Hosting a dinner party, bridal shower, or birthday gathering doesn’t have to mean stretching your budget thin just to decorate the table. Instead of spending a fortune on fresh flowers and rental décor, try this easy and creative DIY centerpiece idea. It’s simple, quick to make, and only requires a handful of affordable supplies—most of which you can find at your local dollar store or craft shop.
The best part? This centerpiece looks high-end, but the entire setup costs under $10. It’s a great way to give your table an elevated, customized touch without relying on expensive florals or event planners.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Instagram | @christinaglake | For affordable event décor, easily make your own centerpieces with simple, inexpensive craft supplies.
To create this eye-catching centerpiece, gather the following:
- A pool noodle (standard size)
- 28-ounce mason jars
- A small black round mirror (used as the base)
- Faux flowers (any style or color of your choice)
- Metallic spray paint
- Optional: battery-powered string lights, ribbon, burlap, or lace
These materials are easy to find at places like Dollar Tree, Michaels, or any local craft supply store.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Assembling Your Centerpiece
1. Cut the Pool Noodle
Slice the pool noodle into small discs—about 2 inches thick. These will work like hidden floral foam to hold the flowers in place.
2. Fit the Noodle in the Jar
Insert one slice into the mouth of a mason jar. If it’s too loose, use a dab of glue to keep it steady.
3. Add the Flowers
Push the faux flower stems through the pool noodle to create a full bouquet. The noodle helps hold the stems upright and keeps them adjustable for the perfect shape.
4. Light It Up (Optional)
For added charm, place small battery-powered string lights in the jar before inserting the pool noodle. It adds a soft glow to your centerpiece, which is especially pretty for evening events.
5. Create the Base
Set the jar on a small black mirror. This adds a reflective surface that enhances the entire look. You can even spray-paint the mirror’s frame in gold, silver, or bronze to match your event theme.
Personalize It for Any Occasion
What makes this DIY especially useful is how flexible it is. You can swap out elements to match your event or season:
- Use seasonal faux flowers—sunflowers in summer, pine sprigs in winter.
- Add themed ribbon or fabric around the jar for weddings, baby showers, or birthdays.
- Try real flowers if the event is short and you want a natural look.
- For outdoor parties, consider wrapping the jar with burlap, lace, or twine for a rustic finish.
Each centerpiece takes less than 15 minutes to assemble, and most of the materials cost under $1.50 each. It’s proof that smart styling and creative thinking can make budget décor look anything but cheap.
More Ways to Reuse Your DIY Centerpiece
Instagram | @unforgettablefloral | Explore the useful and decorative possibilities of upcycled mason jars following your event.
After your event, think twice before tossing those mason jars—they’re more versatile than you might expect. With just a little creativity, you can upcycle them in several useful and decorative ways.
Fill them with seasonal blooms to create charming, ever-changing centerpieces, or turn them into mini herb gardens perfect for your kitchen window. Add a strand of fairy lights and they instantly become cozy mood lighting for any room.
These reusable jars aren’t just eco-friendly—they offer lasting value and can be reinvented time and time again.
A Creative Approach to Affordable Table Décor
Putting together a stylish and affordable centerpiece doesn’t require expensive supplies or hours of effort. With just a mason jar, a pool noodle, and a few easy additions, you can build a standout table accent that looks like it came from a boutique event planner. This DIY proves that beautiful results can come from everyday items, with a bit of creativity and a practical approach.
Whether you're decorating for a large celebration or an intimate dinner, this method brings personality, elegance, and charm to the table, without the hefty price tag.
