This time of year can feel like everything is operating in a state of fast-forward. Rushing is just not the vibe, but sometimes it’s impossible to avoid! Especially when it’s the holiday season. The end of the year can be stressful, particularly when you find out you have a last-minute party to go to and need a gift ASAP. While there are plenty of gift guides that include online shopping or going to crowded malls, we have another alternative. Upcycle what you have! 

In this article, you will find some simple yet chic gifting, wrapping, and decorating ideas for a calmer and more sustainable holiday season. 

gifting

customized cotton napkins 

Whether you upcycle some napkins you have hanging around the house, thrift, or find them new, adding a personalized touch to a household staple is a great way to tell someone you care about them! 

DIY DENIM!!!!

Do we all have a few pairs of jeans lying around that just aren’t the vibe anymore but haven’t had a chance to let them go, orrrr is that just me?! For a funky and personalized gift, consider these awesome upcycling ideas! 

These coasters?!??!! These are such simple and easy items to make.

If you have a needle, thread, and spare fabric (hello, old pillowcases?!?), these customized jeans are such a cool idea.

macramé 

Fun fact: macramé can be made from a number of natural fibers, including cotton! This super cute heart macramé key chain is an awesome gift, or for the plant lover in your world, consider making this!

little love notes

Nothing means more to the words of affirmation love language girlie in your life than a heartfelt note! This idea (or this one!) is such a fantastic option for anyone who has a lot to say. 

Adding a new, customized spin to a classic game is another fabulous option! We love this idea for Jenga or this idea for Guess Who.

Check out even more ideas here!

@fellas.finds part 3!!! for my crafty girls making their gifts for the holidays – I think these might be my favorite so far!!!❤️ #giftideas #christmasgifts #uniquegiftideas #handmadegifts #crafts #craftygirl #holidaygifts ♬ All I Want for Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey

wrapping 

Another way to utilize and upcycle fabric you find around the house, like old tablecloths, tea towels, dresses, etc, is by using it to wrap your gifts. 

Not a lot of fabric that matches the aesthetic you’re going for? Opting for old newspapers or magazines as wrapping paper is a chic and easy way to repurpose items that already exist in your home!

@ashalanisRecycling our local newspaper as our christmas wrapping paper this year 📰🎁🔔🫶✨♻️✨✨♬ Sixty Second Commercial 1 by Michael Reynolds – malcolm


decorating

A simple way to get into the holiday spirit is adding some spice to your environment. Whether you’re decorating for a party or just to lift your spirits, here are some ideas to elevate any space. Really, you can use just about anything when creating a garland, ornament, or centerpiece.

We love this scrap fabric option, a snowy tree made from yarn, and this fabulous decor utilizing oranges! 

@jess.cliftonn My diy from last year hehe will make more soon #slowliving #simpleliving #diychristmas #christmascottage #granola #underconsumption #deinfluencer ♬ Christmas Wrapping – Long Version – The Waitresses

Leftover paper from wrapping? Make a fabulous star!

may your wishes come true this holiday season!

We hope you enjoyed this gift guide and would love to hear if you try out any of these ideas.