Cheap & Cheerful Christmas Decorating

I read a great post by Simply Frugal today about decorating for Christmas on a budget. There were some fun creative ideas for using items in a new way to create a holiday feeling in your home.

Since I have always loved Christmas, the kind of love that requires 8 large tupperware containers full of Christmas Crap, I thought I would share some of my budget saver decorating ideas too. I have been a SAHM for almost 3 years now so the days of splurging are few and far between, but that doesn't mean that I can't find ways to deck the halls (and splurge on a few things).

1. FRAME IT

I went to Michaels, the girl's version of a hardware store...I head in for one thing and come out with a shopping cart full...and I grabbed some Christmas scrapbook paper. I used the frames I already had in our living room, picked my favourite coordinating patterns and grouped them together:

I also hung these two:


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      


2. FAKE IT

This is the only time you will hear me say those words. I'm talking plants of course. They 'live' forever, look great and are no maintenance. I bought these three at Ikea with the red pots. I replaced the candles in my lanterns and my beachy room is now Christmafied. Ignore my reflection please. Santa should really buy me some photography lessons.

3. MAKE IT

If you want to brighten up your kids room paint them some winter art on a canvas. It's a lot easier than you think and they will love the new addition to their space!

I painted these Santas using pieces of driftwood 15+ years ago and even though they are a bit 80s, I still like the rustic look. You can use any pieces of old, worn wood for this project.

4. BUY IT

If you find something you really love and can't live without, treat yourself. I found these stockings at Pottery Barn Kids for my boys. They match the tree topper that I bought there last year. I love them.

 
















(photo from Potterybarnkids.com)



Christmas is going to be really tough for my family this year and, in many ways, I just want it to be over. The one thing I am grateful for is the distraction that all of these little projects have offered. They have kept my mind busy and I hope has made our home a cheerful place for my boys.

I wish you and your family a very happy holiday.