As the holiday season approaches, I can’t help but feel excited about the festive decorations that bring warmth and joy to our homes.
However, with all the expenses that come with this time of year, I’ve learned to keep my decorating simple and budget-friendly.
Last year, I decided to make my own Christmas decorations, and it turned out to be such a rewarding experience!
Not only did I save money, but I also found a way to get the kids involved, turning it into a fun family activity.
From crafting ornaments to creating beautiful centerpieces, I’m here to share some of my favorite easy DIY decorations that won’t break the bank.
Let’s make this holiday season special without the stress of overspending!
Easy and Fun DIY Christmas Decor Ideas on a Budget
Get ready to deck the halls without breaking the bank! With a little creativity and some affordable materials, you can transform your home into a winter wonderland.
1. Paper Snowflakes
To make beautiful paper snowflakes, all you need is a square piece of paper.
Fold it diagonally in half, then fold it in half again.
Next, cut small shapes along the edges. Unfold to reveal your unique snowflake design.
Hang them in windows or on your tree for a winter wonderland effect!
2. DIY Ornaments With Glitter
Start with clear glass or plastic ornaments.
Remove the top and pour in some glue.
Swirl the glue around to coat the inside, then add glitter. Shake out the excess and let them dry.
These sparkly ornaments will add a festive touch to your tree!
3. Salt Dough Ornaments
Mix 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of salt, and 1 cup of water to create a dough.
Roll it out and cut out shapes using cookie cutters.
Bake them at 250°F for about 2 hours.
Once cool, paint them with festive colors and hang them with ribbon.
4. Pinecone Decorations
Collect pinecones from your yard or a nearby park.
You can paint them, cover them with glitter, or simply leave them natural.
Place them in bowls or attach a ribbon for hanging.
They add a rustic touch to your holiday decor!
5. Painted Mason Jars
Grab some mason jars and paint them with holiday colors or patterns.
You can use them as candle holders or fill them with ornaments or candy.
I love using these as centerpieces on my dining table; they look so inviting!
6. Garland With Popcorn And Cranberries
String together popcorn and cranberries using a needle and thread to create a festive garland.
Drape it on your tree or around your home for a classic, homemade look.
This project is fun to do with the kids!
7. Twine-Wrapped Christmas Trees
Cut out a cone shape from cardboard and wrap it tightly with twine.
You can add embellishments like buttons or beads for a personal touch.
These rustic trees make charming decor for shelves or your mantel.
8. Holiday-Themed Wreaths
Use a foam or wire wreath frame and attach greenery, ornaments, or even fabric scraps.
I like to use fresh pine branches for a fragrant touch.
Hang your wreath on the front door to greet guests with holiday cheer!
9. DIY Burlap Banners
Cut burlap into triangles and use fabric paint to write holiday phrases.
Attach them to a string and hang them as a banner.
This simple decoration adds a warm, rustic feel to any room.
10. Painted Wooden Blocks
Find some scrap wood and cut it into blocks or buy some wooden blocks at your local craft store.
Paint them with festive colors or designs, like “Joy” or “Noel.” You can even paint them to look like Christmas gifts!
These can be used as table decor or on your mantel for a cheerful touch.
11. Cinnamon Stick Ornaments
Tie a few cinnamon sticks together with twine or ribbon.
You can add a sprig of evergreen for a festive touch.
Hang these on your tree or use them as gift toppers. They smell amazing!
12. Felt Christmas Stockings
Cut out stocking shapes from felt and sew or glue them together.
You can personalize them with names or decorations.
I love making these for my family – they add a personal touch to our holiday traditions!
13. Glass Jar Candle Holders
Take empty glass jars and decorate them with paint, twine, or lace.
Place a tealight candle inside to create a warm glow.
These make beautiful centerpieces for holiday gatherings.
14. Recycled Bottle Cap Ornaments
Collect bottle caps and glue them together to form shapes like snowflakes or stars.
Add some paint or glitter for a festive look.
These unique ornaments will spark conversations when guests see them on your tree!
15. Snowman Made From Socks
Fill three different-sized socks with rice, stacking them for a snowman shape.
Use buttons for eyes and a small carrot for the nose.
You can place these around the house and they’ll bring a smile to everyone’s face!
16. Gingerbread House Centerpieces
Using graham crackers, build a small house structure, then decorate it with icing and candy.
Place it on a cake stand for a charming centerpiece.
This project is awesome to do with kids, and they love seeing it on display!
17. DIY Holiday Shadow Boxes
Create enchanting holiday shadow boxes using small wooden or cardboard boxes.
Decorate the inside with festive scenes using mini figurines, faux snow, and holiday-themed embellishments.
You can layer different elements to give depth, such as using a backdrop of painted or patterned paper.
Once put together place a small LED light inside to illuminate the scene, creating a warm glow!
18. Clothespin Reindeer
Paint clothespins brown and attach googly eyes and a small red pom-pom for the nose.
Use twigs for antlers.
These adorable reindeer can be used as gift toppers or table decor.
They’re so simple yet so cute!
19. Tissue Paper Flowers
Layer tissue paper and fold it accordion-style, then twist the middle and fluff out the ends to create flowers.
These can be made in holiday colors and used as decor around the house.
I usually put them in vases for a festive touch!
20. Fabric Scrap Ornaments
Sew or glue together fabric scraps to create simple shapes, like stars or trees.
Or you can glue the scraps to old Christmas bulbs to give them a makeover!
Hang them on your tree or use them to decorate presents.
21. Wooden Pallet Decorations
Repurpose wooden pallets to create signs or displays for your holiday decor.
You can paint them with holiday messages or images.
This project is perfect for those who love a rustic style!
22. Painted Rocks As Holiday Decor
Find smooth rocks and paint them with holiday designs like snowmen or Christmas trees.
Place them around your home or give them as gifts.
This is such a fun way to get creative!
23. DIY Christmas Countdown Jars
I love this twist on classic advent calendars!
Gather some small jars and fill each one with a treat or a fun holiday activity to do with your family, like baking cookies or watching a holiday movie.
Label each jar with the days leading up to Christmas.
Each day, your kids can open a jar and discover what festive surprise awaits them!
24. Paper Mache Christmas Trees
Balloon bases covered with paper mache create unique tree shapes.
Once dry, paint them in festive colors and decorate.
This craft can get messy, but it’s a fun activity for a rainy day!
25. Yarn-Wrapped Wreaths
Wrap yarn around a foam wreath form, then embellish with felt flowers or ornaments.
This cozy wreath adds a pop of color to your door.
I made one last year, and it was a hit with everyone who visited!
26. Holiday-Themed Photo Frames
Decorate simple frames with holiday-themed materials like pinecones or ribbon.
Insert a festive photo and display them around your home.
I love looking at these frames each year; they hold so many memories!
27. Embellished Old Sweaters
Repurpose old sweaters by cutting them into shapes and embellishing them with buttons or beads.
Use these to decorate your home or make pillow covers.
I’ve turned my old sweaters into cute holiday decorations!
28. Christmas Village Made From Cardboard
Cut and decorate cardboard boxes to resemble houses for a festive village display.
Use paint and glitter for a magical touch.
My kids enjoy helping me create this every year; it’s become a tradition!
29. DIY Table Runners
Sew or glue together festive fabrics to create a table runner.
Choose colors that match your holiday decor.
This simple project makes a big impact on your dining setup!
30. Holiday Scent Sachets
Fill small fabric bags with dried herbs or spices like cinnamon and cloves.
Hang these in closets or place them in drawers for a lovely scent.
I love making these and giving them as gifts!
31. Felt Mistletoe
Cut out mistletoe shapes from green felt and glue them together.
Add a red ribbon for hanging.
This sweet decoration adds a fun touch to your home and is a great way to spread holiday cheer!
32. Light-Up Mason Jar Lanterns
Fill mason jars with string lights or candles.
Decorate the outside with holiday designs.
These lanterns create a warm ambiance and are perfect for holiday parties!
33. DIY Table Centerpieces
Create centerpieces using natural elements like pinecones, greenery, and candles.
Arrange them in a decorative bowl for a rustic look.
I love placing these on my table during holiday dinners!
34. Holiday Mini Chalkboard Signs
Paint small wooden boards with chalkboard paint.
Use chalk to write festive messages, quotes, or labels.
These mini signs can be used to label holiday treats, decorate your dining table, or as part of your holiday displays.
It’s a fun way to get creative and change the messages as often as you like!
35. Snowy Branches In Vases
Collect branches from outside and spray them white to resemble snow-covered trees.
Place them in a vase for a simple yet elegant centerpiece.
This decoration is super easy to make!
Easy Cheap Christmas Decorations
The holidays can get pricey, but decorating your home doesn’t have to be!
Discover a variety of easy and cheap Christmas decoration ideas that will help you create a festive atmosphere without draining your wallet.
36. Holiday-Themed Napkin Holders
Wrap napkin rings or cut-up papertowel rolls with fabric, felt, or ribbon.
Add embellishments like pinecones or ornaments.
This small detail can really elevate your holiday table setting!
37. Glittered Pinecones
Spray pinecones with adhesive and sprinkle glitter over them.
Let them dry and use them as decor around your home.
They’re simple but add a lovely sparkle!
38. DIY Holiday Table Place Cards
Make personalized place cards for your holiday table using cardstock or wood slices.
Decorate with holiday designs and write guests’ names on them.
These charming cards make your table setting feel special and welcoming, adding a personal touch to your holiday meals.
39. Recycled Wine Bottle Decorations
Paint wine bottles in festive colors or wrap them in twine.
Use them as vases or candle holders.
These bottles add a charming rustic touch to any holiday decor!
40. Advent Calendar With Envelopes
Use envelopes to create a countdown calendar.
Fill each with a small treat or activity for each day.
My kids get excited each morning to see what’s inside!
41. DIY Holiday Coasters
Cut cork or wood into circles and paint them with holiday designs.
These coasters make great gifts or additions to your holiday parties.
I made some for my friends last year, and they loved them!
42. Decorative Jars Filled With Ornaments
Fill clear jars with colorful ornaments for a simple yet stunning display. T
hese jars can be placed anywhere in your home for instant holiday cheer!
43. Christmas-Themed Terrariums
Create a mini holiday scene in a glass container using faux snow, tiny ornaments, and small figurines.
These cute terrariums are perfect for table decor or as gifts.
44. Hand-Painted Pine Tree Ornaments
Paint small wooden discs to resemble pine trees.
Add details with markers or paint for a fun touch.
These ornaments are a great way to get crafty with the kids!
45. DIY Snow Globes
Fill a jar with water, glitter, and a small figurine.
Seal the lid tightly and shake for a magical snow globe effect.
This project is so much fun and looks adorable on display!
46. Christmas Music-Themed Wall Art
Print out your favorite holiday song lyrics and frame them for wall art.
Use colorful paper or decorations to make them festive.
This is a simple yet meaningful addition to your holiday decor!
47. Faux Fur Tree Skirts
Sew or glue faux fur fabric into a circle to create a cozy tree skirt.
This soft touch will make your tree look extra inviting.
I love how it brings warmth to our living room!
48. Holiday-Themed Quilts Or Throws
Use holiday-themed fabric to create a simple quilt or throw.
This project can be a bit time-consuming, but it’s worth it for the cozy feel it brings to your home.
49. Felt Holiday Garlands
Cut out festive shapes from felt and string them together to create a garland.
Hang it above your fireplace or door for a cheerful touch.
This is a fun way to add color to your decor!
50. DIY Wooden Signpost
Make a fun wooden signpost by painting directions to holiday-related locations (like “North Pole,” “Santa’s Workshop,” or “Christmas Tree Farm”) on wooden boards.
Arrange the signs in your yard or place them indoors for a whimsical touch.
51. DIY Candle Jars
Decorate small jars and fill them with wax to create your own candles.
Use essential oils for a lovely scent.
I enjoy making these as gifts; they’re always appreciated!
52. Glittered Holiday Lights
Use battery-operated lights and cover them with glitter or paint for a festive look.
Hang them around your home or use them in your holiday display for extra sparkle.
53. Woven Holiday Placemats
Weave together holiday-colored fabric strips to create unique placemats.
This simple project can brighten up your dining table during holiday meals.
54. Holiday Photo Tree
Create a photo tree by using a large piece of poster board or cardboard as the base.
Cut it into the shape of a Christmas tree and attach photos of family and friends to the tree using clothespins or adhesive.
This personalized decoration showcases your loved ones and adds a sentimental touch to your holiday decor.
55. DIY Gift Wrap Display
Instead of hiding gift wrap in a closet, create a decorative gift wrap display!
Use a piece of decorative wire or string hung on the wall to clip your favorite wrapping papers – or use a rolling bin as a seasonal wrapping station.
This keeps them accessible and adds color to your decor while celebrating the art of gift-giving.
56. Tree-Shaped Book Decorations
Use old books to create tree shapes by cutting and folding the pages.
These whimsical decorations look great on bookshelves or tabletops.
I love the literary touch they add to my decor!
57. Holiday-Themed Fabric Banners
Cut out triangles from festive fabric and sew or glue them onto a long piece of ribbon or twine to create a colorful banner.
You can mix and match patterns, such as plaid, stripes, and solid colors.
Hang the banner across a wall, above a fireplace, or in a doorway to add a cheerful touch to your decor.
58. Pine Cone Garlands
String together pinecones to create a festive garland.
Hang it on your tree or around your home.
This is an easy way to bring the outdoors inside!
59. DIY Christmas Potpourri
Combine dried fruits, spices, and herbs to create a fragrant potpourri.
Place it in decorative bowls around your home for a lovely scent.
I love making this every year; it’s a cozy touch!
60. Holiday-Themed Kitchen Towels
Use fabric paint to create festive designs on plain kitchen towels.
These make practical and pretty additions to your kitchen.
I always make a few sets to give as gifts!
61. String Lights In Glass Jars
Fill jars with string lights for a charming decoration.
You can use them as centerpieces or night lights.
This simple project adds a warm glow to any room!
62. DIY Cinnamon Stick Candles
Wrap cinnamon sticks around a plain pillar candle and secure them with twine or ribbon.
The warm scent of cinnamon will fill your home as the candle burns, adding a cozy atmosphere.
These make lovely centerpieces or accents on your holiday tables.
63. Felt Holiday Tree Wall Art
Create a simple holiday tree shape out of green felt and attach it to a canvas or directly to your wall using removable adhesive.
Decorate the felt tree with buttons, ornaments, or paper cutouts.
This interactive art piece can be customized each year and adds a fun, festive touch to your home.
64. Christmas Card Display Board
Create a display board for holiday cards using a corkboard or wire.
Attach cards with clothespins for a festive display.
It’s a lovely way to showcase the season’s greetings!
65. Upcycled Sweater Pillows
Repurpose old holiday sweaters by cutting them into pillow covers.
Sew or glue the edges together, leaving one side open to insert a pillow form.
This cozy decor adds warmth and a festive touch to your couch or chairs during the holidays.
66. Craft Stick Snowflakes
Glue craft sticks together in a snowflake shape and paint them white.
You can decorate with glitter for extra sparkle.
These make a great kids’ craft!
67. DIY Wrapping Paper
Use brown paper and decorate it with stamps or drawings for personalized wrapping paper.
This adds a special touch to your gifts and is easy to do with kids!
68. Paper Lanterns For Holiday Ambiance
Cut designs into paper and place a candle or light inside for glowing lanterns.
These create a beautiful ambiance for holiday gatherings.
I love lighting them up during dinner parties!
69. Upcycled Tin Can Decorations
Clean out tin cans and decorate them with paint or fabric.
Fill with flowers or candles for a charming display.
These are fun to make and help reduce waste!
70. Holiday-Themed Coffee Sleeves
Make fabric or paper sleeves for your coffee cups with holiday designs.
These are great for gifts or for personal use during the season.
They add a festive touch to your morning coffee!
More Frugal Christmas Ideas on a Budget!
We’re not done yet! Here are some more frugal Christmas ideas that make celebrating affordable and fun.
With these simple tips and tricks, you can enjoy a meaningful Christmas with family and friends without worrying about your finances.
71. DIY Holiday Photo Garland
Create a festive photo garland to showcase your favorite holiday memories!
Print out photos from past Christmases or family gatherings and cut them into fun shapes or sizes.
Use string or twine to hang the photos in a line across a wall, fireplace, or mantel.
Add some holiday-themed decorations, like mini ornaments or greenery, to enhance the festive feel.
72. Hand-Drawn Christmas Illustrations
Create simple illustrations of holiday scenes and frame them.
These add a personal touch to your decor.
I love displaying my kids’ artwork every year!
73. Bottle Brush Trees
Decorate small bottle brush trees with paint, glitter, or beads.
Display them on tables or shelves for a charming holiday scene.
They’re easy to customize for your home!
74. DIY Table Settings
Create personalized place cards or decorations for your holiday table.
Use simple items like twine or pinecones for a rustic look.
It’s a great way to make everyone feel special!
75. Painted Wooden Spoons As Ornaments
Paint wooden spoons with holiday designs and display them in a glass mason jar.
These whimsical ornaments add a touch of charm to your holiday decor.
I love getting the kids involved in this project!
76. Snowman Jars
Use jars to create snowmen by painting the outside and adding scarves or hats.
Fill them with treats for a fun gift or decoration.
This is such a cute way to repurpose jars!
77. Holiday-Themed Cupcake Toppers
Make festive cupcake toppers using toothpicks and holiday-themed cutouts.
These add a fun touch to your holiday treats and are easy to make!
78. DIY Hanging Ornaments With Photos
Use clear ornaments and insert family photos for a personal touch.
These are wonderful keepsakes that you can cherish for years to come.
I love making one for each family member!
79. Fabric Scrap Garland
String together fabric scraps for a colorful garland.
Drape it on your tree or around your home for a cheerful decoration.
It’s a great way to use up leftover fabric!
80. DIY Birdseed Ornaments
Mix birdseed with gelatin and press into molds.
Add a ribbon for hanging outside. These make lovely gifts for nature lovers and provide food for birds!
81. Christmas Tree Ornaments From Old CDs
Paint old CDs in holiday colors and decorate them to create unique ornaments.
These are fun to make and add a touch of shine to your tree.
82. Hand-Knit Scarves For Decoration
If you knit, create small scarves for your decorations.
Drape them on your tree or around your home for a cozy touch.
I enjoy making these during the winter months!
83. Miniature Sled Decorations
Use small wooden sleds as decor by painting them in holiday colors.
Add a few embellishments for a cute touch.
These are perfect for tabletops or shelves!
84. DIY Holiday Magnets
Create magnets by gluing holiday-themed decorations onto magnetic sheets.
Use these to decorate your fridge or give as gifts.
They’re quick to make and practical!
85. Holiday-Themed Stenciled Pillows
Use fabric paint and stencils to create holiday-themed pillows.
These can be used on your couch or as decorations around your home.
I love how they make my living room feel festive!
86. Felt Elf Hats
Cut and sew felt into elf hat shapes.
Decorate with pom-poms or bells for a fun holiday accessory.
My kids enjoy wearing these during the holidays!
87. DIY Holiday Stocking Holders
Create your own festive stocking holders using wooden blocks.
Paint or decorate the blocks with holiday designs and attach a hook or knob on the front for hanging stockings.
This personalized touch adds character to your fireplace and makes your stockings stand out!
88. DIY Window Clings
Create window clings using gel or plastic sheets cut into holiday shapes.
These are fun to display and easy to remove when the season is over.
89. Holiday-Themed Dishcloths
Use fabric paint to decorate plain dishcloths with festive designs.
These make practical gifts and add cheer to your kitchen.
90. Holiday String Art
Use a wooden board and nails to create a holiday-themed string art design, such as a Christmas tree, snowflake, or star.
Hammer in the nails to outline your design, then wrap colorful string around the nails to fill it in.
This artistic decor piece adds a unique and personal touch to your holiday decor.
91. DIY Holiday Message Board
Transform a corkboard or an old frame into a festive message board.
Cover the board with holiday-themed fabric or wrapping paper, then use pushpins to attach holiday cards, notes, or family photos.
This interactive piece can showcase your holiday spirit and keep everyone informed about plans and events.
92. Christmas Tree Skirts From Felt
Sew together felt pieces to create a simple tree skirt.
This adds a cozy touch under your tree and is easy to customize.
93. Repurposed Ornament Wreath
Create a stunning wreath using old ornaments.
Hot glue the ornaments onto a foam or wire wreath form, mixing different sizes and colors for visual interest.
This sparkling wreath will add a festive touch to your front door or wall.
94. Recycled Cardboard Ornaments
Cut shapes from cardboard and decorate with paint or paper.
These are simple to make and can be customized for each family member.
95. Twine-Wrapped Glass Ornaments
Wrap twine around glass ornaments and add embellishments for a rustic look.
These are beautiful additions to your tree!
96. Salt Dough Handprint Ornaments
Make salt dough using flour, salt, and water.
Roll out the dough and press your child’s handprint into it.
Use a straw to make a hole for hanging.
Once dry, paint the ornament with festive colors.
These keepsakes make great gifts for family members and are a lovely way to remember the little ones during the holidays!
97. DIY Wreaths From Recycled Materials
Create wreaths using recycled materials like magazines or old ornaments.
This eco-friendly project is perfect for adding a unique touch to your decor.
98. Miniature Gift Boxes As Decor
Use small boxes and wrap them in festive paper to create decorative gift boxes.
These can be placed around your home for a charming holiday display.
99. Holiday-Themed Door Hangers
Create door hangers using cardstock or wood.
Decorate with holiday designs to welcome guests into your home.
100. DIY Holiday Centerpiece With Fruit And Greens
Arrange seasonal fruits and greens in a bowl for a simple, natural centerpiece.
This decoration looks great on the dining table and adds a festive touch to your meals.
Celebrate Without the Splurge!
As the holiday season approaches, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the pressure to spend and impress.
But remember, the true spirit of Christmas lies in the joy we share and the memories we create with our loved ones.
So grab your crafting supplies, gather the family, and let’s make this Christmas unforgettable together!
For some more saving money tips, follow me on Pinterest!
