The December holidays bring feelings of togetherness, celebration, and warmth – all things we could use more of after the last few years! As Kwanzaa, Christmas, and New Year’s approach, you may feel motivated to spread seasonal cheer within your home. But how can you decorate festively without breaking the bank if money is tight? Read on for five easy, budget-friendly ideas for holiday home decor.
Welcome Guests with Wreaths and Garlands
Adorning your front door and indoor banisters with festive greenery is an inexpensive way to set a celebratory mood. Using supplies from local craft stores and natural elements, you can fashion gorgeous DIY wreaths and garlands that add natural beauty without costing a fortune. Crimson berries, golden fallen leaves, fragrant evergreen branches, twisted twigs dotted with faux snow – allow nature to inspire you! Weave disparate elements into a cohesive creation with flair. Top it off with an eye-catching plaid bow.
Drape Sparkling String Lights Through Every Room
Nothing says “holidays” like softly glowing string lights. Drape them around door frames and windows, over mantles and bookshelves. Outline the shapes of a Christmas tree or Kinara with their warm luminance. Opt for energy-efficient LEDs to keep energy costs low. Timer plugs let you automate when the lights turn on and off. With creative positioning, inexpensive lighting sets a magical mood throughout your home!
Display Special Objects on Natural Burlap
Bring meaning into your decor by displaying sentimental Kwanzaa or Christmas objects on natural burlap runners. For Kwanzaa, set out the Kinara, corn, and symbols of the Nguzo Saba principles. Drape red and green burlap under nativity scenes, pine cone accents, evergreen branches, candles, bells, and other unique decorations give them a homey backdrop that keeps everything beautifully grounded. This simple touch makes displays more intentional while blending seamlessly with other natural elements.
Fashion Ornaments from Common Household Items
Instead of breaking your decoration budget on store-bought ornaments, have some DIY holiday fun! Fashion ornaments from things already around your home, like cookie cutters, caps from glass bottles, smooth rocks, old jewelry, game pieces, toy cars, and anything else small with an exciting shape. Spray paint them metallic colors like gold and silver. Add ribbon loops or hooks for hanging. Get the whole family involved – no particular artistic skill is required! Unique, thoughtful ornaments made with personal touches capture the true holiday spirit.
Whip Up Magical Outdoor Lightscapes
Your outdoor lighting need not be dull or one-note – with creativity, transform your home into a custom light display! Use spotlights or floodlights to splash bold colors onto outdoor walls. Outline pathways, bushes, and trees with strings of jewel-toned bulbs – rich sapphire, emerald, golden light! Project patterns like snowflakes or peace signs onto the exterior and illuminate lawn ornaments to give them a magical glow. Sync it all to festive music using an outdoor speaker. Dazzling lightscapes will brighten spirits – both for you and passing admirers!
This December, don’t let limited funds stop you from transforming your dwelling into a winter wonderland. With thoughtful planning and household items, you can craft delightful holiday cheer to share with loved ones. May memories fill your home, along with the festive decor!
