December Craft Projects That Double as Holiday Decor
Looking to add a personal touch to your holiday decor? December is the perfect time to dive into simple, fun craft projects that brighten your space and make your celebrations feel extra special. From handmade ornaments to festive wreaths and garlands, there’s no shortage of ideas to spark your creativity. Even better, these projects are easy to tackle with basic materials, making them budget-friendly and accessible for all skill levels. Let’s explore how you can transform everyday items into eye-catching holiday decorations that bring warmth and charm to your home.
DIY Ornaments for a Festive Tree
Homemade ornaments not only save money but also create lasting memories. Painted wood ornaments bring a rustic vibe - use unfinished wood slices, acrylic paints, and glitter for a polished look. Prefer something cozy? Yarn-wrapped ornaments are a great way to use leftover materials and add texture to your tree. For a natural touch, dried citrus ornaments are both fragrant and stylish. Bake orange or lemon slices at 200°F, thread them with twine, and pair with spices like cinnamon sticks for a festive finish.
Wreaths, Garlands, and Mini Accents
Wreath-making is easier than you think! Start with a foam or wire base, layer greenery, and add decor like ribbons and ornaments. Small wreaths, perfect for chair backs or windows, take just 30 minutes to make. For garlands, felt or paper shapes strung on twine create a cheerful look for mantels or staircases. Tailor the length to fit your space and mix colors or textures to suit your style.
Tabletop and Mantel Decorations
Mason jar candle holders are a cozy addition to any space. Coat the jars with Epsom salt or frosted spray paint, wrap them in ribbon, and add LED tea lights for a safe glow. DIY coasters are another practical option - use cork or cardboard decorated with holiday paper and sealed with Mod Podge. For a centerpiece, craft a miniature holiday village using cardboard, paint, and faux snow.
Fabric Crafts That Add Warmth
Embroidered stockings, quilted ornaments, and fabric banners bring a soft, handmade touch to your holiday decor. Use felt or cotton for stockings, adding custom embroidery like names or dates. Quilted ornaments are ideal for using up fabric scraps, while banners can spell out festive phrases or feature seasonal shapes.
Tips for Holiday Crafting Success
Set up a well-organized workspace with all your supplies ready to avoid interruptions. Follow video tutorials to simplify complex steps - watch once, then work along at your pace. Finally, display your creations in well-lit, high-traffic areas like mantels or entryways to let them shine.
Ready to make your holidays extra special? Grab some supplies, and let’s get crafting!
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DIY Holiday Ornament Projects
Making your own ornaments is a wonderful way to transform simple materials into keepsakes and heartfelt gifts. These handmade decorations not only add a special touch to your tree but also become cherished mementos for friends and family. According to Country Living, searches for DIY Christmas ornaments in the U.S. jump by over 40% during November and December, highlighting their growing popularity.
One of the best things about homemade ornaments is how versatile and budget-friendly they are. Most projects cost less than $10 per batch, making them perfect for families who want to create lasting holiday traditions without overspending. Whether you love the rustic charm of painted wood, the cozy feel of yarn, or the natural appeal of dried citrus, there’s a project for every style. Here are a few ideas to inspire your holiday crafting.
Painted Wood Ornaments
Wood ornaments add a rustic charm to any holiday setting. Start with unfinished wood shapes like slices, stars, or classic ornament forms, which you can easily find at craft stores. Begin by sanding the wood, then apply a base coat of acrylic paint. Add your personal touch with designs like snowflakes, trees, initials, or the year using painter’s tape and fine brushes for precision.
If you want to take it up a notch, try metallic paints, glitter accents, or even decoupage with patterned paper. Once your design is complete, seal it with a clear varnish to protect your work and keep it looking great for years to come.
Yarn-Wrapped Ornaments
Yarn-wrapped ornaments are a great way to use leftover yarn while adding a warm, textured look to your holiday decor. Start with a basic ornament base, such as plastic, foam, or sturdy cardboard. Secure the yarn’s starting point with a dab of hot glue, then wrap it tightly around the form, adding small dots of glue as needed to hold it in place.
You can experiment with different colors or create ombre effects for a modern twist. Thicker yarns give a chunky, cozy look, while thinner yarns allow for more detailed patterns. Finish by tucking the yarn’s end under previous layers and securing it with glue. Add small embellishments like pom-poms, beads, or tiny bells for extra flair.
Dried Citrus Ornaments
For a natural and fragrant addition to your holiday decor, dried citrus ornaments are a fantastic choice. They’re perfect for those who appreciate simple, sustainable materials with a touch of elegance.
To make them, slice oranges, lemons, or limes into 1/4-inch rounds, pat them dry, and bake at 200°F for 2–3 hours on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flip the slices every 30 minutes to ensure even drying. Once they’ve cooled, thread natural twine or ribbon through the top to hang them. For added charm, you can pair them with cloves, star anise, or cinnamon sticks.
These ornaments are incredibly versatile. Beyond decorating your tree, they can be strung into garlands, used as gift toppers, or added to wreaths and centerpieces. When stored in a cool, dry place, they’ll retain their look and subtle scent throughout the season.
This Month's Craft makes holiday ornament crafting simple with curated kits that include everything you need, plus step-by-step video instructions. Whether you’re new to crafting or looking to refine your skills, their monthly boxes provide high-quality materials and expert guidance to help you create ornaments that look stunning every time.
Wreaths and Garlands You Can Make
Handmade wreaths and garlands are a wonderful way to bring a cozy, festive feel to your home during the holidays. They add a personal touch and warmth to any space, all while being budget-friendly. Plus, creating your own décor lets you tailor each piece to match your style.
This season, vintage-inspired wreaths are a favorite at craft fairs, often featuring charming details like bottle brush trees or antique doorknobs. These handcrafted pieces, typically priced around $12 each, highlight the growing appreciation for unique, DIY holiday decorations.
Whether you prefer traditional designs, creative twists, or miniature accents, there are plenty of options to suit every space and skill level.
Classic Holiday Wreaths
Traditional holiday wreaths are a timeless way to decorate your doors and walls, and they’re surprisingly beginner-friendly. Start with a foam or wire base, which you can find at most craft stores. Foam bases are particularly forgiving, making them a great choice for first-time crafters.
The secret to a polished wreath lies in layering your materials. Begin by attaching greenery - fresh evergreen branches give an authentic holiday feel, while high-quality artificial greenery offers durability for reuse. Once the greenery is in place, add decorative elements like ribbons, ornaments, pinecones, berries, or dried citrus slices. Use a hot glue gun to secure these items, and stick to a color palette of 2–3 main colors with 1–2 accent shades to keep the design cohesive.
With just 2–3 hours of effort, you can create a stunning wreath that sets the tone for your holiday décor and welcomes guests with festive charm.
Fabric and Paper Garlands
Garlands are a versatile way to bring holiday cheer to mantels, staircases, and doorways. They’re not only easy to make but also budget-friendly, often costing less than $10 if you use materials you already have at home.
Fabric garlands, especially those made with felt or burlap, are perfect for farmhouse or rustic holiday themes. Cut the fabric into shapes like stars, trees, or circles, and string them together with baker’s twine or ribbon. For extra flair, mix and match shapes, colors, or textures. Burlap ribbon can even be transformed into Christmas tree shapes by layering and tying pieces together.
Paper garlands are another creative option, allowing you to repurpose materials like old gift tags, book pages, or festive-colored paper. Circle-punched paper creates a clean, modern look, while vintage designs add character and nostalgia.
When planning your garland, consider the space it will decorate. Mantels typically require 6–8 feet, doorways 8–10 feet, and staircases about one garland per 3–4 steps. The beauty of homemade garlands is their flexibility - you can easily adjust the length to fit your space perfectly.
Small Wreaths for Chairs and Accents
Miniature wreaths are a delightful way to add festive touches to unexpected spots in your home. These 4–6 inch creations are perfect for chair backs, window sills, or table centerpieces. They’re quick and simple to make, requiring minimal materials and time.
Napkin ring wreaths are a versatile option for small accents. Use mini grapevine forms or embroidery hoops as a base, then decorate with seasonal picks, tiny ornaments, or ribbons. These mini wreaths can also double as gift toppers or tree decorations.
For a vintage-inspired approach, repurpose items like small spice tins or arrange clothespin ornaments in a circular pattern. Many of these materials can be found at home or thrift stores, keeping costs between $0 and $15.
Mini wreaths typically take just 30–45 minutes to create, making them an easy project for beginners or a quick way to add extra holiday flair. Display them in groups of 2–3 on window sills or attach them to chair backs with ribbon or twine for a festive touch that’s easy to remove after the holidays.
This Month's Craft kits make the process even simpler by providing premium materials and clear instructions. With over 35,160 boxes sold and more than 5,000 satisfied customers, these kits ensure you have everything you need to create professional-looking results.
"Each kit provides all the supplies and clear instructions needed for a flawless finish." - This Month's Craft
Tabletop and Mantel Decorations
Making stunning tabletop and mantel decorations for the holidays doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. These DIY projects not only bring festive charm to your space but also serve practical purposes like adding cozy lighting, protecting surfaces, and providing eye-catching centerpieces that spark conversations during your holiday gatherings.
The beauty of crafting your own decorations lies in the ability to personalize them. Unlike store-bought options, your handmade pieces can perfectly match your color scheme and style. Plus, many of these projects use items you probably already have at home or can easily find at thrift stores, keeping costs low while delivering a big visual impact. Let’s dive into three creative ideas that can elevate your holiday décor.
Mason Jar Candle Holders
Transforming mason jars into candle holders is a simple project that creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. These versatile jars can be customized for less than $10, especially if you use jars you already have at home.
For a snowy, wintery look, coat the inside of clean mason jars with Epsom salt or fine glitter. These materials reflect candlelight beautifully, creating a magical glow. Alternatively, you can spray the outside of the jars with frosted glass paint for a softer, diffused effect.
Add a festive touch by wrapping the jars with seasonal ribbons in shades like rich burgundy, deep green, or classic red. Burlap ribbon gives a rustic farmhouse vibe, while velvet ribbons add a touch of elegance. To make the design even more special, tuck in small accents like sprigs of evergreen, cinnamon sticks, or dried cranberries around the jar or into the ribbon.
Battery-operated LED tea lights are a smart alternative to real candles, offering the same cozy glow without the risk of fire. These flameless options are especially practical for mantels or crowded areas where decorations might get bumped.
Many crafters find that mason jar candle holders are versatile enough to use beyond the holidays. By swapping out seasonal accents, you can enjoy these decorations year-round. If you’re looking for a little guidance, This Month's Craft offers complete kits and video tutorials to help you create these charming pieces.
Holiday Coasters from Recycled Materials
DIY coasters are a fun way to protect your furniture while adding a festive touch to your holiday gatherings. Plus, they’re an eco-friendly project that gives new life to recycled materials.
Cork from old bulletin boards works perfectly for coasters because it’s naturally absorbent and heat-resistant. Cut the cork into holiday shapes like stars, Christmas trees, or simple circles using a craft knife or cookie cutters. Cardboard from shipping boxes is another great option, though you’ll want to seal it for durability.
To decorate, use decoupage techniques with holiday cards or wrapping paper. Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the base, smooth the paper on top, and seal it with another coat. This creates water-resistant coasters that can handle holiday drinks with ease.
For a polished finish, add a layer of waterproof varnish or clear acrylic sealer. This extra step ensures your coasters can withstand both hot mugs and cold drinks for many seasons to come.
You can also use felt from old clothing to create coasters. Cut the felt into festive shapes and layer different colors for added dimension. For example, a red felt star with a smaller gold star on top makes for a simple yet eye-catching design. If you’re short on supplies, This Month's Craft provides kits with everything you need, plus easy-to-follow video instructions.
Miniature Holiday Villages
Miniature holiday villages make for enchanting centerpieces that bring the magic of the season to your home while sparking conversations among guests. These displays are a hit at craft fairs and can be customized to suit your personal style.
Start by choosing a base for your village. A wooden tray, a large picture frame, or even a sturdy piece of cardboard covered with fabric works well. This base keeps your village contained and makes it easy to move if needed.
Create the buildings using lightweight materials like cardboard boxes, spice containers, or balsa wood. Paint them with acrylic paints in traditional holiday colors or opt for a modern look with white and silver accents.
What makes these villages special are the little details. Add bottle brush trees for a forest effect, sprinkle faux snow made from batting or artificial snow for a wintry touch, and weave tiny LED string lights throughout the scene to bring it all to life.
Consider turning this project into a yearly tradition by adding new elements to your village each holiday season. Many families enjoy watching their display grow, making it a cherished part of their holiday memories.
To make your village even more dynamic, create hills and valleys by placing small boxes or books under the base fabric. Position the display where it can be admired from different angles, like on a console table or kitchen island.
If this project feels a bit overwhelming, This Month's Craft offers curated kits with premium materials and step-by-step video instructions to guide you. With thousands of satisfied customers and over 35,000 kits sold, you can trust these kits to help you create a stunning village that will impress your guests.
Holiday Fabric and Textile Projects
Fabric crafts bring a cozy and personal touch to holiday decorating, adding a tactile element that makes your space feel warm and inviting. From soft ornaments to embroidered stockings, these projects create a festive atmosphere that guests will love. The textures, colors, and handmade details of fabric crafts can transform your home into a holiday haven.
Interestingly, 63% of U.S. households engage in crafting during the holidays, often repurposing old materials like clothing, fabric scraps, or thrifted linens. This not only adds character to their decorations but also supports eco-friendly practices. Plus, these handmade items often become cherished keepsakes, passed down through generations. Let’s look at three fabric projects - embroidered stockings, quilted ornaments, and festive banners - that can add a personal flair to your holiday décor.
Custom Embroidered Stockings
Embroidered stockings are a wonderful way to bring a personal touch to your holiday traditions. They serve as both mantel decor and timeless family heirlooms.
To get started, you can use blank felt or cotton stockings, or even sew your own for an extra layer of personalization. If you're new to embroidery, mastering a few simple stitches like the backstitch for outlining and the satin stitch for filling in shapes will go a long way. Sketch your designs first using water-soluble markers or transfer paper. Popular motifs include names, dates, snowflakes, or festive symbols like candy canes and stars. Pair these with embroidery floss in classic holiday colors such as red and green, silver and white, or gold and burgundy.
What makes these stockings truly special is the opportunity to capture meaningful details. Consider adding the year to commemorate a specific holiday season or embellishing with holly leaves, reindeer, or other festive designs. Many families enjoy making this a group activity, with everyone contributing to the creation process. This collaborative effort not only enhances the stockings but also creates lasting memories.
Soft Quilted Ornaments
Quilted ornaments bring a unique softness to holiday trees, offering a warm alternative to traditional glass or plastic decorations. They’re especially practical for homes with kids or pets since they won’t shatter if dropped.
These ornaments are surprisingly simple to make and a great way to use up fabric scraps. Start by cutting two identical shapes - like stars, circles, or trees - about 3–4 inches across. Layer them with batting, sew around the edges, and leave a small opening for extra padding. Once stuffed, stitch the opening closed. Adding decorative quilting patterns, such as simple lines or geometric shapes, can enhance the look. You can even use contrasting thread for a bold effect or matching thread for a more subtle design.
For a polished finish, trim any excess fabric at the edges before turning the ornament right side out. Embellishments like buttons, beads, or ribbon loops for hanging can add charm and individuality. These ornaments work beautifully in coordinated sets, using fabrics in complementary colors or patterns. Their soft texture is especially appealing to children, who often gravitate toward these touchable decorations on the tree.
Holiday Fabric Banners
Fabric banners are a versatile way to bring holiday cheer to various spaces in your home. Whether draped across a mantel, along a staircase, or hung in a window, they add a festive touch that’s easy to customize.
To make a banner, start by cutting fabric shapes or letters using templates or cookie cutters as guides. Felt is a popular choice because it doesn’t fray and holds its shape well, but cotton fabrics backed with interfacing work just as nicely. Iron-on letters or appliqué techniques can help you achieve clean, professional-looking text. Attach your fabric pieces to ribbon or twine with fabric glue for a quick, no-sew option, or hand-stitch them for added durability.
Spacing is key - leave about 2–3 inches between elements to avoid a crowded look. You can also tailor the banner’s length to suit your space, creating shorter versions for small areas or longer ones for larger walls or mantels. For a modern twist, consider minimalist designs inspired by Scandinavian décor trends, using neutral palettes and simple felt shapes.
Fabric banners are also perfect for group crafting. Host a holiday craft night where family or friends can share supplies and ideas while creating their own personalized banners. This not only makes the project more enjoyable but also helps keep costs down by pooling resources. These banners can inspire even more creative projects, spreading holiday spirit throughout your home.
For those looking for guided projects, This Month's Craft offers curated kits with premium materials and step-by-step video instructions. With over 35,000 kits sold, their projects make it easy to achieve professional-quality results.
"Each kit provides all the supplies and clear instructions needed for a flawless finish." - This Month's Craft
How to Succeed with Holiday Crafting
The holiday season is a time of joy and creativity, but balancing holiday crafting with shopping, cooking, and family gatherings can feel like a juggling act. According to a 2023 survey by the Craft & Hobby Association, 68% of Americans take part in holiday crafting, with 42% emphasizing that organization and preparation are key to success [1]. With a bit of planning and the right tools, crafting can shift from a source of stress to a relaxing and rewarding part of your holiday routine.
Whether you're stitching stockings, crafting quilted ornaments, or piecing together fabric banners, having a clear strategy can make all the difference. By setting up an efficient workspace, using instructional videos effectively, and thoughtfully displaying your creations, crafting can become a joyful highlight of your holiday season.
Setting Up Your Workspace
A well-organized workspace is the foundation of a smooth crafting experience. Choose a clean, well-lit area away from busy foot traffic. A dedicated table with a protective covering, like a vinyl tablecloth, can protect surfaces and make cleanup easier after messy projects.
Group your supplies by project type to avoid interruptions. For instance, if you're painting wooden ornaments, gather your paints, brushes, and stencils ahead of time so you won’t need to hunt for materials mid-project.
Keep essential tools within easy reach, and store any potentially hazardous items safely out of the way of kids or pets. Many find it helpful to lay out all supplies and thoroughly read through instructions before starting. This approach is especially useful when working on multiple projects or squeezing crafting into short breaks during a busy holiday schedule.
Using Video Instructions Effectively
Step-by-step video tutorials can turn even the most complex projects into manageable, enjoyable tasks. Start by watching the entire video to get an overview of the process, then pause and replay sections as needed while you work. Jot down key steps and gather all supplies beforehand to stay focused.
Using a second device, like a tablet or phone, can make it easier to follow along without having to stop and rewind frequently. Tutorials, such as those from This Month's Craft, often include close-ups of techniques and troubleshooting tips to help reduce mistakes and build confidence, whether you're a beginner or have some crafting experience. Once you've mastered the techniques, the next step is to showcase your creations in style.
Displaying Your Finished Projects
The way you display your crafts can enhance their impact and ensure they’re appreciated by everyone who sees them. Choose well-lit, high-traffic areas like mantels, entryways, or dining tables to highlight your work. Good lighting brings out the textures and details that make handmade items stand out.
For wreaths, use sturdy ribbon or wire to secure them, and place candle holders on stable surfaces away from anything flammable. Delicate items, such as quilted ornaments or embroidered stockings, should be displayed in spots where they won’t get accidentally bumped or damaged.
Switch up your displays occasionally to keep things fresh and ensure safe placement. Using quality materials and protective finishes, like clear sealants, can also help preserve your decorations, turning them into cherished pieces that become part of your family’s holiday traditions.
FAQs
What are some easy ways for beginners to start making their own holiday decorations?
If you're just getting started with crafting, using a kit is a great way to dive in without feeling overwhelmed. This Month’s Craft offers beginner-friendly kits that come with all the supplies you’ll need, plus easy-to-follow instructions to help you make festive, handmade holiday decorations. Each project is designed to be fun and manageable, with handy tips included to guide you through each step.
Since everything is prepped and ready, you can focus on the joy of creating and adding your own flair to your holiday decor. From ornaments to garlands to seasonal centerpieces, these kits make it simple to craft something special and personal for your home.
What can I do to make sure my DIY holiday decorations last for years?
When making holiday decorations that stand the test of time, it’s all about choosing materials that can handle the hustle and bustle of the season. Opt for sturdy fabrics, reliable adhesives, and finishes designed to resist the elements - especially for outdoor displays. Careful assembly is key, so take your time to secure every piece and ensure it’s put together with care. With This Month’s Craft kits, you’ll have everything you need, from high-quality supplies to step-by-step instructions, to create festive decorations that can be enjoyed year after year.
How can I add a personal touch to holiday crafts to make them special gifts?
Adding a personal touch to holiday crafts is a heartfelt way to make your gifts unforgettable. Think about including elements that resonate with the recipient - maybe their favorite colors, initials, or a theme that reflects their personality. Handmade ornaments, personalized wreaths, or painted decorations can be crafted to feel extra special and meaningful.
Try experimenting with different materials like fabric, wood, or paper to create something one-of-a-kind. A hand-painted wooden sign or a decorated candle holder, for instance, can be both practical and sentimental. When you let your creativity take the lead, the options are endless!