Fancy creating a festive atmosphere without the plastic? Here are five fantastic ideas that cost next to nothing.
1. Orange Pomanders
Few things smell as wonderful at Christmas as this easy to make, classic decoration. Grab some cloves and oranges and for an even more delicious aroma, add some cinnamon sticks into the equation. For its simplicity and ease alone, pomanders deserve a special place in this list. They are also a great decoration to make with children. If you’re feeling creative, try creating different patterns with your cloves.
2. Homemade Wreaths
One of the warmest ways to welcome guests to your home at Christmas is a beautiful, home-made wreath on your front door.
Wreaths are another great decoration that all the family can enjoy making together. Good Housekeeping Magazine has a fantastic gallery of 60 ideas for DIY wreaths, most of which can be made with natural, recycled or repurposed materials. Check out the gallery at: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/ and search for ‘christmas wreaths’.
3. Log Reindeer
If you are up for some woodcraft, a log reindeer is a great addition to the garden or even the living room. They can be as large as you wish and when used as an outdoor decoration, look great with two or three standing together. Please do source your logs responsibly though – we don’t advise taking your chainsaw to the local woods!
4. Pine cones galore
There is no end to what can be done with a bag full of pine cones and a little imagination. Paint, glitter, ribbons and string can all be put to good use. Pine cones can also add a lovely cleansing smell to your home. Country Living magazine has a lovely gallery of suggestions – find it at: https://www.countryliving.com/ and search for ‘pine cones’
5. Cardboard Creations
From two-dimensional cut-outs to elaborate arrangements, it is quite amazing what Christmas decorations can be made simply by using your waste cardboard – and they cost just pennies to make! There is a particularly attractive selection of ideas at: https://brendid.com/cardboard-christmas-decorations/.
Merry Christmas!
Article and images kindly provided by J. Allan Longshadow, wordworx
