DIY Projects You’ll Actually Use IRL

You know the feeling. A crafty DIY you see on Pinterest looks really cool, then when you attempt your own, it looks kind of cool, then you Instagram it, stick it in a closet, and probably never use it. Not these crafts, though. These are actually useful.

Leather Bookmark

Tacky bookmarks begone. And the same goes for folding the corners of your page (not a good look). Craft your own stylish leather version in a few simple steps.

Hanging Entryway Organizer

This minimalist hanger is the only organizational tool you’ll need in your hallway. Hang up all the entryway necessities, from hats to coats to even a mirror, for easy access and minimal hallway clutter.

Back to School Paint Chip Calendar

Instead of spending money on a wall calendar, make your own for next to nothing. Head to your local home improvement or paint store and pick up some paint chips in your favorite hues, then put everything together on an old corkboard (pro tip: you can usually find one at a thrift store for a couple of dollars). It’s customizable, cheap, and easy to re-do each month.

Planter Wall

When you live in a small space, you have to get creative with how you optimize every bit of free space. If you’ve got an empty wall and want to add some greenery to your space, try this DIY planter wall. Mix and match your favorite plants and instantly breathe new life into your home.

Holographic Coasters

Every home needs some fun coasters—that aren’t super expensive. Get this: you can make a set of six for under eight dollars.

To-Do Magnets

Whether you’re desperately trying to remind your kids—or yourself—of your to-do list, look no further than this convenient craft. And don’t worry about your handwriting, there are cookie cutters involved!

Pineapple Cocktail Jars

Okay, so maybe you won’t use these every day… But you can use them every time you throw a party! All you need is some mason jars, green paint, and green paper.

Geometric Gradient Art

This particular craft is made with paint chips (that you can get for FREE at your local hardware store) and as you can see, the end result is visually stunning. Bonus: You get to choose your own color palette, which means you get to tap into your creative side.

Magazine Holder

In order to enjoy this craft, you’ll need to have a penchant for sawing wood. Don’t knock it till you try it—less creative and more challenging skill-based projects can be just as much fun. And, they give you final products like this magazine rack… Just sayin’.

Macrame Plant Hanger

Warning: You can find more simplified plant hanger crafts. We thought you might be up for the challenge of creating a real, detailed macrame plant hanger and hope you agree.

Make your Own Shibori

Not familiar with shibori? It’s a special technique, originally used by the Japanese, to dye fabric. Back in the day, they only had indigo dye available, so most designs are navy and white (one of our current favorite color combinations). It’s safe to say after spending an afternoon dyeing a throw, you’ll keep it around for a while.

Hanging Table

Basically all you need to pull this craft off is a piece of wood (the type is up to you), rope, and a hook!

Photo Playing Cards

Add meaningful—or downright hilarious—memories to the back of your playing cards. Make for your innocent games with your children or raucous drinking games with friends and enjoy the most unique deck of cards you’ll ever own.

Cleaning Buckets

The craft that keeps on giving. Enlist your kids—or that dirty roommate—to help make regular, unsightly cleaning buckets beautiful with the help of some colored and metallic tape.

Taco Letter Holder

This craft will fit right in to any home with a more maximalist approach to design. Consider your letter sorting dilemma is officially solved.

Wes Anderson Guess Who Board Game

Yep, you read that right. A real life Wes Anderson movie-themed board game… And it only takes two hours (plus dry time) to make! Are you freaking out? We’re freaking out. Looks like game nights will NEVER be the same.

Pillow Tassels

You don’t have to be crafty in order to cover your pillow and make the cutest tassels for it, all without any sewing.

Mini Plant Stands

Why spend your hard earned cash on something you can make yourself? These stands are on trend, affordable, and surprisingly simple to make.

Watermelon Picnic Blanket

Watermelon really was the choice fruit of the summer (more so than usual!). Get ready to dye, paint, and sew your way to the dreamiest blanket that’s perfect for the beach or a picnic in the park.

Neon Letter Lights

Meet the less expensive, more personal version of all those neon lights you’ve been crushing on. Bend wire to your handwriting to create the base for the neon rope, plug in, and wait for the compliments to pour in.

Popsicle Stick Hexagon Shelf

This popsicle stick project is by far the craftiest of them all. Glue popsicle sticks in the shape of a hexagon, stain, and give yourself a pat on the back for turning popsicle sticks into a super trendy shelf.

Braided Doormat

Yes you CAN craft your own doormat! In the beginning, the project might take some getting used to, but the logistical challenge of weaving your very own rug with hopefully inspire you to finish it—and use outside your front door each and every day.

Originally published August 2016. Updated August 2017.

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