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This time of year I see SO many people selling their Christmas decor online because they want to ‘redo’ their tree. But what if you didn’t have to start over every few years? Here are some practical tips for how to change your Christmas decor without buying all new things. I’ll show you how I’ve gotten new looks for my Christmas tree without starting from scratch.
Tip #1: Keep Those Keepsake Ornaments!
(And What To Do If You Don’t Have Any)
Most people have treasured family ornaments with special memories attached to them. I’m a suuuper sentimental person and love pulling out my ornaments each year and remembering the loved ones who shared them. I have a collection of gold ornaments from the Danbury Mint that my great aunt gifted me over several years when I was a child. At the time I didn’t appreciate them, but I treasure them now. These are the ‘base’ of my Christmas tree decor each year. Whatever your keepsake ornaments look like, I’ll show you how you can use them from year to year for a meaningful tree.
If you don’t have a collection of special ornaments, I suggest you invest in a neutral colored set. Think gold, silver, white, cream, branze, etc. They do not need to all be the same – feel free to mix and match to create a layered look.
Tip #2: Invest In Picks – Lots of Picks
Decorative picks are incredible Christmas tree fillers and can be used in other places too – like garlands and tablescapes. You can also use them in conjunction with, or in place of, a traditional tree topper. They add shimmer, dimension, and texture to your Christmas tree in a very budget friendly way. Most are just a couple of dollars each(if that) and will go a long way in stretching your decor budget.
Tip #3: Change Your Ribbon
So, here’s how I really change the look of my entire Christmas tree – ribbon! Every few years I purchase new ribbon for whatever color scheme I’m using. I always keep neutral ribbons on hand, and then buy a few spools of whatever color I’m adding. This allows me to easily get a fresh look without breaking the bank. Vary the widths and finishes of the ribbon you order for a luxurious look. Also make sure you choose wired ribbon so it’s easy to manipulate in your tree. D. Stevens is my favorite ribbon brand, but there are endless other options available online at Amazon.
Pick a color you want to showcase from your existing ornaments and purchase coordinating ribbon. Since my ‘base’ ornaments and picks are all neutral, I can choose any color of ribbon I like for that particular year.
Tip:
Choose double-sided ribbon for twice the decorating choices. Don’t be afraid to use both sides for added interest and texture
Tip #4: Think Beyond Ornaments
For a truly unique tree, consider adding in any holiday collections you may already have. My nutcracker tree is still a favorite. After changing the ribbon, I simply wired some of my nutcrackers in the branches. The picks and ornaments are all from my original collection, but the tree looks totally different!
Or, if you’re a rebel, don’t use ornaments at all! After a hectic holiday decorating season for me, I decided to forgo ornaments altogether last year. This tree simply has picks and ribbon from previous seasons – easy peasy!
Tip #5: Swap That Tree Skirt For…
…A tablecloth! Or family quilt. Or sheepskin rug. You don’t have to buy a new tree skirt when you plan to change the look of your Christmas tree. Think outside the box a little and use what you already have. My mom finds the most gorgeous tablecloths at thrift stores all the time. It’s not uncommon for her to spend as little as $2/$3 for a linen embroidered tablecloth.
If you have a special family quilt that matches the look you are going for, use that as a tree skirt! Be creative and add special meaning to your tree this year.
Change Your Christmas Decor Slowly
I try really hard to go slowly when decorating. Put some thought into what you already have and what you need to purchase. Try to invest in items that you will use for years to come. This will give you a good stash of decor to choose from so you don’t have constantly change your Christmas decor. Remember, Christmas isn’t about stuff – it’s about our Savior Jesus and spending time with loved ones. Happy Nesting!