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Festive, Foraged, and Fuss-Free: 8 Seriously Easy, Nonchalantly Stylish DIY Holiday Decorations

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Holiday Decor

Festive, Foraged, and Fuss-Free: 8 Seriously Easy, Nonchalantly Stylish DIY Holiday Decorations

December 8, 2023

I’ve been thinking about making festive dried citrus garlands for years. They’re supposed to be an easy DIY project, something even a small child could probably pull off. Yet, they remain on a long list of craft projects that I would like to someday try. Though, not this year. And probably not next year either. The fruit garland may be easy—just not easy enough for me.

How low-effort do I need my DIY projects to be? The other night, I trimmed a branch from our Christmas tree. I didn’t want to just throw it away, so I hung it upside-down from the latch of the gate to our backyard. Instant holiday cheer. That is the level of effort I require from my DIY decorations.

I don’t think I’m alone in my fear of sewing machines and nail guns—which is why I’ve rounded up the most basic (yet elegant) DIY holiday decorations, all using foraged botanicals, from our site. No shopping necessary. No painting required. No YouTube video needed. Enjoy.

1. Gather and display.

Maria Le Mesurier is wiz at decorating her home for the holiday using natural elements she finds on her property. Here, branches of eucalyptus hang in a bunch on the wall. It smells delicious and also dries beautifully,” she says. Photograph by Maria Le Mesurier, from DIY Holiday Decor: Foraged Foliage Decorations in Designer Maria le Mesurier&#8\2\17;s Home.
Above: Maria Le Mesurier is wiz at decorating her home for the holiday using natural elements she finds on her property. Here, branches of eucalyptus hang in a bunch on the wall. It smells delicious and also dries beautifully,” she says. Photograph by Maria Le Mesurier, from DIY Holiday Decor: Foraged Foliage Decorations in Designer Maria le Mesurier’s Home.

2. Tie together and hang.

Justine, our resident crafter extraordinaire, set out to create a more complicated display but realized the eucalyptus branches she bought at Whole Foods were elegant enough to have a starring role on her mantel. Photograph by Justine Hand, from DIY: Minimalist Holiday Mantel, \$\10 Edition.
Above: Justine, our resident crafter extraordinaire, set out to create a more complicated display but realized the eucalyptus branches she bought at Whole Foods were elegant enough to have a starring role on her mantel. Photograph by Justine Hand, from DIY: Minimalist Holiday Mantel, $10 Edition.

3. Stick it in a vase.

A reminder that branches of evergreen in a vase is arresting enough for a holiday table centerpiece. Photograph by Alexa Hotz. You can find this and other truly easy DIY decorations in Single-Ingredient Holiday Decor, \10 Ideas.
Above: A reminder that branches of evergreen in a vase is arresting enough for a holiday table centerpiece. Photograph by Alexa Hotz. You can find this and other truly easy DIY decorations in Single-Ingredient Holiday Decor, 10 Ideas.

4. Lay it on a table.

The DIY votives here may be too hard for me to make, but the garland that bisects the length of this pretty tablescape? That, I can do. Just forage for greenery and lay flat in an artful line. Photograph by Justine Hand, from DIY: Easy Ceramic Votive Holders for a Festive Table.
Above: The DIY votives here may be too hard for me to make, but the garland that bisects the length of this pretty tablescape? That, I can do. Just forage for greenery and lay flat in an artful line. Photograph by Justine Hand, from DIY: Easy Ceramic Votive Holders for a Festive Table.

5. Top with berries.

A bouquet of foraged beautyberries as a Christmas tree topper. Photograph by John Merkl, from DIY: A Woodland Holiday Party (Indoors).
Above: A bouquet of foraged beautyberries as a Christmas tree topper. Photograph by John Merkl, from DIY: A Woodland Holiday Party (Indoors).

6. String them up.

Another fantastically simple idea for Single-Ingredient Holiday Decor. &#8\2\20;It’s nothing more than kitchen string tied around pinecones with stems—the stems are what’s key,&#8\2\2\1; says Margot, whose own pine cone garland stayed up long after the holidays. Photograph via Bob Villa.
Above: Another fantastically simple idea for Single-Ingredient Holiday Decor. “It’s nothing more than kitchen string tied around pinecones with stems—the stems are what’s key,” says Margot, whose own pine cone garland stayed up long after the holidays. Photograph via Bob Villa.

7. Snip and show.

Instead of leaving your poinsettias in their gaudy foil-wrapped plastic pots, cut single stems and insert into multiple bud vases for a stylish holiday arrangement. Photograph by Michelle Slatalla, from Poinsettias: Rethinking a Christmas Cliché.
Above: Instead of leaving your poinsettias in their gaudy foil-wrapped plastic pots, cut single stems and insert into multiple bud vases for a stylish holiday arrangement. Photograph by Michelle Slatalla, from Poinsettias: Rethinking a Christmas Cliché.

8. Prop it up and forget about it.

Tall branches of Scottish spruce lean elegantly against a wall in the powder room. Photograph by Maria Le Mesurier, from DIY Holiday Decor: Foraged Foliage Decorations in Designer Maria le Mesurier&#8\2\17;s Home.
Above: Tall branches of Scottish spruce lean elegantly against a wall in the powder room. Photograph by Maria Le Mesurier, from DIY Holiday Decor: Foraged Foliage Decorations in Designer Maria le Mesurier’s Home.

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Frequently asked questions

What is Gardenista?

Gardenista is a website that provides resources and inspiration for garden and outdoor living.

What does the article discuss?

The article discusses free, festive, and easy-to-make DIY holiday decorations.

Are the DIY decorations difficult to make?

No, the DIY decorations suggested in the article are seriously simple and easy to make.

Do I need to spend money on materials for these decorations?

No, the article focuses on free DIY decorations, so you won't need to spend money on materials.

Can I use these decorations for any holiday?

Yes, these DIY decorations can be used for various holidays, not just the winter season.

Is there a step-by-step guide available for each decoration?

The article provides step-by-step instructions and visuals for each DIY decoration.

Do I need specialized tools to create these decorations?

No, the decorations can be made using basic household tools and materials.

Can I involve my children in making these decorations?

Certainly! These DIY decorations can be a fun and engaging activity for the whole family.

Is there a deadline for making these decorations?

No, you can make these DIY decorations at any time to add a festive touch to your home.

Where can I find more DIY ideas for home decor?

You can explore other articles on Gardenista or search for DIY home decor ideas online.

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