Do-It-Yourself Holiday Tips

Given the economic downturn, families today are cutting back on unnecessary expenses and luxury items. But, cost cutting doesn't mean "no fun" this Christmas and holiday season. There are lots of ways you can cut costs while keeping the Christmas and holiday cheer in good supply.

Where to start? Stay out of the stores and do things yourself. That's right: you can save big bucks by avoiding the mall this year and taking on a DYI project. Other ideas? Check out these 5 great ways to reduce Christmas and holiday spending without cutting back on the fun. DIY projects that are easy to do and go a long way in keeping this year's Christmas and holiday spending in check.

Make your own stuffing
I particularly like Chesapeake Bay Oyster Dressing from Emeril, Southern Cornbread Stuffing from Paula Deen and Traditional Holiday Stuffing from Martha Stewart. Other ideas? Prepare two boxes of Stove Top Stuffing Mix and add your own chopped onions, celery, nuts and more. Sure to impress your Christmas and holiday guests without breaking the bank this holiday season.

Make your own tree ornaments
Wine bottle corks make excellent green DIY tree ornaments. All you have to do core the cork using a corkscrew. Place jewelry wire through the center. Decorate the wire with glass beads and other touches and you're ready to go. Other ideas? Try hanging snowflakes cut from recycled paper. No two are alike and it's a great DIY project for everyone in the family. These are just two ideas on how you can cut costs by making your own tree ornaments and other decorations this year.

Make your own holiday favors and gifts
Company coming to town? Make sure they leave with a holiday favor or gift made by you. Hand crafted chocolates. Homemade cookies and tea cakes. Marinated mushrooms. Spiced nuts and party mix. Look for recipes on The Food Network or Good Housekeeping. The skies the limit on homemade holiday and favors and gifts this year.

Make your own holiday decorations
Why buy flowers and center pieces when you can make your own this holiday season? Not only will a homemade center piece and accent arrangement save you money, it's fun to do with the whole family. If you have a yard, it's easy to make your own holiday decorations this year. All you have to do is cut sprigs of greenery from your garden shrubs, arrange them in a pretty vase and tie a festive holiday ribbon around them. I like to you rosemary and other herbs in my DIY holiday decorations. You'll save money and it's great fun for everyone in the family.

Make your own wrapping paper
Not sure what to do with old newspaper, magazines or packing paper? Make your own holiday gift wrap this year. It's an easy way to save money on gift wrap and it's a green DIY solution this holiday season. Use twine, sprigs of Rosemary, markers, stickers and more to decorate your recycled paper for the holidays.

RESOURCES
Martha Stewart Living
www.marthastewart.com
Do It Yourself Network
www.diynetwork.com