When you think about a vanity, it’s not just a piece of furniture. It’s a personal corner where you start your day, check your reflection, or unwind before bed. A vanity can be glamorous, cozy, or minimal depending on your personality. But here’s the fun part—you don’t have to buy an expensive one. With some creativity, patience, and simple tools, you can build your own DIY vanity that fits your style and skill level.

The beauty of DIY projects is that they don’t need to be intimidating. You can start small with a wall-mounted shelf and mirror or go all out with a repurposed desk. Think of it as crafting a space that feels like “you.” And no matter your budget, there’s always a clever way to create a vanity you’ll love.

In this guide, I’ll share 25 DIY vanity ideas for every skill level—from beginners who only want to use screws and glue to advanced DIY lovers who enjoy building furniture from scratch. Let’s dive in.

1. Floating Shelf Vanity

If your room is small or you love a clean, modern look, a floating shelf vanity is perfect. All you need is a sturdy wooden shelf, some wall brackets, and a mirror above it. You can mount it at your preferred height, add a stool underneath, and you instantly have a sleek vanity without clutter. The great thing is, this project works well even if you have zero woodworking skills—just measure, drill, and hang.

To personalize it, paint the shelf in a bold color or stain it for a rustic vibe. You can even install LED strip lights under the shelf for that hotel-style glow. It’s a minimalist solution that looks expensive but takes very little effort.

2. Repurposed Desk Vanity

Do you have an old desk sitting around? With a little imagination, it can easily become a vanity. Desks often come with drawers, which means built-in storage for makeup, jewelry, or hair tools. All you need is a mirror—either a large wall-mounted one or a tabletop version—and some decorative touches like a chic chair or a few candles.

The transformation is simple, yet it feels brand new. If the desk looks outdated, give it a coat of chalk paint or change the handles. It’s like giving it a new personality. This idea is especially great if you’re on a budget because it makes use of what you already have.

3. Vanity with a Pegboard Backdrop

A pegboard is like a canvas for organization. Mount one behind a small table or shelf, and suddenly your vanity is both stylish and functional. You can hang baskets for makeup, hooks for jewelry, or even mini shelves for perfumes. The pegboard keeps everything in sight but still tidy, which is a dream if you hate messy counters.

This design also grows with you—you can keep rearranging it when your collection changes. Plus, pegboards come in different colors, so you can make it playful with pink or elegant with black. It’s an easy DIY project that feels both creative and practical.

4. Vintage Suitcase Vanity

Here’s a quirky and nostalgic idea: turn an old suitcase into a vanity. It sounds unusual, but once you see it, you’ll fall in love. All you need is a vintage suitcase, some legs (which you can buy from a hardware store), and a mirror attached inside the lid.

It becomes a portable vanity with a lot of charm. You can keep your essentials inside, close it when you’re done, and it doubles as a decorative piece in your room. If you want to get fancy, line the inside with patterned fabric or wallpaper for a glamorous touch.

5. Simple Ladder Vanity

A wooden ladder can become a chic vanity if you’re willing to think outside the box. Lean the ladder against the wall and use its steps as shelves. On one level, you can place a small mirror. On another, you can store baskets with your beauty supplies.

It’s the perfect idea if you live in a small apartment and love vertical storage. You don’t even need to do much construction—just secure the ladder to the wall for safety. Add fairy lights or plants, and suddenly it’s a vanity that doubles as decor.

6. Drawer Vanity Station

If you’re the type who loves everything hidden away, a drawer vanity might be the best option. You can repurpose an old drawer or build one into a small table. When closed, it looks like an ordinary piece of furniture. But when you open it, voilà—a hidden makeup station complete with a mirror on the inside.

This is great for minimalists or anyone who doesn’t want their vanity to take over the room. You can even add dividers inside the drawer to keep things neat. It feels like a little secret space just for you.

7. DIY Vanity with String Lights

There’s something magical about string lights. They make any corner feel cozy and cinematic. For this idea, place a simple table against the wall, hang a mirror, and wrap string lights around the mirror frame. That’s it.

The soft glow creates the perfect lighting for makeup or skincare routines. Plus, it’s affordable—especially if you already have fairy lights lying around. You can even swap them for LED bulbs if you prefer a more Hollywood-style vanity look.

8. Industrial Pipe Vanity

For a bold and urban feel, build a vanity using industrial pipes and wood. This style is popular in lofts and modern homes because it mixes raw materials with function. You’ll need a wooden board for the tabletop, metal pipes for the frame, and a mirror to complete the look.

What’s great is that it’s sturdy and customizable. You can make it small for a bedroom corner or long enough to double as a desk. Pair it with a metal stool, and you’ve got a vanity that looks straight out of a design magazine.

9. Wall-Mounted Vanity with Foldable Mirror

Sometimes, space-saving is everything. A foldable mirror vanity is a clever way to keep things functional yet minimal. You can mount a small shelf on the wall and install a mirror that folds out when needed. When not in use, it closes flat against the wall, keeping your space neat.

This is an excellent option for studio apartments or dorm rooms where every inch counts. Add a hidden storage box under the shelf, and you’ve got a vanity that disappears when you’re not using it.

10. Farmhouse Style Vanity

Farmhouse decor has a way of feeling warm and timeless. To create a farmhouse-inspired DIY vanity, start with a rustic wooden table or even a repurposed console table. Add a round mirror with a distressed frame, a woven basket for storage, and maybe a mason jar for brushes.

It doesn’t take much to pull off this look because the charm lies in its simplicity. A coat of white paint, some soft textiles, and vintage-style lighting can turn a plain table into a cozy farmhouse vanity.

11. Vanity from a Bar Cart

A bar cart isn’t just for drinks—it makes a fantastic vanity too. With wheels, it’s portable, which means you can move it around depending on your lighting or mood. Just place a mirror on top, organize your essentials on trays, and tuck baskets on the lower shelves.

The best part is that it’s multifunctional. If you ever stop using it as a vanity, it can go back to being a serving cart. It’s stylish, small-space friendly, and requires zero building skills.

12. Minimalist Acrylic Vanity

If you love modern, airy designs, an acrylic vanity could be the way to go. You can buy acrylic tables or shelves online and pair them with a simple mirror. The clear material makes your space look larger, which is a win for small bedrooms.

It also feels very sleek—almost invisible—so your decor gets to shine. Style it with metallic accessories, and you’ve got a vanity that feels luxurious without being over the top.

13. Corner Vanity Nook

Corners are often wasted space, but they’re perfect for a vanity setup. All you need is a corner table or two small shelves that meet at an angle. Add a mirror that fits neatly in the corner, and you suddenly have a cozy, tucked-away vanity spot.

This setup feels private, almost like your own secret beauty station. Add soft lighting, and it becomes a calming nook where you can relax while getting ready.

14. Pallet Wood Vanity

If you enjoy rustic charm, pallets are your best friend. They’re affordable, easy to find, and versatile. A simple pallet can be transformed into a tabletop, while another piece can be cut for shelves. Add a mirror, and you have a vanity with character.

What makes this idea special is its eco-friendly appeal—you’re upcycling something that might otherwise be discarded. Sand the wood, stain it, and add some vintage handles for flair. It’s perfect if you want a vanity that looks handmade with love.

15. Hollywood-Style Vanity with Bulb Lights

There’s something empowering about sitting at a vanity framed with big glowing bulbs. It makes you feel like a star. You can DIY this by attaching light strips or bulb kits around a simple mirror. Pair it with a plain desk or shelf, and you instantly have a glamorous setup.

This is especially great for makeup lovers since the lighting is perfect for precision. While it may look fancy, it’s surprisingly simple to build—and the dramatic effect it adds to your room is worth it.

16. Closet Vanity Conversion

If your bedroom is small, your closet can secretly double as a vanity. Clear out a small section, mount a desk or shelf, and hang a mirror inside. Add a chair, and you’ve created a vanity that hides away when you shut the door.

This works best for walk-in closets but can also be done in smaller wardrobes. It’s practical, space-saving, and gives you a little private spot to get ready. Add a small light fixture, and you’ve got yourself a cozy vanity nook.

17. Repurposed Dresser Vanity

Dressers are often underappreciated, but they can make incredible vanities. The top surface is wide enough for a mirror, while the drawers give you tons of storage. You only need to add a stylish chair and some decorative touches.

If your dresser feels outdated, paint it in a fun color or give it a modern makeover with new knobs. It’s a budget-friendly project that transforms furniture you already own into something glamorous and practical.

18. Wall-to-Wall Vanity Table

For those who have extra space, why not build a wall-to-wall vanity? This works especially well in bedrooms with long empty walls. Install a wooden slab across the wall, add a large mirror, and you’ve created a vanity with ample counter space.

It’s also versatile—it can double as a desk during the day and a vanity when you need it. This idea requires a bit more effort, but the result is dramatic and functional, especially if you love spreading out your makeup or skincare.

19. Boho-Style Vanity with Rattan Accents

If you love earthy and eclectic vibes, a boho vanity might be perfect. Start with a simple wooden table, then style it with rattan baskets, a round wicker mirror, and plenty of plants. Add some string lights or a macrame wall hanging, and you’ve got a vanity that feels warm and inviting.

The beauty of this idea is that it doesn’t require much construction—just styling. It’s all about layering textures and natural tones. The result is a vanity that doubles as a cozy decor corner.

20. Makeup Vanity from an Entryway Table

Entryway tables are slim and stylish, which makes them great for vanities. Their narrow size means they fit perfectly against a wall without taking up much room. Add a mirror, a chair, and a few storage baskets, and you have a vanity that looks chic.

This is especially useful if your bedroom is tight on space. You can even use floating shelves above the table for extra storage. It’s an easy, no-fuss transformation.

21. DIY Vanity with Hidden Storage Bench

Here’s a clever twist: instead of using a stool, use a bench with hidden storage. You can keep hair tools, beauty products, or extra accessories inside. Pair it with a simple table and mirror, and you have a vanity that’s functional and space-saving.

This works particularly well in small bedrooms where storage is always a struggle. Plus, it feels satisfying to know that your vanity setup also helps keep your space clutter-free.

22. Painted Vintage Vanity Makeover

If you happen to find an old vanity at a thrift store or flea market, don’t pass it up. A little paint can work wonders. Whether you go for bold jewel tones, classic white, or soft pastels, a fresh coat of paint can transform a dated piece into something modern and stylish.

This idea is perfect for those who love vintage charm but want to make it their own. Pair it with a statement mirror and updated hardware, and suddenly you’ve got a piece that looks like it belongs in a boutique.

23. DIY Vanity with Open Shelves

Instead of drawers, why not go for open shelves? Build or repurpose a small table with shelves underneath. Then, use pretty baskets, trays, or boxes to organize your beauty supplies.

The open design keeps everything visible and easy to reach, while still looking stylish if you use matching containers. It’s a balance between storage and aesthetics, making your vanity both practical and eye-catching.

24. Rustic Crate Vanity

Wooden crates are inexpensive and versatile. Stack them together to form a vanity base, then add a tabletop and mirror. You can paint or stain the crates depending on your style.

The beauty of crates is that they also provide built-in storage. You can slide in baskets or leave them open for a rustic farmhouse look. It’s one of the easiest DIY vanity projects, especially if you want something functional yet creative.

25. Dual-Purpose Vanity and Workspace

For many of us, our bedrooms double as workspaces. Instead of having two separate pieces of furniture, create a vanity that also works as a desk. Choose a wide table, mount a stylish mirror that can pass as decor, and keep your essentials neatly stored in boxes.

During the day, it’s your work desk. At night, it transforms into a vanity. It’s efficient, stylish, and practical for modern living. The key here is organization—so invest in trays and storage solutions that make switching between work and beauty routines seamless.

Final Thoughts

Creating a DIY vanity doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. Whether you prefer something minimal like a floating shelf or something dramatic like a Hollywood-style vanity, the options are endless. The joy comes from customizing it to fit your personality, space, and daily routine.

• Beginners can start with simple hacks like string lights or repurposed furniture.

• Intermediate DIYers can try building with crates, shelves, or pallet wood.

• Advanced makers can create custom pieces with industrial pipes or wall-to-wall setups.

At the end of the day, your vanity should feel like your personal sanctuary. It’s the one spot where you can slow down, take care of yourself, and feel a little extra special—because you deserve it.