Christmas decorating ideas that won't stretch the budget
With Christmas looming, it's time to start thinking about decorating the tree, decking the halls with boughs of holly and getting into the festive spirit. We know that Christmas decorating can quickly become expensive if you're not careful, but it doesn't have to break the bank! With creativity, DIY, and thoughtful planning, you can create a beautiful, festive atmosphere without emptying your wallet. Here are some budget-friendly Christmas decorating ideas to help get you started.
1. DIY Christmas tree decorations
Why not make your own instead of purchasing expensive ornaments for your Christmas tree? DIY decorations can be a fun and affordable way to personalise your tree, and the kids can join in, too! Good Housekeeping has some fantastic ideas to help you get crafty with simple materials. You'll find plenty of inspiration from baubles made from cupcake liners to ornaments made from clothespins, pinecone swans, and mini drums made from toilet rolls.
2. Repurpose and upcycle
Before buying new decorations, look around your home for items that could be repurposed or upcycled into festive décor. Here are a few ideas to consider:
- Empty glass jars and bottles can be transformed into beautiful candle holders, lanterns, or vases. Fill them with fairy lights, pinecones, or mini baubles for a festive look. You can also wrap them in ribbon or paint them in traditional red and green for an added Christmas vibe
- Use leftover fabric or ribbon to make bows, garlands, or mini stockings. You can also use fabric scraps to wrap around candles or gift boxes to elevate the look
- Swap out photos in picture frames for happy holiday prints or DIY Christmas-themed art. It's an easy and free way to add Christmas cheer to your walls or shelves
3. Natural elements
Nature provides a wealth of free or inexpensive materials that can be used to create stunning Christmas decorations. Using natural elements saves money and adds a rustic, cosy charm to your home. Here are a few ideas:
- Gather pinecones, branches, and greenery from your backyard or a nearby park, and use them to create wreaths, garlands, or centrepieces. Pinecones can be spray-painted gold or silver to add some sparkle or left natural for a simpler look
- Twigs can be transformed into beautiful decorations like stars, mini-Christmas trees, or even wreaths. Bundle together sticks with twine or glue them into different shapes and spray-paint them white for a wintery, snow-dusted effect
- Decorate with bowls of fresh seasonal fruit like peaches, plums, apricots and cherries. These can look very festive around your home, and of course, you can also eat them later, so it's an eco-friendly and budget-conscious decorating choice
4. Inexpensive lighting
Twinkling lights are an integral part of Christmas, and just because it's summer here doesn't mean we need to miss out. Fairy lights can be used in multiple ways around your home. Drape them over your mantle, weave them through garlands, or fill jars and bottles with them for a magical glow. Fairy lights are affordable and are available at most discount stores or online. Candles can instantly add interest in any space – place them in groups on your tables or windowsills. And you don't need to splurge on expensive scented candles; the plain, unscented ones work just as well and won't cost you a packet. You can also opt for battery-powered tea lights and place them inside lanterns, jars, or paper bags to create a soft, flickering glow without the risk of open flames.
5. Create your wreath
Wreaths are a Christmas staple, but they can be pretty pricey. Luckily, making your own Christmas wreath is easy and inexpensive. Some options include:
- Decorate a wire hanger or circular foam base with fresh greenery, pinecones, berries, and ribbon. You can also use twine or burlap for a rustic feel or the look to match your home décor
- Make a paper wreath by cutting out shapes like stars or holly leaves from coloured paper or old Christmas cards and glueing them onto a circular base. This is a great project for kids, and the result will be an attractive, homemade decoration
6. Create a festive table
Your dining table is the heart of Christmas gatherings, so why not make it look festive without spending a fortune? Instead of splurging on an expensive centrepiece, create your own using natural elements like pine branches, pinecones, and candles. A simple burlap or plaid fabric runner can add a festive touch without the cost. You can also use ribbon, twine, or leftover wrapping paper to create custom napkin rings and repurpose old buttons, beads, or ornaments to add a unique and festive twist to your table setting.
7. Turn your gift wrap into Christmas decor
Make your gifts part of your Christmas décor by choosing beautiful, budget-friendly wrapping materials that complement your theme. For example, you can use plain brown craft paper to wrap your gifts and decorate them with twine, fresh sprigs of greenery, or simple ribbon. It's a classic, elegant look that's very affordable. Another option is to use old newspapers, maps, or even sheet music as wrapping paper for a vintage, creative vibe. You can then add a pop of colour with a bright bow or a handmade gift tag.
Final thoughts
With a little creativity, decorating for Christmas doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. You can create a beautiful and festive home on a budget by using DIY ideas, repurposing household items, and incorporating natural elements. Christmas is about spending time with loved ones, and your decorations can reflect that warmth without straining your finances. So, gather some materials, get creative, and have fun decorating for the holiday season!
But if you want to really up the decorating stakes this year and buy that fantastic new tree or splurge on some lavish trimmings, we're here to help turn that dream into reality! Just look at our cash loans up to $5,000 to find out how quick and easy it is to access some extra funds. Once your loan is approved, the cash is usually in your bank account within a few hours - so you'll be shopping for Christmas decorations in no time.