Christmas Decorations: Deck the Halls, Don't Break the Bank With These DIY Tips

Make your own Christmas ornaments and save big.

ByABC News via logo
December 9, 2010, 10:27 PM

Dec. 10, 2010 — -- We all want to make our homes festive for Christmas, but in this economy, what's the best way to dress up a house for less?

Jourdan Crouch, senior associate editor for Country Living Magazine, appeared on "Good Morning America" to tell you how you can decorate your house – with DIY stockings and ornaments – in a family-friendly, budget-conscious way.

She shared ideas that the entire family could get involved in and many of the supplies could come from items you already have at home.

Crouch encouraged people to be creative. These days people are looking for things that seem personal, so putting your own stamp on decorations can mean a lot to someone, she said.

Budget-Friendly DIY Decorations

Fireplace, wreath: Make a wreath using yarn wrapped around Styrofoam balls. The Styrofoam balls are about $3 per dozen at a craft store. Use a little glue to keep the yarn in place. It's festive, lasts year to year and you can match it to your décor, Crouch said.

Apothecary jar filled with bulbs: Take your unused – or burned out – bulbs and put them in an apothecary jar. You can get three jars for $25 at Kmart.

Scrabble tiles: This can be fun for your children. They can create a special holiday message using Scrabble tiles. The tiles also work well as place cards at a holiday dinner.

One-of-a-kind stockings: Make a memorable stocking in a unique retro style. You'll need laminate paper, paper and fabric.

First, iron the laminate on the front and back of the fabric or paper, then cut out a stocking shape pattern (you can find patterns on the Country Living website). Sew both sides of the pattern together (the side you want to be seen should be facing out). If children are involved, you could punch holes around the perimeter and let them sew the edges with yarn.

You can find supplies at www.joann.com