Creating a high-end look for your Christmas decor doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. With a little creativity, even budget-friendly items from the dollar store can become elegant holiday decorations that look anything but cheap. Whether you’re decorating your home or gifting handmade pieces, these ideas will help you create beautiful crafts that appear luxurious without breaking the bank.
Dollar stores offer a range of seasonal supplies that can be transformed into upscale Christmas decorations. From glass ornaments to faux greenery, there’s a wealth of potential waiting in those aisles. These materials are not only affordable but also easy to personalize, giving you control over color, texture, and design to suit your holiday style.
In this post, you’ll find 18 simple yet stylish dollar store Christmas crafts. You’ll learn how to make everything from elegant ornaments to show-stopping centerpieces, each with a professional, high-end feel. So grab your glue gun, a few supplies, and let’s get started on crafting a holiday season filled with class and cheer!
Essential Tools & Supplies
Before diving into specific crafts, it’s helpful to have a few essential tools and supplies on hand. Dollar stores often carry glue guns, paints, brushes, and plenty of seasonal decor like ornaments and faux greenery. These basics will make it easier to craft multiple projects without needing to make additional trips to the store.
You’ll also want to gather specialty items like metallic spray paints, glitter, ribbons, and faux snow. These details help elevate the look of each project and make dollar store items feel high-end. Dollar stores often have spray paints in festive colors like gold, silver, and metallic red, which can instantly make a piece feel more expensive.
When shopping, try to visit early in the season for the best selection of holiday decor items. Popular items sell out quickly, especially ornaments, miniatures, and seasonal greenery. With the right supplies, you’ll be able to create upscale Christmas decor that’s as stylish as it is affordable.
18 Classy Dollar Store Christmas Crafts for a High-End Look
1. Elegant Glass Ornament Makeover
Plain glass or plastic ornaments are a staple of dollar store holiday decor, but a simple upgrade can transform them into chic, high-end decorations. Start by selecting a color scheme, such as metallic gold and silver or a classic combination of deep red and forest green. Use spray paint or acrylic paint to give the ornaments a base color, then add details like glitter, sequins, or small bows for a luxe touch.
To apply glitter, brush a thin layer of glue onto the ornament and roll it in glitter or gently sprinkle glitter over the top. For a more subtle look, use metallic or pearlized paints, which give a sophisticated sheen without the sparkle. You can also tie a ribbon around the top of each ornament for an added touch of elegance; velvet ribbons work especially well for this effect.
These ornaments look beautiful when hung on a Christmas tree, placed in a bowl as a centerpiece, or used to decorate holiday garlands. Consider creating a full set in a similar color palette to give your decor a cohesive, high-end feel. This project is an easy way to make dollar store ornaments look luxurious and professionally crafted.
2. DIY Mercury Glass Candle Holders
Mercury glass is a popular decor trend, known for its antique yet elegant appearance. You can replicate this look using plain glass candle holders from the dollar store and a can of mirror-effect spray paint. Begin by cleaning the glass thoroughly to ensure the paint adheres well, then spray a thin layer of paint on the inside of the glass for a frosted, vintage effect.
After the paint dries, add a second layer if you want a more opaque look. For a textured finish, use a sponge to lightly dab the paint while it’s still wet, creating the distinctive mottled pattern associated with mercury glass. If you want to add a bit of shimmer, try applying a small amount of gold or silver glitter to the outside of the candle holder before the paint dries completely.
These mercury glass candle holders make perfect centerpieces for holiday gatherings or add a touch of elegance to your mantel. Place LED tea lights inside for a warm glow that highlights the unique patterning. These DIY mercury glass holders are an affordable way to bring sophistication and a warm holiday glow to your decor.
3. Faux Fur Tree Skirt
A luxurious tree skirt can really enhance the look of your Christmas tree, and you can create one on a budget using faux fur fabric from the dollar store. Start by measuring the area around your tree stand, and cut the fabric into a circular shape that fits comfortably around the base. For added flair, you can use white fur for a snow-inspired look or opt for a color that complements your overall decor.
To make the tree skirt even more durable, consider adding a layer of felt underneath the faux fur for extra thickness and stability. Attach the felt with fabric glue or a hot glue gun, making sure to press firmly to avoid any wrinkles or gaps. You can also cut a slit from the edge of the circle to the center, allowing you to wrap the skirt around the base of the tree easily.
Once complete, this faux fur tree skirt adds a soft, sophisticated touch to your holiday decor. It complements various themes, from rustic to modern, and makes even the simplest tree look more elegant. This project is a great example of how dollar store materials can be used to create a high-end, designer feel without the expense.
4. Festive Mason Jar Snow Globes
Mason jar snow globes are charming and customizable, making them perfect for a variety of holiday decor themes. To start, fill the bottom of a mason jar with fake snow from the dollar store or use small pieces of white foam. Add miniature Christmas trees, tiny deer figurines, or even small ornaments to create a festive scene inside each jar.
Use hot glue to secure the miniatures to the inside of the lid, ensuring they stay in place when the jar is upright. Once the scene is set, screw the lid back on, and turn the jar upside down to see your winter wonderland come to life. To enhance the look, consider painting the lids gold or silver and adding a ribbon around the top.
Display these snow globes on a mantle, use them as part of a table centerpiece, or give them as gifts to family and friends. These easy DIY snow globes add a playful yet sophisticated element to holiday decor, with each one showcasing a unique scene. Making a set of these will bring a high-end, custom feel to your home this season.
5. Luxurious Wreath Using Pinecones and Ornaments
Wreaths are a classic holiday decoration, and creating one with pinecones and ornaments from the dollar store can add a touch of luxury to your home. Begin by purchasing a foam wreath form and an assortment of pinecones and small ornaments in complementary colors like silver, gold, or deep red. Attach the pinecones around the wreath form using hot glue, varying their angles and sizes to give a full, textured look.
Once the pinecones are secured, add the ornaments between them, using smaller baubles to fill in gaps. To elevate the design, consider spray painting the entire wreath in a metallic shade or dusting the tips of the pinecones with white paint for a frosted effect. The use of metallic ornaments and painted pinecones gives the wreath a luxe look that pairs beautifully with classic Christmas decor.
Hang this wreath on your front door or above the fireplace to create an elegant holiday statement. Adding a bow made from velvet ribbon can enhance its sophistication, making it look far more expensive than it really is. With a few simple dollar store items and a bit of creativity, this wreath will bring festive cheer with high-end appeal.
6. Glamorous Table Centerpiece with Glass Candleholders
Creating an impressive table centerpiece can set the tone for your holiday dining room, and using dollar store glass candleholders can help you achieve that without overspending. Start by selecting a few different-sized glass candleholders and adding tall, thin taper candles in festive colors like deep red, gold, or white. Arrange these candleholders on a decorative tray for a cohesive look.
For an extra touch of holiday luxury, surround the candleholders with small ornaments, sprigs of faux pine, or even faux snow. To create a frosted glass effect on the candleholders, try applying a thin coat of frosted glass spray paint, giving them an elegant, icy look. You can also wrap each holder with metallic ribbon or lace for added texture and sophistication.
This centerpiece is not only versatile but also easy to adapt to any table size or decor style. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or something more ornate, this setup creates an inviting glow perfect for holiday gatherings. It’s an easy, affordable way to make your table look professionally decorated and set the mood for memorable celebrations.
7. Festive Garland with Faux Greenery
A faux greenery garland instantly adds a festive feel to any room, and it’s easy to create one with materials from the dollar store. Start by purchasing a few faux pine garlands and adding embellishments like berry sprigs, mini ornaments, and ribbon. Wrap the ornaments around the garland, securing them with floral wire or hot glue, and alternate with clusters of berries for a natural, balanced look.
To make the garland look more lush and realistic, try layering multiple strands of greenery and adding small pinecones. Faux snow spray can be lightly applied for a frosted appearance, or you can weave in a strand of twinkling fairy lights for an enchanting glow. Dollar store ribbons in metallic colors, like silver or gold, can be tied into bows and placed evenly along the garland.
This garland is perfect for draping over the mantel, around a banister, or along a dining table. It brings a cozy, high-end feel to any space and can be easily customized to match your holiday theme. With a mix of textures and a bit of sparkle, this dollar store garland is sure to make a beautiful, affordable addition to your holiday decor.
8. DIY Beaded Christmas Tree Cones
Create an elegant focal point with DIY Christmas tree cones decorated with dollar store beads. Start by purchasing a few foam cones in different sizes and a selection of pearl or metallic beads. Beginning at the base, glue the beads in rows, working your way up in a spiral or geometric pattern to add visual interest and a high-end appearance.
For added texture, alternate between small and large beads, or mix metallic shades like gold and silver for a chic, layered look. Once covered, the cones resemble designer holiday trees that add a sophisticated touch to any decor. To finish the look, you can lightly spray the trees with a hint of metallic paint, giving them a beautiful sheen.
Display these beaded Christmas tree cones on your mantel, bookshelf, or entryway table as a refined decoration. Their simplicity and elegance complement various holiday themes, from traditional to modern, making them a versatile addition to your holiday decor. Not only do they look expensive, but they’re also simple to make with a few affordable supplies.
9. Velvet Ribbon Tree Ornaments
Velvet ribbon ornaments are an easy way to add a luxurious feel to your Christmas tree. Start by selecting velvet ribbons in festive colors like emerald green, deep red, or royal blue. Cut the ribbons into equal lengths, and tie them into large bows. For a more polished look, you can use floral wire to secure the bows at the center, creating a fuller shape.
Next, glue or attach a small metallic ornament in the center of each bow for added dimension. You can also attach a loop of ribbon or floral wire to the back of each bow to hang them easily on tree branches. To give the ornaments an even more upscale appearance, lightly spray the edges with glitter or dust them with faux snow.
These velvet ornaments add a rich texture to your tree, contrasting beautifully with lights and other decorations. They’re especially perfect for a classic or vintage-inspired holiday theme, and their elegance belies their dollar store origins. The simplicity and sophistication of these ribbon ornaments are sure to elevate your tree’s overall look.
10. Candle Holders with Faux Frosted Branches
Adding a frosty touch to candle holders creates a cozy, wintry vibe, and dollar store supplies make it easy to pull off. Start with clear glass candle holders, which you can frost by applying a layer of faux snow spray to the outside. While the spray is still wet, gently press faux pine branches or berry sprigs onto the glass to secure them in place.
Once dried, the faux branches create a textured, frosted effect that looks intricate and expensive. For an added touch, wrap the base of each candle holder with twine or a thin metallic ribbon. You can also add small pinecones or berries to complete the look, giving the candle holders a rustic, seasonal feel.
Place these frosted candle holders on your mantel, windowsill, or dining table for a soft, wintery ambiance. They look particularly striking when grouped together with various sizes and heights, creating an enchanting display. These frosted candle holders will add a sophisticated, handcrafted touch to your holiday decor.
11. Gold-Dipped Faux Fruit Decor
Adding gold-dipped faux fruits can instantly elevate your holiday decor, bringing a touch of opulence to your tablescape or mantel. Head to the dollar store to find faux fruit like apples, pears, or even pomegranates. Begin by spray-painting half of each fruit in gold for a modern, dipped effect. To achieve this look, cover the areas you don’t want to paint with painter’s tape, then spray in light, even layers.
Once dry, remove the tape carefully to reveal the two-toned effect. For added glamour, consider dusting the gold areas with fine glitter. Arrange these golden fruits in a decorative bowl, or place them along a garland on your dining table to create a sophisticated holiday centerpiece.
These faux fruits bring a feeling of luxury to any room, pairing beautifully with other metallic decor or greenery. Not only do they look high-end, but they also add unique texture and interest to your decor. This DIY is perfect for those who want an elegant holiday theme that blends seamlessly with everyday home decor, making the holiday transition feel effortless.
12. Sophisticated Snow Globe with Glass Jars
Transform glass jars into elegant snow globes that look store-bought! All you need is a small dollar store glass jar, faux snow, and tiny holiday figurines or trees. Start by gluing the figurine or tree onto the underside of the jar’s lid, then add a small scoop of faux snow to the jar. Screw the lid back on, and when you turn it upright, the scene is magically snow-covered.
For a more refined look, use metallic spray paint to coat the lid or attach a ribbon around the lid’s base. Consider using different sized jars for a snow globe collection or adding a drop of glitter for extra sparkle. The great part about these jars is their versatility; you can personalize them with different scenes, colors, or elements to fit your decor.
These DIY snow globes make lovely holiday decor and can even serve as personalized gifts for friends and family. Their delicate winter scenes and subtle sparkle add charm to any table or shelf, creating a high-end holiday feel on a budget.
13. Elegant Napkin Rings with Bells and Ribbon
Dollar store napkin rings can be transformed into elegant table settings with a few simple upgrades. Start by choosing basic napkin rings, then glue a small holiday bell to each one, using metallic or velvet ribbon to wrap around the ring and create a sophisticated bow. The bell adds a lovely, festive touch and doubles as an accent for your holiday table.
Choose ribbon colors that complement your table setting—deep red, forest green, or rich golds all work beautifully. For added elegance, use a mix of different sized bells or mini ornaments to create variety. You could even incorporate sprigs of faux greenery or tiny pinecones for a more rustic twist on this classy craft.
These custom napkin rings add refinement to your holiday table without the cost of high-end decor. Not only do they look luxurious, but they also make each place setting feel special. Paired with a beautiful holiday tablecloth and fine glassware, these napkin rings complete a polished holiday tablescape.
14. Frosted Window Clings for a Winter Wonderland
Create the illusion of frost-kissed windows using DIY frosted window clings. Pick up clear plastic sheets or frosted window film from the dollar store, along with a snowflake or winter stencil. Simply place the stencil over the film, and use a white or frosted spray paint to create delicate, icy patterns. Once dry, cut the film into custom shapes like snowflakes, stars, or icicles.
These window clings can be pressed onto windows without adhesive, making them easy to remove after the holiday season. You can layer different patterns or sizes to give a fuller wintery look or arrange them symmetrically for a modern vibe. They also work well on mirrors, giving any reflective surface a magical, snowy touch.
This frosted effect provides a charming yet classy holiday look that works especially well with minimal or Scandinavian-inspired decor. It’s a budget-friendly way to make your home feel like a winter wonderland, adding sophistication and holiday spirit to your windows.
15. Festive Candle Rings with Faux Berries and Greenery
Candle rings add elegance to any holiday table, and creating them with dollar store supplies makes it easy to get a high-end look on a budget. Start with faux berry sprigs, small pinecones, and faux evergreen clippings. Form these into a small ring, securing them together with floral wire, and place them around the base of a pillar candle.
For a more luxurious look, consider adding metallic berries or a touch of glitter to the greenery. Use various shades of green to create dimension, and add small, tasteful accents like ribbons or mini ornaments to match your holiday theme. These rings work beautifully with tall or short candles, making them a versatile addition to your table decor.
These DIY candle rings add a touch of holiday charm and elegance to any space. Whether used as centerpieces or mantle decor, they give your home a cohesive, luxurious feel while staying true to the holiday spirit. They’re also easy to customize to fit any color scheme or aesthetic.
16. Metallic Leaf Garland
A metallic leaf garland adds a festive yet natural look to your holiday decor. Start by picking up faux leaf garlands or individual leaf branches from the dollar store, then spray-paint them in metallic shades like gold, silver, or bronze. This adds an opulent touch that pairs beautifully with any holiday theme, from traditional red and green to chic, minimalist palettes.
Once dry, weave these leaves together to form a garland, using floral wire or thin twine. You can add fairy lights for a magical effect or even wrap the garland around a mirror or along the edges of shelves for a sparkling, festive touch. This DIY garland is an excellent alternative to traditional pine garlands, bringing a more refined and modern look to your home.
This garland can be used for a variety of purposes, from dressing up a staircase to framing doorways. Its metallic sheen catches the light, adding depth and texture that elevate your holiday decor. It’s the perfect addition for a stylish, understated holiday theme.
17. Holiday Pillow Covers with Dollar Store Fabric
Creating your own holiday pillow covers is an affordable way to add seasonal flair to your living space. Head to the dollar store for festive fabrics, like plaids, holiday-themed prints, or faux fur. Cut the fabric to fit your existing throw pillows, and use fabric glue or hot glue to secure the edges if you don’t want to sew. For added luxury, consider embellishing the fabric with velvet ribbon or metallic paint.
Adding small details, like holiday-themed stencils or monograms, can personalize the pillow covers and make them feel unique. Arrange your pillows on the sofa or armchairs for an instant seasonal update. Mixing patterns and textures, like pairing plaids with metallics or furs, can also create a high-end, layered look.
These pillow covers are easy to make, inexpensive, and add a cozy, festive atmosphere to your living room. With a few minutes of crafting, you’ll have stylish decor that looks much more expensive than it is—perfect for a warm, inviting holiday setting.
18. Classy DIY Nutcracker Soldiers
Nutcracker soldiers are iconic holiday decorations, and you can make your own with dollar store supplies for a high-end look. Start by picking up wooden doll forms, and paint them in traditional Nutcracker colors like red, black, and gold. You can add small accessories, such as faux fur for a hat or tiny buttons, to complete the look.
To add more detail, use fine-tip markers for facial features and embellishments, and consider a metallic paint finish for certain areas to give them a more luxurious appearance. These Nutcracker soldiers can be displayed on mantels, shelves, or even as part of a tablescape, adding charm and sophistication to your decor.
With a bit of creativity and some affordable supplies, you can recreate this beloved holiday figure at a fraction of the cost. Their elegance and nostalgic appeal make these DIY Nutcrackers a standout addition to any holiday theme, bringing whimsy and refinement to your holiday decor.
Conclusion
Dollar store Christmas crafts can be transformed into beautiful, high-end decorations with a few creative tweaks. From elegant tree ornaments to frosted candle holders, these projects allow you to decorate your home stylishly without spending a lot of money. With the ideas outlined above, you can fill your space with sophisticated, holiday charm and enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own decor.
Each of these crafts offers a blend of luxury and affordability, making it easy to deck your halls in style. So grab your supplies, get inspired, and enjoy the process of creating a classy holiday atmosphere that’s unique, elegant, and budget-friendly.