We’re letting you know that this post contains sponsored links which Your Savvy Purse receives compensation for, which may impact their order of appearance.
You don’t need to be “crafty” or spend a fortune to bring a little beauty and creativity into your summer days. These simple, budget-friendly DIYs are fun, useful, and full of sunny charm.
Summer inspires us to refresh and reset — and sometimes that starts with a little hands-on creativity. Whether you want to spruce up your porch, entertain the grandkids, or just unwind with a project of your own, DIYs are a great way to do something just for you.
These ideas use materials you likely already have (or can grab at the dollar store) and won’t require a full afternoon or a workshop. Just small, cheerful projects to make your space feel a little more like you.
🌿 DIY Herb Garden (No Yard Needed!)
Fresh herbs add flavor to food and fragrance to your windowsill.
• Use mason jars, teacups, or empty cans as planters.
• Fill with soil and plant easy growers like basil, mint, or parsley.
• Set in a sunny spot and water lightly each day.
👉 Savvy Tip: Paint or label your containers for a charming, personalized touch!
🕯️ Citronella Candle Jars for Bug-Free Evenings
Keep mosquitoes away in style.
• Fill a mason jar with water, lemon/lime slices, rosemary sprigs, and a few drops of citronella oil.
• Add a floating candle on top and light it at dusk.
• Makes a pretty centerpiece and keeps bugs at bay.
👉 Savvy Tip: Group 3–5 jars together for a lovely outdoor table setting.
🎨 Hand-Painted Flower Pots or Lanterns
Turn plain into pretty in under an hour.
• Use acrylic paint or paint pens to decorate terra-cotta pots, jars, or tin cans.
• Try floral patterns, stripes, or your initials — no “artist” required.
• Seal with a clear spray to make it weather-resistant.
👉 Savvy Tip: Wrap one with ribbon and give as a sweet hostess or neighbor gift!
💦 DIY Cooling Neck Wraps or Eye Masks
Stay cool — and cute — on hot days.
• Sew simple fabric tubes and fill with rice or flaxseed.
• Chill in the freezer for 30 minutes, then drape over your neck or eyes.
• Add a few drops of lavender essential oil for a spa-like touch.
👉 Savvy Tip: No sewing machine? Use a sock, tie off the end, and freeze it — instant cool-down.
👒 Make Your Own Sun Hat Ribbon or Scarf Tie
Update a tired hat with color and flair.
• Cut a long strip of lightweight fabric or use a thrifted scarf.
• Tie around the base of your sunhat or weave it through the crown.
• Let the ends drape down your back for a breezy, chic look.
👉 Savvy Tip: Coordinate with your outfit for a pulled-together, sunny-day vibe.
🎁 Homemade Lemon Sugar Scrub (Perfect Gift or Self-Care Treat)
Exfoliate and soften your skin — naturally.
• Mix 1 cup sugar, ½ cup olive or coconut oil, and a few drops of lemon essential oil.
• Store in a pretty jar and use on hands, elbows, or feet.
• Add a tag and give as a thoughtful summer gift!
👉 Savvy Tip: Make a “batch” and store in the fridge — it smells amazing and lasts for weeks.
📌 Final Takeaway
DIY doesn’t have to mean complicated or costly. With a few supplies and a dash of creativity, you can create something beautiful, functional, and uniquely you. It’s not just about the end result — it’s about enjoying the process.
👉 Your Savvy Challenge:
Pick one small DIY project this week — whether it’s a painted pot, a cooling wrap, or a homemade scrub — and let yourself enjoy the joy of making something with your hands. 💖 Check out our list of DIY projects to do with kids for more!
