12 Easy DIY Makeup Storage Ideas
Let’s be real—there’s nothing more frustrating than rummaging through a messy makeup bag, trying to find that one eyeliner (you know, the one you just bought and can’t seem to locate). Sound familiar? Then it’s officially time for a serious upgrade. Whether you’re a full-on beauty pro with a massive collection or someone who just wants to keep your essentials neat and within reach, having a proper storage setup can make a huge difference.
Here’s the good news: you don’t need to splurge on expensive organizers or spend hours reorganizing. With a little creativity and some simple DIY hacks, you can transform your makeup stash into an organized, Insta-worthy setup that’s as functional as it is fabulous. From easy drawer dividers to chic brush holders, these ideas will save you time, declutter your space, and give your vanity a serious glow-up.
So, grab that hot glue gun, raid your stash of old jars and boxes, and get ready to unleash your inner DIY queen. These storage solutions aren’t just budget-friendly—they’re also ridiculously easy to customize, so you can create a setup that matches your vibe perfectly. Let’s get started!
1. Repurpose Mason Jars for Makeup Brushes
Mason jars ($20 on Amazon) are a classic DIY favorite, and for good reason—they’re cute, affordable, and ridiculously versatile. Start by grabbing a few jars (they come in tons of sizes, so you can pick what works best for your collection).
To make them functional and stylish:
- Decorate: Spray paint them in your favorite color or add a metallic finish for a glam vibe.
- Fill the bottom: Add decorative beads, coffee beans, or even rice to the jar. This keeps your brushes upright and makes them easier to grab.
- Organize: Use separate jars for face brushes, eye brushes, and tools like tweezers or scissors.
Place them on your vanity for an instant upgrade—bonus points if you group them on a cute tray for a cohesive look.
2. Magnetic Makeup Board
This hack is perfect if you’re short on counter space or just want your makeup to double as decor. A magnetic board not only keeps your products organized but also lets you see everything at a glance.
What you’ll need:
- A metal sheet (check craft or hardware stores).
- Fabric or wrapping paper to cover the board.
- Small adhesive magnets.
How to make it:
- Cover the metal sheet with fabric or paper using glue or tape.
- Attach small magnets to the back of your makeup products—think compacts, blushes, and small palettes.
- Mount or lean the board on your wall.
Now, your makeup is not just organized, it’s basically art.
3. DIY Drawer Dividers
If you’ve got a makeup drawer that’s just one big mess, dividers are about to change your life. The best part? You can make them yourself with some cardboard or foam board.
Step-by-step:
- Measure the inside of your drawer to figure out how many compartments you need.
- Cut the cardboard or foam board into strips. You’ll need vertical and horizontal pieces to create a grid.
- Assemble the grid by cutting small slits into the strips so they fit together snugly.
- Optional: Wrap the pieces in decorative paper or paint them for a polished look.
Now, every lipstick, eyeliner, and palette has its own home.
4. Candle Jars for Small Items
Got a finished candle you’re about to toss? Stop right there—it’s about to become your new favorite storage solution.
How to repurpose a candle jar:
- Clean out the wax by freezing the jar and scraping out the residue.
- Wash the jar with soap and warm water to remove any leftover fragrance.
- Use it to store smaller items like lipsticks, beauty blenders, or cotton rounds.
For an extra fancy touch, tie a ribbon around the jar or add a label.
5. Hanging Makeup Organizer
If you’ve got more makeup than counter space, a hanging organizer is your savior. And no, you don’t need to spend a fortune on one—just repurpose a hanging shoe organizer.
How to make it work:
- Use the clear pockets to store your makeup products. Group similar items together—lipsticks in one pocket, blushes in another, etc.
- Label the pockets for quick access.
- Hang it on the back of a door or closet for a space-saving solution.
This hack is especially great if you’re dealing with a small apartment or dorm room.
6. Lazy Susan for Makeup
Why let Lazy Susans be a kitchen-only thing? They’re perfect for organizing makeup and keeping it all within easy reach.
How to set it up:
- Buy a Lazy Susan ($14 on Amazon) (or DIY one with a rotating tray and marbles).
- Use small containers or dividers to separate different products.
- Place it on your vanity and spin to win—no more searching for that one foundation.
For a multi-level option, stack two trays with a small bowl or candlestick in between.
7. Ice Cube Trays for Single Shadows
Loose eyeshadows and tiny pots can easily get lost in the chaos of your makeup collection. An ice cube tray is the perfect solution.
How to use it:
- Grab a silicone ice cube tray (bonus points if it’s colorful or uniquely shaped).
- Place one single shadow or small product in each compartment.
- Stack the trays if you have a larger collection.
This makes it easy to see all your options at once, and you’ll never lose a shade again.
8. Tiered Tray Organizer
A tiered tray isn’t just cute—it’s functional, too. Use it to keep all your essentials within arm’s reach.
DIY version:
- Grab two plates and a candlestick.
- Glue the candlestick between the plates to create a two-tiered stand.
- Use the top tier for smaller items like lipsticks and the bottom tier for larger products like foundations and palettes.
It’s a chic way to stay organized, and it looks fab on your vanity.
9. Drawer Liners with Grip
Tired of your makeup sliding around every time you open a drawer? Enter non-slip shelf liners.
How to use them:
- Cut the liner to fit the inside of your drawer.
- Place your products on top—it keeps everything in place, even if you’re in a hurry.
This simple trick keeps your setup neat without adding any extra bulk.
10. Jewelry Box Repurpose
Jewelry boxes ($28 on Amazon) are low-key amazing for makeup storage. The small compartments are perfect for organizing different products.
How to repurpose:
- Use the ring slots for lipsticks or eyeliners.
- Store small compacts and palettes in the larger sections.
- Keep brushes in the lid if it has built-in loops.
It’s a vintage-meets-functional vibe that works for any vanity.
11. Glass Vases for Lip Glosses
If you’ve got a lip gloss collection that rivals a beauty store, clear glass vases are the way to go.
How to set it up:
- Grab one or two tall glass vases (check dollar stores for budget options).
- Stand your glosses upright inside.
- Arrange them by color for an Instagram-worthy setup.
You’ll not only stay organized but also get a cute decor moment.
12. Custom Lipstick Tower
If you’re feeling crafty, a custom lipstick tower is a fun weekend project.
How to DIY:
- Use foam board or cardboard to create a tower with small slots for each lipstick.
- Paint or decorate the tower to match your aesthetic.
- Slide in your lipsticks for a perfectly organized display.
This is a great way to show off your collection while keeping everything tidy.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it—12 DIY makeup storage ideas that are as practical as they are cute. Whether you’re working with mason jars, magnetic boards, or tiered trays, these hacks will help you create a setup that’s both functional and stylish. So grab your glue gun and get to work—your vanity (and your sanity) will thank you.