Easy DIY Diwali Crafts to Brighten Your Home

Why We Love Handmade Diwali Decorations?

Handmade Diwali decorations are cherished for a multitude of reasons, blending tradition, creativity, and the warmth of family togetherness. They are more than just items to adorn a home; they are a vital part of the festival's spirit and a meaningful way to celebrate.

Traditional & Festive Crafts

Hand-Painted Diyas - DIY Craft

Materials Needed:

• Plain clay diyas (unglazed ones are best)
• Acrylic paints (gold, red, yellow, blue, green, white, etc.)
• Fine paintbrushes (thin + medium size)
• Glitter tubes / glitter powder
• Adhesive stones, mirrors, or beads (optional)
• Varnish or clear nail polish (to seal & make it glossy)
• Old newspaper or plastic sheet (to protect your workspace)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Clean the Diyas: Wash them lightly to remove dust, let them dry completely.
• Base Coat: Apply a coat of white acrylic paint or gesso so colors pop brighter. Let it dry.
• Painting the Diyas: Paint the entire diya in a base color. Once dry, use contrasting shades to paint patterns like dots, mandalas, flowers, swirls, or geometric borders.
• Add Glitter & Stones: Outline designs with glitter glue for a sparkling effect. Stick small stones, beads, or mirrors with strong glue for extra decoration.
• Finishing Touch: Once dry, coat with varnish or clear nail polish to make them waterproof and glossy.
• Light Them Up: Place cotton wicks with oil (or tea lights) inside and let your glowing diyas shine for Diwali night!

A vibrant collection of handmade, painted clay diyas with intricate patterns and colors

DIY Paper Rangoli

Materials Needed:

• Colored craft papers (bright colors like red, yellow, blue, orange, green, pink, purple)
• Scissors
• Glue stick / craft glue
• Compass / bowl lids (for circle shapes)
• Ruler & pencil
• Glitter paper / sequins / decorative stones (optional)
• A large sheet of cardboard or chart paper (as a base)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Choose a Base: Place a big white or black chart paper on the floor or cardboard board. This will be your rangoli base.
• Cut Shapes: Cut out different shapes: circles, petals, triangles, leaves, and tear-drops from colored paper. You can fold paper to cut symmetrical shapes easily.
• Arrange Patterns: Start from the center and place shapes in a circular pattern (like a flower mandala). Add layers outward with different colored shapes, just like a real rangoli.
• Stick Them: Once happy with your design, glue the shapes in place.
• Add Sparkle: Use glitter paper, mirrors, or sequins to decorate borders for a festive look.
• Final Touch: Place a diya or LED tea light in the center to complete your glowing paper rangoli.

A stunning, homemade paper rangoli design featuring layers of colorful, intricate paper cutouts

Rangoli Art with Grains

Creating a rangoli with grains is a beautiful, eco-friendly, and traditional way to celebrate Diwali. It's an activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Here's a simple guide to get you started:

Materials Needed:

• A flat, clean surface: This can be your floor, a wooden board, or a large tray.
• Grains and Pulses: Gather a variety of different-colored grains like rice, lentils (toor dal, moong dal), and chickpeas. You can also use other pantry items like semolina, poha (flattened rice), or spices like turmeric and
red chili powder for natural colors.
• A design template (optional): You can freehand your design or use a stencil to draw the outline with chalk on the floor.
• Tools: Spoons, funnels, or even your fingers to create and fill in the patterns.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Prepare Your Grains: Sort and clean your grains. If you want a wider range of colors, you can dye plain white rice using food coloring. Simply mix a few drops of food coloring with a tablespoon of water, add it to a bowl of
rice, and stir until the color is evenly distributed. Spread the rice on a paper towel and let it dry completely before use.
• Choose Your Location: Find a suitable spot for your rangoli. A well-lit area near the entrance of your home is traditional and inviting.
• Outline Your Design: Using a piece of chalk or a pencil, lightly draw your desired pattern on the surface. Traditional designs often include flowers, diyas, Ganesha, or geometric shapes.
• Start Filling in the Colors: Begin with the outline of your design. You can use a funnel or a spoon to pour a thin, consistent line of grains. Alternatively, you can use your fingers to create delicate lines.
• Fill the Sections: Once the outlines are complete, start filling in the different sections of your rangoli with your chosen colors. Use different grains to create a variety of textures. For example, you can use fine rice
powder for smooth sections and lentils for a more textured look.
• Add Details and Embellishments: Once the main design is filled in, you can add final touches. Sprinkle glitter or place fresh flower petals like marigolds or roses to enhance your design. You can also place lit diyas or
small candles on or around the rangoli to create a beautiful, glowing effect.
• Preserve Your Rangoli: If you're using a movable board or tray, you can spray a light layer of hairspray over the design to help keep the grains in place.

An circular rangoli design, meticulously crafted using various colorful grains like rice, lentils, and chickpeas

Kid-Friendly Crafts

Paper Lanterns (Kandils)

Making paper lanterns is a great way to improve fine motor skills and decorate the house with colorful creations.

Materials Needed:

• Colorful construction paper
• scissors (child-safe scissors are best)
• a ruler
• a pencil
• a glue stick or tape

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Fold a sheet of paper in half lengthwise.
• On the folded edge, use a pencil and ruler to mark a line about an inch from the top.
• From the bottom edge (the one opposite the fold), have the child cut parallel strips up to the pencil line, about an inch apart.
• Unfold the paper. It will look like a fringe.
• Roll the paper into a cylinder and glue or tape the short edges together.
• Add a strip of paper as a handle at the top. You can place a battery-operated candle inside for a glowing effect.

A beautifully handcrafted paper lanterns in various colors and designs

Glitter Greeting Cards

Creating personalized greeting cards is a heartfelt way to share the festive spirit of Diwali with friends and family. Adding glitter makes them extra special and sparkly.

Materials Needed:

• Cardstock or thick paper: A variety of colors is best. You can use pre-folded cards or cut your own from a large sheet.
• Glitter: A selection of different colors and sizes. Glitter pens or glitter glue can also be used.
• Glue: A white craft glue or a glue stick.
• Pencils, pens, and markers: For drawing designs and writing messages.
• Optional: Stencils, stickers, stamps, and other embellishments.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Fold the Card: If you are using a sheet of cardstock, fold it in half to create a standard greeting card shape.
• Sketch Your Design: Using a pencil, lightly draw a Diwali-themed design on the front of the card. Popular designs include diyas (oil lamps), rangoli patterns, fireworks, or a simple "Happy Diwali" message.
• Apply Glue: Carefully trace over your pencil lines with a thin layer of glue. You can work on one section at a time to prevent the glue from drying too quickly.
• Add Glitter: While the glue is still wet, generously sprinkle glitter over the glued areas. You can use a different color for each section of your design.
• Remove Excess Glitter: Gently tap the card to shake off any loose glitter. You can do this over a sheet of scrap paper to easily pour the excess back into the glitter container.
• Let It Dry: Set the card aside and allow the glue to dry completely. This might take a few hours, depending on the type of glue you used.
• Write a Message: Once the glitter is firmly in place, open the card and write a personal message inside. You can wish your loved ones a happy and prosperous Diwali.
• Final Touches: Add any extra embellishments like stickers or stamps if you wish. Your sparkly, handmade Diwali card is now ready to be gifted!

A collection of handmade Diwali cards featuring colorful glitter designs of diyas, rangoli, and fireworks

Clay Ganesha or Lakshmi Idols

Making your own clay idols of Lord Ganesha or Goddess Lakshmi is a deeply meaningful and rewarding craft for Diwali. It's a wonderful way to connect with the spiritual and traditional aspects of the festival. This guide focuses on using air-dry clay, which is easy to work with and doesn't require a kiln.

Materials Needed:

• Air-dry clay: This is a great choice for beginners as it hardens on its own without baking.
• Clay sculpting tools: A small set of plastic or wooden tools can help with shaping and adding details.
• A flat surface: A plastic mat or a piece of cardboard to work on.
• A small bowl of water: To keep the clay moist and to smooth out cracks.
• Paints: Non-toxic acrylic or poster paints in various colors.
• Small paintbrushes: For fine details.
• Optional: Glitter, beads, sequins, and glue for decoration.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Prepare the Base: Take a lump of clay and roll it into a ball for the body. Gently flatten the bottom so it can stand upright.
• Shape the Head and Trunk: Take a smaller piece of clay and roll it into a ball for the head. Attach it to the top of the body. From another small piece, roll a cylinder and curve it to form the trunk. Use a little water to smooth the seams where the pieces join.
• Add the Ears and Arms: Flatten two small balls of clay into disc shapes for the ears and attach them to the sides of the head. Roll two small cylinders for the arms and attach them to the sides of the body. You can shape the hands to hold a sweet or to be in a blessing pose.
• Create the Legs: Roll two small, thick cylinders for the legs and attach them to the bottom of the body, ensuring they are sturdy enough to support the idol.
• Refine the Details: Use your sculpting tools or a toothpick to add details like eyes, tusks, and clothing folds. A small crown or a simple necklace can also be added at this stage.
• Let It Dry: Place the finished idol in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. The drying time can vary from 24 to 72 hours, depending on the thickness of the clay and the humidity. Turn it over periodically to ensure it dries evenly.
• Paint and Decorate: Once the idol is completely dry and hard, it's ready for painting! Use a variety of colors to bring your Ganesha to life. You can also add glitter or small decorative elements to his clothing and ornaments.

A collection of handmade clay idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi

Eco-Friendly Crafts

Upcycled Bottle Lanterns

This is a creative and eco-friendly way to add a festive glow to your home for Diwali. By repurposing old bottles, you can create unique and beautiful lanterns.

Materials Needed:

• Empty glass bottles: Wine bottles, glass soda bottles, or even mason jars work well. Make sure they are clean and have the labels removed.
• Lights: Battery-operated fairy lights or LED string lights. Using battery-powered lights is the safest option.
• Paints: Glass paint, acrylic paint, or spray paint in various colors.
• Optional: Glitter, stencils, glue, paint pens, and other decorative materials.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Clean the Bottles: Thoroughly wash and dry your bottles. To remove stubborn labels, soak the bottles in warm, soapy water and then scrape off the label with a sponge or brush.
• Plan Your Design: Decide on a theme or design for your lantern. You can paint a simple pattern, use a stencil, or create a freehand design of diyas, mandalas, or festive symbols.
• Paint the Bottles:
• Inside-Out: Pour a small amount of paint into the bottle and swirl it around to coat the inside completely. This creates a uniform, frosted look.
• Outside-In: Use glass or acrylic paint to paint your design on the outside of the bottle. You can use stencils to create patterns or simply use paint pens to draw.
• Add Embellishments: Once the paint is dry, you can add glitter, beads, or other decorative elements with glue. You can also use paint pens to add fine details.
• Insert the Lights: Carefully feed the string of fairy lights or LED lights into the bottle. Use a thin stick or skewer to help arrange the lights inside if needed. The wire will disappear into the bottle, leaving only the glowing lights.
• Display Your Lanterns: Place your finished lanterns in a safe spot, like on a mantelpiece, a windowsill, or as a centerpiece for your table. They will cast a beautiful, soft glow that adds to the festive atmosphere.

A festive display of upcycled bottle lanterns for Diwali

Coconut Shell Diyas

Transforming discarded coconut shells into beautiful diyas is a fantastic, sustainable, and unique craft for Diwali. It gives a rustic, natural feel to your decorations.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Coconut Shells: Halved and cleaned. Make sure the inside is dry and free of coconut meat.
• Sandpaper: Coarse and fine grit to smooth the shells.
• Paints: Non-toxic acrylic or poster paints in festive colors (gold, red, orange, green).
• Paintbrushes: A small, fine brush for details.
• Cotton wicks and oil: Traditional lamp wicks and a small bottle of cooking oil (like coconut or mustard oil).
• Optional: Glitter, small mirrors, beads, and glue for decoration.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Prepare the Coconut Shells:
• Once you have halved your coconut shells, carefully remove all the coconut meat from the inside.
• Use coarse sandpaper to smooth the rough outer surface of the shell. Follow up with fine-grit sandpaper to make it even smoother. This will help the paint adhere better.
• Wipe the shells clean with a damp cloth and let them dry completely.
• Paint the Shells: Use a base coat of a single color on the outer surface of the shell. Allow it to dry completely. Once the base coat is dry, use a fine brush to paint intricate designs on the shell. Traditional motifs like rangoli patterns, flowers, or simple geometric shapes work beautifully. You can also paint the inside of the shell with a contrasting color.
• Add Decorations (Optional): After the paint has dried, you can add extra embellishments. Use a small amount of glue to stick on glitter, small mirror pieces, or beads to make your diya sparkle.
• Prepare for Lighting: Once the decorations are set, your diya is ready for use. Pour a small amount of oil into the hollow of the coconut shell. Place a cotton wick in the oil, making sure one end is fully submerged and the other end is standing upright.
• Light Your Diyas: Carefully light the wicks of your coconut shell diyas. Place them in a safe location, away from flammable materials and out of reach of children and pets. The natural, rustic charm of the coconut shells combined with the warm glow of the flame will create a magical Diwali atmosphere.

A collection of rustic, hand-painted diyas crafted from upcycled coconut shells

Jute or Fabric Torans

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Jute or Fabric Rope: This will be the main base for your toran.
• Fabric Squares: Choose colorful squares of felt, silk, cotton, or even burlap.
• Decorative Elements: Get creative with small pom-poms, bells, mirrors (shisha work), beads, or small artificial flowers.
• Crafting Tools: Fabric glue or a hot glue gun, a pair of scissors, and a needle and thread (for a more secure finish).

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: Measure the width of your door frame and cut a long piece of jute or fabric rope to that length, adding a few extra inches on each end for hanging.
2. Create the Hanging Elements:
   • Fabric or Jute Shapes: Cut out small leaf, flower, or tear-drop shapes from your fabric or jute squares. Vary the size and color for a dynamic look.
   • Decorate the Shapes: Use glue to attach small mirrors, beads, or other embellishments to the fabric shapes.
   • Make Pom-pom Strings: Thread a needle and push it through the center of colorful yarn pom-poms to create a vertical hanging string.
3. Assemble the Toran:
   • Lay your jute rope on a flat surface. Begin attaching your decorative elements.
   • You can create a pattern, such as a large central piece with smaller pieces on either side.
   • Glue or sew the decorative fabric shapes directly onto the rope base.
   • For the hanging elements like pom-pom or bead strings, tie them at regular intervals along the length of the toran.
4. Add Finishing Touches:
   • Secure the ends of the toran with a sturdy knot or a decorative loop.
   • Let the glue dry completely before hanging your beautiful, handmade creation on your door.

A handmade toran crafted from jute twine and colorful fabric hanging on a door frame