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DIY centerpieces that won’t break the bank

Want to add some interest to your table? We’ve rounded up our favorite DIY centerpieces to update your table for the season, a party or just because. The best part? They’re all simple and inexpensive to make!

1

Boxed florals

Photo credit: Sugar and Charm

This centerpiece may look like it came from a fancy florist, but it was actually made with an inexpensive wood box from IKEA, a green styrofoam block from Michaels (Hint: use the 40-percent-off coupon from the Sunday paper) and an assortment of flowers. If you don’t have a wooden box, Eden from Sugar and Charm suggests popping the floral foam into a basket, a hat or even a shoe!

2

Washi tape vases

Photo credit: A Creative Mint

Wine bottles, pickle jars and mason jars get color and flair from a coat of white spray paint and a smattering of washi tape and scrap paper. Line them up and down the middle of the table for a fun spring or summer display.

3

Bowl of corks

Photo credit: Mintagehome

A simple bowl of corks makes a bold statement — especially when that bowl is a journal of sorts. Gabrielle of Mintagehome says her sister-in-law gave her this idea to jot down the who, what, when and where on the cork of each bottle imbibed and save them in a bowl. What a fun way to remember good friends, good wine and good times.

4

Painted jars

Photo credit: Oh So Lovely

For this DIY project, you’ll need an assortment of glass jars. Raid your refrigerator or pick up a few at a thrift store for a few bucks. Pour in enamel paint for glass, swirl around, and voila — gorgeous jewel-toned vases for your table display. Get full instructions for this DIY centerpiece at Oh So Lovely.

5

Candles and coffee beans

Photo credit: Calm Cradle

A simple display of candles and coffee beans is a feast for the senses — a visual, tactile and olfactory delight. Visit the Calm Cradle blog for all the details on this simple fall centerpiece.

6

Chalkboard painted bottles

Photo credit: Soap Deli News

Chalkboard paint and a little washi tape are all it takes to doll up an ordinary wine bottle or Frappuccino bottle. Pop in a bloom or two from the garden and you’re good to go. Set out chalk sticks for guests to doodle while they dine.

7

Branches for every season

Photo credit: That’s What We Said

Branches are the ultimate easy and inexpensive centerpiece materials. Leave the branches au naturel as seen in this fall centerpiece, then spray paint them and glue on candy hearts when Valentine’s Day comes around.

8

Glittered pumpkins

Photo credit: Teal and Lime

Add a little bling to your October table with a cluster of glittered pumpkins. If you have kids, they’ll love to help you out with this project (keep the Dustbuster handy!). Get the DIY details at Teal and Lime.

9

Candy corn votives

Photo credit: Poppies at Play

Grab your water goblets and let them play dress-up with candy corn and votive candles. (You might want to keep a separate dish of the candy nearby, so your centerpieces don’t get gobbled up!) Swap corn kernels for the candy corn if that’s what you have on hand.

10

Spring grass

Photo credit: Lovezilla

If you’ve never sprouted your own potted grass seeds, it’s easier than you might think. Plus, the kids will love watching the progress as it grows. Find wheatgrass seeds at the health food store for a little more than $1 per pound. Get instructions on how to grow your own spring grass centerpiece at Lovezilla.

Quick tip:

Aluminum cans are perfect for creating a last-minute centerpiece. Just peel off the labels, tie a ribbon around each can and fill with blooms.

More entertaining ideas

Just like mama made it: Classic holiday recipes
10 Quick and easy finger foods
15 Items to keep on hand for a quick party

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