Throwing a party doesn’t have to break the bank, and with a little creativity, you can make your space look festive and fun! Here are 17 DIY party decoration ideas that will help you add a personal touch to your celebration while keeping costs low. From homemade centerpieces to colorful banners, these crafty ideas are sure to impress your guests and elevate the party vibe.
1. Whimsical Paper Lanterns
Add a fun touch to your party with colorful paper lanterns! These DIY decorations are simple to make and can really change the feel of the room. Hang them in different colors and sizes to create a lively and cheerful vibe for your birthday celebration. They’re sure to make your space feel festive and special!
Supplies
- Colored tissue paper (assorted colors)
- Scissors
- Glue stick or craft glue
- Pencil
- Ruler
- String or twine (for hanging)
- Paper lantern frames (you can use a pre-made paper lantern frame or make your own with cardboard)
- Tape (optional for additional reinforcement)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Lantern Frames: If you are using a pre-made paper lantern frame, skip to step 2. If you are making your own, cut a piece of cardboard into a rectangular strip (about 12 inches by 3 inches) and carefully roll it into a cylindrical shape to form the lantern. Secure the edges with glue or tape.
2. Cut Tissue Paper: Cut the tissue paper into strips about 1 inch wide and the length of the lantern’s height. You can mix and match colors or use one color for a uniform look.
3. Attach Tissue Paper to Frame: Begin by applying glue or a glue stick to a section of your lantern frame. Start attaching the tissue paper strips along the frame, layering them slightly for a fuller look. You can alternate colors to create a rainbow effect or stick to one color for a more subtle, elegant appearance.
4. Add Layers: Continue gluing strips of tissue paper around the entire frame. Overlap the tissue paper slightly to ensure full coverage.
5. Create the Top and Bottom: If desired, you can also glue small circular pieces of tissue paper to the top and bottom of the lantern to create a more polished look. These can be smaller circles or strips folded to fit the edges.
6. Attach Hanging String: Once your lantern is complete and the glue is dry, cut a piece of string or twine to the desired length. Tie one end of the string securely to the top of your lantern frame.
7. Hang Your Lanterns: Hang your newly created paper lanterns from the ceiling, over doorways, or in clusters around the party area to create a fun and whimsical atmosphere.
2. Custom Photo Booth Backdrop
Make a fun photo booth backdrop with bright streamers or ribbons! This is an easy way to add some excitement to your party. You can mix and match different colors and patterns to give your DIY birthday decorations a unique and creative touch. Your guests will love it!
Supplies Needed to Create a Custom Photo Booth Backdrop
- Colorful streamers or ribbons
- Scissors
- Tape or push pins
- String (optional)
- Measuring tape or ruler
Instructions
1. Cut the Streamers or Ribbons: Cut the streamers or ribbons into different lengths. You can make them long or short, depending on your preference.
2. Hang the Streamers: Measure the area where you want to place the backdrop. Use tape or push pins to attach the streamers along the wall. Start from the top and let them hang down.
3. Mix and Match Colors: Use different colors to make the backdrop pop. You can also alternate the colors or create a pattern.
4. Adjust the Length: If some streamers are too long, trim them with scissors to make them even.
5. Add String (Optional): If you want to hang the streamers from a line, attach the top of each streamer to a string. Then, hang the string across the top of the area you want to decorate.
6. Set Up the Photo Booth: Once your streamers are up, arrange any props or signs around the area. Your backdrop is ready for photos!
3. Creative Balloon Arches
Balloon arches are a fun and vibrant addition to any party. They’re easy to make at home and will bring a personal touch to your DIY birthday decorations. By mixing different colors and sizes, you can create a playful and eye-catching effect that will wow your guests and set the tone for a memorable celebration. Plus, they make a great backdrop for photos!
Supplies
- Balloons (various colors and sizes)
- Balloon arch frame or PVC pipes
- Balloon pump
- Fishing line or string
- Tape or balloon glue dots
Instructions
1. Inflate the Balloons: Start by inflating the balloons using a balloon pump. Inflate different sizes to add variety to your arch.
2. Create the Frame: Once you have enough balloons, create the frame by setting up a balloon arch frame or using PVC pipes to form an arch shape.
3. Attach the Balloons: Begin attaching the balloons to the frame using tape or balloon glue dots. Start at the bottom of the arch and work your way up, making sure the balloons are secured tightly.
4. Mix the Colors: For a fun and vibrant effect, alternate the colors of the balloons as you attach them. Mixing different sizes will also add a playful touch.
5. Fill in Gaps: As you build the arch, fill in any gaps by inflating a few more balloons and placing them in the empty spaces.
6. Secure the Arch: Finally, once the arch is complete, use fishing line or string to secure it in place. You can hang it over an entrance, at the party’s photo booth, or anywhere you want to create a festive atmosphere.
Your colorful balloon arch is now ready to wow your guests!
4. Charming Mason Jar Centerpieces
Mason jar centerpieces are a simple yet charming way to decorate your party. You can fill them with fresh flowers, candles, or homemade decorations to give a personal touch to your table settings. These DIY birthday decorations are easy to create and add a warm, inviting feel to your celebration. Your guests will love how thoughtful and creative they look!
Supplies
- Mason jars (cleaned and empty)
- Fresh flowers or homemade decorations (such as ribbon, buttons, or fake flowers)
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun or craft glue
- Decorative materials (such as lace, twine, or fabric)
- Water (if using fresh flowers)
- Small pebbles or marbles (optional, for flower support)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Mason Jars: Start by cleaning and drying the mason jars. If you want to add a decorative touch, you can paint the jars or wrap them with fabric, lace, or twine.
2. Add a Base (Optional): If you’re using fresh flowers, add small pebbles or marbles to the bottom of the jar. This will help hold the flowers in place.
3. Arrange the Flowers: If using fresh flowers, trim the stems to fit the height of the jar. Fill the jar with water and carefully place the flowers inside. Arrange them to your liking. If you’re using fake flowers or homemade decorations, glue them to the inside or around the outside of the jar for a charming look.
4. Decorate the Jar: Use decorative materials such as ribbon, lace, or buttons to further embellish the jar. You can tie ribbon around the jar’s neck or glue buttons to the sides for a cute, personalized touch.
5. Set Up the Centerpieces: Once your mason jar centerpiece is complete, place it in the center of your party tables. Repeat the process for additional jars to create a beautiful set.
6. Enjoy the Look: Your mason jar centerpieces are ready to add charm and personality to your DIY birthday party!
5. DIY Glitter Table Numbers
Add some sparkle to your party with DIY glitter table numbers! These homemade party decorations are super easy to make and can really jazz up your tablescape. Perfect for DIY birthday decorations at home, they help guests find their seats while looking fabulous!
Supplies
- Cardstock or sturdy paper
- Scissors
- Glitter (assorted colors)
- Mod Podge or craft glue
- Foam brush or paintbrush
- Pencil
- Number stencils (optional)
- Double-sided tape or glue dots
- Small wooden dowels or sticks (optional for standing numbers)
Instructions
1. Cut the Numbers: Start by cutting the cardstock into the shape of numbers. You can use stencils to trace the numbers onto the paper before cutting, or freehand them if you prefer.
2. Apply Glue: Use a foam brush or paintbrush to apply a thin layer of Mod Podge or craft glue to the entire surface of the number.
3. Add Glitter: Sprinkle glitter generously over the glued surface. Shake off any excess glitter, and make sure the entire number is covered. You can use different colors of glitter for a fun, multi-colored effect or stick to one color for a more uniform look.
4. Let it Dry: Allow the glitter-covered numbers to dry completely. This may take a few minutes, depending on the glue used.
5. Add a Stand (Optional): If you want the numbers to stand on their own, attach a small wooden dowel or stick to the back of each number using double-sided tape or glue dots.
6. Set Up the Table Numbers: Once dry, place your glittery table numbers on your party tables. These sparkly numbers will help guests find their seats while adding a dazzling touch to your tablescape.
6. Handmade Party Hats
Handmade party hats are a fun way to add a personal touch to your celebration. You can easily make these colorful DIY birthday decorations at home with just a few supplies like cardstock, scissors, and some glue. Everyone will love wearing these festive hats, making your homemade party decorations stand out even more!
Supplies
- Cardstock (various colors)
- Scissors
- Glue stick or craft glue
- Pencil
- Ruler
- String or elastic (for securing the hat)
- Decorative materials (such as stickers, pom-poms, or ribbon)
Instructions
1. Cut the Cardstock: Start by cutting the cardstock into a triangle or cone shape. You can use a ruler to make sure the sides are straight and even.
2. Form the Hat: Roll the cut cardstock into a cone shape, making sure the point of the cone is at the top. Overlap the edges and glue them together to form the hat.
3. Add Decorative Touches: Once the cone is secure, get creative with decorations! Use pom-poms, stickers, ribbons, or any other materials to decorate the hat. Glue them on to give the hat a festive and fun look.
4. Attach the String or Elastic: Cut a piece of string or elastic long enough to go under a person’s chin. Attach it securely to both sides of the hat using glue or tape.
5. Let the Hat Dry: Allow the hat to dry completely before using it.
6. Wear and Enjoy: Once the hat is dry, it’s ready to wear! Place it on guests and let everyone enjoy these fun, colorful handmade party hats at your celebration.
7. Festive Paper Streamers
Paper streamers are a fun and easy way to brighten up any party space. You can hang them from the ceiling or drape them along walls for a colorful touch. These homemade party decorations are perfect for DIY birthday decorations at home!
Supplies
- Colored paper streamers
- Scissors
- Tape or push pins
- Measuring tape or ruler
Instructions
1. Cut the Streamers: Start by cutting the paper streamers to your desired length. You can cut them into long strips or shorter lengths depending on how you want them to hang.
2. Measure and Plan: Measure the area where you want to hang the streamers, whether it’s along the ceiling, walls, or across doorways. Plan how you want the streamers to be arranged.
3. Attach the Streamers: Use tape or push pins to attach the streamers to the ceiling, walls, or wherever you’d like. You can arrange them vertically, horizontally, or even twist them for added effect.
4. Add Layers or Patterns: For a fuller look, overlap multiple streamers or alternate colors to create patterns and make the space more vibrant.
5. Adjust the Length: If some streamers are too long, trim them with scissors to make them even.
6. Enjoy the Decoration: Once the streamers are in place, step back and admire the fun, colorful atmosphere you’ve created for your DIY birthday party!
8. Unique Wine Bottle Decorations
Give your party a personal touch with unique wine bottle decorations! You can wrap them in twine, add labels, or even paint them for a fun look. These homemade party decorations are perfect for any gathering and can easily be part of your DIY birthday decorations at home.
Supplies
- Empty wine bottles (cleaned and dried)
- Twine or string
- Craft glue or hot glue gun
- Paint (optional)
- Paintbrush (optional)
- Decorative labels or stickers
- Scissors
- Ribbon or fabric (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Wine Bottles: Start by cleaning and drying the wine bottles. Remove any labels if needed, and ensure they are completely dry before decorating.
2. Wrap with Twine: Take the twine and start wrapping it around the bottle, covering the entire surface. Secure the end with glue to keep it in place. You can overlap the twine or wrap it tightly, depending on the look you want.
3. Add Labels or Stickers: If you have decorative labels or stickers, you can apply them to the bottle to add a personal touch. You can also create your own labels using cardstock or printed designs.
4. Paint the Bottle (Optional): If you want to add color, use paint and a paintbrush to decorate the bottle. You can paint the entire bottle or create designs and patterns. Allow the paint to dry completely before moving on.
5. Add Ribbon or Fabric (Optional): For an extra touch, tie a ribbon or piece of fabric around the neck of the bottle. You can use a bow for a playful look or leave it loose for a more rustic feel.
6. Display the Bottles: Once your wine bottle decorations are ready, arrange them on your party tables or around the party space. These charming bottles will add a fun and personalized touch to your DIY birthday decorations!
9. DIY Fairy Light Jars
Fairy light jars add a sprinkle of magic to your space and are super easy to make! Just fill a mason jar with battery-operated fairy lights, and you’ve got a charming decoration perfect for any party. These homemade party decorations will definitely impress your guests and are perfect for DIY birthday decorations at home!
Supplies
- Mason jars (cleaned and empty)
- Battery-operated fairy lights
- Batteries (for the lights)
- Decorative materials (such as ribbon, lace, or glitter, optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Mason Jars: Start by cleaning and drying the mason jars. You can decorate the jars with ribbon, lace, or glitter for an extra touch, but this step is optional.
2. Insert the Fairy Lights: Open the battery-operated fairy light pack and insert the lights into the mason jar. Arrange the lights inside, making sure the battery pack stays at the top for easy access.
3. Turn on the Lights: Put the batteries in the fairy light pack and turn the lights on.
4. Adjust the Lights: Gently arrange the fairy lights inside the jar to spread them evenly. You can tuck the lights in any way that gives you the best look.
5. Display the Jars: Once the lights are arranged, place the mason jars around the party space or on the tables for a magical glow. These charming jars will add a warm, cozy atmosphere to your DIY birthday decorations!
10. Colorful Confetti Balloons
Brighten up your party with colorful confetti balloons! These fun decorations are perfect for DIY birthday decorations and can easily be made at home. Just fill clear balloons with confetti and air them up for a festive touch.
Supplies
- Clear balloons
- Confetti (store-bought or homemade)
- Balloon pump
- Scissors
- String or ribbon (optional, for tying the balloons)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Confetti: If you’re making your own confetti, cut small pieces of colored paper into tiny shapes. You can use a hole punch for circles or scissors for different shapes.
2. Fill the Balloons: Stretch the opening of the clear balloons and carefully pour or drop the confetti inside. Fill the balloon with a small amount of confetti to ensure it moves around when inflated.
3. Inflate the Balloons: Using a balloon pump, inflate the balloons to your desired size. Be gentle while inflating to avoid popping the balloon.
4. Tie the Balloons: Once inflated, tie the balloons with string or ribbon to keep them secure.
5. Shake the Balloons: Gently shake the balloon to spread the confetti inside. This will help the confetti move freely around the balloon for a fun, colorful effect.
6. Display the Balloons: Place the confetti balloons around the party space, either floating or tied to the ground. These bright balloons will add a festive touch to your DIY birthday decorations!
11. Creative Cupcake Toppers
Adding fun cupcake toppers can make your treats the star of the show! Try using cute animal designs or DIY birthday decorations to match your theme. Homemade party decorations like these will impress your guests and bring smiles all around.
Supplies
- Toothpicks or small skewers
- Cardstock or colored paper
- Scissors
- Glue stick or craft glue
- Markers, stickers, or stamps (for decoration)
- Template (optional, for shape design)
Instructions
1. Cut the Toppers: Start by cutting cardstock or colored paper into shapes that fit your theme. You can use simple shapes like circles or squares, or get creative with animals, flowers, or custom designs.
2. Decorate the Toppers: Use markers, stickers, or stamps to decorate the paper shapes. Personalize them to match your party’s theme, whether it’s animals, numbers, or something else fun.
3. Attach the Toppers to Toothpicks: Once your toppers are decorated, glue the paper shapes to the top of toothpicks or small skewers. Ensure they are centered and securely attached.
4. Let the Glue Dry: Allow the glue to dry completely before using the toppers.
5. Insert into Cupcakes: Once dry, insert the cute toppers into your cupcakes. These adorable decorations will add a fun and personalized touch to your homemade treats.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Place the cupcakes on your party table, and watch as the cupcake toppers bring smiles to your guests!
12. Photo Collage Displays
Creating a photo collage display is a fun way to showcase memories at your party. You can use homemade party decorations to frame pictures that tell your story. This DIY birthday decoration adds a personal touch and sparks great conversations!
Supplies
- Photos (printed or digital)
- Poster board or large foam board
- Scissors
- Glue stick or double-sided tape
- Decorative frames or paper (optional)
- Markers or stickers (optional, for labels)
Instructions
1. Choose and Print Photos: Select the photos you want to display. Print them in various sizes, or keep them uniform for a clean look.
2. Cut the Photos (Optional): If you need to adjust the size of the photos, use scissors to trim them to fit your desired layout.
3. Prepare the Display Board: Lay out your poster board or foam board where you want to create the collage. You can decorate the edges with colorful paper, ribbon, or markers to frame the board.
4. Arrange the Photos: Begin arranging the photos on the board. Play around with the placement until you’re happy with how they look. Consider creating a theme or grouping related photos together.
5. Attach the Photos: Once you’re satisfied with the arrangement, use glue or double-sided tape to attach each photo to the board.
6. Add Labels (Optional): If you want to include captions or dates, write on the board with markers or add decorative labels next to the photos.
7. Display the Collage: Once everything is securely attached and dry, place the photo collage display in a prominent area where guests can easily admire it.
8. Enjoy the Memories: Your photo collage display is now ready to add a personal touch to your party while sparking conversation and nostalgia!
13. Handcrafted Drink Station Sign
A handcrafted drink station sign is a fun touch for any party. It’s one of those DIY birthday decorations that really sets the vibe and adds a personal flair. Plus, it helps guests easily find the drinks while mingling!
Supplies
- Wooden or cardboard sign (or a small chalkboard)
- Paint or markers
- Paintbrushes
- Decorative embellishments (ribbons, stickers, washi tape, etc.)
- Stencil (optional, for neat lettering)
- Hot glue gun (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sign: Start with a wooden or cardboard sign, or use a small chalkboard if you prefer to write and change the text. If needed, sand down any rough edges for a smoother surface.
2. Paint the Sign: Use paint or markers to write “Drink Station” or your preferred message on the sign. You can use a stencil to ensure neat lettering or freehand it for a more personalized touch.
3. Add Decorative Touches: Once the main text is dry, decorate the sign with ribbons, stickers, or washi tape. You can also add small embellishments like flowers or glitter for extra flair.
4. Let the Paint Dry: Allow any paint or markers to dry completely before handling the sign.
5. Attach a Stand (Optional): If you want the sign to stand up, attach a small wooden dowel or use a hot glue gun to secure it to a base.
6. Place the Sign: Once your handcrafted sign is ready, place it near your drink station so guests can easily spot it.
7. Enjoy the Vibe: Your drink station sign will add a fun and personalized touch to your party, helping guests find their drinks while enhancing the overall atmosphere!
14. Personalized Guest Seating Cards
Personalized seating cards add a special touch to any gathering. You can easily create these with simple materials at home, making them a perfect addition to your DIY birthday decorations. Not only do they help guests find their seats, but they also double as cute keepsakes!
Supplies
- Cardstock or heavy paper
- Scissors
- Markers, pens, or stamps
- Decorative embellishments (stickers, washi tape, ribbon, etc.)
- Hole punch (optional)
- Twine or string (optional)
Instructions
1. Cut the Cardstock: Start by cutting the cardstock into small, uniform pieces. These will be your seating cards, so make sure they are large enough to write on.
2. Write Guest Names: Using markers, pens, or stamps, write each guest’s name on their seating card. You can get creative with the font, colors, or even add small doodles or designs that match your party theme.
3. Add Decorative Touches: Once the names are written, embellish the cards with stickers, washi tape, or small ribbon. You can also punch a hole at the top of the card and tie a small piece of twine or string for an extra personal touch.
4. Let the Cards Dry: Allow any ink or glue to dry completely before handling the cards.
5. Place the Seating Cards: Arrange the personalized seating cards at each table setting, or create a display where guests can pick up their cards as they arrive.
6. Enjoy the Keepsakes: Not only do these seating cards help guests find their seats, but they also serve as cute keepsakes from the celebration, adding a special touch to your DIY birthday decorations!
15. Themed Wall Banners
Themed wall banners are a fun and eye-catching way to jazz up your party space. You can easily make these homemade party decorations using colorful paper, fabric, or even paint. Personalize them for any occasion, making your DIY birthday decorations at home truly special!
Supplies
- Colored paper, fabric, or canvas
- Scissors
- Ruler
- Glue or double-sided tape
- Markers, paint, or stickers (for decoration)
- String or ribbon (for hanging)
- Hole puncher (optional)
Instructions
1. Cut the Banner Material: Start by cutting your paper, fabric, or canvas into triangles or rectangles, depending on the look you want for your banner. Use a ruler to make sure the cuts are straight and even.
2. Decorate the Pieces: Use markers, paint, or stickers to decorate each piece. You can add letters, shapes, or designs that fit your theme. Make sure to leave some space at the top for attaching the pieces to the string.
3. Attach the Pieces Together: Lay out the decorated pieces in the order you want them to appear on the banner. Use glue or double-sided tape to attach them to a long piece of string or ribbon. Make sure the pieces are evenly spaced.
4. Punch Holes (Optional): If you want extra security, use a hole puncher at the top corners of each banner piece and thread the string through the holes.
5. Hang the Banner: Once everything is attached and dry, hang your banner along walls, doorways, or from the ceiling.
6. Enjoy the Festive Look: Your themed wall banner will bring a personalized and vibrant touch to your party, making your DIY birthday decorations stand out!
16. DIY Succulent Table Decor
Succulents make a charming addition to any party table. Arrange them in cute pots for a fresh look that fits right in with your DIY birthday decorations. These homemade party decorations are not just easy to create but also add a touch of nature to your gathering.
Supplies
- Small succulent plants (real or artificial)
- Small pots (terracotta, ceramic, or any container of your choice)
- Potting soil (if using real succulents)
- Decorative stones or pebbles (optional)
- Ribbons or twine (optional)
- Paint (optional, if decorating the pots)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pots: Start by choosing small pots for your succulents. If you’d like, you can paint the pots in colors that match your party theme. Let the paint dry completely before moving on.
2. Add Soil (If Using Real Succulents): If you’re using real succulents, fill the bottom of each pot with a little bit of potting soil.
3. Plant the Succulents: Place the succulent into the pot and add more soil around the base, pressing it down gently to secure the plant. If you’re using artificial succulents, simply place them into the pot.
4. Add Decorative Stones (Optional): For an extra touch, you can add decorative stones or pebbles on top of the soil. This will help to give the plants a more polished look.
5. Decorate the Pots (Optional): You can tie a piece of ribbon or twine around the top of each pot for added decoration. You can also add small tags or labels with guests’ names for a personalized touch.
6. Arrange the Succulents: Place the potted succulents on your party tables or throughout the space to add a fresh, natural vibe.
7. Enjoy the Greenery: Your charming succulent arrangements will bring a lively and earthy touch to your DIY birthday decorations while adding a unique and refreshing element to the celebration!
17. Chalkboard Menu Sign
A chalkboard menu sign is a fun and creative way to display your food and drinks at a party. You can make it yourself using inexpensive materials, adding a personal touch to your DIY birthday decorations. It’s a great conversation starter and adds charm to your homemade party decorations.
Supplies
- Chalkboard (or a piece of blackboard paint applied to a wooden or cardboard surface)
- White or colored chalk markers
- Decorative frame (optional, for a more polished look)
- Ruler (optional, for neat lines)
- Eraser or cloth (for cleaning the board)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chalkboard: If you’re using a pre-made chalkboard, skip this step. If you’re making your own, apply blackboard paint to a piece of wood or cardboard and let it dry completely. You can also frame the chalkboard for a more finished look.
2. Plan the Menu: Decide what food and drinks you’ll be offering and make a list. You can also include fun, themed names for each item to match the party vibe.
3. Write the Menu: Use chalk markers to write the menu on the chalkboard. Start with the food and drinks, and make sure the text is neat and legible. You can use a ruler to draw straight lines or to help with spacing.
4. Add Decorative Touches: To personalize the sign, you can add small decorative designs, such as doodles, hearts, or stars. You can also use colored chalk to make certain items stand out.
5. Let It Dry: Allow the chalk markers to dry before moving or touching the sign to prevent smudging.
6. Display the Chalkboard Menu: Place the chalkboard menu near your food or drink station, or hang it where guests can easily see it.
7. Enjoy the Charm: Your chalkboard menu sign will not only help guests find their food and drinks but also add a charming and creative touch to your DIY birthday decorations!
DIY Party Decoration Ideas
Hosting a memorable party doesn’t require a hefty budget. All you need is just a bit of creativity and effort! By using these DIY decoration ideas, you can turn your space into a fun and festive environment that will leave a great impression on your guests. With a little imagination, you can create a party that’s stylish and affordable. So gather your supplies, get crafting, and get ready to throw a party everyone will remember!
