, even surface.
- Add the Paint: Dot your chosen acrylic paint colors randomly across the surface of the shaving foam.
- Swirl the Colors: Use your toothpick or skewer to gently drag through the paint and shaving foam, creating swirls, loops, and patterns. Don’t over-mix, or the colors will become muddy.
- Make the Print: Gently press your wooden letter face-down into the marbled shaving foam. Press evenly across the entire surface to ensure full contact.
- Reveal the Magic: Lift the letter straight up. You will see it covered in a messy layer of shaving foam and paint.
- Scrape it Clean: Take your scraper and, holding it at a 45-degree angle, gently scrape the excess shaving foam off the letter. Wipe the scraper clean between passes. Revealing the perfect marbled pattern underneath is the most satisfying part!
- Dry: Set the letter aside on a clean piece of wax paper to dry completely (about 1 hour). The shaving foam will evaporate, leaving only the beautiful paint behind.
Pro Tip: Use colors that match your home’s decor. Gold or copper paint mixed with navy or white looks exceptionally luxurious.
Project 5: Under-Shelf Storage Baskets
Cost: ~$5 | Skill Level: Beginner | Time: 20 minutes
Why You’ll Love It: Instantly add storage to any shelf, desk, or vanity. These little baskets are perfect for organizing office supplies, beauty products, or kitchen gadgets.
Materials Needed:
- (2) Plastic “Dollar Tree” Baskets (the kind with the grid pattern)
- (1) Pack of Small Binder Clips
- Wire cutters or strong scissors
- Spray paint (optional, for a unified look)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Choose Your Baskets: Select two identical plastic baskets that will fit neatly under your desired shelf.
- Create the Hooks: Take a binder clip and carefully pry off the two metal arms using your fingers or wire cutters.
- Attach the Hooks: Slide one metal arm through the grid on the back of the basket, near the top. Position it so the curved part hooks over the shelf. Use the second metal arm for added stability. Repeat with a second clip for the other side of the basket.
- Install: Simply hook the arms over your shelf and lower the basket into place. It’s that easy! The basket will hang securely, creating valuable new storage space.
- Customize (Optional): If you want a more cohesive look, spray paint the baskets and the binder clip arms a single color (like matte black or white) before assembling.
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Project 6: Stenciled Drawer Liners
Cost: ~$4 | Skill Level: Beginner | Time: 1 hour (plus drying time)
Why You’ll Love It: Give your old dresser or kitchen cabinets a delightful surprise with custom, removable drawer liners. It’s a huge impact for a tiny price.
Materials Needed:
- (1) Roll of adhesive shelf liner (often found in the kitchen aisle)
- Acrylic craft paint
- A small foam pouncer or dense paintbrush
- Stencils (you can make your own by printing a design and cutting it out of a plastic folder with a craft knife)
- Painter’s tape
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Measure and Cut: Measure the bottom of your drawer and cut the shelf liner to fit. Don’t remove the backing paper yet.
- Secure the Stencil: Place the cut liner on a protected surface. Position your stencil on top and use small pieces of painter’s tape to hold it securely in place so it doesn’t shift.
- Pounce the Paint: Dip your foam pouncer lightly into the paint, then blot off most of it on a paper towel. You want a very dry brush to prevent paint from bleeding under the stencil. Using an up-and-down “pouncing” motion, fill in the stencil’s cut-out areas.
- Repeat the Pattern: Carefully lift the stencil straight up. Reposition it to continue your pattern across the entire sheet of liner. Re-tape and repeat the pouncing process until the entire liner is patterned. Let the paint dry completely.
- Install: Once fully dry, peel off the backing paper and carefully place your custom-designed liner into the bottom of your drawer. Smooth out any air bubbles.
Pro Tip: Geometric patterns or simple botanicals are easy for beginners. Use colors that complement the room the drawer is in.
Project 7: Jewelry Organizer from a Picture Frame
Cost: ~$6 | Skill Level: Beginner | Time: 30 minutes
Why You’ll Love It: Turn a cluttered jewelry box into a beautiful, functional wall display. This keeps your favorite necklaces and earrings untangled and within easy reach.
Materials Needed:
- (1) Deep Picture Frame (look for the “shadow box” style)
- (1) Sheet of Craft Mesh or a small piece of chicken wire
- (1) Pack of Small Cup Hooks
- Spray paint (optional)
- Craft glue (if using mesh)
- Tool Needed: Needle-nose pliers, scissors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prep the Frame: Remove the glass and backing from the frame. You can discard the glass or save it for another project. If desired, spray paint the frame itself a new color and let it dry.
- Install the Backing: If using craft mesh, cut it to the size of the frame’s backing board. Use craft glue around the edges to secure it. If using chicken wire, put on gloves and use needle-nose pliers to carefully cut the wire to size, leaving a small margin. Staple or glue the wire to the back of the frame’s backing board.
- Add Hooks: Screw the small cup hooks into the bottom wooden edge of the frame (inside the “box”). Space them evenly. These are perfect for hanging bracelets and longer necklaces.
- Reassemble: Place the backing board (with its new mesh/wire front) back into the frame and secure it.
- Hang and Organize: Hang the frame on the wall using the picture hanger already on the back. Now, use the mesh or wire to hang earrings and hook necklaces. Use the cup hooks along the bottom for the rest.
Project 8: Upcycled Glass Jar Soap Dispenser
Cost: ~$3 | Skill Level: Beginner | Time: 15 minutes
Why You’ll Love It: Elevate your kitchen or bathroom sink with a beautiful, custom soap dispenser that looks like it came from a high-end home goods store.
Materials Needed:
- (1) Glass Jar with a Lid (like a salsa or pickle jar)
- (1) Pump Dispenser Top (Dollar Tree often sells small lotions or hand soaps with the right kind of pump)
- Drill with a 1/2″ drill bit OR a hammer and nail
- Hand soap refill
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Clean Thoroughly: Wash the glass jar and lid thoroughly, removing all labels and adhesive.
- Create the Hole: This is the only tricky step. Method 1 (Drill): Place the metal lid on a scrap piece of wood. Using a slow speed, carefully drill a 1/2″ hole directly in the center of the lid. Method 2 (Hammer & Nail): Place the lid on a hard surface. Use a hammer and a large nail to punch several holes close together in a circle in the center of the lid. Then, use the tip of a pair of scissors to widen the hole until the pump stem fits through snugly. WEAR SAFETY GLASSES.
- Assemble: Insert the pump stem through the hole you created in the lid. Screw the locking nut onto the stem from underneath (if your pump has one). If it doesn’t, a small bead of hot glue around the inside of the hole will seal and secure the pump.
- Fill and Use: Fill the jar with your favorite liquid hand soap or dish soap. Screw the lid (with the pump attached) onto the jar. That’s it!
Pro Tip: You can decorate the jar with etching cream, paint the lid, or add a ribbon for an extra personalized touch.
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Project 9: No-Sew Fabric Lamp Shade Makeover
Cost: ~$4 | Skill Level: Beginner | Time: 45 minutes
Why You’ll Love It: Instantly update an old, tired lamp shade with a fresh, modern fabric that matches your current decor perfectly.
Materials Needed:
- (1) Plain Lamp Shade (Dollar Tree sometimes has these, or use one you already own)
- (1) Fabric Scarf or a piece of fabric cut to size
- Spray Adhesive (like Elmer’s Craft Bond)
- Clothespins or binder clips
- Double-sided tape (optional)
- Scissors
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Measure and Cut Fabric: Lay your lampshade on its side on the fabric. Roll it one full rotation, marking the fabric with a pencil as you go. Leave about 1 inch of extra fabric on the top and bottom. Cut out your fabric rectangle.
- Apply Adhesive: In a well-ventilated area, spray a light, even coat of spray adhesive onto the outside of the lampshade.
- Apply Fabric: Starting at the seam of the lampshade, carefully press your fabric onto the adhesive, smoothing it out as you go. Work slowly to avoid wrinkles.
- Trim the Edges: Once the fabric is fully attached, use sharp scissors to trim the excess fabric from the top and bottom, leaving a clean edge. For a super clean finish, you can fold the raw edge over to the inside of the shade and secure it with a thin line of spray adhesive or double-sided tape.
- Secure the Seam: The vertical seam where the fabric ends can be glued down neatly. Use a clothespin or binder clip to hold it in place while the adhesive dries completely.
Project 10: Wood Slice Coasters
Cost: ~$5 | Skill Level: Beginner | Time: 1 hour (plus drying time)
Why You’ll Love It: Create a set of rustic, natural coasters that protect your surfaces and look great doing it.
Materials Needed:
- (1) Bag of Wood Slices (often found in the craft aisle)
- Mod Podge (Glossy or Matte)
- A foam brush
- Felt Pads (for furniture)
- Acrylic paint (optional, for decorating the edges)
- Clear waterproof sealant spray (optional, but recommended for durability)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Seal the Wood (Highly Recommended): Wood is porous. To prevent moisture from warping your coasters or leaving rings, you need to seal them. Apply 2-3 coats of Mod Podge to the top and sides of each wood slice, allowing it to dry completely between coats. Alternatively, use a clear, waterproof sealant spray outdoors for a more durable finish.
- Decorate (Optional): Before sealing, you can paint the edges of the coasters a bright color for a pop of modern flair. You can also use a stencil and paint to add a monogram or simple design to the top after the first sealant coat is dry.
- Add Felt Pads: Once the final coat of sealant is completely dry, stick 3-4 small felt pads to the bottom of each coaster. This will protect your furniture from scratches.
Pro Tip: For a super smooth surface, lightly sand the top of the wood slice with fine-grit sandpaper before you start sealing.
FAQ Section
Q1: Is the paint from the Dollar Tree good enough for these projects?
A: For many of these projects, yes! The acrylic craft paint is perfectly adequate for decorative items like the marbled monogram or stenciled drawer liners. However, for items that will get more wear and tear, like the planters or coasters, investing in a higher-quality spray paint (like Rust-Oleum) from a hardware store will yield a more durable and professional-looking finish.
Q2: I’m not crafty at all. Which project should I start with?
A: Start with Project #5: Under-Shelf Storage Baskets or Project #8: Upcycled Glass Jar Soap Dispenser. They have the fewest steps, require almost no creative skill, and provide an instant, useful result that will build your DIY confidence.
Q3: How can I make my Dollar Store DIYs look less “cheap”?
A: This is a great question. The key is in the finishing touches:
- Paint is Your Best Friend: A unified color palette (like all black, all white, or all neutral tones) instantly elevates items.
- Upgrade the Materials: Sometimes, spending $1 more makes a difference. Using a nice wood stain instead of paint, or a higher-quality rope, can improve the look.
- Attention to Detail: Sand rough edges, wipe off excess glue, and make sure your lines are clean. A little care goes a long way.
Q4: What are the best things to consistently look for at the Dollar Store for DIY?
A: Keep an eye out for:
- Basic Containers: Glass jars, plastic bins, baskets, and plant pots.
- Raw Materials: Cotton rope, wooden craft items (stir sticks, shapes), and basic textiles (scarves, kitchen towels).
- Adhesives & Tools: Hot glue guns, super glue, basic brushes, and scissors.
- Organization: Binder clips, small baskets, and drawer dividers.
Q5: Are these projects safe for children?
A: Many are, with supervision! Projects like the Marbled Monogram Art and Stenciled Drawer Liners are perfect for kids. However, projects involving hot glue guns, spray paint, or tools like drills should be reserved for adults or done with very close adult supervision and instruction.
Conclusion: Your $20 DIY Journey
As you can see, a limited budget is no barrier to a creative and fulfilling DIY hobby. With a little imagination and about $20, you can complete all ten of these projects over a weekend, transforming your space with personalized, handmade items that reflect your style.
The true value of Dollar Store DIY isn’t just in the money you save—it’s in the confidence you build, the problems you solve, and the unique personal touch you add to your home. So, what are you waiting for? Your local dollar store is waiting, filled with potential. Happy crafting