If you’ve ever swooned over the Pottery Barn catalog but winced at the price tags, this post is for you.
These luxury home decor accessories may look expensive—but each one is made with simple supplies, many from Dollar Tree or Amazon, and they’re easy enough for a weekend craft session.
When I first started decorating on a budget, I thought I had to settle for “cheap looking” pieces.
Not anymore. With a little DIY magic and the right supplies, you can make your home look classy, elegant, and Pinterest-worthy—without spending hundreds.
Here are 7 elegant house decor projects that only look expensive (and they’re perfect to sell, too!).
I get commissions for purchases made through some of the links in this post. There is no extra cost to you. See my full disclosure here.
1. Antique Bust Necklace Display
This DIY bust display gives off French antique vibes while secretly keeping your jewelry tangle-free. Use a thrifted garden bust or faux stone statue and drape it with gold and pearl chains for a chic vanity statement.
Supplies:
- Faux stone bust (find at thrift stores or garden sections)
- Faux pearl and gold bead necklaces
- Optional: small vanity mirror and trinket dish
Steps:
- Clean your bust statue.
- Drape 2–3 necklaces in layered fashion for a curated look.
- Pair with a small mirror and ring holder to complete your vanity vignette.
💡 Perfect for: classy bedroom displays or as a market booth eye-catcher.
If you’re ready to take it up a notch, check out these laser engraving projects that could add even more wow factor.
2. Gold Cherub Mirror Accent
Turn any space into a European-style entryway with a gold cherub mirror. This baroque-inspired DIY is a head-turner that feels straight out of a Parisian apartment.
Supplies:
- Ornate oval mirror
- Two cherub candle holders (spray-painted gold if needed)
- Strong adhesive like E6000
Steps:
- Attach the cherubs to the sides of your mirror using E6000.
- Let cure for 24 hours.
- Display on a console table or mantle for an instant wow factor.
👉 Pro tip: Check estate sales or Facebook Marketplace for vintage-looking candle holders.
3. Vintage Candlestick Set
These rustic candle holders give off Restoration Hardware energy without the designer price tag. They’re a staple for sophisticated interior design.
Supplies:
- Dollar Tree or thrift store candlestick holders
- Gold spray paint
- White taper candles
Steps:
- Spray paint the holders with metallic gold or antique brass paint.
- Let dry, then insert taper candles.
- Optional: distress with sandpaper for an aged finish.
🕯 Try grouping in threes on your kitchen or bathroom counter for cozy ambiance.
Want to try even more sculptural projects? These easy air dry clay crafts are great for decor that looks handcrafted and high-end.
4. Faux Terracotta Planter (That Looks Like $399)
This Pottery Barn dupe uses two Dollar Tree planters and some textured paint magic.
Supplies:
- 1 small planter + 1 large planter
- E6000 glue
- Terracotta paint
- Baking soda
Steps:
- Glue the small planter upside-down onto the base of the large one.
- Mix terracotta paint with baking soda for a gritty finish.
- Apply in rough, overlapping strokes.
- Seal with clear matte spray.
🪴 These make amazing centerpieces or porch accents—and they cost under $10 to make!
For even more ways to elevate your plant displays, check out these painted plant pot ideas.
5. Nautical Rope Umbrella Stand
This DIY turns a plastic hamper into a beachy rope-covered umbrella stand that screams coastal luxury.
Supplies:
- Plastic laundry basket or hamper
- Nautical rope (buy in bulk for savings)
- Hot glue gun
Steps:
- Cut the rim and base of the hamper.
- Wrap and glue rope tightly around the basket, covering all the plastic.
- Secure the end with glue, and place over your umbrella base.
🌞 Use this at outdoor markets to hold signage or product umbrellas—it’s both beautiful and functional.
6. Modern LED Lanterns
You don’t need $55 lanterns to make your porch glow. These black metal lanterns from Dollar Tree look nearly identical—just add smart LED lights!
Supplies:
- Dollar Tree black lanterns
- LED candles with timers or remotes
Steps:
- Insert LED candle into each lantern.
- Place in entryways, tables, or porches.
- Set timers for automatic nighttime glow.
✨ For an even fancier look, spray the lanterns gold or antique bronze.
Thinking about expanding your product line? These best crafts to 3D print and sell are great companions to these high-end looking home decor projects.
7. Faux Marble Tray for Jewelry + Decor
These trays are stunning on their own—but they shine when used to display candles, perfume, or accessories.
Supplies:
- Dollar Tree tray (fluted or acrylic)
- Faux marble adhesive vinyl (or spray paint)
- Optional: drawer knobs as handles
Steps:
- Cover tray with vinyl or paint.
- Attach decorative handles if desired.
- Use to organize your vanity or sell as a high-end catchall tray.
💍 These sell well at craft fairs and make gorgeous gifts.
And when it’s time to package your handmade items, try these gift wrapping ideas to finish the look.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a Pottery Barn budget to get classy interior design results. With a glue gun, some creativity, and the right textures, you can make sophisticated home decor that looks like you spent hundreds—but only costs you a few bucks.
Once you’ve created a few of these, make sure your space is set up for success with must-have items for your dream craft room. And if you’re ready to turn these ideas into profit, check out my guide on the most profitable crafts to sell.
