Easy Christmas decorating ideas

Deck the walls

Lighting always creates an impact, so get started on your decorating by stringing Christmas lights around railings, windows, doorframes and the mirrors in the bathroom. If you’re buying new, choose LEDs or solar-powered lights to save on the power bill.

Now add lots of tinsel. Drape that slinky, shining rope over railings, around doorways or across the ceiling of any room.

Christmas stockings are traditionally hung over the fireplace, but you can start your own tradition: hang them on a shelf, window or even the back of a chair. Put your Christmas cards on display. They’re an easy way to incorporate seasonal imagery and remember loved ones.

Set the mood

Small details can make a big difference when adding a seasonal touch to your home.

• Cut a six-inch piece of fresh rosemary, add a cinnamon stick and some lavender and tie it all up with a red ribbon. The smell will be instantly evocative.
• Tie a couple of large silver bells with festive ribbon and hang them on the front doorknob.
• Swap all those unread magazines and books lying around on tables and countertops with Christmas books. Read them aloud to entertain the kids and get yourself in the festive mood.
• Stand some plain white candles in glass jars; tie green, red or gold ribbon around them and place on tables, mantles and in the bathroom.

Merry craftmas

If you have time to get a little crafty, cook up your own decorations and treats:

• Gingerbread men are fun to bake and perfect for serving to drop-in guests. Get your kids and friends involved and make an afternoon of it. Remember to put a hole in the top before cooking, so you can thread them with ribbon and hang them on the tree.
• Pinecones or fallen banksia pods make interesting (and cheap) baubles with a splash of gold paint and a ribbon.
• For unique Christmas decorations that friends and family can scrawl personal messages on, coat baubles with chalkboard paint.

It’s a wrap

Throw some green and red slipcovers over the furniture, then start wrapping presents that you’ve already bought and put them on display under the tree. The family will be beside themselves with excitement by the time Christmas morning arrives!

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Whatever you do for Christmas, it’s always a lot more fun if you relax and get into the festive spirit.