Outdoor patio furniture ideas: Budget-friendly upgrades

by Denise Mason 06/11/2025

If you’re in need of outdoor patio furniture ideas that won’t break the bank and look great in an outdoor living room, there are plenty of stylish options to consider. Whether you upcycle items you already own or create them from scratch with your DIY skills, you can decorate your outdoor space on a budget in a variety of ways.

Some of the best patio ideas can be achieved with a simple DIY process and a few inexpensive materials. To help inspire you, here are some great budget outdoor patio furniture ideas:

Crafty crate tables

Wooden crates are a goldmine for DIY furniture inspiration. They fit in recreational outdoor rooms, dining areas and other outdoor spaces. In fact, one excellent budget-friendly option for outdoor patio furniture is to make a coffee or cocktail table from wooden crates. By laying a crate on its side, you can create a surface for food, drink or your favorite book.

At the same time, the open side can be used to store any number of items, from children's toys to potting supplies. The built-in storage is especially advantageous for small patios and yards.

Add a coat of paint in a fun, fresh hue to bring a pop of color to your space. Or, choose a weatherproof wood stain to enjoy the natural wood texture in your outdoor area.

Perfectly painted lawn chairs

Don’t give up on outdated folding outdoor seating. Whether they’re upright or lounge chairs, a quick wash and a coat of outdoor spray paint can completely transform them into stylish outdoor furniture that’s easy to store away when not in use.

Not only is spray paint an excellent budget-friendly solution, it’s easy to change down the road. If you decide to change the color scheme of your patio setup, you can always add a fresh coat of paint. Spray paint also works on a wide variety of surfaces, so you can use this same idea on wicker chairs, woven chairs and more.

Simple slipcovers

Rather than replace the cushions on your patio benches or lounge chairs, try enhancing your sitting area for less by making budget-friendly DIY slipcovers from a variety of fabrics around the house. One chic option for homemade slipcover material is colorful beach towels.

With beach towels, you’ll have colorful pillows in a pinch. They’re also inexpensive and easy to clean. So, when it’s time to wash the slipcovers, simply toss them in the washing machine to make them good as new.

These are only a few ways to upgrade your old patio furniture on a budget. Rather than buy something new, revisit items you may have stowed away. You might be able to give them new life with something as simple and inexpensive as a coat of paint.

About the Author
Author

Denise Mason

Hi! I'm Denise Mason. WELCOME to my Website! Being a full-time REALTOR® gives me the opportunity to assist in achieving your wants, desires, needs, and priorities in selling or finding a home. My goal is to take care of my real estate clients by providing an exceptional, no drama experience that you not only deserve but should demand in the hectic and competitive marketplace of today. I work closely with you throughout your entire real estate transaction. I work to be your family REALTOR® for life. Success begins and ends with good communication. I love what I do and do what I love! I am positive, enthusiastic and truly enjoy people and the real estate business. My commitment to you, my client extends far beyond a single transaction. My goal is to communicate, educate and exceed expectations! As the daughter, wife, and mother of active duty and retired service members, I've had numerous relocation experiences; renting, buying and selling a home. I grew up in Arlington County, VA and lived there for more than 20 years. Upon my husband's retirement from the Army we could think of no better place to call home than Virginia, the place of our childhood. I have been a Prince William County resident since 1997. We have raised and educated three children in the Prince William County School system. My family is my pride and priority which makes me no different than you or any other individual who wants a safe and comfortable environment for yourself, family and friends. I look forward to helping you achieve your real estate goals. Call me at 703-283-0969 or email me so we can meet over tea or coffee & I can get to work for you!