Minimalism meets warmth. Functionality meets comfort. Japandi is more than just a trend — it’s a lifestyle philosophy blending Japanese Zen with Scandinavian hygge.
If you’re looking to bring tranquility, neutral palettes, and natural textures into your space, you’re in the right place. And you don’t need to spend a fortune.
Here are 15 DIY crafts that will help you infuse your home with Japandi charm — without losing the personal, handmade touch.
Table of Contents
1. Handcrafted Wooden Wall Hooks
Why it works: Japandi style emphasizes functionality in minimal form. Wooden wall hooks add utility and warmth.
How to do it:
- Use unfinished wood dowels or blocks.
- Sand edges smoothly and mount them with a concealed screw.
- Finish with a matte wood oil or light stain.
What not to do:
- Avoid glossy varnish or colored paints — they kill the natural texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the wall. Leave negative space around hooks.
2. Neutral Clay Incense Holders
Why it works: Scent rituals are deeply rooted in Japanese culture, and clay adds a rustic Scandinavian vibe.
How to do it:
- Use air-dry clay in beige, off-white, or soft greys.
- Shape into minimal plates or cylinders.
- Add a single hole to hold incense.
What not to do:
- Avoid intricate detailing or colored glazing.
- Don’t use scented or glittery clay.
3. Textured Wall Art with Linen and Wood
Why it works: Japandi walls are bare yet layered. Natural fabrics and wood create tactile depth.
How to do it:
- Stretch linen fabric on a canvas or wood board.
- Use natural-toned paint or leave it raw.
- Frame it in thin, light-toned wood.
What not to do:
- Don’t use synthetic fabrics.
- Avoid bright colors or bold patterns.
4. DIY Tatami-Style Floor Cushions
Why it works: Floor seating reflects Japanese traditions, while cushions add hygge comfort.
How to do it:
- Use heavy neutral-toned fabric like cotton or linen.
- Sew square or rectangular cushions filled with firm foam.
- Stitch minimal quilting lines for detail.
What not to do:
- Avoid overly plush or multicolored fabrics.
- Don’t use synthetic stuffing that loses shape quickly.
5. Low Wooden Coffee Table
Why it works: Low furniture is essential in Japandi interiors for groundedness and simplicity.
How to do it:
- Repurpose a wooden pallet or low bench.
- Sand and finish with a light oak or ash stain.
- Keep lines clean and edges soft.
What not to do:
- No metallic or glossy finishes.
- Avoid ornate legs or carvings.
Also Read: 27 Romantic Bedroom Decor Ideas for Couples
6. Handmade Paper Shoji Screens (Mini)
Why it works: Shoji dividers bring calm, filtered light and subtle structure into a space.
How to do it:
- Create small tabletop or shelf dividers using wood frames and rice paper or tracing paper.
- Use neutral wooden strips to divide the panels.
What not to do:
- Don’t use synthetic plastics or colored film.
- Avoid overcomplicating with patterns or motifs.
7. Natural Wood Shelf Brackets
Why it works: Open shelving with wood brackets fits the airy and clean look of Japandi homes.
How to do it:
- Make simple L-shaped or triangle supports from light wood.
- Use untreated or matte-finish materials.
What not to do:
- Don’t paint the brackets white or black.
- Avoid thick, heavy lumber that feels bulky.
Also Read: 21 Small-Space Boho Home Decor Ideas For You
8. Wabi-Sabi Style Pottery Planters
Why it works: Wabi-sabi is all about embracing imperfection — perfect for Japandi plant decor.
How to do it:
- Hand-mold air-dry clay pots with imperfect rims.
- Use subtle textures and earth tones.
What not to do:
- Don’t aim for symmetry. Let it feel handmade.
- Avoid shiny glazes and bright pigments.
9. Reed Diffuser in Amber Bottles
Why it works: Subtle, non-intrusive scents and minimalist containers are a Japandi essential.
How to do it:
- Reuse small amber glass bottles.
- Add essential oils and natural rattan reeds.
- Place on wooden trays or open shelves.
What not to do:
- Don’t use plastic containers.
- Avoid synthetic fragrance oils that are overpowering.
10. Fabric-Covered Storage Boxes
Why it works: Japandi homes hide clutter beautifully with fabric-lined boxes in natural materials.
How to do it:
- Cover cardboard or wood boxes with linen or cotton using fabric glue.
- Choose neutral tones or subtle textures like herringbone.
What not to do:
- Don’t use patterns, zippers, or velcro closures.
- Avoid synthetic or shiny fabrics.
11. Simple Table Runners with Frayed Edges
Why it works: Adds visual softness to the dining area while maintaining a minimal aesthetic.
How to do it:
- Cut natural linen or cotton to table length.
- Fray the edges intentionally for a raw look.
What not to do:
- Don’t hem or overdecorate.
- Avoid any embroidery or print.
12. Raw Edge Wooden Wall Ledge
Why it works: A narrow wall ledge allows display of rotating decor like books or ceramics.
How to do it:
- Use a single piece of light-toned wood with a live/raw edge.
- Mount with hidden brackets.
What not to do:
- Avoid varnishes or metal brackets.
- Don’t overload with decor — minimal is key.
13. DIY Rattan or Bamboo Tray
Why it works: Organic textures like rattan echo both Scandinavian and Japanese sensibilities.
How to do it:
- Use bamboo placemats and cut edges to fit tray shapes.
- Glue to wood or cardboard bases and finish with twine handles.
What not to do:
- Don’t paint or dye.
- Avoid adding fabrics or inner lining.
14. Muted Candle Holders with Concrete or Clay
Why it works: Japandi is about mood — and nothing adds warmth like natural, handcrafted candleholders.
How to do it:
- Mix small batches of concrete or clay.
- Pour into molds or hand-build organic shapes.
- Use tea light or pillar candle sizes.
What not to do:
- Don’t use colored wax candles.
- Avoid heavy decoration or carving.
15. DIY Scroll Wall Art with Calming Words
Why it works: Minimal typography art adds a reflective, peaceful presence to rooms.
How to do it:
- Use kraft paper or canvas.
- Paint a single calming word like “Still,” “Balance,” or “Light” in small hand lettering.
- Mount between two wooden dowels like a scroll.
What not to do:
- Don’t use stencils or bold fonts.
- Avoid quotes or cluttered designs.
Conclusion
Creating a Japandi-inspired home doesn’t require expensive furniture or professional designers — it starts with intention and a few mindful DIY projects.
By focusing on natural materials, neutral palettes, and simple, functional forms, you can craft a space that feels both calm and purposeful.
Whether it’s a linen wall hanging, a hand-shaped clay planter, or a minimalist wooden shelf, each piece should add meaning without noise.
Remember: Japandi isn’t about filling space — it’s about curating serenity. Let your hands shape your environment. Let your space reflect simplicity, and let it breathe.
