32 DIY Makeup Vanity Ideas for 2026

Creating your own makeup vanity is one of the easiest ways to design a space that actually fits your routine, room size, and storage needs. 

Store-bought vanities often feel too bulky, too small, or simply not designed for how you use makeup daily. 

A DIY makeup vanity lets you control the layout, height, lighting, and storage while staying within budget.

In this article, you’ll find 32 DIY makeup vanity ideas that work for small bedrooms, apartments, closets, and full dressing rooms. 

Why Build a DIY Makeup Vanity?

Building a DIY makeup vanity gives you full control over how your space works. You can adjust the size to fit small rooms, add storage where you actually need it. 

And choose lighting that works for your routine. DIY also helps you stay on budget while avoiding bulky, pre-made designs. 

Whether you need something compact, hidden, or storage-heavy, a custom vanity lets you create a setup that fits your room and daily makeup habits perfectly.

Floating Vanity

A floating vanity attaches directly to the wall, keeping the floor clear and making the space feel larger. Use a thick wood board or plywood slab secured into studs for strength. 

Add a shallow drawer underneath for daily makeup essentials and place a mirror above. This setup works well in bedrooms where you want a clean, modern vanity look.

Desk Vanity

A desk vanity uses an old writing desk as the base, making it one of the easiest DIY options. Sand and repaint or stain the surface, then add a mounted mirror or tabletop mirror. 

Desk drawers provide built-in storage for makeup and tools. This is ideal if you want a full-size vanity without building cabinetry from scratch.

Corner Vanity

A corner vanity turns unused corners into a functional makeup area. Build a triangular or L-shaped top using plywood or MDF and secure it into both walls. 

Add a compact mirror and a small drawer unit below. This layout works especially well in small bedrooms where wall space is limited but you still want a dedicated vanity.

Closet Vanity

A closet vanity fits inside a wardrobe or reach-in closet to create a private makeup station. Install a narrow tabletop, wall mirror, and small shelves for storage. 

Soft lighting helps brighten the enclosed space. This option keeps makeup organized and hidden when not in use, making it perfect for shared bedrooms or minimalist homes.

Vintage Dresser

A vintage dresser vanity uses an old chest of drawers as the base for makeup storage. Sand and refinish the surface, then place a mirror on top or mount one above. 

Deep drawers help organize palettes, skincare, and tools. This setup adds character and works well in bedrooms where you want a classic or antique feel.

Shelf Vanity

A shelf vanity keeps things simple by using a single wall-mounted shelf as the tabletop. Secure a thick shelf into wall studs and pair it with a stool underneath. 

Add a mirror above and small organizers on the surface. This design works best in tight spaces where you want a lightweight vanity without bulky furniture.

Fold-Down Vanity

A fold-down vanity attaches to the wall and folds flat when not in use. Build a hinged tabletop with a mirror inside the panel and shallow storage compartments. When opened, it becomes a compact makeup station. 

This option is perfect for small rooms or apartments where saving space is more important than permanent furniture.

Window Vanity

A window vanity places the tabletop directly in front of a window to take advantage of natural light. Install a narrow desk or floating surface below the window and add a mirror that can be angled or pulled forward. 

This setup improves makeup accuracy and works well in bedrooms with good daylight exposure.

Pipe Vanity

A pipe vanity uses metal plumbing pipes as the frame for an industrial-style makeup station. Attach pipes to the wall or floor and place a wood top across them. 

Add open shelves below for baskets or organizers. This design works well in modern or loft-style bedrooms where exposed hardware fits the overall look.

Farmhouse Vanity

A farmhouse vanity uses solid wood with a simple table-style build. Create a sturdy base using 2x4s and top it with a thick wood plank. Leave the finish natural or lightly stained for a rustic feel. 

This vanity works best in larger bedrooms where you want a warm, handmade centerpiece.

Cube Vanity

A cube vanity uses storage cubes or box shelves as the base instead of traditional legs. Stack cubes on each side and place a wood top across them. 

Each cube can hold bins, makeup trays, or baskets. This setup offers flexible storage and works well for people with large makeup collections.

IKEA Hack

An IKEA hack vanity combines ready-made pieces to create a custom setup. Use drawers, tabletops, or shelves and assemble them into a vanity layout that fits your space. 

Add a mirror and lighting to finish the look. This option is ideal if you want a polished vanity without complex woodworking.

Built-In Mirror

A built-in mirror vanity places the mirror directly into the wall design above the tabletop. Frame the mirror with wood or trim and add lighting around it for better visibility. 

This setup creates a seamless, custom look and works well in bedrooms where you want the vanity to feel like a permanent part of the room.

LED Vanity

An LED vanity uses strip lights or bulb-style lighting around the mirror for even illumination. Install LED lights behind the mirror or along a wood frame. 

This design helps reduce shadows during makeup application. It’s ideal for rooms with limited natural light and for anyone who wants a professional-style vanity setup.

Drawer Vanity

A drawer vanity focuses on storage by using stacked drawers as the base. Secure a solid top above the drawers and add a mirror overhead. 

This design keeps makeup hidden and organized. It works best if you have many products and prefer a clean surface without clutter.

Compact Vanity

A compact vanity is designed for small bedrooms or apartments. Use a narrow tabletop, slim drawers, and a small mirror to keep the footprint minimal. 

This setup fits easily along walls or near closets. It’s perfect if you want a functional vanity without sacrificing too much space.

Open Shelves

An open shelf vanity uses wall-mounted shelves instead of closed drawers. Install a sturdy tabletop with one or two shelves above or below for makeup storage. 

This setup keeps products visible and easy to reach. It works well if you like organizing items in trays or jars and want a light, open vanity look.

Hutch Vanity

A hutch vanity adds vertical storage by attaching a small cabinet or shelving unit above the tabletop. 

The upper section holds makeup, skincare, or decor while the lower area stays clear for daily use. This design works well in bedrooms where floor space is limited but wall height is available.

Hidden Vanity

A hidden vanity stores makeup behind cabinet doors or panels when not in use. Build a shallow cabinet with a fold-out surface and mirror inside. Close it to keep everything out of sight. 

This option is perfect for minimalist rooms or shared spaces where you want a clutter-free look.

Acrylic Vanity

An acrylic vanity uses clear acrylic drawers or legs to create a modern, lightweight appearance. Pair acrylic components with a solid top for stability. 

The transparent storage makes it easy to find products quickly. This setup works best in contemporary bedrooms where you want the vanity to feel visually minimal.

Jewelry Vanity

A jewelry vanity includes dedicated sections for rings, necklaces, and earrings along with makeup storage. Add small hooks, velvet-lined trays, or dividers inside drawers. 

This setup keeps accessories tangle-free and easy to grab while getting ready. It works well if you prefer one organized station for both makeup and jewelry.

Cart Vanity

A cart vanity uses a rolling cart as the base for makeup storage. Place a wood top on the cart and add a mirror above or nearby. 

The wheels make it easy to move between rooms. This option is great for small homes where you need flexibility or shared vanity space.

Rustic Vanity

A rustic vanity uses reclaimed or rough-cut wood for a warm, handmade look. Build a simple table frame and leave the wood grain visible. 

Pair it with a basic mirror and minimal hardware. This design works well in farmhouse or cottage-style bedrooms where natural textures add charm.

Gloss Vanity

A gloss vanity features smooth surfaces with a high-shine painted or laminated finish. Use MDF for the base and seal it with a glossy coat. 

This style reflects light and makes the vanity feel modern and clean. It’s ideal for contemporary bedrooms with a sleek design theme.

Pegboard Vanity

A pegboard vanity adds a pegboard panel behind the tabletop to hang brushes, tools, and small organizers. Mount the pegboard securely to the wall and customize hooks based on your routine. 

This setup keeps everything visible and easy to reach. It works well for small spaces where drawer storage is limited.

Side Cabinets

A side cabinet vanity places slim cabinets or drawer units on one or both sides of the tabletop. This layout increases storage without taking up much surface space. 

Use matching finishes to keep the design balanced. It’s ideal if you want extra organization while keeping the center area open.

Kids Vanity

A kids vanity is built at a lower height for easy access. Use lightweight materials and rounded edges for safety. Add shallow drawers or bins for play makeup and accessories. 

This setup works well in playrooms or bedrooms and helps keep makeup items organized and within reach.

Power Vanity

A power vanity includes built-in outlets or a mounted power strip for hair tools and devices. Drill cable holes in the tabletop and secure cords underneath to avoid clutter. 

This design keeps everything charged and ready. It’s perfect if you use blow dryers, straighteners, or lighted mirrors daily.

Stool Storage

A stool storage vanity uses a hollow or lift-top stool to store makeup tools and accessories. Pair it with a simple tabletop or floating shelf. When not in use, everything stays tucked away. 

This design works well in small bedrooms where you want seating and storage in one compact setup.

Nightstand Vanity

A nightstand vanity repurposes a bedside table into a makeup station. Place a mirror above it and use the drawers for everyday products. 

This setup blends easily into bedrooms and doesn’t feel like an extra piece of furniture. It’s a good option if you want a subtle, space-saving vanity.

Wall Organizer

A wall organizer vanity uses mounted organizers, trays, or rails above a narrow tabletop. Store makeup vertically to keep the surface clear. 

This setup works well if you like everything visible and neatly arranged. It’s ideal for tight spaces where drawer depth is limited.

Folding Vanity

A folding vanity uses hinged panels that open into a makeup station and fold flat when not in use. Include a mirror and shallow compartments inside the fold-out section. 

This design saves space and keeps makeup hidden. It’s perfect for small apartments or multipurpose rooms.