10 DIY Dorm Decorations That Will Make Your Room Stand Out

When it comes to dorm rooms, control over the basic aesthetic is often lacking. Decorating your room to reflect yourself is SO important, but how can you do that when you can hardly afford boxed mac & cheese for dinner? If you are decorating a dorm on a college budget, then it is time to get creative in the way you decorate your room, but don’t stress! We’ve rounded up plenty of affordable DIY dorm room decorations that you can make on your own, and that’ll make your space stand out. Here are 10 DIY dorm decorations that you need to try ASAP!

1. Mouse Pad

You will be spending a lot of time at your computer in college, and when you are stuck staying up late studying for a test, you’ll want to make sure that you can at least look at something cute. A great way to start is by upping your mouse pad game. This DIY mouse pad is adorable and unique! It is easy to make, and it will definitely make your desk stand out among the rest (And no, you don’t need to know how to sew or paint watercolor flowers.) All you need is cork, mod podge, fabric, scissors, and a paintbrush. And there you have it—an addition to your affordable and cute DIY dorm room decorations.

You can find the directions here!

2. Tassel Wall Hanging

If you are a boho babe, then this craft will most likely be your favorite of the DIY dorm decorations. Turn your dorm room into the boho room of your dreams and add this easy to make tassel wall hanging piece to your study space. This craft pairs fabulously with a glass of wine, and you will love the final product.

Find the directions here!

3. Confetti Tray

School is way less boring when you make it feel like a party, and this fun decorative tray will be the perfect addition to your dorm room. Whether you use it to store your jewelry or maybe even use it as a home base for your pens and pencils, this confetti tray is the perfect dorm room decoration that will make your room stand out.

You can find the instructions here!

4. Upholstered Headboard

The ultimate way to make your dorm room stand out and feel like just like home is to add some DIY dorm decorations. If you are feeling extra crafty, add a headboard of your creation. Picking out the fabric is a great way to express yourself, and you will absolutely have the prettiest dorm room.

Get the tutorial here!

5. Hanging Storage

One of the first things to do when moving into a dorm is finding a place to put everything. Staying organized is essential in making the most out of your small dorm room space. However, your storage solutions don’t need to be drab. With these DIY dorm room decorations, even your organization can be cute AF. Add some personality to the way you hang things up by making your own hooks using polymer clay.

Find the details here!

6. Make A Cute Laundry Hamper

When living in a dorm room, it’s near impossible to hide a laundry hamper in a closet or somewhere else out of sight. So chances are your laundry is going to be all out in the open. Take the opportunity to turn your laundry hamper into a piece of decor that blends in nicely with the room. Cute and chic, this dorm room decoration will be a favorite among your visitors.

Find the directions here!

7. Update Your Lampshade

Inexpensive neutral lampshades tend to lack personality, but changing them out doesn’t need to turn into an expensive chore. Next time you are looking to update your dorm room decorations, try and update the lampshades in your room. Whether you decide to pick your own fabric and make your own or you want to buy a brand new one, this DIY craft can be fun and creative.

Here are the details!

8. Use Washi Tape

If you attempt this next DIY dorm decor project, make sure you are willing to spend just as much time removing it as you will putting it up. Washi tape is a great way to go if you want to spice up your room without being fully committed to a permanent design. To get the look, purchase a few different colors of washi tape and get started! If applied correctly, washi tape can be removed from walls without damaging them. You are on your way to making the perfect DIY dorm room decor!

9. Felt Letter Board

Keep things light and inspirational by crafting a felt letter board for your dorm walls or desk. This will give you a creative space to put all of the inspirational quotes that keep you motivated throughout the day. These are easy to make and inexpensive, which makes for one of the best DIY dorm room decorations. Make sure to put your personal spin on it no matter what. You cant go wrong when you are being yourself!

Here is how to make them!

10. Make Wall Art Out Of Gift Bags

Nothing brings a room together like art. While we all know that gift bags can be reused over and over again, what about turning the gift bag into something entirely different? If you love the message or the pattern of a bag, try framing it and turning it into a piece of art. Simple, cheap, and fabulous.

Finding the best DIY dorm decorations can be hard, but we hope this helped you find some inspiration. What is one of your favorite DIY dorm decorations? Let us know in the comments below!