Ever been five days from a Mardi Gras party with a blank living room, a budget, and a desire to make your guests say “wow”? Whether you’re hosting a family-friendly parade in the backyard or a lively indoor cocktail night, decorating for Mardi Gras can be simple, affordable, and wildly fun. In this guide you’ll find practical, stylish, and budget-friendly ideas mardi gras decorations that you can build in an afternoon — with step-by-step tips, design inspiration, and real-world advice that turns a plain space into a carnival-ready scene.
Why DIY Mardi Gras Decorations Work (and How to Plan)
DIY decor lets you control color, scale, and theme: purple, green, and gold are classic, but you can add metallics, feathers, and bold patterns for drama. Start by choosing a focal area (entryway, dining table, or mantle), select a color palette, and decide whether your event is indoor or outdoor. Make a quick list of supplies and prioritize reusable pieces like bead garlands, wreaths, and table runners for next year.
Top ideas Mardi Gras decorations to Try at Home
1. Bead Garland Backdrop — Fast and Festive
Materials: assorted bead necklaces, command hooks, ribbon.
- Measure width of your wall or table background and place hooks evenly across the top.
- Loop bead necklaces and ribbon from hook to hook to make vertical strands. Mix lengths for texture.
- Add a few paper fans or DIY masks to break up the beads visually.
Tip: Use adhesive hooks that remove cleanly to protect walls.
2. DIY Feather Mask Wall Art
Create oversized masks as a striking focal point for a mantle or entrance.
- Trace mask shapes on foam board or cardboard, cut out.
- Attach feathers, sequins, and craft jewels with hot glue.
- Mount on the wall or prop on an easel. Use metallic spray paint for a professional finish.
3. Carnival Centerpiece — Layers of Color
Materials: mason jars or thrifted vases, purple/green/gold ornaments, battery LED lights, beads, feathers.
- Fill jars with ornament balls and tuck battery lights into the mix.
- Wrap the jar neck with bead garlands and secure a feather spray to one side.
- Place jars on a mirrored tray or sequined runner for extra sparkle.
Pro tip: Use different heights to create visual interest. This centerpiece works for dining tables or buffet stations.
4. Mardi Gras Wreath — Quick Curb Appeal
Materials: grapevine wreath, spray paint (gold or purple), faux flowers/feathers, hot glue, ribbon.
- Spray paint the wreath base if desired and let dry.
- Attach clusters of feathers and ornaments with hot glue.
- Add a bold bow and hang on the front door. For outdoor use, choose weatherproof supplies.
5. DIY Chandelier — Float a Bead Canopy
Create a chandelier by hanging bead strands from an embroidery hoop or circular base above the bar or buffet.
- Attach beads of varying lengths, then suspend the hoop from the ceiling with clear fishing line.
- Place a cluster of battery-operated lanterns or flameless candles under it for glow.
Design Inspiration & Color Schemes
Classic Mardi Gras = purple (justice), green (faith), gold (power). For a modern twist try jewel tones (emerald, amethyst, citrine) with matte black accents. Use metallic spray paint to update thrifted frames and candlesticks. Layer in patterns like fleur-de-lis stencils, stripes, or damask to add depth. Remember contrast: a neutral tablecloth with a vivid centerpiece pops more than a fully saturated table.
Practical DIY Tips & Real-World Advice
- Shop smart: dollar stores and thrift shops have ornaments, beads, and vases you can upcycle.
- Prep surfaces: use drop cloths and painter’s tape when spray painting or gluing to protect floors and furniture.
- Safety first: use battery-operated candles around fabrics and outdoor areas. Secure tall centerpieces to avoid tipping.
- Weatherproofing: for porch or backyard decor, opt for plastic beads and waterproof adhesives.
- Test lighting: set up lights a day early to check how colors read after dark vs. daylight.
Step-by-Step Weekend Project: Table Runner & Place Settings
This quick project elevates any dinner table into a Mardi Gras feast.
- Choose a base runner: plain black or gold sequined fabric. Cut to fit your table with a slight overhang.
- Add layers: place a secondary runner perpendicular in purple or green for a cross-table accent.
- Create place settings: lay bead necklaces around napkins, tuck a small feather and a mask at each plate.
- Finish with name cards: use metallic pens on thick cardstock, and affix a mini bead or charm with hot glue.
Where to Use These Decorations
Entryways, mantels, dining tables, backyard porches, and even stair railings make great spots for Mardi Gras flair. For a neighborhood parade vibe, string bead garlands along fencing, drape feathered masks on lampposts, and add battery-powered lanterns for evening glow.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are easy last-minute ideas mardi gras decorations?
Use bead necklaces as instant garlands, hang paper fans in purple/green/gold, and create quick centerpieces by filling jars with ornaments and fairy lights. Add masks or feathers for instant flair.
2. How do I make Mardi Gras decorations budget-friendly?
Upcycle thrift store vases, use dollar-store beads and plastic ornaments, and repurpose holiday lights or ribbons. Focusing on a few reusable anchor pieces (wreath, backdrop, chandelier) saves money over time.
3. Can I decorate outdoors for Mardi Gras? Any tips?
Yes. Use weatherproof materials (plastic beads, outdoor-rated ribbon), secure items against wind, and use battery lighting. For porches, hang wreaths and garlands, and choose LED candles to avoid fire hazards.
Conclusion — Bring the Carnival Home
From bead backdrops to feathered masks, these ideas mardi gras decorations show that you don’t need a parade permit to create an unforgettable celebration at home. Pick two or three projects that fit your time and budget, prep ahead, and layer textures for maximum impact. If you loved these DIY ideas, explore more projects on our DIY projects page or get inspired with seasonal home design ideas. Ready to start? Gather your beads, put on some brass band music, and make this Mardi Gras one to remember!
