Yahoo Finance How to Save Money With DIY Party Ideas
I heard a great saying once that you can do anything good, cheap and fast... but only two of those things at once. I think that's really at the heart of all DIY projects and because of that, I've always viewed them a little skeptically. I think the main goal is to let go of the idea that some DIY projects are like craft time when you were growing up -- the reality is you may not have the perfect little project 30 minutes later, and that's okay.
On the flip side, you might have the perfect little project 30 minutes later if you shell out $100 in supplies to make your fancy-pants homemade coasters or whatever Pinterest project has grabbed your eye.
I speak from experience. I spent weeks creating wall art to decorate my apartment using different DIY methods. I made eight pieces of art. The only two I really liked were the last two and of those two, one was printed on a plotter that I just happened to have access to at work. Nothing about that last project would've been cheap or easy if I didn't happen to have access to that super expensive machine.
That being said, I do think there are a few good, cheap projects that can be done with minimal time and tools you'd actually have lying around your house. I'm not going to lie to you and say you can find everything at the dollar store but most of the items on this list can be found there and for about $20. Here are some project ideas to help take your party planning to the next level:
1. Make homemade envelopes for invitations.
You can pick up a package of scrapbook paper and double sided tape from a local craft or paper store. Then, using a ruler and scissors, take apart an existing envelope to use as a template. Trace it onto a spare piece of cardboard and then use that template to cut out the envelope pattern on the scrapbook paper. You can finish the job with the double sided tape.
2. Create chalkboard-painted serving trays and wine glasses.
This idea is a fun one for parties because you can write directly on the trays or glasses -- or invite your guests to do so. From the dollar store, pick up the serving trays and wine glasses. You can also get a pint of chalkboard paint and some chalk. After painting, let the paint dry for a few hours before using.
3. Make Mason jar centerpieces.
At the store, pick up some votive candles and string. Look for clean mason jars hanging out in your recycling bin. (You can also buy them in bulk but they can get expensive.) You can decorate the jars with the chalkboard paint you have, even using stencils or leaves to make designs. Then, once the paint dries, you can fill up the jar with a grain like rice, beans or stones and place the votive candle on top. Lastly, wrap the jars with string or twine around the top. Now you have a gorgeous -- and affordable -- centerpiece to use.
With a little creativity, the dollar store can be an excellent place to gather supplies that will let you put the finishing touch on your next party. After browsing Pinterest, you might find other DIY-inspired ideas to try, too. Just remember that Pinterest projects can often get expenses once you gather the supplies and the end result might not be as appealing as the picture would suggest.
For more ideas, consider checking out DIY blogs and websites. The ideas mentioned above were also featured on www.ohreallybeckyforever.com, popsugar.com and heartlovealways.com. If you look around for a blogger that resonates with your own style, you'll probably find even more ideas.
Tackling a DIY project might take up more time than going the traditional route and just purchasing party decorations, but it can be much more satisfying -- and easier on your wallet -- to invest the time in a project. Plus, you can bring back some of that joy you felt as a child making your own craft projects, no matter how perfectly, or imperfectly, they turn out.
Mel Bondar blogs at brokeGIRLrich, where she explores topics including how not to totally panic over adulthood, working in the arts and retirement strategies that don't involve living in a cardboard box under an overpass.
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