Dussehra 2023: 7 DIY decor ideas that are perfect for this festive season

Decorating your house for a festival need not be an expensive and time-consuming endeavour. This Dussehra, why not opt for a creative, wallet-friendly approach to home decor? We've gathered some fantastic DIY ideas to infuse your living space with festive charm, making it more aesthetically pleasing without breaking the bank. To help you get started, we spoke with Interior Designer Nidhi Agarwal, founder of SpaceMantra, who shared some insightful suggestions.

2 things you need to know

• DIY Dussehra decor offers budget-friendly ways to transform your home completely.
• Illuminate your space with elegant candle decor ideas.

Dussehra dioramas

Nidhi Agarwal suggests, "Make mini dioramas of scenes from the Ramayana, the epic that Dussehra honours. Utilise cardboard or shoe-boxes as a base, painting them to depict Lord Rama’s coronation or the burning of Ravana's effigy. Bring these scenes to life by adding small figurines or cutouts."

(Make mini dioramas of scenes from the Ramayana | Image: Pinterest)

Candle decor

For an ambiance of warmth and comfort, Nidhi recommends, "Brighten up your home by adorning candles with colourful patterns. Transform ordinary candles into extraordinary ones using acrylic paints, sparkle, sequins, and fabrics. Place them on your dining table, near the fireplace, or in decorative candle holders. Consider using scented glossy candles for an aromatic touch."

(Try using candle as decor | Image: iStock)

Paper lanterns

You can also craft beautiful paper lanterns. Nidhi explains, "Cut colourful paper into desired shapes, fold and assemble them, and string the lanterns together. Illuminate them with LED lights for a mesmerising effect. For a spiritual touch, write your favourite mantras on the lanterns."

(Try creating diy paper lanterns | Image: iStock)

Ethnic table runner

Create a homemade table runner using ethnic fabrics and saris. Sew or glue multiple pieces of fabric together to achieve a patchwork effect. Experiment with traditional patterns and fabric paints to make your dining table truly festive.

(Create a homemade table runner using ethnic fabrics  | Image: iStock)

DIY floating diyas

To add a touch of magic to your festive ambiance, Nidhi recommends, "Create simple household diyas for Dussehra. Use small, heatproof bowls or cups with a low center of gravity. Place a floating tea light candle in each bowl filled with water. Enhance their beauty by sprinkling flower petals or colourful floating candles on the water's surface. Arrange these lamps on decorative trays or float them in a small pond or bowl of water to infuse an antique charm into the festival."

(Create simple household diyas for Dussehra | Image: Pinterest)

Dandiya wall hanging

Nidhi suggests, “Craft a Dandiya-inspired wall hanging. Carve a wooden or cardboard cutout shaped like dandiya sticks, then adorn it with colourful ribbons, beads, and mirrors. Hang it on a wall to make your space more cheerful.”

(Craft a Dandiya-inspired wall hanging | Image: Pinterest)

Rangoli designs

Festive Indian floor art, like rangoli, adds elegance to any home during festivities. "Create your distinctive rangoli designs using colourful rice, flower petals, coloured powders, and paint," says Nidhi. There are online tutorials and templates available to help you craft intricate patterns.

Remember, this is just the beginning. With these DIY ideas, you have the canvas to infuse your unique personality, imagination and creativity to your home decorations. This Dussehra, let your home reflect your festive spirit with these delightful and budget-friendly decor ideas.