The holiday season is upon us – a time of joy, togetherness, and festive decorations that make your home feel warm and welcoming. But why not make this year’s holiday decor more sustainable? By using thrifted items from Goodwill of Silicon Valley, you can create a stunning, eco-friendly display that captures the magic of the season while supporting the environment and your community. Get ready to impress your family and friends with unique holiday decorations that you’ve upcycled and repurposed with love.
Why Thrift Your Holiday Decor?
When you choose to thrift, you’re not only saving money, but you’re also making an eco-conscious choice. Millions of holiday decorations end up in landfills every year. By giving pre-loved items a second chance, you’re helping reduce waste and your carbon footprint. Plus, thrift shopping allows you to find vintage and unique pieces that you can’t get anywhere else perfect for creating a one-of-a-kind holiday decor.
Step 1: Deck the Halls with Thrifted Ornaments and Garland
One of the easiest ways to bring holiday cheer into your home is by decorating with thrifted ornaments and garlands.
- Vintage Ornaments: Goodwill stores often have a fantastic selection of vintage glass ornaments, which can add a touch of nostalgia and charm to your holiday decor. Mix and match different colors and styles for an eclectic tree that feels curated and unique.
- DIY Ornaments: If you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, don’t worry—make your own! Purchase plain glass or plastic ornaments from Goodwill and decorate them with paint, glitter, or ribbon. This is a fun activity to do with kids or as a holiday crafting party with friends.
- Upcycled Garland: Look for strands of beaded garlands or fabric scraps at Goodwill. String together beads, popcorn, or cranberries for a festive, homemade garland. Or, use thrifted fabric to make a cozy, rustic bunting to drape over your fireplace mantel.
Step 2: Create a Stunning Tablescape with Thrifted Dishware and Textiles
Make your holiday dinner extra special with a beautifully set table using thrifted items.
- Mix and Match Dinnerware: Don’t worry about having a perfectly matched set of plates. Mixing different patterns and colors adds a whimsical touch to your holiday table. Look for plates with holiday motifs like holly, snowflakes, or stars.
- Seasonal Glassware: Keep an eye out for vintage glassware, such as crystal goblets or colored glasses in festive hues like red, green, or gold. These unique pieces will add a touch of elegance to your holiday table.
- Table Linens: Goodwill often has an array of tablecloths, placemats, and napkins that can elevate your tablescape. Choose items in holiday colors or patterns. For an eco-friendly twist, opt for cloth napkins instead of disposable ones—they’re both stylish and sustainable.
Step 3: Light Up Your Home with Thrifted Candle Holders and Lanterns
The soft, warm glow of candlelight creates an inviting atmosphere during the holiday season. You can easily find and repurpose candle holders from Goodwill to suit your holiday style.
- Repurposed Candle Holders: Thrift stores are full of candle holders made of brass, glass, or ceramic. Give them a festive update with a fresh coat of gold, silver, or metallic paint. Cluster different sizes together on your dining table, coffee table, or mantel for a cozy display.
- DIY Lanterns: Pick up mason jars, old glass jars, or even teacups from Goodwill to create DIY lanterns. Fill them with battery-operated tea lights or small candles. Add a touch of holiday flair by filling the jars with faux snow, cranberries, or small pinecones.
- Holiday Scented Candles: Thrifted jars and mugs can be transformed into homemade candles. Use soy wax and add holiday scents like cinnamon, peppermint, or pine for a festive aroma that will fill your home.
Step 4: Cozy Up Your Living Space with Thrifted Textiles and Accents
Holiday decor isn’t complete without soft, cozy accents that make your home feel inviting.
- Thrifted Throw Blankets: Look for blankets in holiday colors or patterns like plaid, snowflakes, or reindeer. Drape them over your sofa or chairs for a warm, festive touch. You can also use thrifted blankets as tree skirts for a unique and budget-friendly solution.
- Seasonal Throw Pillows: Thrift stores often have a variety of throw pillows. Choose ones with holiday themes, or pick up plain pillows and DIY your own covers using thrifted fabric. Try stenciling snowflakes or reindeer onto the fabric for a personalized touch.
- Festive Baskets: Use wicker baskets to display your holiday cards, hold pinecones, or store extra blankets. A thrifted basket filled with ornaments or fairy lights makes a charming centerpiece or corner accent.
Step 5: Impress Your Guests with Thrifted Entryway Decor
The entryway sets the tone for your holiday decor and is the first thing your guests will see when they arrive.
- DIY Holiday Wreath: Thrift stores often carry grapevine wreaths or old artificial wreaths that you can refresh. Add new elements like faux berries, ribbons, or thrifted ornaments. Hang your wreath on your front door or inside above the fireplace for a welcoming holiday greeting.
- Festive Vignettes: Create a small holiday display using a thrifted tray, candles, and small decorations. Add a touch of greenery, like faux pine branches or eucalyptus, for a fresh look. This setup works great on a console table or in your hallway.
- Repurposed Picture Frames: Look for picture frames at Goodwill and paint them in holiday colors like red, green, or gold. Use them to frame holiday-themed prints or family photos. You can even create a gallery wall of festive memories.
Step 6: Get the Kids Involved with Thrifted Craft Supplies
Holiday decorating can be a family affair! Thrifted items are perfect for kid-friendly DIY projects.
- Decorate a Mini Tree: Look for small artificial trees at Goodwill and let the kids decorate their own. Provide them with thrifted ornaments, ribbons, and crafting supplies like buttons or glitter.
- Holiday Craft Kits: Pick up thrifted jars and fill them with all the supplies needed for a fun holiday craft, like decorating ornaments or making snow globes. These kits make great gifts for family or friends, too.
Celebrate with Purpose and Style
Thrifting your holiday decor not only makes your home beautiful and unique, but it also aligns with the spirit of the season—giving back. When you shop at Goodwill of Silicon Valley, you’re supporting our mission to provide job training, employment opportunities, and essential services to people in our community. Your purchases make a positive impact and help create a brighter future for those in need.
This holiday season, let’s embrace sustainability, creativity, and the joy of giving. Visit your local Goodwill store and start transforming your home into a festive wonderland with thrifted treasures that will make your holidays magical.
Shop Sustainably, Decorate Creatively
Find your nearest Goodwill of Silicon Valley location today and start your holiday decorating adventure. Remember, every item you buy helps support our mission and makes a difference in the community. Happy Holidays and Happy Thrifting!