The gifts, the tree, the traveling, the food - the holidays can get expensive. Instead of purchasing pricey Christmas-themed items this year, channel your inner craft king or queen, and use household items you already have on hand. You could even have the kids help!

Gift tags

Save a few bucks and avoid the – whose present is this? – guessing game by making your own gift tags this year. If you’re a new homeowner or you are currently working with a home builder to finalize your dream home, you likely have a few paint swatches on hand. Cut the long, rectangle swatches into a big triangle, creating a colorful ombre piece to let you know whose is whose! Punch a hole in the top to tie it on to a bag, or tape it directly onto a package.

Centerpieces

Here in the South, Mason Jars are a staple in the cabinets of just about every household. Put them to good use by making them part of your centerpiece for holiday dinners. Take the lids off, pour in some Epsom salt to resemble snow and place a small candle on top. While you are doing this, send the kids out to snag a few small pine cones from the yard. Arrange the jars and pine cones as you wish on the table for a simple, yet elegant look.

Ornaments

After you make those Christmas cookies, grab the cookie cutters out of the drawer –you just found your new Christmas tree ornaments! Supervise the kids while they cut ribbon or twine to tie around the cookie cutters. To add color and depth, cut construction paper or wrapping paper into the shape of the cutters and tape it onto the back. Need another idea? Candy canes! Hook those red and white striped sweet treats to your tree. When it’s time to take down the tree, let the kids (or yourself!) enjoy them.

One last tip… To prepare for next year, keep the bows from the gifts you receive. Recycling bows of all shapes and sizes by arranging them in a circle can make for a unique wreath to hang on your door. 

Have more simple ideas that you like to use when decorating your home for the holidays? Let us know by clicking the email symbol below. Happy decorating, everyone!