3 Great Projects that Turn Trash into Christmas Tree Treasures

I love the holiday season especially when it comes to decorating the Christmas tree. Tree trimming is serious business in my family, and I'm usually content to sit back and watch my parents debate the placement of each ornament. It's not always easy. Our ornaments are a mish-mash collection of beautiful gifts from friends and family, kitchy junk that we find too funny to get rid of, and homemade treasures that hold memories and history, so it takes some work to keep the overall look balanced.

I've often thought of what I'll do for decorations when I finally bite the bullet and get my own big tree. Will I go out and buy a bunch of shiny balls and sparkling snowflakes? I doubt it; it would simply cost too much. And why would I spend money on things when there are all manner of objects I can reinvent for decorating my tree?

If you're looking for some ways to stretch your dollar and go green this holiday season, get started with one of these simple and cheap (or free!) upcycling projects.

Christmas Light Redux

Many people have you upgraded to LED holiday lights indoors and out to reduce energy consumption, only to wonder what to do with that old set of lights. Rather than letting your old outdoor lights collect dust, put the bubs to good use as ornaments. Simply tie a loop of ribbon or twist a length of wire around the metal base of each bulb and hang them on the tree. Your LED lights will help illuminate them.

Old Tiny Toys Aglitter

You know all those little toys from fast food joints and the small stocking stuffers your kids have abandoned? If the toys are too weathered to donate to a charity shop, bring them new life as glittery ornaments. Apply a thin coat of non-toxic glue and sprinkle sparkles onto the toy (place a sheet of paper under to catch excess sparkles so you don't waste any). Let dry for a few hours, and Voila! -- you have a glittery ornament.

Keep It Natural with Walnut Shells

I love walnuts in December, and the great thing about them is you can often crack the shell perfectly in half, leaving you with great crafting material. One of the easiest and most effective ways to upcycle walnut shells as ornaments is to simply put them back together! Cut a six-inch length of thread and tie the ends together. Apply glue to the rim of the shell halves. Take the piece of thread and set it on one half of the shell with the knot sitting just inside the shell and the loop outside the shell. Press the shell halves together and hold to allow the glue to bond. Make just a few to scatter on the tree or a couple dozen for a stunning natural effect.

These three projects can get you started on your personal, homemade an cheap ornament collection, but don't sop there -- look around your home and office for all sorts of interesting materials. It might just help you create a new holiday tradition.