27 Easy DIY Holiday Decorations That Cost Less Than $10

 27 Easy DIY Holiday Decorations That Cost Less Than $10 (2025 Guide)

Tired of emptying your wallet on diy holiday decorations that barely last the season? You're not alone. The average American spends over $200 on holiday décor each year, but who says festive has to mean expensive?

Fortunately, creating a warm, inviting holiday atmosphere doesn't require breaking the bank. Instead of purchasing mass-produced decorations, why not try crafting your own unique pieces? Actually, some of the most charming holiday decorations are made from items you likely already have at home or can purchase for just a few dollars.

From pinecone garlands to orange slice ornaments, this guide showcases 27 budget-friendly diy holiday decorations that cost less than $10 each to make. These projects certainly don't sacrifice style for affordability – they'll add a personal touch to your home while keeping your holiday budget intact. Additionally, many of these crafts make perfect family activities, creating memories alongside beautiful decorations.

Ready to transform your home with creative, wallet-friendly holiday cheer? Let's dive in!

Pinecone Garland

Image Source: Redeem Your Ground

Pinecones scattered across forest floors offer the perfect starting point for elegant diy holiday decorations. This natural garland brings rustic charm to any space without stretching your budget.

Pinecone Garland Materials Needed

Creating this festive accent requires minimal supplies:

• Pinecones (foraged from outdoors or purchased)
• Twine or jute cord (any thickness works)
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks
• Scissors
• Optional embellishments: ribbon, Epsom salt, or paint

How to Make a Pinecone Garland

1. Cut twine slightly longer than your desired garland length, then tie hanging loops at each end 1
2. Apply hot glue to the flat bottom part of each pinecone
3. Press twine onto the glue (use a silicone finger protector or popsicle stick to avoid burns)
4. Space pinecones 3-4 inches apart along the twine 1

Alternative method: Wrap and tie short pieces of ribbon around each pinecone, then attach to a longer ribbon 2

Why Pinecone Garland is Budget-Friendly

This decoration stands out primarily because pinecones can be collected for free. Furthermore, the entire project typically costs less than $4 2. The versatility makes it even more economical—hang it on your mantel, doorframe, staircase, or use as a table runner. Moreover, with proper storage, your pinecone garland can be reused for several holiday seasons.

Paper Snowflakes Window Display

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Paper snowflakes transform ordinary windows into magical winter scenes, making them among the most beloved diy holiday decorations. This timeless craft delivers impressive results with minimal investment.

Paper Snowflakes Materials Needed

Creating paper snowflakes requires just a few basic supplies:

• Square paper (options include printer paper, construction paper, tissue paper, origami paper)
• Sharp scissors (craft scissors work best)
• Pencil (optional, for tracing templates)
• Snowflake templates (optional)
• Low-heat iron (optional, for flattening)

Heavy-weight paper offers more durability for display, whereas lightweight paper creates more delicate designs but may be more fragile to handle.

Steps to Make Paper Snowflakes

1. Start with a square piece of paper (fold rectangular paper diagonally and trim excess)
2. Fold the square in half diagonally to form a triangle
3. Fold this triangle in half again
4. Next, fold the triangle into thirds (overlap the left point over, then the right)
5. Trim the pointed ends to create a straight edge
6. Cut various shapes along all edges of the folded triangle
7. Carefully unfold to reveal your unique snowflake pattern

For perfectly flat snowflakes, gently iron them using a low heat setting.

Why Paper Snowflakes Are a Classic

Paper snowflakes remain popular because they're remarkably versatile. Beyond window displays, use them to create garlands, tree ornaments, package decorations, or table runners. Moreover, this craft offers an ideal activity for families—children can happily create dozens while adults help with display.

Despite their simplicity, each snowflake emerges uniquely beautiful, following nature's own pattern where no two snowflakes are identical. Furthermore, the entire project typically costs less than $1, making it possibly the most economical holiday decoration available.

Mason Jar Candle Holders

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Ordinary glass jars transform into magical holiday luminaries with a few simple supplies. Mason jar candle holders create a warm, enchanting glow that elevates any holiday display without costing more than a few dollars.

Mason Jar Candle Holder Supplies

Base materials: Mason jars or recycled glass jars, Mod Podge or craft glue, paintbrushes For snowy effect: Epsom salt, kosher salt, or sugar Decorative elements: Twine or ribbon, winter berries, pine cones, greenery snippets Illumination: LED candles (safer option) or tea lights Optional add-ons: Food coloring (for colored jars), construction paper cutouts

How to Assemble Mason Jar Candle Holders

Initially, clean jars thoroughly with soap and water or rubbing alcohol to remove oils that might prevent adhesion 3. Subsequently, apply a generous coat of Mod Podge to the exterior of the jar 4. Quickly sprinkle salt, sugar, or Epsom salt over the wet adhesive, rotating to coat evenly 5.

Once dry, wrap twine around the jar rim to create a base for embellishments 6. Using hot glue, attach small bundles of winter greenery or berries to the twine 5.

For colored jars, mix Mod Podge with food coloring before applying 3. Alternatively, apply tissue paper squares to the jar with Mod Podge for a stained-glass effect 7.

Why Mason Jars Are a Great DIY Base

Mason jars make ideal bases for diy holiday decorations primarily due to their versatility. Furthermore, they're often already available in homes or easily found for under $1 each 5. Their clear glass allows light to shine through beautifully, creating ambient illumination that enhances holiday atmospheres 6.

These luminaries work wonderfully as table centerpieces, mantel decorations, or pathway lights 8. Notably, they can be customized for any holiday color scheme or decor style 5.

DIY Orange Slice Ornaments

Image Source: She Keeps a Lovely Home

Bright citrus slices bring fragrant charm to holiday displays as one of the most eye-catching diy holiday decorations. These translucent ornaments catch light beautifully, resembling miniature stained glass windows on your tree.

Orange Slice Ornament Materials

Gather these simple supplies:

• Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, or grapefruit)
• Baking sheets with parchment paper
• Sharp knife for thin slicing
• Toothpick or skewer for making holes
• Twine, string, or ribbon (7-8 inches per ornament)
• Optional: star anise, cinnamon sticks, essential oils

How to Dry and Decorate Orange Slices

First, preheat your oven to 200°F. Slice citrus fruits into thin rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick, removing any seeds. Gently pat slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Place slices in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping every 30 minutes until dried but not browned. Alternatively, air dry slices for about four days.

Once cooled, pierce a small hole near the edge using a toothpick. Thread with twine to create hanging loops. For added decoration, consider attaching star anise, cinnamon sticks, or baby's breath with hot glue.

Why Orange Slice Ornaments Are Eco-Friendly

These ornaments significantly reduce waste by using whole fruits that might otherwise be discarded. Since they're made from 100% natural materials, they compost easily after the season.

Unlike plastic decorations, orange slice ornaments naturally decompose yet can still last through the holiday season. Their subtle citrus scent provides natural fragrance without artificial chemicals.

Twine-Wrapped Christmas Trees

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Create elegant miniature trees using nothing more than twine and a few basic supplies. These rustic decorations offer textural charm without fussy details—perfect for modern holiday styling.

Twine Tree Materials

Gather these affordable supplies:

• Styrofoam cones (various sizes work well)
• Natural jute twine (or twine in your preferred color)
• Adhesive (options include Mod Podge, Elmer's glue mixed with cornstarch, or hot glue)
• Plastic wrap
• Optional embellishments: pom-pom trim, miniature jingle bells, glitter

Steps to Make Twine Trees

First, wrap your styrofoam cone completely in plastic wrap—this prevents the twine from sticking permanently to the cone. For the adhesive, either prepare a mixture of equal parts glue and cornstarch with a bit of water, or use Mod Podge straight from the bottle.

Next, dip twine into the adhesive mixture, running it through your fingers to remove excess. Begin wrapping around the cone in a random pattern, changing directions often for structural stability. Alternatively, apply hot glue directly to the cone while wrapping.

Once fully covered, let dry for 24 hours. Afterward, gently twist and remove the cone, leaving just the hardened twine structure. Add a tree topper like a star anise, button, or tiny ornament.

Why Twine Trees Are a Minimalist Favorite

These trees appeal to minimalist decorators through their natural texture and neutral color palette. The simple design fits perfectly with farmhouse, Scandinavian, or contemporary decor styles. Beyond their esthetic appeal, twine trees typically cost under $5 to create, especially when using materials from dollar stores.

Recycled Cardboard Stars

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Transform ordinary cardboard destined for recycling into stunning star decorations that add Scandinavian-inspired charm to your home. These simple yet stylish diy holiday decorations require almost nothing beyond materials headed for your recycle bin.

Cardboard Star Supplies

You'll need just a handful of basic items:

• Cardboard boxes or cereal packs
• White gel pen or Posca paint pen
• Scissors
• Pencil (for tracing)
• Twine for hanging
• Optional: cookie cutters for tracing, glitter, hot glue gun

The beauty of this project lies in its simplicity—no expensive materials required. Even shipping boxes from online shopping work perfectly 9.

How to Cut and Decorate Cardboard Stars

First, trace star shapes onto your cardboard in your desired size (about 4 inches works well). Carefully cut along the outlines using scissors 10. For consistent results, trace multiple stars at once.

After cutting, embellish with white pen designs. Popular patterns include:

• Scalloped borders around edges
• Radiating lines from center to points
• Dot patterns resembling falling snow
• Seed head motifs with circles at tips 11

For hanging, punch a small hole at one point of the star and thread with embroidery floss or twine 10.

Why Cardboard Stars Are Sustainable

Primarily, these decorations repurpose materials already heading to recycling bins 11. During holiday seasons when cardboard accumulates from packages and gifts, this craft transforms waste into decoration.

Beyond recycling benefits, cardboard stars contain no plastic and remain fully biodegradable after use. Additionally, they require minimal new supplies, reducing environmental impact 12.

These stars offer remarkable versatility—use them as tree ornaments, gift tags, garlands, or cluster them into wreaths 10.

Holiday-Themed Paper Chain

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Paper chains rank among the most nostalgic diy holiday decorations, harking back to their popularity in the 19th century 13. This timeless craft offers both visual impact and meaningful activity with minimal investment.

Paper Chain Materials

Gather these simple supplies:

• Construction paper or cardstock (red and green for Christmas themes)
• Scissors (child-safe options for young helpers)
• Adhesive (glue sticks, tape, or stapler)
• Ruler (optional, for measuring strips)

Alternatively, repurpose materials like magazines, newspapers, or old Christmas carol sheets for a vintage look 13.

How to Make a Paper Chain

1. Cut paper into strips approximately 1-1.5 inches wide by 8-9 inches long 14
2. Form the first strip into a circle, securing ends with glue, tape, or staples
3. Thread the next strip through the first loop before securing its ends
4. Continue this pattern until reaching your desired length

For holiday themes, alternate red and green strips or use festive patterned paper 15.

Why Paper Chains Are Great for Kids

Paper chains offer excellent educational value coupled with creative fun. Children practice fine motor skills, pattern recognition, and color identification while assembling 15. The simple technique makes this craft accessible even for toddlers 16.

Completed chains can decorate trees, doorframes, or windows—transforming spaces with handmade charm for virtually pennies.

DIY Sock Snowmen

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Old socks tucked away in drawers become charming winter characters with this simple craft. These huggable DIY holiday decorations need just basic supplies yet deliver impressive results.

Sock Snowman Materials

To create your sock snowman, gather:

• 1 white sock (for the snowman body)
• 1 colorful sock (for hat and scarf)
• Rice or dried beans (for weighting)
• Fiberfill or cotton balls (for stuffing)
• Rubber bands (2-3)
• Buttons (for decoration)
• Orange felt, pipe cleaner, or fabric (for nose)
• Black beads or buttons (for eyes)
• Glue gun and glue sticks

How to Make a Sock Snowman

First, fill the toe of the white sock with approximately 1/2 cup of rice to create weight at the base. Next, add fiberfill to create the snowman's plump body shape. Secure with a rubber band to close the opening.

Place another rubber band around the middle-upper portion to create the head and body sections. Cut the colored sock at the heel. Use the toe portion as a hat, folding the edge to create a cuff. From the remaining piece, cut a strip to make a scarf.

Finally, decorate your snowman by gluing buttons down the front, adding black beads for eyes, and attaching an orange piece for the carrot nose. For rosy cheeks, apply a touch of pink marker or blush.

Why Sock Snowmen Are a Fun Upcycle

These adorable creations give orphaned socks new purpose rather than ending up in landfills. Plus, they're remarkably affordable—the entire project typically costs under $5 if using materials already available at home.

Beyond their eco-friendly nature, sock snowmen offer excellent crafting opportunities for children, helping develop fine motor skills. Once completed, these soft decorations become cherished keepsakes that can last for many holiday seasons.

Cinnamon Stick Bundles

Image Source: Dried Flower Craft

Fragrant cinnamon sticks bundled with festive touches create aromatic diy holiday decorations that engage multiple senses at once. These delightful packages fill your home with seasonal scent naturally.

Cinnamon Bundle Supplies

Gather these simple materials:

• 3-5 cinnamon sticks per bundle (craft stores often stock these during holidays)
• Twine, ribbon, or decorative string
• Faux berries, small sprigs of rosemary, or mini pine cones
• Scissors
• Glue dots or hot glue gun

For best results, look for even-sized cinnamon sticks specifically labeled for crafting purposes.

How to Tie and Display Cinnamon Bundles

Begin by grouping 3-5 cinnamon sticks together. Arrange them esthetically, trying different groupings until satisfied. Cut a 12-15 inch piece of ribbon or twine.

Wrap the twine around the bundle several times, securing it tightly in the middle. Add a decorative element like faux berries or rosemary sprigs over the ribbon seam using glue dots. Finish with a small bow or knot.

Place these bundles on mantels, shelves, or coffee tables. Alternatively, attach string loops to create tree ornaments or use them as charming gift tags for holiday packages.

Why Cinnamon Bundles Smell Amazing

These decorations release a natural cinnamon aroma that persists throughout the season. Unlike artificial scents, cinnamon provides an authentic spicy fragrance reminiscent of holiday baking.

Beyond decoration, cinnamon bundles offer versatility as non-denominational winter décor suitable for any holiday tradition. Their charming rustic appearance pairs beautifully with most décor styles.

Wine Cork Reindeer

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Left-over wine corks find new life as adorable holiday characters in this easy-to-make craft. These cheerful reindeer figures add whimsy to mantels, tabletops, or Christmas trees with minimal cost.

Wine Cork Reindeer Materials

Most supplies for this project are likely already in your craft stash:

• 2-3 wine corks per reindeer (natural corks work better than synthetic)
• Pipe cleaners for antlers and tail
• Googly eyes or black beads
• Red pom poms for Rudolph noses (or brown for regular reindeer)
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks
• Optional: ribbon, toothpicks, felt for ears

How to Assemble Wine Cork Reindeer

Begin by deciding whether to use whole corks or cut versions. For a simple design, glue one whole cork (body) horizontally to another cork positioned vertically (head). Alternatively, cut two corks in half to create legs for a standing reindeer.

Next, bend pipe cleaners into antler shapes and secure to the head cork. Attach googly eyes and a pom pom nose with hot glue. For added charm, twist a small piece of pipe cleaner into a tail.

Some crafters prefer using small twigs from nature as antlers, giving these diy holiday decorations an even more rustic appearance.

Why Wine Cork Crafts Are Popular

Cork reindeer gain popularity primarily through their sustainability - they repurpose materials that might otherwise be discarded. Furthermore, they require minimal time commitment, typically completing in just 10 minutes.

These charming figures make perfect host gifts or package decorations throughout the holiday season.

Clothespin Snowflakes

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Wooden clothespins create stunning snowflake ornaments that add handcrafted elegance to any holiday setting. These charming diy holiday decorations combine simplicity with visual impact.

Clothespin Snowflake Materials

For each snowflake, you'll need:

• 8 wooden clothespins
• White acrylic or chalk paint
• Glue gun or strong craft glue
• Decorations: glitter, stickers, rhinestones, or pom-poms
• Ribbon or baker's twine for hanging
• Optional: Mod Podge or decoupage glue

Essentially, the project costs under $10, with many supplies available at dollar stores.

How to Make Clothespin Snowflakes

Begin by removing the metal springs from each clothespin by gently twisting the wooden pieces in opposite directions. Save these springs for future crafts.

Next, glue the flat sides of each clothespin piece together. Once dry, arrange four pairs to form a cross shape, then glue the remaining pairs between each arm of the cross.

After assembly, paint the entire snowflake white and allow to dry completely. For added sparkle, brush with Mod Podge and sprinkle with glitter or attach decorative elements to the center.

Lastly, attach a ribbon loop to the back for hanging.

Why Clothespin Crafts Are Easy

These snowflakes remain popular primarily because they require basic supplies with minimal specialized skills. At first glance, they appear intricate, yet the assembly process uses simple techniques accessible to crafters of all ages.

In addition, clothespin snowflakes offer nearly endless customization possibilities through different arrangements, colors, and decorations, making each one uniquely yours.

DIY Holiday Wreath from Scraps

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Holiday wreaths need not require special purchases. Forgotten items throughout your home can create stunning diy holiday decorations with character and charm.

Wreath Materials from Around the House

Look beyond traditional craft supplies to discover wreath-making treasures:

• Fabric scraps: Old shirts, pajama pants, or tablecloths 17
• Natural elements: Dried hydrangeas, twigs, pine cones, or evergreen clippings 18
• Cardboard: Shipping boxes or cereal packages 19
• Faded artificial wreaths: Rejuvenate them with fresh materials 18
• Unexpected items: Wine corks, neckties, greeting cards, or clothespins 19

Most households already contain enough materials to create several unique wreaths without spending a dime.

How to Assemble a Scrap Wreath

First, select a base—wire frames from dollar stores work perfectly 20. Alternatively, create a circular frame from cardboard 21.

For fabric wreaths, cut strips approximately 1.5 inches wide by 8 inches long 22. Tie these around the frame using simple knots until completely covered.

To revitalize old artificial wreaths, incorporate fresh greenery by wrapping the artificial branches around fresh clippings 18. This method instantly transforms faded wreaths without requiring glue.

Why Scrap Wreaths Are Unique

Primarily, these wreaths prevent items from reaching landfills 19. Furthermore, each creation tells a story through its components—perhaps incorporating your grandmother's shirt or favorite pajamas 21.

Unlike mass-produced decorations, scrap wreaths showcase personal creativity through unexpected material combinations. Plus, the entire project typically costs under $5 22.

Upcycled Sweater Stockings

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Those forgotten sweaters in the back of your closet make perfect materials for charming diy holiday decorations. Upcycled sweater stockings blend nostalgic comfort with sustainable holiday cheer.

Sweater Stocking Materials

Look for sweaters with these qualities:

• Old wool sweaters (100% wool works best for felting) 23
• Thick knit with tight, fine threads to prevent unraveling 24
• Sweaters with interesting textures, patterns or cable knits 25

Additional supplies include lightweight fusible interfacing, cotton fabric for lining, sewing machine (or needle and thread), and decorative elements like buttons, ribbon, and bells 26.

How to Sew a Sweater Stocking

Begin by washing your sweater in hot water to shrink wool fibers as tight as possible 23. Next, trace your stocking pattern onto the sweater, ideally placing the top edge along the sweater's existing hem 24.

For wool sweaters, sew the shape before cutting to prevent unraveling 25. Turn right-side out after sewing. Consider adding interfacing to maintain shape 26. To create a fold-over cuff, use a section from another sweater or the same sweater's neck or sleeve 27.

Why Upcycled Stockings Are Cozy

Beyond their obvious charm, sweater stockings give new life to garments with holes, stains, or outdated styles 26. The knitted texture feels appropriately wintertime, whereas mass-produced stockings often lack character. Furthermore, these personalized creations become meaningful keepsakes—particularly when crafted from sentimental clothing items 27.

Mini Gift Box Advent Calendar

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Small gift boxes arranged in a countdown format create an interactive holiday decoration that builds daily anticipation. This DIY advent calendar combines creativity with excitement, making December mornings magical.

Advent Calendar Supplies

Gather these basic materials:

• Small cardboard boxes or paper cups (24 total)
• Tissue paper in holiday colors
• Thin rubber bands or twine
• Foam board or sturdy backing
• Markers for numbering
• Optional: large decorative bow

Unlike store-bought versions, this project typically costs under $5 when using dollar store supplies 1. For a sturdier option, consider wooden boxes that double as farmhouse décor 28.

How to Create a Mini Gift Box Calendar

Start by arranging your boxes in a pattern—either 5 rows of 5 (with one space empty) or 4 rows of 6 1. Secure each box to a foam board using hot glue. Next, fill boxes with surprises before covering each opening with tissue paper secured by rubber bands.

Number each tissue paper cover from 1-24 accordingly. For a festive look, arrange red tissue paper in a cross pattern against green to resemble a wrapped present 1.

Why It's a Fun Countdown Activity

This calendar transforms December into a daily discovery experience. Beyond simple candy treats, consider including activity cards for family outings, movie nights, or craft sessions 1. Parents particularly appreciate how it helps children visualize time remaining until Christmas while creating treasured memories 29.

Importantly, this interactive decoration encourages family gathering each morning as everyone anticipates what surprise awaits behind the day's number.

Jar Lid Ornaments

Image Source: Old Salt Farm

Discarded jar lids become charming frames for holiday memories through this clever recycling project. These versatile diy holiday decorations transform everyday kitchen waste into festive accents with minimal effort.

Jar Lid Ornament Materials

Round up these simple supplies:

• Jar lids from pasta, pickles, olives, or mason jars
• Decorative paper or photos cut to fit inside lids
• Adhesive (Mod Podge, E6000, or hot glue)
• Embellishments: ribbon, twine, buttons, rhinestones
• Paint (spray paint works best for even coverage)
• Optional: wooden cutouts, pom-poms, fabric scraps

How to Decorate Jar Lids

Begin by thoroughly cleaning lids to remove any residue. Next, measure and cut paper or photos to fit the inner circle of your lid. Apply adhesive to secure your image, then seal with an additional layer if desired.

For a frosty look, apply white spray primer followed by metallic paint. Alternatively, wrap decorative fabric around the rim, securing with hot glue. Create a hanging loop using twine or ribbon by either threading through a pre-punched hole or attaching directly with strong adhesive.

Why Jar Lids Make Great Frames

Jar lids naturally create perfect circular frames with built-in depth that showcases small photos or artwork. In fact, their sturdy metal construction ensures durability year after year. Beyond this, they offer consistent sizing that creates visual harmony when displayed together, yet each remains completely customizable.

Typically, these ornaments cost less than $1 each when using recycled materials, making them one of the most economical diy holiday decorations possible.

DIY Holiday Table Centerpiece

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The holiday dining table serves as a focal point for gatherings, yet creating an impressive centerpiece needn't strain your budget. With creativity and resourcefulness, stunning diy holiday decorations for your table can cost mere dollars.

Centerpiece Materials

Everyday items transform into beautiful table accents:

• Natural elements: Evergreen branches, pinecones, berries, moss
• Containers: Glass jars, weathered vases, decorative bowls, trays
• Illumination: Pillar candles, tea lights, flameless alternatives
• Accents: Ornaments, ribbons, cinnamon sticks, dried orange slices

For additional texture, consider using Epsom salt to create a snowy effect inside glass jars 30. Alternatively, repurpose a houseplant by simply tying a velvet bow around it 31.

How to Arrange a Budget Centerpiece

Begin with a strong foundation—a tray, shallow bowl, or garland running down the table's center. For visual interest, arrange items at varying heights 2. Group candles of different sizes, or place taller elements toward the center.

For minimal styling, fill a decorative bowl with vintage ornaments and cedar sprigs 2. Alternatively, create impact through simple groupings: "staggered tabletop trees paired with greenery creates a substantial centerpiece" 2.

Why DIY Centerpieces Save Money

Homemade table decorations typically cost under $10 compared to retail versions priced much higher. Moreover, they allow personalization through color schemes and styles that complement existing décor 32.

Importantly, many components can be foraged from your yard—"fresh cedar stems I foraged from my own backyard" 2—or repurposed from previous holidays 2.

Tinsel-Wrapped Picture Frames

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Forgotten picture frames gather new life with a touch of sparkle, creating glittering diy holiday decorations perfect for mantels or tabletops. This simple project transforms ordinary frames into festive focal points.

Tinsel Frame Materials

For this budget-friendly craft, gather these essentials:

• Picture frames (unused ones or dollar store finds)
• Tinsel garland in your chosen color
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks
• Wired ribbon (optional for bows)

All these supplies can be found at local craft or dollar stores, keeping costs minimal 33.

How to Wrap and Display Tinsel Frames

Begin by attaching tinsel to a bottom corner of the frame using hot glue 33. Carefully wind the garland around the frame, periodically securing it with small dots of glue 33. Once the first strand ends, attach another piece and continue wrapping until the entire frame is covered 33.

Consequently, for additional flair, add a wired ribbon bow 33. Place these sparkling frames on mantels, shelves, or tabletops. Alternatively, simply "hang tinsel around the frame" for a quick holiday refresh 34.

Why Tinsel Frames Are Festive

These eye-catching decorations instantly add holiday sparkle to any room. Silver tinsel versions can remain displayed throughout winter 35, extending their decorative lifespan. As a result of their simplicity, they require minimal time investment—similar tinsel projects take only about 10 minutes 35. For this reason, they make perfect last-minute holiday accents or thoughtful homemade gifts.

Button Tree Wall Art

Image Source: Crafting Cheerfully

Every household button collection holds untapped potential for creating charming diy holiday decorations. A button tree wall art piece offers a stylish way to display these colorful treasures while involving the whole family.

Button Tree Materials

To create this delightful display, gather:

• Canvas or picture frame (8x10 or larger works well)
• Buttons in various shades of green
• Adhesive (hot glue, fabric glue, or Clear Gel Tacky Glue)
• Background material (painted canvas, scrapbook paper, or felt)
• Brown buttons or fabric for the trunk
• Optional: decorative buttons for ornaments

How to Create Button Tree Art

First, prepare your background by either painting a canvas with blue and white for a snowy scene 36 or covering a frame with decorative paper 37. Next, sketch a simple triangle tree shape. For dimensional trees, arrange buttons directly on the background, starting with larger buttons at the bottom and working upward with progressively smaller ones 38.

Secure each button using your chosen adhesive. Alternatively, hand-stitch buttons onto felt trees before attaching to the background 36. Consider adding decorative buttons in bright colors as "ornaments" and a star button at the top.

Why Button Trees Are Great for Kids

Children absolutely love sorting through button collections, examining different colors, sizes, and textures 37. This activity develops fine motor skills while encouraging pattern recognition. Plus, youngsters take tremendous pride in creating lasting decorations they helped design 39. Many crafters report their children could spend hours happily arranging buttons 40.

Conclusion

Holiday decorations certainly don't need to break the bank or require professional crafting skills. Actually, these 27 budget-friendly projects prove that creativity often thrives under constraints. Most materials needed for these festive creations likely already exist in your home—forgotten socks, old sweaters, spare buttons, and even kitchen scraps transform into charming holiday décor with minimal effort.

The beauty of DIY decorations extends beyond affordability. Homemade ornaments and decorative pieces tell stories that mass-produced items simply cannot match. Your pinecone garland might feature cones collected during a family hike, while wine cork reindeer remind you of celebrations shared with loved ones. These personal connections add depth and meaning to your holiday surroundings.

Sustainability represents another compelling reason to embrace handmade decorations. Rather than purchasing plastic items destined for landfills after a single season, natural materials like orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and pinecones eventually biodegrade. Similarly, upcycled creations give new purpose to items that might otherwise be discarded.

Family crafting sessions around the kitchen table create memories that outlast any physical decoration. Children take tremendous pride in spotting their paper snowflakes hanging in windows or their button trees displayed prominently. These shared creative moments become treasured holiday traditions themselves.

Remember, perfection matters far less than enjoyment when creating DIY decorations. Uneven edges and imperfect shapes add character and authentic charm impossible to replicate in factory-made items. Your home will feel genuinely unique and thoughtfully decorated.

The holidays ultimately celebrate connection, gratitude, and joy—values perfectly embodied in handmade decorations created with care. Whether you attempt all 27 projects or select just one or two favorites, the process promises to be as rewarding as the finished product. Those empty toilet paper tubes, orphaned buttons, and leftover ribbon scraps await transformation into holiday magic—all without emptying your wallet.