5 Cute Upcycled Hacks for Christmas

On: Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Christmas is coming, and no that wasn't the beginning of a carol. We are gearing up for one of the most popular holidays around, putting up our trees and hanging up stockings. It also means that DIY junkies like me are looking for projects for house decor and handmade gifts. Especially those that upcycle old items and save on materials.

Pinterest has once again come to the rescue. Anyone who has been on their DIY board knows that it is filled with cool ideas in both the simple and impossibly advanced categories. Whatever level you are at yourself, you can find something fun to do any time of the year.
But with it being winter, you can bet there are even more Christmas themed upcycle projects than ever. Here are five super cute upcycled hacks for the holidays.

1. Sock Wreath

Sock Wreath


I had these really old stockings that I used to use but had replaced with customized ones a couple of years ago. The long, knitted versions stayed in the box and I always said I would figure out something to do with them. This year, I finally did thanks to this pin. It shows you how to make a sock wreath, which easily converts to a stocking wreath if you want. It also inspires many ideas on other ways you can use socks for a wreath, if you want to.

I really like the overlapping look of the one in the picture. Mine was a little thicker because the socked were so large, so I made more folds all around the wreath. I also used an old Christmas neck tie for the bow instead of another sock. It came out so well that my neighbor actually asked me to make her one for her own door!

>>> Here are more Christmas Wreaths

2. Bulb Ornaments

Bulb Ornaments

Everyone has old Christmas lights that have either burned out or been replaced. For those larger ones, you can make an interesting looking ornament for your tree. Then one uses some kind of metallic paint. But I like the idea of using either Epsom salt or glitter instead. The ribbons are cute, but I would add some fake holly and berries, or maybe some plastic mistletoe. It just seems more festive, that way. The great thing about these is you could make an entire set to go all over the tree, for next to no cash. Or make a bunch to hand out as gifts.

3. Tree Base

Tree Base

Instead of a tree skirt this year, why not go with something more creative? You would have to make sure the bucket or crate you use is nice and sturdy, then weigh down the bottom. Then stick the bottom of a stand inside of it to keep it upright. I think it would be pretty easy to convert, depending on the size of the tree verses the size of the base you choose. It would definitely look better than a stand alone, and it is a nice change from the usual tree skirt people use. But it would really work well for a fake tree that is more lightweight, and so doesn't require as much force to keep it upright. You could even paint it if you wanted, making something festive or pretty to go with your decor.

4. Sheet Music Wreath

Sheet Music Wreath

Have some old sheet music? Or even an old book with heavy paper you no long need intact? You can make a classy little wreath with nothing but a couple of craft supplies. I did this with my kids this year, using an old book we bought from a library sale that was falling apart. It came out really nice, though instead of the center they used, we made a large bow and stuck it on. They aren't good for outdoor use, but are really cute for the inside of doors. Just make sure you glue the folded paper cones together well, or the entire thing will pop apart. For business people, you can use your docs to create fun wreaths like this!

5. DIY Stockings

DIY Stockings

Make your own stockings out of scrap material you have laying around the house. I am not sure how I feel about the denim look. It all looks a little silly for me, but I suppose I can understand why so many people go for this kind of style. With a few changes, the one in the picture could look like country overalls and more teen chic. Maybe with a different type of fabric for the toe and heel. Of course, you don't have to use denim at all, just anything you like the look of. You can make a pattern really easily with just a paper cut out. Great way to save money while being creative!

Do you know of any cute Christmas upcycle hacks? Let us know in the comments!

1 appreciated comments on "5 Cute Upcycled Hacks for Christmas"

Tracy King said...

These are really cute. I especially like the sock wreath, what a great idea.

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