Deck the Halls on a Budget: 5 DIY Christmas Decorations to Spread Cheer without Breaking the Bank

Tis the season to be jolly, but decking the halls with store-bought decorations can put a dent in your holiday budget. Fear not, festive friends! This year, let’s embrace the spirit of DIY and create charming Christmas decorations that won’t break the bank. Gather your craft supplies and get ready to add a personal touch to your holiday decor. Here are five delightful and budget-friendly homemade Christmas decorations to bring warmth and joy to your home.

a gingerbread house beside a lit candle — Photo by Leeloo Thefirst on Pexels.com

Snowflake Window Clings:

Materials:
- Parchment paper
- White glue
- Glitter
- Snowflake templates (printed or hand-drawn)
How to:
1. Place the snowflake templates under the parchment paper.
2. Mix white glue with a pinch of glitter in a bowl.
3. Use the glue mixture to trace the snowflake templates on the parchment paper.
4. Let it dry completely.
5. Carefully peel off the snowflakes and stick them to your windows for a festive winter wonderland.

Mason Jar Christmas Lanterns:

Materials:
- Mason jars
- Red and green acrylic paint
- Paintbrushes
- Tea light candles
How to:
1. Paint the outside of the mason jars with red and green paint.
2. Allow the paint to dry completely.
3. Place tea light candles inside the jars.
4. Arrange the jars on your mantelpiece or as a centrepiece on your dining table for a warm and cozy glow.
5. If you have the art skills, why not try a design.

Cinnamon Stick Ornaments:

Materials:
- Cinnamon sticks
- Ribbon
- Small holiday-themed trinkets (optional)
- Hot glue gun
How to:
1. Tie a ribbon around a bundle of cinnamon sticks, creating a loop at the top for hanging.
2. Optionally, use a hot glue gun to attach small holiday-themed trinkets to the ornament.
3. Hang these fragrant and charming ornaments on your Christmas tree or around your home.

Paper Plate Wreath:

Materials:
- Paper plates
- Green paint
- Red ribbon
- Glue
How to:
1. Paint the paper plates with green paint and let them dry.
2. Cut out the center of each paper plate, leaving a green wreath shape.
3. Glue a festive red ribbon bow onto the wreath.
4. Hang these simple and cost-effective wreaths on doors or walls to welcome guests.

Upcycled Christmas Card Garland:

Materials:
- Old Christmas cards
- Hole punch
- Ribbon or string
How to:
1. Cut out festive shapes from old Christmas cards.
2. Use a hole punch to create holes at the top of each shape.
3. Thread the shapes onto a ribbon or string, creating a colorful and eco-friendly garland.
4. Hang the garland on your tree, mantle, or staircase for a sentimental touch.

This holiday season, let your creativity shine as you embark on a budget-friendly DIY adventure. With these simple and charming homemade Christmas decorations, you can spread joy throughout your home without emptying your wallet. Get ready to create memories and make your space merry and bright!