As winter settles in, bringing its frosty air and the soft crackle of logs burning in the hearth, a special kind of magic fills our homes. It’s that cosy feeling when you wrap yourself in a warm blanket, sip on a steaming cup of cocoa, and retreat (guilt-free!) from the wider world of hustle and bustle.
This season is all about creating spaces that feel inviting and warm, spaces you can gather with friends and family to share love and cheer.
If you’re anything like me, you love the idea of adding a personal touch to your home decor, especially during the winter months. That’s where DIY decorations come in! They’re not just fun to make; they’re a wonderful way to express your creativity and make your space feel uniquely yours.
In this article, I’m excited to share 50 stunning DIY winter decorations that will help you turn your home into a magickal retreat. From charming centrepieces and playful ornaments to cozy textiles and nature-inspired accents, there’s something here for everyone.
So, grab your crafting supplies, and let’s create a winter haven that wraps you in warmth and joy…
1. Pinecone Garland
A pinecone garland is a charming and rustic decoration that brings a touch of nature indoors during the winter months. It’s also very affordable if you collect your one pinecones.
To create yours, simply gather pinecones, and string them together using twine or wire, adding a few sprigs of greenery or festive ribbons for extra flair. Hang it along your mantel, drape it over doorways, or adorn your holiday tree for a warm, woodland-inspired touch!
2. Cinnamon stick bundles
Cinnamon stick bundles are such a cosy touch for your winter decor that will also fill your home with that warm, spicy scent we all love.
Simply grab a handful of cinnamon sticks and tie them together with twine or a festive ribbon, adding a sprig of evergreen or a slice of dried orange for extra flair.
These are a great choice of cinnamon sticks
Display them on your dining table, use them to jazz up gifts, or hang them as sweet-smelling ornaments.
3. Jingle bells door hanger
A jingle bell door hanger is a fun and festive way to welcome guests into your home this winter.
Simply string together a few jingling bells on a sturdy ribbon or twine, and add any symbolic and festive accessories (pendants, symbols, dried herb bundles, miniature spell jars). Then hang it on your front door or a cosy entryway, ringing out with the cheerful and protective sound of the bells.
Get your bells here –
4. Crystal Ornaments
Crystal ornaments are a stunning addition to your witchy winter decor, both in terms of how they look, and the energy they will bring to your home.
Choose crystals that resonate with your intentions, such as clear quartz for clarity or amethyst for tranquillity.
You may like to choose drilled tumble stones that you can thread into beautiful droplet-like hanging ornaments, or crystal geodes to wrap in wire, and hang individually.
I LOVE this tutorial by A Beautiful Mess
Make a whole collection, and hang them on your Yule tree, in windows, or anywhere that needs a touch of sparkle.
Image below by A Beautiful Mess
5. Snowflake window clings
6. Pompoms
Pom-poms are a playful addition to your winter decor that can brighten up any space! Made from yarn, these fluffy little creations can be strung together as garlands, used to embellish gifts, or even added to wreaths for a fun pop of texture.
7. Faux snowy branches
Choosing a few beautiful branches, are spraying them white makes a stunning DIY winter display.
Arrange them in a vase, use them in wreaths, or hang a large branch from the ceiling and adorn it with glass baubles and more homemade decorations. Done right, this holiday display offers an elegant touch that captures the essence of a winter wonderland.
8. Winter scene in a jar
The modern DIY take on a snow globe, creating a winter scene in a jar is SUCH a charming way to capture the magic of the season in a miniature display.
Start with a clean glass jar and fill it with faux snow, small figurines like snowmen or trees, and maybe even a sprinkle of glitter for some extra sparkle. Once you’ve arranged your scene, seal the jar with a lid or ribbon, and voila!
9. Yarn snowflakes
Making yarn snowflakes is a fun and easy DIY project.
You can create your own templates from cardboard or use pre-made wooden shapes. Wrap colourful yarn around the templates, securing the ends with glue or tucking them in. Once finished, hang your creations as ornaments on the tree, use them as garland, or display them in windows.
Get your templates here:
Use yarn scraps you already have, or grab a selection of Christmassy colours here:
10. Twinkling star garland
Uplevel your fairy lights with a twinkling star garland! To add this touch of whimsy to your home decor, simply cut star shapes from cardstock or felt in various sizes, and then string them together with twine or ribbon.
Drape it over your mantel, hang it in windows, or use it to adorn your holiday tree -this garland will bring a cosy, yet celestial glow to your home!
11. Winter centerpiece
A MUST for your dining or coffee table this winter, creating a centrepiece is a wonderful way to bring the beauty of the season indoors.
Choose a low bowl or tray and simply fill it with a mix of seasonal elements like pinecones, evergreen sprigs, and decorative ornaments. You can add candles for a warm glow or some faux snow for an extra touch of winter magic.
12. DIY advent calendar
Creating a DIY advent calendar is a fun and festive way to count down the days to the holidays (and for the pagans here, try counting down to the winter solstice on December 21st).
You can get creative with various materials, like small boxes, envelopes, or even cloth bags, each filled with treats, small gifts, or festive notes. Hang them on a string, attach them to a wall, or arrange them in a decorative basket for a sweet seasonal display.
13. Scented pinecones
Making scented pinecones are one of my favourite ways to bring seasonal scents into the home without any nasty chemicals.
Start by collecting clean, dry pinecones from your yard or a nearby park—make sure they’re fully opened. If they need a little help, you can bake them at a low temperature (200°F or 93°C) for about 30 minutes to open them up.
Next, choose your favorite scents, like cinnamon, clove, pine, or vanilla. Place the pinecones in a bowl or ziplock bag and add 10-15 drops of essential oils or a mix of dried herbs and spices. Shake or mix well to coat them evenly, then let them sit in a sealed container for at least 24 hours to fully absorb the fragrances.
Once they’re scented, you can display them in a decorative bowl, use them in wreaths, or scatter them around your home for a cozy winter touch.
14. Mini frame ornaments
Mini hanging frame ornaments are SUCH a charming way to decorate for winter, by showcasing your favourite memories in photo form, or going for more abstract designs for a chic winter look.
Purchasing mini frames online or from a craft store and select small photos, festive images or even sections of wrapping or wallpaper to display inside them.
Once your frames are ready, attach a loop of twine or ribbon to the top for hanging.
Choose your frames here:
15. Rustic lanterns
Simple but SO effective when made beautifully, rustic lanterns can be made by repurposing old glass jars and filling them with candles or fairy lights.
Enhance the rustic look by wrapping twine around the jars, adding pinecones, or incorporating natural elements like moss or evergreen sprigs. Place your lanterns on tables, along pathways, or by doorways to create a cosy ambience that welcomes guests and brightens up those chilly winter nights!
16. Yule greeting cards
Yule greeting cards are a sweet alternative to traditional Christmas cards, to share the warmth and joy of the season with friends and family. Make handmade cards to express wishes of peace, love, and renewal, reflecting the spirit of Yule.
Using sturdy cardstock in seasonal colours like deep green, red, or gold, you can personalize each card with festive designs such as snowflakes, pine branches, or symbols of the season.
Inside, include meaningful messages or poems emphasizing hope, light, and togetherness.
17. Snowman decorations
No list of DIY winter decor would be complete without snowmen!
A fun and sometimes silly way to bring winter cheer into your home, the options to make these are endless Here are some creative ideas to make your own snowman decorations:
- Sock snowman
- Painted mason jar snowman
- Wooden block snowman
- Felt snowman ornaments
- Snowman plant pots
- Snowman wine bottles
- Snowman doorstop
- Snowman garland
Get as creative, unusual and surprising as possible, to bring a smile to your winter decor!
18. Winter incense blend
Creating your own incense blends is a wonderful way to fill your space with calming wintery scents.
Gather dried herbs, flowers, and resins like cinnamon, clove, sage, and frankincense. Decide on the proportions according to the fragrance you want, grinding the ingredients together to release their essential oils. If you wish to make solid incense sticks or cones, add a binding agent like gum arabic.
Once your blend is ready, store it in a labelled glass jar or airtight container. Homemade incense also makes a thoughtful gift for friends!
19. Winter-themed doormat
A winter-themed doormat is a charming way to greet guests and set a cosy tone for your home during the colder months.
Simply paint or stencil a plain coir mat with winter motifs like snowflakes, pine trees, or even festive messages. Use outdoor paint to ensure it withstands the elements, and consider adding a pop of colour with stencils or freehand designs.
20. Mason jar lanterns
Mason jar lanterns are a wonderfully simple way to add a warm glow to your winter decor.
Simply filling clean mason jars with fairy lights can create a subtle, yet effective decorative effect. Add small pinecones or other greenery for a rustic touch, or wrap the jars with twine or ribbon for added charm.
They’re perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, making your space feel inviting and festive.
21. DIY glass baubles
It’s easy to get hold of empty glass baubles online or from a craft store. Once you have a set, remove the top and fill with materials like faux snow, glitter, dried flowers, or anything to go with your personal style.
You can even add small ornaments or handwritten notes for a special touch. Once filled, hang them on your tree or use them as decorative accents around your home.
Choose the glass baubles you want to use from this selection:
22. Dried orange garland
A dried orange garland is a lovely and fragrant decoration that adds a warm, festive touch to your winter decor.
To make your own garland, start by slicing fresh oranges into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. You can dry the slices in the oven at 200°F (93°C) for 4-6 hours or use a dehydrator for about 8-10 hours until they’re completely dried.
Once your orange slices are ready, gather some natural twine or string, and you can also include decorative elements like cinnamon sticks or dried herbs. Thread the dried orange slices onto the twine, spacing them out as you like, and hang your garland in a special spot to enjoy!
23. Card deck decoration
Make playing cards, tarot cards or oracle cards into unique hanging Christmas decorations.
To infuse your space with a touch of mystique and whimsy, punch a hole in the top of each card and thread them onto string or twine, spacing them out to create a beautiful garland.
Hang your card garland along a wall, across a window or even spiral around your yule tree, to create an eye-catching display that sparks conversation and curiosity.
24. Needle felted wool ornaments
Making needle-felted wool ornaments can get slightly addicting – you have been warned!
You’ll need roving wool in various colours, a felting mat and a felting needle. To create your ornaments, take small amounts of wool and shape them into balls, small animals, snowmen, or more ambitious festive designs like stars or snowflakes.
Using a felting needle, gently poke the wool to tangle the fibres together and form a solid shape. Continue this process, adding more wool as needed and shaping it until you achieve the desired look. You can embellish your ornaments with additional colors or details, using the needle to secure them in place.
Finally, attach a loop of yarn or ribbon for hanging. Needle-felted ornaments make unique decorations for your tree and can also be lovely handmade gifts for friends and family.
Many people start with a kit, you can choose from one of these:
25. Frosted pinecone vase
Frosted pinecone vases are a tasteful and muted way to bring a little winter charm into your home. To make them, spray pinecones with white paint or faux snow spray for a frosty finish. Once dry, arrange the pinecones in a clear glass vase, hurricane candle holder or a wide bowl.
26. Winter wall art
Create your own winter wall art by painting serene winter landscapes onto canvas or wood, or trying out more abstract designs using words, collage or different textures of fabric and paper.
Alternatively, frame seasonal prints or photographs that evoke the magic of winter.
27. Winter bunting
Winter bunting is a cheerful and celebratory way to decorate your home for the season.
To create your own, choose fabric offcuts in pale wintery tones like white, silver and light blue, or with wintery prints such as snowflakes and stars. Cut into triangles and stitch onto long lengths of ribbon.
Hang your winter bunting across walls, doorways, or mantels to add a whimsical touch to your decor.
28. Paper doily snowflakes
Paper doily snowflakes are SUCH an easy, effective and inexpensive winter decoration. To make these delicate decorations, fold paper doilies in half, then in half again, and once more, to create a triangle shape. Using scissors, cut out various shapes along the edges to create intricate designs. Once you unfold the doilies, you’ll be left with beautiful snowflake patterns!
You can hang these lovely snowflakes in windows, string them together as a garland, or even use as table decorations. Their lacy, airy look adds a delightful wintery feel to any space.
29. Wishing jars
Wishing jars are a lovely way to add a personal touch to your winter decor, while also spreading positivity.
Decorate small glass jars or bottles with twine or winter-themed embellishments. Write down your wishes or positive affirmations on colourful paper and fill the jars with these notes. You can also add decorative elements like glitter, crystals, flower petals and dried herbs and spices.
Display your wishing jars on a mantel or table as a beautiful reminder of your hopes for the season ahead.
30. Rune decorations
Incorporate ancient symbolism and magick into your seasonal decor by making hanging decorations from wooden runes.
Make your own by cutting thin wooden slices and drilling a small hole at the top of each one. Then carefully paint or inscribe them with rune symbols that resonate with you, each representing different intentions or energies.
Once your runes are ready, thread a piece of colourful twine through each hold and hang on your yule tree, or string them all together as a striking garland.
These mystical decorations not only add an intriguing element to your winter decor, but will bringa sense of intention and spirituality to the season.
31. Faux fur throws
Making your own faux fur throw is a fun DIY project that will add SO much warmth to your winter decor.
Choos a soft faux fur fabric in your favourite colours, and cut it to about 50 by 60 inches. Finish the edges by sewing or use a fabric glue to prevent fraying. Once complete, drape your cozy throw over a sofa or bed for a stylish and inviting touch.
32. Embellished blankets
Embellished blankets are a unique way to uplevel your cosy winter home decor.
I love starting with a plain blanket and getting creative by adding pom-poms, tassels, or a cute fringe along the edges. This DIY project will not only brighten up your space but also make it feel super inviting for snuggling up with a cup of hot cocoa on those chilly evenings.
33. Wooden star decorations
Starting with pre-cut wooden stars makes this crafting process super easy. You can paint them individually, or lay them all out flat and soak them in festive colours like white and gold, try a distressed finish or go for a vintage look.
Get creative with your embellishments, adding twine, glitter, or even tiny pinecones and dried flowers for a unique touch.
Hang single stars on your walls or use them as ornaments on your tree. Or string them together as a whimsical garland.
Choose which pre-cut stars to use here:
- 50 pre-drilled stars (makes threading and hanging SO much easier!)
- 12 large statement stars!
- 100 assorted size stars
- 100 hollow stars
34. Paperback yule tree
This cute and unusual christmas tree-shaped winter decoration can be made from old paperback books. Find the tutorial HERE on Kaylaaimee.com
35. Birch branch chandelier
A birch branch chandelier is a beautiful and striking way to bring nature indoors during winter. While traditionally made from birch, you can use any type of wood that calls to you.
Simply select a sturdy branch, attach light fixtures or fairy lights, and hang it from the ceiling with extra strong twine or fishing line. Embellish it with seasonal decorations like greenery or pinecones, as well as glass baubles, felted decorations and pendants for a rich, abundant, winter wonderland-esque display.
36. Winter quilt
A winter quilt is a lovely way to add warmth and style to your home during the chilly months.
To create your own, choose cosy, winter-themed fabrics in colours you love, like deep reds and blues. Cut the fabric into tesalating shapes and sew them together to form the quilt top. Layer it with batting and a backing fabric, then quilt it all together for texture.
Yes, it may take some time and planning, but this DIY project will provide a beautiful, functional and timeless piece to your home.
37. Winter plant pots
Decorating small indoor plant pots is a delightful way to add extra (living ) greenery indoors during the colder months.
Gather a collection of plain terracotta or ceramic pots, and get creative by painting them in festive colours and decorating them with simple stencilled designs. Once your pots are ready, fill them with hardy indoor plants like succulents or small evergreens, and arrange in decorative groups.
38. Seasonal quotes art
If you’re a bit of a wordsmith, making art from your favourite seasonal quotes can be an uplifting DIY project that keeps on giving!
Hand-letter your favourite wintry quotes onto beautiful paper, canvas, or pieces of wood. Get creative with your design by incorporating winter motifs like snowflakes and simple illustrations. Frame your artwork or hang it as somewhere prominent in your home!
39. Paper folded stars
Making paper-folded stars is one of my favourite DIY Winter decor ideas, and it is a great craft to make with older kids and teens. There are so many tutorials online, but I love to sit down with a good old-fashioned book on a cosy winter evening. And there are some really beautiful books out there… Here are a few that I recommend:
- Paper Folding: Learn in a Weekend. This book is a brand new release, and it’s gorgeous!
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- Not just stars!
40. Yule log
The Yule log is a traditional Celtic symbol of winter. When burned (and kept alight) it was believed to encourage the sun to keep moving after it appeared to stand still over the 13 days of winter.
Make yours by choosing a sturdy log, ideally about a foot long, and cleaning it thoroughly. Decorate the log with natural elements like evergreen sprigs, holly, cinnamon sticks, and dried orange slices, securing them with twine or hot glue. You can also add candles on top for a cosy touch.
Yule logs are traditionally burned in the hearth on the eve of winter solstice, so you could set yours alight, or simply symbolise the burning fire with candles.
41. Paper candle lanterns
Winter light bags are a simple yet magical way to illuminate your space and create a cosy, inviting atmosphere. To make your own, start with simple paper or fabric bags and cut out winter-themed shapes like snowflakes, stars, or trees. Place a battery-operated tea light or LED candle inside each bag for a safe and enchanting glow.
You can line these light bags along pathways, on your mantel, or as table centerpieces to add a warm, inviting touch.
42. Fabric tinsel
If you LOVE tinsel but hate the plastic, making fabric tinsel could be your new favourite winter decoration idea!
Check out THIS tutorial from Sewingbeefabrics.com
43. DIY candle holders
There are SO many ways to make DIY candle holders, from sculpting clay to decorating glass votives, it really depends on your own taste and the resources you have. I love these tutorials:
44. Mini stocking garland
A mini stocking garland is a fun way to brighten up your winter decor and is guaranteed to get the kids involved!
Use sheets of felt in your chosen colours and patterns, and carefully cut our small stocking shapes. Sew pieces together back to back, turn inside out and add embellishments like fluffy rims and pompoms.
If you’re feeling extra generous, fill each stocking with treats , then string them together using twine or ribbon.
45. Ribbon card display
What do you do with all your yule and Christmas cards? Display them on beautiful hanging ribbons of course!
The key is to use luxurious thick, textured ribbon with stripes or patterns, and fix tour cards using statement pegs, clasps and pins.
Hang your ribbon card displays on the back of doors, from your Christmas wreaths, or frosted decorative branches for added impact.
Choose your ribbon:
46. Holiday table runner
A holiday table runner is a fantastic way to add a festive touch to your dining space during the winter season.
Create your own by choosing a beautiful fabric that reflects your style – from rich reds, and forest greens, to neutral, understated tones or even sparkling metallics. Cut and hem the fabric to your desired length and width, and add seasonal appliqués, stencils, or even embroidery.
47. Hand stencilled wrapping paper
Hand-stencilled wrapping paper is a creative way to add a personal touch to your gift-giving, and it can also save you a lot of money on buying expensive gift wrap.
Start with rolls of brown craft paper, and stencil on festive designs like snowflakes, stars, or holiday motifs. Make your own from doilies or cut paper, or buy a set of stencils you can use again and again.
Use a sponge or brush to apply paint to the paper, and repeat the process until you achieve your desired look.
Get stencils here:
48. Shiny brite vintage wreath
Creating a Shiny Brite vintage wreath is a fun way to add some retro holiday cheer to your decor.
You’ll need a sturdy wreath base and a selection of vintage Shiny Brite ornaments (or similar). Arrange the ornaments on the base, mixing colours and sizes, then secure them in place with floral wire or hot glue. For extra kitsch charm, add ribbons, and once finished, hang your vibrant wreath on your door for a nostalgic touch!
49. Holiday photo memory wreath
Creating a holiday photo memory wreath is a lovely way to celebrate cherished moments and remember those who have passed.
Start with a wreath base and gather together all your favourite holiday photos. Print them in a uniform size and attach them to the wreath using clips or glue. Add decorative elements like ribbons, ornaments or sprigs of greenery for an unusual, yet meaningful piece.
50. Traditional Yule wreath
Last but absolutely not least, no winter home is complete at Yuletide without a home-crafted wreath hanging on the front door.
To create a traditional Yule wreath, start by gathering evergreen leaves, twigs with berries, and other natural foliage, along with a wreath base made of straw, wire, or willow. Trim the stems to about 4-6 inches and make small bundles in various designs, securing them with string.
Attach these bundles around the wreath base, alternating designs and layering them to hide the string for a fuller look. Fill in any gaps with additional sprigs and twigs until the wreath is balanced.
Finally, secure any loose stems, trim excess, and add a ribbon or twine for hanging, then display your beautiful wreath on your front door or a prominent wall!
Your dried flower wreath will not only beautify your space but will also serve as a seasonal reminder of Mother nature’s green shoots, even in the darkness of deep midwinter.
There you go!
Hopefully, you have found some winter decor ideas to inspire you, and some crafts to get you into the creative spirit. Share the pins on this article to share the love!
