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23 DIY Projects You Can Do in 5 Minutes or Less

Face it—as much as collegiettes love free time, it doesn’t come around often. Looking for some quick projects that won’t take up your much-needed downtime? We have some quick and easy DIYs that we know you’ll love. 

1. Crystal Magnets

Your parents probably bring you magnets from all their vacation spots, but wouldn’t you rather your fridge look elegant and cozy? Invest in fake crystals (you probably have a ton of them from your elementary school field trips to local museums) and some magnetic strips. This lovely accent doubles as the perfect way to display your pictures, too!

2. Lip Balm

Want to know what’s in your lip balm before you wear it? Take matters into your own hands, and make your lip balm.

3. Homemade Makeup Remover Pads

We’ve all spent way too much money on makeup remover cloths. Take about three minutes out of your day and save a few bucks with this DIY.

4. Homemade Cleaning Materials

Cleaning just got so much cuter! Make your own cleaning supplies and give them a touch of adorable by storing them in mason jars.

5. Potpourri Bags

Jazz up your dorm room with these adorable bags of potpourri. Scatter them around your dwelling and find your favorite scent wherever you turn.

6. No-Sew Headband

Have an old shirt that you can’t seem to part with? Turn it into a headband! 

7. Grapefruit Bath Bombs

Bath bombs are the perfect thing to come home to after a long day. You never know when you’ll need one, so make them whenever necessary.

8. Mason Jar Tiki Torches

We’re convinced that mason jars make everything better—these outdoor tiki torches included! 

9. Washi Tape Banner

This washi tape banner looks amazing in any space.

10. No-Sew Infinity Scarf

Love infinity scarves? You’re not alone. Now, you can have one in any fabric you’d like.

11. Coffee Koozies

We all have that sock that’s missing its match. Repurpose it into a coffee koozie. Your coffee will stay warm, and your bank account won’t have to take the hit for it. 

12. Leather Belt

It seems too good to be true, but this fashionable belt can actually be made in five minutes. Get your glue guns ready!

13. Heating Packs

A heating pack is a beautiful thing. And there’s nothing like a pair of cute owls to cure your aches and pains. 

14. Candlestick Cake Stands

These are so simple to make. Just grab some candlestick holders, add a circular piece of wood, and voilà—you have the perfect cake stand!

15. Arrow Art

Who knew you could create art like this out of deconstructed picture frames? What a great statement piece!

16. Fabric Refresher

When you’re procrastinating on laundry or cleaning your dorm, your small space might start to smell a little wonky. This fabric refresher should provide relief.

17. Metallic Gold Striped Vase

Turn a dollar store vase into an elegant centerpiece with metallic washi tape.

18. Washi Tape Clock

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your drab clock, washi tape can be your savior. Wrap it around the clock, and you’ll instantly have an adorable way to keep track of time.

19. Mason Jar Toothbrush Holder

When you share a space with multiple roommates, just putting your toothbrush in a jar isn’t going to keep them separated. Grab some wire from a craft store to ensure your toothbrush stays put.

20. Statement Necklace

Ribbon and a string of jewels—that’s all you need to make this fab accessory.

21. Marble Place Cards

These are ideal for that fancy party you’ve been dying to host. Fake marble can be found online for a relatively cheap price. Add the metallic letters, and your place cards are all set.

22. Record Bowls

Have some old records that don’t play anymore? Use them to store your earrings or any other knick knacks you have lying around.

23. Bubble Bath

How elegant does this look? Making your own bubble bath can save you tons of money. It also makes for a wonderful last-minute gift.

DIY projects don’t have to take up your precious free time. All you need is five minutes, and any of these adorable projects can be yours!

Allie Maniglia served as the Campus Correspondent for Her Campus at Penn State from 2017-2018. She majored in public relations with minors in international studies and communication arts and sciences. If she's not busy writing away, you can find her planning her next adventure (probably back to the U.K.), feeding an unhealthy addiction to HGTV or watching dog videos on YouTube.