The holiday season is here, and while it’s super tempting to go all-out with store-bought decorations, the costs and the waste can add up. Whether you’re looking to deck the halls on a budget or with upcycled options you already have, these ideas will help you channel your Christmas creativity.

Why Go DIY?

Going the DIY route means you get unique, personalized decor you can’t purchase online, plus you don’t contribute to the season’s waste. The best part is that crafting your decorations is an entire experience on its own. It’s a creative outlet that could become a new tradition and make lasting memories to accompany your festive designs.

Christmas is a wasteful time of year, and Americans throw away 25% more trash during the holiday season. It’s a statistic that’s hard to ignore, especially when eco-friendly alternatives are just as festive.

Step-by-Step DIY Decor Ideas

Here are some easy, affordable DIY decor projects that look great without costing you a fortune:

1. Upcycled Mason Jar Snow Globes

Create your own winter wonderland with old Mason jars, mini figurines and glitter.

• What you need: old Mason jars, glue, mini tree or snowman figurines, glitter, water

• How to do it: First, glue the figurine to the jar lid. Next, fill the jar with water and sprinkle glitter on top. Seal tightly, shake gently and watch the “snow” fall in your instant holiday scene.

2. Festive Paper Garlands From Wrapping Paper Scraps

You can add some holiday cheer by crafting a garland from colorful paper scraps, such as old magazines or leftover wrapping paper.

• What you need: paper scraps, scissors, string or twine

• How to do it: Cut the paper into fun shapes like stars, circles or trees. Punch a hole in each cutout and then thread them onto your twine.

3. Dollar Store Candle Holders

Head to your local dollar store for plain glass candle holders or jars. If you already have them in your kitchen cabinets, all the better. You can even add a few figurines to make it more festive.

• What you need: glass candle holders, paint and ribbon

• How to do it: Paint your jar with holiday designs or wrap it with a ribbon. Arrange with other decorations on a table or windowsill to add warm and cozy holiday vibes.

4. Ornament Display Using Branches and Twine

If you’re looking for other ways to show off your ornaments besides hanging them from a tree, try displaying them on the wall instead.

• What you need: a few sturdy branches, twine, your favorite ornaments

• How to do it: Tie each ornament with various lengths of twine. Then, attach it to the branch at varying lengths. You can also add layers of branches and shape it into a tree. Hang on the wall for rustic, eco-friendly decor.

5. Pine Cone Wreath

Pine cones are essential in store-bought holiday decorations, which makes them perfect for a DIY holiday wreath. This wreath will look festive on doors and walls or as a table centerpiece.

• What you need: pine cones, wreath frame or heavy cardboard, glue, ribbon

• How to do it: Glue the pine cones to the wreath form, layering them for fullness. Add ribbon or small ornaments for extra color. There’s also a no-glue alternative that makes your creation look like it came from a store.

Pinterest and Instagram are full of tutorials for more step-by-step guides. Search keywords like “DIY holiday decor” and “upcycled Christmas decorations” to find inspiration. You can even pin and save your favorite crafts to view later.

Eco-Friendly Holiday Tips and Tricks

Now that you have a few projects you can take on when decorating, here are some more tips to keep things sustainable this season:

• Use what you already have: Paint or wrap old wine bottles in ribbon or twine to turn them into chic vases. Repurpose fabric scraps as gift wraps or bows, reducing the need for new materials.

• Embrace nature’s gifts: Pinecones, branches and even dried oranges make beautiful natural decorations that can be composted after the holidays.

• Shop secondhand: Thrift stores often have holiday decor at a fraction of the price. You can find treasures to give a second life to.

Dollar Store Finds to Make Your DIY Decor Shine

Your local dollar store is waiting to be explored for your next holiday projects.

• String lights: A few strands of battery-operated lights add instant holiday magic. These work well in Mason jars, around wreaths or simply draped over shelves.

• Plain glass: This blank canvas can be used in many different ways – from decor to gift-giving.

• Mini ornaments: Use mini ornaments to embellish your DIY wreaths or garlands. You can even fill a bowl with these tiny figurines for a fun centerpiece.

• Craft supplies: Source glitter, ribbon and paint to transform your basic items into something special.

Remember to check the seasonal aisle for holiday-specific items. Avoid overspending and stay on top of your budget by using apps that compare prices and provide special offers to save money. This will help you stick to your spending goals and prevent last-minute stress.

Deck the Halls in DIY!

By being resourceful and conscious of what you already have, you make the holiday season uniquely yours. A few simple swaps, some creativity and a little effort can transform your space and create a cozy, festive atmosphere that’s budget-friendly.