I Made My #1 Dollar Tree DIY Lantern That Looks SO Expensive 😳 (+ Asymmetrical Wreath DIY)
If you’ve ever walked into Dollar Tree “just for one thing” and walked out with a cart full of possibilities… welcome home, friend. Today I’m showing you how I made the bougiest $5 lantern you’ve ever seen — plus a gorgeous asymmetrical wreath to match.
These two projects look boutique, but they’re budget‑friendly, beginner‑friendly, and porch‑ready. And yes… they look like they came straight out of a high‑end home store.
✨ Dollar Tree DIY Lantern (That Looks SO Expensive)
Supplies
- Dollar Tree garden fence
- Dollar Tree round basket
- Dollar Tree solar light
- Black spray paint (matte recommended)
- Zip ties
- Wire cutters
- Optional: gold craft paint, jute, LED puck light, clear matte topcoat
Step 1: Cut the Fence
Cut the fence into four equal panels. Mistake to avoid: uneven cuts will make your lantern lean like it’s had a long night out.
Step 2: Form the Lantern Shape
Zip‑tie the panels together to create a square. Pro tip: Keep the zip ties on the inside so they disappear like magic.
Step 3: Paint It
Spray everything with matte black paint. Glossy paint will make it look cheap — and we’re not doing cheap today.
Step 4: Add the Basket Base
Flip the basket upside down and attach it to the bottom of your lantern. This instantly gives it that “I paid $40 for this at Target” energy.
Step 5: Add the Light
Drop in your solar light or LED puck light. If you want it to look extra high‑end, go for a warm Edison‑style LED puck.
✨ Style Variations for DIY Dollar Tree Lantern (Same Supplies, Different Vibes)
Give your readers options — they’ll love you for it.
- Modern Minimalist: Matte black, no greenery, clean lines
- Boho Glow: White paint + jute wrapped around the top rim
- Glam Luxe: Black base + gold dry‑brushed edges + warm LED light
🌧️ Weatherproofing Tips (If Using Outdoors)
- Add a clear matte topcoat
- Dab silicone under the solar light
- Add small rocks inside the basket to keep it from blowing away
💡 Where to Use It
- Porch steps
- Fireplace hearth
- Entryway table
- Patio centerpiece
- Bathroom shelf (yes, it’s cute in there too)
🌿 DIY Asymmetrical Wreath (The Perfect Match)
Supplies
- Metal wreath ring
- Greenery stems
- Florals (optional)
- Zip ties or floral wire
- Ribbon or jute (optional)
Step 1: Build the Base
Attach greenery to one side of the ring, leaving the other side exposed for that modern asymmetrical look.
Step 2: Add Texture
Layer in:
- Ribbon tails
- Jute twine wrap
- A small wooden sign
- A metal charm
One tiny detail can take this from “cute” to “boutique.”
Step 3: Add Florals (Optional)
Keep it simple — a few stems go a long way.
🌸 Choose Your Vibe (Seasonal Options)
Help readers pick their style:
- Farmhouse: Lamb’s ear + white berries
- Modern: Eucalyptus + black ring
- Spring: Soft florals + pastel accents
- Fall: Rust, mustard, dried stems
- Christmas: Pine, berries, velvet ribbon
🔄 Flip It: 4 Ways to Use the Same Wreath
- On your front door
- As wall art
- Over a mirror
- In a gallery wall
Want a quick step-by-step version of this Dollar Tree DIY you can save or print?
👉 Download the FREE DIY Lantern guide here and keep it handy while you create!
💬 Final Thoughts
This Dollar Tree DIY Lantern is one of the easiest ways to create High End decor on a budget and maybe just a little creativity…
…and maybe a quick Dollar Tree run 😏
👉 If you love budget DIYs that look expensive, don’t forget to save this to Pinterest so you can come back to it later!
