Decorating your home doesn’t have to drain your bank account. In fact, some of the most stunning home accents can come from—yep—the dollar store. With a little creativity and a few easy upgrades, you can turn affordable finds into chic, high-end-looking pieces that wow your guests (and your wallet).
Here are some of the best dollar store decor hacks that look anything but cheap.
✨ 1. Frame It Up
Hack: Buy dollar store frames in bulk and create a custom gallery wall. Spray paint them gold, black, or matte white for an upscale look.
Bonus Tip: Print free downloadable art or botanical prints for a cohesive, curated vibe.
✨ 2. Faux Floral Magic
Hack: Mix and match faux florals with dried stems and style them in a thrifted vase. Fluff and trim the stems to make them look fuller and more natural.
Pro Trick: Add a few drops of essential oil for that fresh scent.
✨ 3. Glass Jars for Instant Glam
Hack: Grab clear jars or canisters with lids and use them to organize everything from cotton balls in the bathroom to pantry snacks.
Upgrade It: Tie on a neutral ribbon or use chalkboard labels for a clean, minimalist aesthetic.
✨ 4. DIY Tiered Tray
Hack: Stack two plates and a candlestick holder with E6000 glue to create a tiered tray for desserts, candles, or jewelry.
Use It For: Coffee bars, centerpieces, or entryway catch-alls.
✨ 5. Mirror Wall Hack
Hack: Buy multiple small square or round mirrors and mount them together in a grid layout.
Why It Works: Creates the illusion of a larger space and reflects light beautifully—perfect for small apartments or hallways.
✨ 6. $1 Candle Glow-Up
Hack: Buy basic white candles and wrap them with burlap, twine, or metallic washi tape.
Style Tip: Display in groups of three at varying heights for a cozy, styled look.
✨ 7. Faux Ceramic Vase
Hack: Use thrifted or dollar store glassware and apply baking soda + acrylic paint for a textured, ceramic-like finish.
Color Ideas: Matte white, sage green, or terracotta for that West Elm feel.
✨ 8. Rope Basket Upgrade
Hack: Wrap a plastic bin with jute rope using hot glue for a modern, woven basket look.
Use It For: Storing throws, toys, or plants with style.
✨ 9. Tray Transformation
Hack: Take a plain plastic tray and mod-podge marble contact paper or peel-and-stick wallpaper on top.
Where to Use: Coffee table styling, bathroom vanity, or bedside essentials.
✨ 10. Elegant Table Settings
Hack: Layer charger plates, cloth napkins, and gold-toned utensils from the dollar store for a glam table on a dime.
Finishing Touch: Add a eucalyptus sprig or handwritten place card.
🛒 Where to Find Materials:
- Dollar Tree
- Dollar General
- Family Dollar
- Target Dollar Spot
- Thrift stores + craft bins for bonus finds
Closing Thought:
Decorating on a budget isn’t about sacrifice—it’s about style with strategy. With just a few bucks and a little vision, your home can look like a designer showroom (without the credit card bill to match).
