I’ve noticed a trend this year – and perhaps you have, too. It seems that more and more people are becoming disenchanted with the mass-produced, picture-perfect Christmas decor and are yearning instead for the nostalgic, warm, handcrafted decor of their youth, the kind that is used again and again and lives on in your Christmas memories for a lifetime. I’m seeing more of a return to thrifted vintage decor and handmade ornaments. The beauty of these is not only the warm feelings they evoke, or the memories they create as you pull them out year after year, but many of them are simple and inexpensive – and fun! – to create, making for much more of an experience than a trip to the department store or clicking-to-buy. I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorites that I have been making and using for the past several years, as well as others I’d like to try.
- Dried oranges – These are classic, easy and inexpensive to make, smell amazing, and are super versatile. You can string them up as a garland, use them as ornaments, add them to gifts, or simply sprinkle them around.
- Cranberry garland – This is another very inexpensive way to create festive garlands that can be hung on the tree, the mantle, or anywhere else. I found that they can be difficult to push a sewing needle through, but using a larger needle or a thimble is helpful!
- Popcorn garland – Similar to cranberry garlands, a popcorn garland is extremely inexpensive and is much easier for pushing needles through. Popcorn garlands create a homey, old-fashioned Christmas vibe – plus you can snack as you string them!
- Paper chains – I can’t be the only one who made a paper chain countdown every year as a kid – ripping off one chain each day in anticipation for Christmas morning. Paper chains are another simple way to create a festive atmosphere with little expense and effort. This year I ordered double-sided scrapbook paper, but you can use leftover wrapping paper or even ribbons! All you need otherwise is a pair of scissors or paper cutter and a stapler or hot glue gun.
- Paper bag snowflakes – I made these a few years ago and just loved how they turned out! They can be hung from the ceiling or in front of windows and left up all winter.
- Cinnamon applesauce ornaments – I remember making these as a kid and still love how they smell. These are a fun use for holiday cookie cutters and last well so you don’t have to make them every year. They are cute on gifts, as well!
- Salt dough ornaments – These are similar to the cinnamon applesauce ornaments but allow for more creativity. Last year we made a cute Christmas tree shape and each of our family members made a fingerprint which I then painted as lights on the tree. The sky really is the limit with these, you can make any shape you like and paint them after they dry. I sealed ours with clear modge podge after the paint dried, too.
- Fresh greenery – This is one I’ve never done, but if you have access to any evergreen plants, you can forage your own natural decor! Fresh greenery adds an authentic, earthy festivity to your home.
- Velvet ribbons – This is one of the simplest ways to turn anything into Christmas decor. Take a roll of velvet – or any type of ribbon you like! – and simply tie lengths of it onto candlestick holders, lamps, cabinet knobs, etc. This year I purchased a package of red velvet bows on twist ties which made it even easier, but I also have lengths of ribbon which I tie onto our dining room farmhouse chandelier, candles, and our tree.
- Orange pomander or clove orange – This one is just what it sounds like – an orange with cloves stuck all in it. You can make designs, or just stick them in all over, and place them in a bowl or just leave them out. They smell great and evoke a sense of old-fashioned Christmas.
What Christmas DIY decor have you tried, or plan to try?
