yes there is a difference between ghetto and DIY. then again, i dont want plastic ships and air bubbler treasure chests in my tanks either. I think DIY such as slate and driftwood is a much better option.
You most certainly arent making your own PVC or terracotta pots. So thats no different that getting a driftwood log and hollowing it out.
There is a great method, but takes along time, a lot of skill, artistic skill, patience, and effort. Styrofoam cut to shape, like a background with caves built in. Cover in mortar, and paint to look natural. This can take weeks to do, depending on how good you are, and how many hours you put in a day. I have seen some killer background with caves made for african cichlid tanks.