Crafting doesn’t need to be expensive to be fun and rewarding. We’ve gathered dozens of DIY craft ideas that cost under £5 each to make, using items you probably already have at home.
These projects are perfect for rainy days, family activities, or creating thoughtful handmade gifts.
From toilet roll masterpieces to magazine upcycling projects, we love finding new ways to transform everyday items into beautiful decorations and practical household items.
Our favourite craft supplies come from pound shops, charity shops and things we’d normally throw in the bin.
Let’s explore some creative DIY projects. We’ve tested each one ourselves and included details to help you along the way.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned crafter, you’ll find something exciting to make.
The Best Cheap DIY Crafts You Can Make at Home
Transforming everyday items into gorgeous crafts doesn’t need lots of money. These creative cheap DIY projects use simple materials you likely have at home already.
Upcycled Crafts – Turn Everyday Items into Art
Empty glass jars make brilliant candle holders with a coat of paint and some twine wrapped around the rim. We love creating unique wall art from old magazines by rolling colourful pages into tubes and arranging them in geometric patterns.
Those cardboard boxes cluttering your cupboards? Cut them into shapes, paint them metallic colours, and mount them as 3D wall decor. The textured look adds brilliant depth to any room.
Transform tin cans into lovely pen holders or small planters. Simply clean them thoroughly, wrap with colourful yarn or twine, and add decorative buttons or beads.
Paper Crafts – Low-Cost & Easy DIY Ideas
Paper crafts open up endless creative possibilities. We recommend starting with origami – all you need is colourful paper to create stunning flowers, animals and geometric shapes.
Make custom bookmarks using thick card stock, washi tape, and pressed flowers. Add tassels made from embroidery thread for an elegant touch.
Paper quilling creates gorgeous wall art. Roll thin strips of coloured paper into coils and shapes, then arrange them into flowers, mandalas or abstract designs.
DIY Home Decor – Create Stunning Pieces for Less
A macrame plant hanger brightens any room. Using basic knots and cotton cord, we can make beautiful hangers for potted plants.
Paint wooden picture frames in chalk paint, distress them slightly, and group them as wall gallery displays. Mix different sizes for visual interest.
Mason jar candles add warm ambience. Melt old candle stubs with fresh wax, add essential oils for scent, and use cotton string for wicks.
No-Sew Fabric Crafts – Fun & Frugal DIY Ideas
Create cosy cushion covers without sewing by knotting fleece edges together. Choose complementary patterns to match your decor.
Friendship bracelets use embroidery thread and simple knotting patterns. Mix colours to make unique designs – perfect for gifts.
Transform old t-shirts into trendy plant hangers by cutting and braiding the fabric. No tools needed beyond sharp scissors.
Make no-sew coasters from felt circles. Layer different colours and secure with fabric glue. Add simple embroidered designs for extra flair.
Where to Find Cheap Craft Supplies & Discounts
Smart shopping for craft supplies helps stretch your crafting budget whilst still letting you create amazing projects. We’ve gathered the best money-saving tips and resources to help you stock up affordably.
Savzz.co.uk – Your Go-To for Craft Savings
Savzz.co.uk is a UK-based discount code site that helps you find the best deals. We try to make it easy to find amazing deals on craft essentials and offer a wide selection of discount codes for popular craft shops and art supply stores.
The site updates daily with fresh deals on everything from paints and papers to yarn and beads. Find exclusive codes that often give 10-25% off your purchases.
Sign up for email alerts to catch flash sales and seasonal discounts. The newsletter keeps you in the loop about the best craft bargains.
Budget-Friendly Shopping Tips for Crafters
Dollar stores and pound shops are great for basic supplies like glue, scissors, and craft paper. We recommend checking these shops first before buying elsewhere.
Keep an eye out for clearance sales at craft shops, especially after major holidays. Many stores slash prices by 50-75% to clear seasonal stock.
Shop end-of-season sales for the best deals on seasonal craft items. Stock up on Christmas crafting supplies in January or autumn items in November.
Join craft shop loyalty programmes to earn points and receive member-only discounts. Many shops offer birthday rewards and special member pricing.
Consider buying supplies in bulk when you spot good deals. Split larger quantities with crafting friends to save even more.
Final Tips for Crafting on a Budget
Keep your craft supplies organised in clear containers or boxes. This makes it easy to spot what you already have and prevents buying duplicates.
Shop at pound shops and charity shops for basic supplies like paper, glue, and craft storage. We’ve found amazing deals on craft essentials at these stores.
Consider these money-saving swaps:
- Use newspaper instead of wrapping paper
- Try food colouring instead of craft paint
- Make stamps from potatoes or cardboard
- Create templates from cereal boxes
Join local craft groups on Facebook to swap materials with other crafters. Many groups also share tips and arrange supply swaps.
Check your kitchen and garden before buying new supplies. Items like dried pasta, leaves, and twigs make brilliant craft materials – and they’re free!
Store loyalty cards can help you save on craft supplies. We recommend collecting points throughout the year to spend during seasonal sales.
Set a monthly craft budget and stick to it. A simple spreadsheet can track your spending and help identify where to cut costs.
Keep a ‘maybe later’ list for project ideas that need pricier materials. This helps avoid impulse purchases while giving you time to shop around for deals.
Search for seasonal clearance sales at craft shops. Post-holiday markdowns offer brilliant savings on paper, ribbons, and decorative items.
Frequently Asked Questions
DIY crafts provide endless opportunities for creative expression while staying within a modest budget, using common household items and affordable materials.
What are some cost-effective craft ideas for kids?
Paper crafts remain a top choice for children’s activities. Construction paper, scissors, and glue can transform into masks, paper chains, and greeting cards.
Creating budget-friendly family fun with recyclable materials teaches kids about sustainability. Empty toilet rolls become binoculars, while cardboard boxes transform into playhouses.
Painting rocks collected from the garden offers a free canvas for artistic expression. Add googly eyes and paint to create pet rocks or garden decorations.
What handmade crafts can one easily sell?
Handmade jewellery using beads and string appeals to many buyers. Simple bracelet designs require minimal supplies yet create lovely pieces.
Decorated mason jars with paint and ribbons make charming candle holders or vases. These items typically sell well at craft fairs.
Custom greeting cards using paper, stamps, and basic art supplies offer good value. People appreciate personalised touches for special occasions.
Which crafts are suitable for adults that won’t break the bank?
Macramé wall hangings need only rope and a wooden dowel. The simple knotting techniques create stunning home décor pieces.
Upcycled furniture painting transforms old items with just sandpaper and paint. A fresh coat breathes new life into dated pieces.
Paper quilling requires only strips of paper and basic tools. The coiled designs make beautiful wall art and greeting cards.
What are some simple and inexpensive crafts to do at home?
String art uses nails, wood, and embroidery thread. The geometric patterns create eye-catching wall décor.
Pressed flower art preserves garden blooms between paper and glass. These make lovely frames and bookmarks.
Origami requires just paper and patience. The folded designs range from simple to complex.
Can you suggest any beginner-friendly craft projects that are affordable?
Fabric scrunchies need small pieces of material and elastic bands. They’re quick to make and practical to use.
Painted plant pots transform with acrylic paint and sealant. These brighten any space and protect your plants.
What unique craft activities can adults do without spending a lot?
Yarn wrapping transforms old bottles into decorative vases. Add fairy lights for an enchanting evening glow.
Book folding creates 3D art from unwanted books. Simple patterns work best for beginners.
Decoupage on boxes or furniture uses paper scraps and glue. The layered effect creates unique pieces.
