10 things I made for under $10 that people constantly compliment

Making your home look good doesn’t have to mean dropping a ton of money. Some of the projects people notice most are the ones that cost me less than $10 to pull together. It usually comes down to using what you already have, adding a small detail, or being willing to get a little hands-on.

These budget-friendly projects not only save money but end up being the things guests point out or ask about the most.

Framed Printable Art

Printing free or low-cost designs and putting them in dollar store frames is one of the cheapest ways to decorate. A set of three prints can cost under $10 total, and people always assume you spent way more.

You can swap the prints with the seasons or even use your own photos for a personal touch. The frames elevate them enough to make the whole thing look intentional and stylish.

Painted Mason Jars

Mason jars are inexpensive, and a little craft paint goes a long way. Painted jars work as vases, utensil holders, or simple accents on shelves.

Since they’re customizable, you can pick colors that match your space. People almost always ask where I bought them, and they’re surprised when I say they cost less than $10 to make.

DIY Wreaths

Seasonal wreaths can get expensive, but making your own with a wire frame and dollar store greenery costs a fraction of the price. For under $10, you can create something that looks like it came from a boutique.

Guests notice it the second they walk up to your door. It’s one of those projects that feels high-impact without being high-cost.

Painted Terracotta Pots

Terracotta pots are cheap, and giving them a fresh coat of paint instantly makes them look custom. You can keep it neutral or add patterns depending on your style.

Once you plant something in them, they look like designer décor. It’s a small touch that people always notice when they walk into the room or step outside.

Wooden Signs

With a piece of scrap wood, some paint, and stencils, you can create signs that look store-bought. Seasonal or personalized signs are especially popular and can be done for under $10.

They work indoors or out, and people always ask if I bought them at a craft market. In reality, they’re some of the cheapest projects I’ve made.

Candle Jars with Twine

A plain candle looks a lot nicer with twine wrapped around the jar and maybe a button or tag for detail. This upgrade costs pennies but makes the candle look like something from a boutique.

It’s such a small project, but people notice it when it’s sitting on a shelf or table. They often ask where I found them, and I love saying I made them for almost nothing.

Throw Pillow Covers

Making your own pillow covers out of inexpensive fabric or even thrifted curtains can be done for less than $10 each. It’s an easy way to add variety without buying new pillows.

They instantly make a room feel refreshed, and since they’re custom, people often ask where I bought them. No one guesses they were a DIY project under $10.

Photo Clip Boards

Using clipboards or wooden boards with clips, you can create a rotating photo display for a few dollars each. It’s easy to swap out pictures, so the display always feels updated.

People love this idea because it’s both functional and decorative. It’s one of those projects that looks like it took a lot more effort than it actually did.

Beaded Garlands

Wooden beads are inexpensive in bulk, and stringing them into garlands makes for an easy, under-$10 project. You can leave them natural or paint them for seasonal colors.

They look great draped over trays, shelves, or mantels, and people always comment on them. They’re trendy in stores, but making them yourself saves a ton of money.

Painted Glass Bottles

Old glass bottles can be turned into décor pieces with a little spray paint or craft paint. Matte finishes especially make them look expensive.

Cluster a few together with flowers or greenery, and it looks like a curated display. People almost always ask where I found them, and it’s nice being able to say they cost less than $10 in total.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.