18 Dollar Store Living Room Decor Hacks
Decorating your living room doesn’t have to drain your bank account. With a little creativity, you can transform your space using simple items from your local dollar store. Honestly, I never believed it until I tried it myself. Walking through the aisles, I realized that so many inexpensive items could be turned into chic, trendy decor with just a bit of imagination. From cozy throw pillows to clever wall art, the possibilities are endless. In this article, I’ll share 18 dollar store living room decor hacks that will not only refresh your space but also make it feel like a home you love coming back to.
1. Transform Candles into Chic Centerpieces
Dollar store candles may seem ordinary, but they’re like blank canvases. I bought a set of three pillar candles and used twine, ribbon, and small artificial flowers to create a gorgeous centerpiece for my coffee table. Not only did it look elegant, but the soft candlelight instantly made my living room feel cozy and warm. Tip: Group candles in odd numbers for a more professional look.
2. DIY Throw Pillows for a Pop of Color
Throw pillows can instantly refresh your space, but designer ones can be expensive. Dollar stores often have basic pillow covers or fabric squares that you can sew or even hot-glue onto stuffing. I love mixing patterns—stripes, florals, and textures—to give my sofa a boutique-hotel vibe without spending a fortune. Tip: Stick to a color palette to make it look intentional and cohesive.
3. Upgrade Picture Frames
I once bought cheap picture frames from the dollar store and painted them gold. They transformed plain photos into art gallery-worthy pieces. You can also create a collage wall or use frames for pressed flowers, inspirational quotes, or even fabric swatches. It’s amazing how something as simple as a coat of paint can elevate a living room.
4. Create Faux Greenery Corners
Plants bring life to any space, but fresh plants aren’t always budget-friendly. Dollar store artificial plants and succulents are perfect for creating greenery corners. Use decorative pots or baskets you already own, and suddenly your room feels vibrant and lively. Tip: Mix different heights and textures for a more natural, curated look.
5. Repurpose Mason Jars as Decor
Mason jars aren’t just for canning—they’re decor gold. Fill them with fairy lights, colored sand, or even seasonal items like pinecones or seashells. I like arranging them in clusters on my coffee table or window sill for a whimsical touch. Bonus: They’re inexpensive and versatile, so you can change their look every season.
6. Transform Plain Vases
A plain vase doesn’t have to stay plain. I bought a few dollar store vases and used spray paint, glitter, or rope to give them a designer feel. Grouping them together in varying sizes adds dimension to a shelf or mantel. Pro tip: Matte finishes make vases look more expensive and modern.
7. Upgrade Lampshades Easily
A lampshade can make or break a room. If you have a basic one, a simple dollar store trim, ribbon, or even fabric glue can instantly transform it. I once covered a beige shade in burlap and lace, and it looked like a high-end boutique find. Tip: Consider adding a pattern with stencils for a custom look.
8. Wall Art from Scrap Materials
Blank walls can feel cold, but you don’t need to buy expensive art. Dollar store supplies like canvas boards, paint, and stencils allow you to create your own artwork. I painted a series of abstract pieces in coordinating colors—it became the focal point of my living room. Fun fact: DIY art feels more personal, and visitors often ask where I bought it.
9. Decorative Trays for Organization
Trays aren’t just functional—they can be stunning accent pieces. Use them to corral remotes, candles, or even small potted plants. I love layering trays of different heights and textures for a magazine-worthy coffee table display. Tip: Choose metallic or mirrored trays for an upscale look without spending much.
10. Cozy Throws on Budget
A throw can instantly make a living room feel warm and inviting. Dollar stores often carry soft blankets or knit throws. I like folding mine neatly over the sofa or draping it casually for a lived-in, cozy vibe. Bonus: Throws are functional and aesthetic, making them a win-win decor item.
11. Repurpose Decorative Bowls
Decorative bowls can be more than just kitchenware. I use dollar store bowls to hold potpourri, keys, or even seasonal decorations. Placed strategically on a coffee table or shelf, they act as tiny bursts of style that don’t cost a fortune. Tip: Metallic or glass bowls instantly look more luxurious.
12. Seasonal Decor Swaps
Dollar stores are a treasure trove for seasonal accents. Think pumpkins in fall, mini wreaths in winter, or pastel ornaments in spring. Swapping out a few small pieces each season refreshes your living room without a major overhaul. It’s like giving your room a mini facelift four times a year.
13. Decorative Mirrors for Depth
Mirrors can make a small living room feel huge. Dollar store mirrors, even basic ones, can be grouped into gallery walls or framed with paint and embellishments. I once created a mirrored wall collage, and it added dimension and elegance that rivals high-end stores. Tip: Mirrors also reflect light, making your space brighter.
14. Stylish Storage Baskets
Clutter can ruin even the prettiest living room. Dollar store baskets are ideal for stylish storage. I use them for blankets, magazines, or toys. Adding a simple label or lining with fabric makes them look custom-made. Bonus: You get functionality and style in one affordable package.
15. Upgrade Curtain Rods
Dollar store curtain rods may seem cheap, but with a bit of spray paint or finial swaps, they can look designer. Changing small hardware pieces can make a surprisingly big difference in the overall vibe of a room. Tip: Match the rod color to other metal accents in your space for a cohesive look.
16. DIY Wall Shelves
Floating shelves can be created using dollar store materials like small wooden planks and brackets. I painted mine white and used them to display candles, photos, and small plants. It’s a budget-friendly way to add storage and style simultaneously. Tip: Layer different heights for visual interest.
17. Upcycled Clocks
Even a simple clock can become a decor statement. Dollar store clocks can be painted, adorned with decals, or even arranged in a gallery wall of multiple clocks. It’s a fun project and adds personality to your living room. Tip: Pick clocks in different sizes to create a dynamic display.
18. Accent Wall with Stickers or Decals
If you want a bold statement without commitment, dollar store wall stickers or decals are perfect. I once used a geometric decal pattern to create a modern accent wall—it was easy to apply and removed without damage. Tip: Stick to one wall to prevent overwhelming the room, and coordinate with your overall color palette.
