The holidays are here, which means one thing: it’s time to spend all your money on festive decor. Well, not really. Families spend 60% of their income on holiday decor and produce 30% more waste during the holiday season. Think about those broken Christmas lights you replace yearly, ribbons, bows, shopping bags, and food waste we produce during the holidays.
Christmas decoration is one area where you can significantly cut down on holiday waste. Deck your halls with glowing lights, sparkling ornaments, and colorful Christmas bows — all homemade. This is a great way to save a ton of money. Plus, you can involve your family, so DIY Christmas ornaments can become a new favorite family tradition.
I’ve tracked 30 homemade Christmas decoration ideas that will transform your home into a holiday wonderland and benefit our environment.
DIY Christmas Decoration Ideas That Anyone Can Make
1. Giant Cardboard Christmas Tree
Image and Idea Credit: Lovely Indeed
Imagine transforming a simple giant cardboard box into an enchanting, eco-friendly Christmas tree. Not only is this project affordable and straightforward, but it also breathes new life into those holiday delivery boxes.
Start by shaping the cardboard into a majestic tree. Then, as a twinkling touch, weave string lights through its branches, turning your creation into a festive spectacle.
Furthermore, involve your kids in the magic by encouraging them to draw and cut out their own unique ornaments, adding a personal and heartwarming flair to this special tree.
This do-it-yourself cardboard Christmas tree isn’t just a holiday decoration; it’s a charming and sustainable family project that brings the spirit of Christmas alive in your home.
2. Felt Reindeer Candy Cane Cozies
Image and Idea Credit: Dream A Little Bigger
Envision these charming felt reindeer candy cane cozies adorning your desk at work or adding a whimsical touch around your home. They are not just decorative; they’re a delightful way to infuse any space with the joyous spirit of Christmas.
Crafted with care, each cozy wraps around a candy cane, creating a festive and functional decoration. Moreover, these adorable reindeer can transform ordinary candy canes into thoughtful Christmas gifts, especially appealing to children.
Whether brightening your workspace or serving as a sweet present for the young ones, these felt reindeer candy cane cozies are a small but magical addition to your holiday celebrations.
3. Ribbon Christmas Tree Craft
Image and Idea Credit: Somewhat Simple
Creating a ribbon Christmas tree is an exquisite way to repurpose ribbons instead of discarding them, representing one of the most adaptable Christmas decorating ideas.
This project allows you to tailor your tree to your space and aesthetic preferences perfectly. You can craft a tree that’s either quaint and petite or grand and stately by selecting from various ribbon types.
Additionally, choosing colors that harmonize with your existing decor makes this tree not just a festive addition, but a seamless extension of your holiday style.
Whether as a centerpiece or a charming nook decoration, the ribbon Christmas tree is a unique, eco-friendly choice that brings a touch of creativity and sustainability to your holiday celebrations.
4. Snowflake Decorations
Image and Idea Credit: Lovely Indeed
One of my most cherished childhood memories is sitting with my mom, meticulously cutting out intricate snowflakes and adorning our windows with them.
This simple yet magical activity not only bonded us but also brought a touch of winter wonderland into our home.
If you live in a region where snowflakes are a rarity or if you yearn to create your own indoor winter fairy tale, this DIY Christmas decor is ideal.
Cutting and hanging these paper snowflakes transforms any space into a serene, snow-kissed haven, perfect for those who love the beauty of winter but may not have it right outside their window. It’s a delightful way to bring the charm of a snowy Christmas inside, filling your home with the warmth of childhood memories and the elegance of winter’s touch.
5. Rustic Twig Christmas Ornaments
Image and Idea Credit: Simple As That Blog
A rustic twig ornament is an enchanting way to infuse a bit of nature’s charm into your indoor space. Its remarkable versatility allows for endless creativity — you can adorn these twigs with ribbons, a dusting of sparkles, or any decor of your choosing to make them uniquely festive.
Furthermore, embracing this theme, why not take the concept a step further and design an outdoor-themed Christmas tree? Imagine a tree bedecked with these twig ornaments, each one a small testament to the beauty of the natural world, creating a serene and earthy holiday atmosphere.
This approach to holiday decor not only celebrates the simplicity of nature but also adds a unique and personal touch to your festive celebrations.
6. Christmas Village Stocking Hanger Box
Image and Idea Credit: Jen Woodhouse
A Christmas village stocking hanger box is an enchanting way to showcase your holiday stockings and capture the essence of the festive season. This charming decoration allows you to express your creativity by painting the miniature village homes in any color scheme that complements your holiday decor.
Additionally, for an extra sprinkle of holiday magic, consider weaving in some battery-powered Christmas lights, which will cast a warm, inviting glow over your personalized village.
This delightful touch not only illuminates the intricate details of your hanger box but also creates a captivating focal point, bringing an extra layer of festive cheer to your home. With this unique stocking hanger, you can transform a simple holiday necessity into a miniature winter wonderland that captivates the imagination and enhances the joy of the season.
7. Wooden Christmas Tree Forest!
Image and Idea Credit: Studio DIY
With just a collection of wooden odds and ends, some vibrant paint, and a sprinkle of glitter, you can bring to life a magical wooden Christmas tree forest.
This project is not just about crafting a charming piece of Christmas decor; it’s an opportunity to create lasting family memories. As you and your loved ones paint and decorate each miniature tree, you’ll be weaving a tapestry of shared moments and laughter.
This enchanting forest, created with your own hands, becomes more than just a decoration; it transforms into a cherished keepsake, a symbol of family and joy that you’ll treasure and display for years to come. Crafting this wooden Christmas tree forest is not only a fun holiday activity but also a way to fill your home with the spirit of togetherness and the magic of Christmas.
8. DIY Custom Christmas Stockings
Image and Idea Credit: The House That Lars Built
Don’t delay any longer in crafting your own unique Christmas stockings! Let these custom Christmas stockings serve as your muse. Embark on this creative journey by selecting fun graphic fabrics and punchy patterns that resonate with your festive spirit.
Adding a customized ribbon for each stocking infuses a personal touch that truly makes them yours. As you engage in this delightful process, you’ll not only unleash your creativity but also create holiday keepsakes that will be cherished for years to come.
These personalized stockings, brimming with your own artistic flair, will not just adorn your mantle; they’ll become a treasured part of your family’s Christmas tradition, filled with memories and personal stories to relive each holiday season.
9. DIY Pom-Pom Christmas Stocking
Image and Idea Credit: A Beautiful Mess
Your family is sure to adore the whimsical charm and fun texture of these pom-pom Christmas stockings. Bursting with color and delightful fluffiness, they bring a cheerful and cozy touch to your holiday decor.
Moreover, the beauty of these stockings lies in their versatility — you can tailor them to match any holiday color scheme, making each stocking a unique expression of your festive spirit.
As the years pass, these vibrant, personalized stockings will evolve into cherished mementos, eagerly brought out and displayed each holiday season.
They are not just a way to hold gifts; they become a heartwarming symbol of family tradition and the joyous celebrations that make each Christmas memorable.
10. Christmas Tree Mason Jar Votive
Image and Idea Credit: Mason Jar Crafts Love
Creating a Christmas tree mason jar votive is a wonderful way to bring people together, whether it’s a group of kids, friends, or family members. Engage in the joy of crafting as you personalize these jars in any color scheme you fancy, choosing from a variety of motifs like snowflakes, Santa, and more.
Moreover, this activity becomes even more special when everyone exchanges their jars, leaving each participant with a heartfelt keepsake of the time spent together.
These handcrafted votives, glowing softly beside your living Christmas tree, will not only add a cozy ambiance to your holiday decor but also serve as a cherished reminder of shared laughter, creativity, and the warmth of spending time with loved ones. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to enhance the festive spirit and create lasting memories during the holiday season.
11. Christmas Village Hoop Wreath
Image and Idea Credit: Sister Suitcase Blog
No Christmas decor feels quite complete without the traditional touch of a wreath, and crafting a Christmas village wreath is sure to set your door apart as the most captivating in the neighborhood.
Begin with a simple hoop as your base, then attach small shelves that will serve as the foundation for your miniature village.
Here’s where your creativity can truly shine — you can add as many quaint homes as you desire, even going so far as to create a charming replica of your own neighborhood.
This project not only beautifies your entrance but also offers a unique way to celebrate the community spirit during the festive season.
As neighbors and passersby admire your handiwork, your Christmas village wreath becomes more than just a decoration; it turns into a festive landmark, a conversation starter, and a heartwarming representation of the love and care within your home and community.
12. Christmas Tree Napkin Fold
Image and Idea Credit: Origami Tree
Introducing a Christmas tree napkin fold is an excellent and unexpected way to delight your friends and family if you’re playing host this holiday season. This creative touch not only adds a festive flair to your table setup but also infuses your holiday gathering with a sense of whimsy and charm.
As you lay out your table, these intricately folded napkins, shaped like miniature Christmas trees, can serve as a conversation starter and a testament to your attention to detail. They not only elevate the aesthetic of your dinner setting but also reflect the spirit of the season, making each guest feel special and adding an extra layer of holiday cheer to your gathering.
This simple yet impactful detail can transform an ordinary holiday meal into an enchanting festive feast.
13. Christmas Centerpiece
Image and Idea Credit: 33 Shades of Green
Crafting an upcycled centerpiece is a fantastic idea for adding a unique touch to your table setting.
Start by gathering old vases or glasses that you no longer use, and creatively repurpose them as the foundation of your centerpiece. Fill these containers with natural elements like berries or branches, bringing a piece of the outdoors inside. Moreover, consider adding water to ensure your branches remain fresh and vibrant for longer.
To elevate the ambiance further, place a floating candle in each vase, casting a soft, enchanting glow that adds an extra sparkle to your setting.
This simple yet elegant upcycled centerpiece not only reuses materials in a charming way but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for any gathering or special occasion.
14. Cinnamon Stick Candles
Image and Idea Credit: Louise Roe
Cinnamon stick candles are not only easy to make but also wonderfully scented, infusing your home with the quintessential aroma of the holiday season. After all, what encapsulates the essence of the holidays better than the warm, inviting scent of cinnamon?
To add a touch of rustic charm, secure the cinnamon sticks around the candles using twine or a ribbon, thereby amplifying the holiday cheer.
These candles, once lit, not only create a cozy atmosphere but also serve as a delightful reminder of festive traditions and the joyous moments shared with loved ones.
Perfect for a snug evening in or as a charming addition to your holiday decor, cinnamon stick candles offer both visual beauty and a nostalgic fragrance that embodies the heart of the holiday spirit.
15. Mason Jar Christmas Centerpiece
Image and Idea Credit: A Pretty Life in the Suburbs
Mason jars, evergreens, ribbons, and cranberries are quintessential elements of Christmas, making them perfect for crafting a festive centerpiece. Chances are, you already have most of these items at hand.
Start by adding a handful of cranberries to a mason jar, creating a colorful base. Next, gently place a floating candle on top, which, when lit, will add a warm and inviting glow. Finally, tie a ribbon around the jar in a bow for that extra touch of holiday elegance.
This simple yet charming centerpiece not only captures the essence of the season but also adds a cozy and welcoming atmosphere to any room. It’s an effortless way to bring a bit of Christmas cheer to your home, creating a focal point that’s both beautiful and emblematic of the holiday spirit.
16. Christmas Jars with Christmas Village
Image and Idea Credit: The Idea Room
Rally the glass jars you have around your home and embark on a delightful journey to transform them into a charming Christmas village.
Begin by sprinkling Epson Salts within the jars to mimic a winter wonderland of glistening snow. Next, craft miniature cardboard trees, quaint houses, and a cheerful snowman to populate your village.
Involve your family in this creative endeavor by having them paint and personalize each piece, turning this into a fun and engaging family activity.
Not only do you end up with unique and inexpensive Christmas decorations, but these handcrafted treasures can also be reused year after year, adding a personal touch to your sustainable Christmas celebrations. This homemade village, brimming with character and warmth, will surely be a conversation starter, making your eco-friendly Christmas parties more vibrant and memorable.
17. Pinecone Ornaments
Image and Idea Credit: Make-It Love-It
Pinecone ornaments are undoubtedly among the most charming and cost-effective Christmas decorations you can create.
Embark on a leisurely walk to gather pinecones in the crisp outdoor air, or if you prefer a hint of festive aroma, opt for cinnamon-scented ones.
Once you have your pinecones, add a touch of elegance by attaching a colorful bow on top. Securely tie some jute to each pinecone, transforming them into rustic, ready-to-hang ornaments.
These natural beauties, when adorned on your Christmas tree, bring a sense of woodland charm and traditional holiday warmth to your home. Not only do they offer a delightful crafting experience, but they also infuse your space with the simple yet profound magic of a handmade holiday season.
18. Scrap Ribbon Christmas Tree Ornament
Image and Idea Credit: Fireflies and Mudpies
Embark on a little outdoor adventure to gather sticks, or for a festive twist, choose aromatic cinnamon sticks. Then, creatively tie scraps of green and brown ribbon around your chosen stick, artfully emulating the lush branches of a Christmas tree.
This simple act of wrapping ribbons transforms the stick into a charming, rustic ornament. It’s not just a craft; it’s a creation that captures the essence of the holiday season.
Whether you decide to hang this handmade treasure on your own tree or gift it to someone special, it’s sure to bring a touch of homemade joy and warmth to this holiday season. This ornament, a blend of natural beauty and creative flair, embodies the spirit of a heartfelt and sustainable Christmas.
19. Wooden Slice Rudolph Ornament
Image and Idea Credit: Sugar Spice and Glitter
No Christmas holiday decor feels truly complete without the iconic presence of at least one Rudolph.
Imagine a Rudolph ornament that exudes rustic charm, adding a nostalgic touch to your festive decorations. Furthermore, you have the creative freedom to decorate it in your own unique style. Why not give your Rudolph a bit of sparkle? A glittery red pom-pom nose will certainly make it stand out.
Whether you choose to craft this as a stand-alone piece or embark on the delightful project of creating all nine of Santa’s Reindeers, each ornament will bring its own magic to your holiday setting.
These charming Rudolph ornaments, personalized by your hand, are sure to be cherished additions to your Christmas decor, bringing joy and a dash of whimsy to your festive celebrations.
20. DIY Honeycomb Christmas Bulbs
Image and Idea Credit: Studio DIY
Honeycomb Christmas bulbs offer a delightful and unique spin on the classic Christmas bulb decorations. These creative decor ideas are not only easy to make but also kind to your budget, allowing you to craft without worry.
As you put together these charming bulbs, you’ll channel your inner Martha Stewart, bringing a touch of elegance and creativity to your holiday decor. Imagine the look of amazement on your guests’ faces as they admire your handcrafted decorations.
These honeycomb bulbs, with their intricate design and festive flair, are sure to be a conversation starter, adding a personal and stylish touch to your holiday gatherings. You’ll not only enjoy the process of making them but also take pride in the distinctive and merry ambiance they bring to your home.
21. DIY Copper Pipe Centerpiece
Image and Idea Credit: Pretty Handy Girl
If you’re seeking a departure from traditional centerpieces and yearn for something distinctively stylish, this copper pipe centerpiece is sure to captivate your interest.
Doubling as an elegant candelabra, it effortlessly brings a modern touch to any table setting. Moreover, its design is not just limited to holding candles; it can also be transformed into a chic vase for flowers, adding versatility to its charm.
You have the freedom to tweak the design to suit your needs, making it a perfect fit for various occasions and styles.
Whether adorning your table for a special event or enhancing your everyday home decor, this copper pipe piece is more than just a centerpiece; it’s a year-round statement of sophistication and creativity, offering both functionality and a striking aesthetic appeal.
22. DIY Rustic Wood Candle Holders
Image and Idea Credit: Marty’s Musings
These rustic wood candle holders are a splendid choice for infusing your home with a touch of natural elegance. Embracing the concept that nature offers the best free home decor, these candle holders exude a serene, earthy charm.
To make them truly stand out, adorn them with sprigs of evergreen and a few bright berries, adding a pop of color and texture. These simple yet stunning additions create a vibrant contrast against the wood’s natural tones.
Whether you place these candle holders as a centerpiece on your dining table or set them on a window table, they are sure to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Their rustic appeal not only complements a variety of decor styles but also brings a piece of the outdoors inside, creating a warm and welcoming environment in any space they grace.
23. Wood Holiday Houses
Image and Idea Credit: HGTV
If you’re looking to infuse your holiday decor with a touch of Scandinavian elegance, crafting wood holiday houses is a fantastic idea. This project not only offers a stylish aesthetic but also provides an excellent opportunity to repurpose scrap wood leftovers, aligning with eco-friendly practices.
Paint these wooden pieces in hues that complement your home decor, and arrange them to create a quaint wooden house holiday mantel or an eye-catching tablescape. Such a setup not only adds a unique charm to your festive decorations but also brings a cozy, Nordic-inspired ambiance to your space.
Whether they grace your fireplace mantel or become the centerpiece of your dining table, these wood holiday houses are a simple yet impactful way to celebrate the season with a blend of sustainability and style.
24. DIY Wooden Christmas Tree
Image and Idea Credit: Sugar and Cloth
If you’re seeking a creative twist to the traditional Christmas tree, or if you’re wondering why stop at just one, these delightful little wooden Christmas trees are a perfect idea. You have the freedom to craft as many as you desire, experimenting with a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors to suit your festive vision.
Scatter these charming miniature trees throughout your home, from the mantelpiece to the dining room, creating pockets of holiday cheer in every corner. This approach not only adds a unique and personal touch to your Christmas decor but also infuses your space with a playful and cozy holiday atmosphere.
Whether standing alone or complementing your main Christmas tree, these wooden creations are a wonderful way to celebrate the season in a style that’s uniquely yours.
25. Branch Christmas Tree
Image and Idea Credit: The Lovely Drawer
If you’re looking to break away from the conventional red and green holiday decor, consider the understated elegance of metallics this season.
Start by finding a branch with a few twigs, an ideal natural element for a minimalist yet festive display. Decorate this branch by hanging Christmas bulbs from it, choosing any color that complements your metallic theme.
For an added touch of holiday charm, tie some sprigs of rosemary around the branch. Not only will this add a rustic aesthetic, but the rosemary will also infuse your space with a delightful holiday scent.
This simple yet sophisticated approach to holiday decor creates a serene and modern atmosphere, perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of less traditional Christmas styles.
26. Popsicle Stick Snowflakes
Image and Idea Credit: A Girl And A Glue Gun
Start with a few packs of popsicle sticks and invite your family to join in this creative endeavor. Each member can lay out their own design, transforming these simple sticks into unique snowflake patterns.
As everyone glues their sticks together, the individuality of each snowflake starts to shine through. Next, bring these creations to life with a splash of paint, choosing colors that resonate with the winter theme or your home’s decor.
Finally, arrange these handcrafted snowflakes on the wall, creating a magical and wintery design.
This activity not only fosters creativity and family bonding but also results in a personalized and enchanting display, adding a homemade touch of winter wonder to your home.
27. Natural Holiday Centerpiece
Image and Idea Credit: The Sweet Escape Creative Studio
At first glance, it might be hard to imagine how simple birch pieces could transform into a glamorous centerpiece. However, with the addition of a few elements, they become just that.
Place some elegant candles amidst the birch, then intersperse little shiny Christmas trees and reindeer figures for a festive touch. This combination not only brings a natural, rustic charm but also infuses a sense of holiday glamour into your decor.
As a result, you’ll create a show-stopping piece that will captivate your guests and serve as a stunning focal point for your holiday dinner.
The beauty of this centerpiece lies in its unexpectedness, turning ordinary birch into an extraordinary display of festive cheer.
28. Washi Tree
Image and Idea Credit: Thyme Is Honey
This year, embrace an eco-friendly approach and create a captivating washi tree on your wall.
Begin by using washi tape and strings to outline the shape of a tree, a simple yet effective base for your creation. Next, enhance its festive charm by weaving in tinsel garlands, adding a shimmering touch.
Get creative with washi tape to craft unique ornaments, and as a special touch, incorporate Christmas cards as they arrive in the post, turning your tree into a growing collage of holiday greetings.
Each time you look at your washi tree, you’ll not only feel a burst of holiday spirit but also a sense of pride in your sustainable and innovative decoration. This tree isn’t just a visual delight; it’s a reflection of a conscious choice to celebrate the season in an environmentally friendly and uniquely personal way.
29. Deer Head String Art
Image and Idea Credit: Clean And Sensible
Deer head string art stands out as a distinctive and charming homemade Christmas decoration, perfect for those seeking a blend of rusticity and glamour in their holiday decor.
This craft not only adds a touch of whimsy but also brings a personalized and artistic feel to your home.
Plus, to elevate its festive allure, consider draping glittery garlands around the string art. This addition infuses a sparkle of Christmas magic, enhancing the piece’s aesthetic appeal.
Whether placed prominently in your living room or as a part of a festive gallery wall, this deer head string art is sure to capture attention and contribute to the warm, celebratory spirit of the season in your home.
30. Winter Table Setting
Image and Idea Credit: Stager Linda
Why settle for a conventional centerpiece when you can delight your guests with a whimsical snowman winter table setting using your plates?
Start with a set of larger and smaller plates to form the snowman’s body. Then, use colorful napkins creatively folded as scarves and hats, adding a burst of festive cheer.
For the finishing touch, arrange the cutlery to represent the snowman’s arms.
This playful setup is sure to captivate both kids and adults alike, bringing a touch of whimsy and joy to your meal. Not only does it serve as a fun talking point, but it also transforms your dining experience into a memorable, festive gathering, showcasing your creativity and adding a unique twist to holiday dining.
Final Thoughts
Embracing DIY Christmas decoration ideas is an exceptional way to ensure your decor shines uniquely this year, while also being mindful of your budget and the environment.
By creatively reusing items you already have at home or foraging for twigs and sprigs from nature, you not only craft beautiful decorations but also contribute to reducing holiday waste. Involve your entire family in these festive projects to create enduring memories and perhaps start a cherished new holiday tradition.
Leverage the ideas I’ve shared above to transform your home into a mesmerizing holiday wonderland. This approach not only personalizes your space but also plays a part in safeguarding our planet during the holiday season. Each homemade decoration carries a story, a touch of your family’s creativity, and a commitment to a more sustainable celebration, making your Christmas both merry and meaningful.
