Backyard Ideas on a Budget

Create a beautiful backyard without breaking the bank with these inexpensive ideas and DIYs.

By: Jordan Lawson

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DIY Wash Tub Planters

Keep your budget intact by making planters instead of buying them. Find some old metal wash tub planters and drill holes in the bottom for drainage. They look great in any space and won't cost you a fortune.

From: Emily Henderson

Make a Stone Path

Create a path for guests to enjoy your garden with simple stepping stones. Pebbles and the stones make for a unique touch to any backyard space.

Create a Concrete Fire Bowl

Get the fire pit feel without the hefty price tag. This easy DIY can save you some big bucks while still bringing the warmth and festiveness of an expensive fire pit.

Get the How-To: How to Make a Concrete Fire Bowl

Perfect Patio Lights

Add a gorgeous glow to your backyard with a string of inexpensive patio lights. It will transform your space in the warmer months into your friends' favorite hangout. If you don't have a place to hang them from, here's a tip: Use planters and wood posts to create that cafe feel. Plus, it's perfect if you're renting so you can remove them easily.

Get the How-To: String Light Solution: Hang Patio Lights Using Planters and Wood Posts

From: Sam Henderson

Get a Tropical Feel With This Sail Shade

Take your patio from too hot to enjoy to the perfect shady spot to relax with this DIY sail shade. Plus, a few additions makes it into a stylish piece for your backyard.

Get the How-To: Beat the Heat and Add Privacy With an Embellished Shade Sail

DIY Privacy Plant Wall

Not ready to invest in a full privacy solution? Keep nosy neighbors at bay with a hanging plant wall. Prying eyes will focus on the pretty green on one side of their wall instead of you enjoying your backyard.

Get the How-To: How to Build an Outdoor Plant and Privacy Wall

Create an Outdoor Movie Theater

Have an alfresco movie night with this easy-to-make outdoor movie screen. The screen may be inexpensive, but ask a friend to bring the projector and you can pay them back with popcorn.

Get the How-To: DIY Outdoor Movie Screen

Don't Spend a Fortune on Furniture

An easy way to create a beautiful backyard on a budget is to not spend your entire bank account on furniture. Look for pieces at garage sales, thrift stores and even furniture friends and family may want to give away. Refinish, paint and turn something old into a new-to-you piece for your backyard.

No Pool? No Problem

Create water fun for the kids (and for you) with these inexpensive and ingenious backyard games.

Get the How-To: Summer Backyard Water Games for Kids

Temporary Outdoor Bar

Keep guests satisfied by creating an outdoor bar with a table from inside and some accents to make the space -- no expensive bar installation needed. Plus, you'll spend more time having fun with your friends and family and less time fetching drinks from inside.

From: Tiffany Brooks

DIY Water Feature

Create a zen space in your backyard with this easy-to-make water feature. You can customize it just for you and it will look great in any outdoor space.

Get the How-To: Easy DIY Water Feature