55 Easy DIY Decorating Ideas for Your Next Party

Give your party a creative touch with these easy-to-create DIY decor ideas for birthday parties, baby showers, summer cookouts and more.

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May 24, 2022

By: Morgan Faulkner and Maria Conti

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Decoration Ideas for Parties

We love a good party here at HGTV and, with so many life events worth celebrating, planning a party as well as decorating for it can seem like daunting tasks — until now. We're taking the stress out of decorating for a party with our favorite crafty DIY decor ideas. Whether you're on the hunt for birthday decor ideas or just throwing a summer bash, get party-ready with ideas such as a statement-making party backdrop, DIY garlands, Instagram-worthy photo booths, embellished balloons and easy table decor. Read on to discover our favorite do-it-yourself decoration ideas for parties.

Statement-Making Backdrop

Create a photo-worthy focal point behind your soirée buffet or venue entryway with this whimsical DIY backdrop. The budget-friendly project calls for tissue paper flower kits, paper fans and faux greenery to create an epic, oversized display. Find the step-by-step instructions and a full materials list to get started in the link below.

Get the How-To: Craft a Party-Perfect Blooming Backdrop on a Budget

From: H. Camille Smith

No-Sew Table Runner

Zhuzh-up your buffet table in a flash with this effortless accent: a no-sew table runner. Drape a color-coordinating scarf, throw blanket or bandana across your buffet table, with one corner cascading over the front. Secure the fabric to the table with double-sided tape, then use the same adhesive to secure 1-3 heavy coins to the cascaded fabric interior. This addition will ensure the cloth stays put and pretty even on the windiest of days.

See More Photos: Easy Fourth of July Entertaining Ideas

Geometric Table Runner

Flowers not your thing? Get your tablescape into shape with this eye-catching, DIY geometric runner. The bold, three-dimensional design works overtime as an instant conversation piece and as an elevated focal point for your party table design. Craft your shapes with cardboard stock or thick paper in your choice of 5-7 jewel-tone hues to create a bold, bohemian appeal. Another idea? Create a modern, minimalist-style display with a monochromatic color palette. Ivory, beige, white, cream and almond are a winning palette perfect for events large and small.

Embellished Balloons

Don't spend more money on balloons just because they have a cute design. Utilize tissue paper to add some fun and whimsy to a plain balloon. To create a flower, cut petal shapes out of tissue paper, spray one side of the tissue paper with spray adhesive, and stick it to the balloon for a quick (and inexpensive) upgrade.

See More Photos: 10 Ways to Upgrade Disposable Party Decor

Glitter Unicorn Garland

Put your crafting skills to the test and make this DIY glitter unicorn garland for your next birthday or bachelorette party. The ethereal accessory adds inviting sparkle and mystical flair to your otherwise simple dessert station or bar cart. Plus, it's way easier to create than you think.

Get the How-To + More Ideas: 12 Must-Try Glitter Crafts and Easy Hacks To Clean It Up

Photo-Op Prop

No party is complete without an on-theme photo booth station on site. Grab your pals and snap some pics with this trendy, tropical DIY prop. It's easy to throw together with a hula hoop and your basic crafting supplies. Plus, the results are so beautiful, your friends won't believe you made it yourself.

Get the How-To: DIY Balloon Photo Booth

Dollar Store Candlestick Upgrade

Don't even think about splurging on over-the-top party decor when you can craft these DIY dollar store candlesticks for a fraction of the price. Grab wallet-friendly candlesticks from your local dollar store and spray-paint each a metallic gold, silver or matte black hue. Intertwine the set with fresh eucalyptus sprigs and stagger the sticks down the center of the table for an opulent look. Keep it classic with white taper candles, or go bold with a vibrant, multi-colored candle collection.

See More Photos: 38 DIY Dollar Store Wedding Decor Hacks

Ice Cream Cone Garland

Kids and adults of all ages are sure to be wowed by this DIY decoration. Our ice cream cone garland is equal parts sweet and festive, serving as the proverbial cherry on top for your dessert spread display. Recreate the cheery touch with our tutorial (+ two other balloon garland ideas) linked below.

Get the How-To + More Ideas: 3 Balloon Decor Ideas for Your Next Party

DIY Donut Board

Have you ever met a donut board that you didn't love? We sure haven't. This crowd-pleasing DIY dessert display hits it out of the park every single time. Pair your donut display with a mimosa bar during warm weather months, and keep it oh-so-cozy with an Irish coffee bar when the temps drop.

DIY Shibori-Style Napkins

Remember how much fun tie-dye was when you were a kid? Well, it's back, but with a more sophisticated, exotic twist. Give your party table a globe-trotting look with these beautiful, handmade Japanese-inspired linens.

Get the How-To: How to Make Your Own Shibori-Style Tie-Dye Napkins

Disco Ball Drinks

We can't be the only ones who think party punch tastes better when served straight from a miniature disco ball, right? Right. Make these statement-making mirror ball cups to set the tone for glamour at your next flashy fête with our shockingly easy DIY tutorial.

Get the How-To + More Ideas: 3 DIY Ways to Deck Out Your Party With Disco Balls

DIY Cake Stand

For a fun twist on the typical cake stand, use super glue to attach a plastic party cup to the bottom of an inexpensive plastic plate. Check your local party store or an online party supplier for novelty plastic cups, or sub in a patterned plastic tumbler from the dollar store to easily create a one-of-a-kind display.

See More Photos: 10 Ways to Upgrade Disposable Party Decor

DIY Drink Bucket

Entertain on the cheap by turning an inexpensive galvanized bucket into a bright, chic drink receptacle — perfect for summer parties. To make, tape off the areas you don't want to be painted and use large stickers to spell out your desired word. Give the entire bucket a couple of coats of spray paint, let dry and peel back the tape and stickers to reveal your party-worthy beverage chiller.

Sparkling Garland

Pull off maximum impact on a minimal budget by decorating your party with these trendy tassel garlands. It's easy to make your own with some tissue paper, sparkling mylar, scissors and string.

Get the How-To: Make Your Own Tissue Paper Tassel Garland

Homegrown Party Florals

Put your prized potted posies to work and create a home-grown party favor table display. This charming table features four pretty, seasonal potted flower plants in mismatched vessels. A hand-lettered floral illustration, a collection of hardcover books and a weathered wooden box add charm and height to the design, while an antique silver tray serves take-home DIY plantable party favors for family and friends.

Get the How-To: DIY Plantable Party Favors

From: H. Camille Smith

Paper Straw Cupcake Toppers

Give store-bought cupcakes a pretty, personal touch with DIY paper straw toppers. These sweet-and-simple toppers are ideal for all events and occasions. Create numbers to celebrate milestone birthdays or create pint-sized posies to add whimsical flair to your confetti-clad cakes.

Get the How-To + More Ideas: Quick + Easy Paper Straw Crafts

Botanical Paper Lanterns

Give plain, white paper lanterns a fresh, pressed-fern facelift to light up the night at your upcoming outdoor event. All you need to make your own are 10" hanging paper lanterns, LED mini lights, a low-temp hot glue gun, decoupage glue, pressed fern sprigs, a foam brush and scissors. Find our easy-to-follow instructions and materials shopping list to make these at home in the link below.

Get the How-To: DIY Botanical Paper Lanterns

Bold + Beautiful Balloon Arch

Big, bold and oh-so-beautiful — our DIY balloon arch is a must-have for your upcoming birthday party, bachelorette or baby shower. Customize an arch with balloons in hues that fit your event color palette, and follow our in-depth tutorial to create this high-style, high-impact backdrop for your next party.

Get the How-To + More Ideas: 3 Ways to Dress Up a Copper Pipe Arbor

Metallic Drink Flags

Serve up a celebration with these happy drink flags. To make them, wrap a small piece of metallic tissue paper around the top of a straw using double-stick tape, then cut small slits to create fringe.

See More Photos: Host a Sparkling New Year's Eve Party

From: Kim Stoegbauer

Custom Chalkboard Menu

Get your guests excited for grub with a pretty, hand-lettered menu. All you need is a couple of chalkboards, some colorful chalk and a little creativity.

Get the How-To: Make Your Own Cafe Chalkboard + Hand-Lettered Party Menu

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Chic Chair Swags

Would you believe these stunning chair swags were made from just a few plastic dollar store tablecloths? Take the tablecloths out of the package and, leaving them folded, cut two-inch strips lengthwise. Unfold to reveal handfuls of long, even, streamer-like strips and loop over the chairs. Add a few sprigs of eucalyptus, and this chic decor serves as the perfect way to spruce up plain chairs.

See More Photos: 38 DIY Dollar Store Wedding Decor Hacks

Gold-Dipped Balloons

Liquid gold leaf can make just about anything look glamorous — including ordinary balloons. Let these gilded beauties float around your party to add some sparkle to the atmosphere. To achieve this look, lightly brush balloons with liquid gold leaf and let dry.

Bandana Banner

Forgo the plastic and create a pennant banner that is as unique as it is beautiful. Just fold two bandanas in half to create triangle shapes and tie them together at the corners. Add as many bandanas as you like, and when you're all done, simply untie and repurpose or store away for your next party.

Get the How-To + More Ideas: Ring in the 4th of July With 8 Budget-Friendly Party Ideas

Spruce Up Store-Bought Items

You don't have to be a pro baker to create desserts that are both delicious and look like a million bucks. Just pick up readymade treats from your favorite bakery then embellish with a few craft-store supplies — like paper straws, twine and cardstock pennants.

See More Photos: Celebrate Mom With a Simple Mother's Day Brunch

Melon Vessels

Give store-bought blooms a high-end, floral designer look by placing them in unexpected vessels. Our advice? Swap the old-school glass vase for a fresh melon vessel. Create by hollowing out the center of a melon or pineapple with a kitchen knife. Place a bundle of fresh blooms in a narrow cylindrical vase filled with water, and tuck the vase out of sight in the tropical fruit hollow.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Glitzy Glasses

Make ordinary champagne glasses feel and look special with a sparkly sugar rim. Dip the rims into corn syrup and then into large crystal sugar (in a coordinating color to the decor) for an unforgettable mimosa.

Tie-Dye Dessert Table

Carry out your groovy tie-dye theme throughout the event decor — including the dessert table. Give grocery store sweets a psychedelic finish with our DIY decorating tutorials linked below. Once your sweets are dripping in color, follow our lead and create a multi-layered, dimensional display with a cake stand and a rainbow stack of hardcover books.

Get the How-To + More Ideas: 3 Groovy Tie-Dye Desserts You Can Make at Home

DIY Bunting

Add some floating color to your special event with this paper flag garland. Download our free template, print the flags onto colorful cardstock and cut them out. For an outdoor reception, assemble the garland and attach the ends to two stakes in the ground.

Get the How-To: Free Printable Party Flag Banner Templates

Cacti Balloon Garden

Let the balloons be the star of the party by crafting them into a playful cacti garden. Terra-cotta pots serve as the base for this adorable, botanical display.

Get the How-To: 3 Balloon Decor Ideas for Your Next Party

Chic Floating Centerpiece

Before you say "ew" to faux florals from the dollar store, think again. When placed in water, even the cheapest flowers look like the real thing. Simply fill a plastic terrarium bowl 3/4 of the way with water, pop three blooms off the stems and let them float. The best part? This stunning centerpiece will only set you back $2.

See More Photos: 38 DIY Dollar Store Wedding Decor Hacks

Contact Paper Plate

Take plastic party plates from drab to fab with the addition of fun, on-theme shapes and patterns. Simply cut desired shapes out of contact paper — white and yellow daisies seen here — and stick them to the bottom of each clear plastic plate for instant decor.

See More Photos: 10 Ways to Upgrade Disposable Party Decor

Blooming Blue Tablescape

Design your tablescapes with calming hues of blues for a timelessly beautiful spread. With the help of a party rental company or even your own savvy thrifting, achieving a vintage-inspired table setup might be easier than you think.

Get the How-To: Luxe for Less: Set a Timeless Table That Only Looks Expensive

From: H. Camille Smith

Paper Flower Cake Topper

Turn basic tissue paper into a cause for celebration. The simple, minimalist look of these budget-friendly, DIY flowers will have your event bursting with originality and charm.

Get the How-To: Turn Basic Tissue Paper Into a Party-Worthy Flower Cake Topper

Wintry Wonderland

Throwing a get-together in the chillier months? Add a little whimsy to your winter table by suspending pine and berry clippings in a variety of glass bottles filled with water. Place tapered candles into the bottle openings to create a serene, illuminated centerpiece.

See More Photos: Throw a Stylish Winter Solstice Party

Monogrammed Cloth Napkins

Why purchase random party favors that aren't doing you or your guests any favors at the big event? Save money and skip the toss-away tokens. Instead, paint or embroider cloth napkins with your guests' monograms. Place your crafty napkins on guests' plates to serve as a stylish name card and thoughtful gift at the same time.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Farm-Themed Balloon Animals

If there are two things kids love, it's balloons and farm animals. Let them have both with a cute DIY they can do with their farm-loving friends. Bonus: These adorable farm-themed balloon animals don't require helium tanks or intricate balloon twisting. Just decorate and go!

Get the How-To: Calling All Party Animals! DIY Farm-Themed Balloon Animals

DIY Floral Foam Arrangement

Create a gorgeous centerpiece for your next party from grocery store flowers and easy-to-use floral foam. This pastel display is made in a plastic dish that allows it to sit flat on the table — perfect for chit-chatting with other party-goers without a centerpiece in the way.

Get the How-To: How to Make an Easy Floral Foam Arrangement

From: Morgan Faulkner

Upcycled Gift Bag Topper

Whether you're serving a cake, a tower of cupcakes or another decadent dessert, a clever cutout of colorful blooms is the perfect way to save big bucks without losing style points. To recreate this topper, cut the prettiest blooms out of a floral gift bag, then glue them onto short wooden skewers. Arrange three or more on top of your cake for a lush, three-dimensional look.

See More Photos: 38 DIY Dollar Store Wedding Decor Hacks

Upcycled Wine Bottle Torch

Turn your last event's empty spirit bottles into your next event's ambient tabletop lighting. All you need to get started are empty glass bottles, citronella torch fuel, citronella torch wick replacement and your handy-dandy hot glue gun. Get your glow on with the step-by-step instructions and our in-depth materials list in the link below.

Get the How-To: Turn Old Glass Bottles Into Citronella Torches

Fingerprint Table Runner

Although you'd never guess it — what looks like a fashion-forward table runner is actually a kids' art project. Learn how to get crafty using your kiddos' fingerprints with our instructions linked below.

Get the How-To: Mother's Day Kids' Craft: Fingerprint Table Runner

Cheese Wheel Cake

Part focal point, part hors d'oeuvre, this DIY cheese wheel cake is a crowd-pleasing centerpiece that will leave your party guests floored when they walk in the door and full by the end of the night. To make it, choose cheese wheels in graduated sizes and with assorted textures and flavors. Stack them high and richly garnish with fresh herbs and fruit for an elegant presentation ⁠— no baking required.

See More Photos: How to Stock a Party-Perfect Charcuterie + Cheese Board

Ice Cream Balloons

These floating cones are a sweet way to decorate for an ice cream social, kid's birthday party or baby shower. They're easy to make and take less than an hour to craft.

Get the How-To: How to Make Ice Cream Cone Party Balloons

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Balloon Floral Tassel

Lend a little whimsy to the special day with floating florals. Greenery and baby's breath attach to balloon strings to make these festive hanging garlands. For an added sparkly touch, attach to confetti-filled balloons.

DIY Paper Flowers

Use crepe paper streamers to craft paper roses, carnations and spider mums for a cheery centerpiece or dessert table decor. The stems are made of floral wire and green masking tape. Pinking shears give the folded paper petals the perfect edges.

Get the How-To + More Ideas: Three Ways to Make Easy Paper Flowers

From: Marianne Canada

Wooden Star Garland

Drape the dessert table or pose for the perfect selfie in front of this sparkly gold star garland. Grab a pack of wooden craft stars, glitter and string to create this simple, yet rewarding, party decoration.

Get the How-To + More Ideas: 3 Glitzy Wooden Star Projects To Ring in the New Year

Upcycled Libation Station

Serve spirits in style at your next event with an upcycled grill cooler. This low-cost DIY project creates a charming beverage station for any outdoor event and breathes new life into your old, ugly and forgotten charcoal grill at the same time. Click the link below to find our step-by-step tutorial to recreate this charming stand at home.

Get the How-To: Upcycle an Old Charcoal Grill Into a Chill Patio Bar Cart

From: H. Camille Smith

Gorgeous Greenery Backdrop

Give your next event an effortless organic look with a DIY greenery background that utilizes the beauty of nature. Collect greenery from your own backyard and clip onto twine to create a stunning backdrop or art installation. Having a seated affair? Clip attendees' names and table numbers on each leaf for a creative way to show guests their seats.

See More Photos: 38 DIY Dollar Store Wedding Decor Hacks

Get Glowing

Light up your backyard party with string lights overhead. The cozy, golden glow brings instant charm and style to any outdoor event and allows guests to continue the party after dark without skipping a beat.

See More Photos: Backyard Barbecue Party Ideas for Your Next Cookout

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Watercolor Party Supplies

Simplify your summer party decor — while still adding a handmade touch — with one easy watercolor technique and your home printer. Paint one watercolor design, then scan it and use it for a whole suite of matching party pieces.

Get the How-To: How to Make Watercolor Party Decorations

Vintage-Chic Banner

Fold doilies in half over the length of twine, securing with a glue stick, to create a vintage-inspired banner for your rustic-glam affair.

See More Photos: 38 DIY Dollar Store Wedding Decor Hacks

Paper Chain Backdrop

Create a playful and inexpensive paper chain backdrop for your next event with this simple childhood craft that's mess-free and can turn any undecorated area into the main attraction. Have fun with color combinations, and add a pop of whimsy to your photographs.

Get the How-To: How to Make the Perfect Paper Backdrop for Every Occasion

Personalized Paper Cups

When hosting a large group for a summer bash, paper cups are the most economical drinkware, but that doesn't mean you have to abandon your design style. Customize any paper cups with a shape or motif that fits your party's theme or color palette. You can use a sticker maker or print directly on label paper to adhere the shapes to the cups.

Merry Monogram

With some seasonal, low-cost blooms and paper mache letters found at the craft store, you can create stunning, personalized centerpieces for your party tables.

Get the How-To: How to Make a Blooming Letter Centerpiece

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

DIY Photo Booth

From wedding receptions to baby showers to birthday parties, photo booths are all the rage. Skip the expensive rental and create a one-of-a-kind booth with props and a backdrop for your next party or event using our step-by-step instructions in the link below.

Get the How-To: How to Set Up Your Own DIY Photo Booth

Tissue Paper Pom-Poms

Make these simple tissue pom-poms to dress up a spring tablescape or hang them from a chandelier for a vibrant look. They're super inexpensive but look impressive.

Get the How-To: How to Make Tissue Pom-Poms

From: Marian Parsons

55 Easy DIY Decorating Ideas for Your Next Party

Related To:

Shop This Look

Decoration Ideas for Parties

Statement-Making Backdrop

No-Sew Table Runner

Geometric Table Runner

Embellished Balloons

Glitter Unicorn Garland

Photo-Op Prop

Dollar Store Candlestick Upgrade

Ice Cream Cone Garland

DIY Donut Board

DIY Shibori-Style Napkins

Disco Ball Drinks

DIY Cake Stand

DIY Drink Bucket

Sparkling Garland

Homegrown Party Florals

Paper Straw Cupcake Toppers

Botanical Paper Lanterns

Bold + Beautiful Balloon Arch

Metallic Drink Flags

Custom Chalkboard Menu

Chic Chair Swags

Gold-Dipped Balloons

Bandana Banner

Spruce Up Store-Bought Items

Melon Vessels

Glitzy Glasses

Tie-Dye Dessert Table

DIY Bunting

Cacti Balloon Garden

Chic Floating Centerpiece

Contact Paper Plate

Blooming Blue Tablescape

Paper Flower Cake Topper

Wintry Wonderland

Monogrammed Cloth Napkins

Farm-Themed Balloon Animals

DIY Floral Foam Arrangement

Upcycled Gift Bag Topper

Upcycled Wine Bottle Torch

Fingerprint Table Runner

Cheese Wheel Cake

Ice Cream Balloons

Balloon Floral Tassel

DIY Paper Flowers

Wooden Star Garland

Upcycled Libation Station

Gorgeous Greenery Backdrop

Get Glowing

Watercolor Party Supplies

Vintage-Chic Banner

Paper Chain Backdrop

Personalized Paper Cups

Merry Monogram

DIY Photo Booth

Tissue Paper Pom-Poms

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