Deck the Halls for the Holidays With These DIY Ideas

It’s easy to get caught up in the store-bought menagerie of multi-colored lights, tinsel and giant yard inflatables during the Christmas season. However, some of the best decorations are handmade. Deck the halls with these nine DIY ideas.

Let It Snow

Clean out an old pickle jar and superglue a plastic snowman or Santa to the lid. Fill the jar with baby oil, glitter and water for an instant snow globe perfect for your mantle.

Recycle

Break out cans of red, green, white and gold spray paint to give those empty wine bottles from Thanksgiving dinner new life. Fill with branches or holly berries.

On Display

Fill large glass hurricanes and vases with seasonal décor. Show off leftover gift bows, candy canes or ornaments on your entryway table.

Write On

Paint small pieces of plywood with chalkboard paint, and work on your calligraphy skills. Write seasonal messages like “Let It Snow” or “Baby It’s Cold Outside” in chalk.

Hang On

Pick up a box of cheap round Christmas bulbs. Hang with varying lengths of ribbon off a curtain rod to spruce up the front window — or off the light above your dining room table for some extra sparkle.

Simple Skirt

There’s no need to purchase a fancy tree skirt at your local department store. Buy a few yards of burlap at a fabric store, and wrap it around your tree stand for a rustic look — no sewing machine required.

Wrap It Up

Turn everyday artwork into a seasonal statement piece. Wrap picture frames in holiday-themed wrapping paper and attach bows and other adornments before hanging the “presents” back up on the wall.

Spice It Up

Make a sweet-smelling centerpiece with ingredients you likely already have in your fridge and pantry. Fill a bowl with cloved oranges. Simply push cloves into the fruit, making swirls and other designs as you go.

Light the Way

Put holly leaves, candy canes and other holiday adornments into a bucket. Add a pillar candle and fill with water. Freeze and then stick your DIY path lights in the snow along your front sidewalk.

Photo: craftapalooza