The holiday season is upon us, which means it is time to decorate! You have always made amazing and festive ornaments and house adornments, but this year you want to up your game.  Not only will you deck the halls, but you will do it with zero waste!  That’s right, decorations will be with reused, recycled, and repurposed materials. This the season to be jolly, and help the planet. 

Orange Ornaments 

This ornament will add a splash of color to your tree, and the smell of citrus will blend nicely with the aroma of fresh pine needles.  This simple yet festive addition is made by drying out a thin orange slice, and then hanging it with twine or a paper clip. Best of all, it is zero waste, and can be added to the compost pile when it is time to take down the decorations for the season.  

Driftwood Tree Ornament 

 

Photo and craft from https://sustainmycrafthabit.com/miniature-diy-driftwood-tree-ornament/

This year, add a second tree to your list of décor.  No, this one won’t be coming home on the top of your car’s roof, or down from the attic in a box. Instead, it will be a nifty craft of your own making, and one that is totally sustainable.  String and driftwood are all that are needed for this tree-mendous project.  No driftwood? Sand down dead branches for the same look.  

Straw Star Ornament 

Photo and craft form https://www.redtedart.com/traditional-straw-star-ornaments/

Recycled crafts mean that you have given second life to something that would have otherwise made its way to the landfill.  In fact, you also are saving more than just the recycled item, as you are not buying something else that may one day be thrown away. For these brilliant ornaments, you are reusing drinking straws.  Scissors, string, and imagination are all you need to make this single use plastic shine. 

Cornstarch Dough Ornaments 

Photo and craft from https://h2obungalow.com/cornstarch-dough-christmas-ornaments/

Get out the baking supplies and cook up a unique and compostable decoration item that is sure to impress. Cornstarch is the star in these ornaments, and we also love how they can be customized to any pattern you choose.  Your tree will never be the same once you add these on this season.  

Pine Cone Tinsel 

Photo and craft from https://simpleasthatblog.com/how-to-make-rustic-twig-christmas-ornaments/

Bring the feel of the forest into your home this season with pinecone tinsel and other woody decorations.  With some twine, glue, and a touch of creativity, you can deck out your tree or mantle with earthy vibes.  When boxing day comes around, dismantle the twigs and bring them back outside so they can resume their process of decomposition. (Of course, make sure to clean the glue off first). 

Real Pine Wreaths 

Photo and craft from https://wholefully.com/make-fresh-greenery-wreath/

The wreath is a holiday staple, and its simple beauty is sure to make your home festive and inviting.  This year, give a gift to mother nature by making your own wreath.  Those pesky pine twig droppings from your tree can be woven into the classic circular shape that has become the symbol of winter cheer and holiday spirit.   

Natural Plants 

Photo and craft from https://www.thespruce.com/5-easy-ways-to-decorate-for-christmas-with-plants-5089809

  Rethinking the classic Christmas tree?  Or do you just want to add some more green to your space this holiday season?  Either way, live plants are a novel way to do so.  Succulents and cacti are great candidates for indoor decorations.  Dress them up with garland, lights, or ornaments, and plant them outside come springtime.  

Popcorn / cranberry garland: 

Photo and craft from https://www.saltycanary.com/diy-old-fashioned-cranberry-popcorn-garland/

This unique and edible garland is a fun twist on a holiday classic.  Popcorn and cranberries come together in the unmistakably festive candy cane pattern that is synonymous with winter.  Wrap the trees in these beads, and then leave them for the birds when it is taken down for the year.  This one has proven to be an especially fun activity for the kids. 

Cloth Gift Wrapping 

 

Photo and craft from https://www.thestar.com/life/2017/12/15/3-eco-friendly-ways-to-wrap-presents.html

Every year, thousands of pounds of wrapping paper and tissue paper are thrown away after Christmas season.  This year, don’t be a part of the problem; instead use fabric as a wrapping paper alternative.  This solution that keeps paper from landfills, and still looks every bit as ornate and fun.  String and slender strips of cloth can be used in lieu of ribbon.  When the unwrapping is done, these cloth wrappings can be reused for another holiday.  Fabric stores or second hand tablecloths have proven to yield the best patterns for making these festive fabric coverings.  

READ ALSO : 10 DIY Recycled Gift Wrapping

 Candles 

Photo and craft from https://mommypotamus.com/beeswax-candles/

As winter cold creeps in, it is time to retreat to the cozy warmth of our homes.  This holiday, make part of your seasonal decoration just as functional as it is fashionable.  Candles add light, fragrance, and a feeling of warmth to any room they are in.  Just be sure to use ecofriendly waxes such as soy to help you and your loved ones out.  

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• READ ALSO:

10 DIY Recycled Gift Wrapping

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