21 Festive Hacks for a Superstar Christmas

1. Shower rod garland

You’ve probably seen this hack doing the rounds on TikTok, and for good reason. Using a tension rod you might usually hang a shower curtain from, you can decorate doorways and arches with a ‘floating’ garland. Plus, it’s renter-friendly as you don’t need any nails. 

2. Use seasonal produce

Those pumpkins, squashes and gourds you bought for autumn decor? They’ll do just as well for Christmas. Use smaller ones to house tealights and taper candles by carving a hole in the top, bigger ones can be used for jar candles or floral arrangements. 

3. Forage your garden or local park

Nature might be a little bare at this time of year, but there’s always something to forage for decor. Aside from branches and twigs – which are excellent to hang small ornaments from – you’ll find hardy evergreens, cyclamen, berries (just make sure they’re non-toxic) and even the odd rose still in bloom.

4. Paper garlands

Leftover wrapping paper, old books, newspaper cuttings or your favourite magazine covers can be easily used to make paper chain garlands. They’re quick, inexpensive and simple to make and instantly add a crafty and personalised touch to your space.

9. Scented ornaments 

Upgrade clear glass ornaments by removing the tops and filling them with aromatics like cloves, cinnamon sticks, baked citrus or eucalyptus for festive scents throughout the season. 

10. Hang your light vertically

We can’t believe we haven’t tried this before, but this genius trick suggests arranging Christmas tree lights vertically, instead of around the the tree. Not only does it save lights from being hidden at the back (meaning more impact on the front), but they’re also easier to remove by doing this. 

11. Upcycle rubbish into ornaments

We’re sure you’ve got a tube or two of tomato purée that are past their best hanging around the fridge. Instead of throwing them away, turn them into vintage-style decorations to hang from the tree. 

12. Upgrade your ice cubes

Chillis, citrus, candy canes, or cranberries upgrade your ice cubes – to impress guests and enhance your beverage offering. It couldn’t be easier either, simply choose your garnish, fill the ice tray and freeze. Simple but effective. 

18. Nature’s gift wrap

Forget single-use bows, ribbons and tags, and instead opt for natural gift decorations like eucalyptus or oven-baked citrus to adorn for presents. 

19. Learn to tie the perfect bow

If, like us, you’ve spent years wrestling with ribbons trying to tie a picture-perfect bow, look no further than this handy TikTok. You can thank us later. 

20. Wrap like a pro

Unleash your inner Rowan Atkinson in Love Actually and learn to wrap your presents like a pro. From tricky things like bottles to expertly folded paper, these hacks will ensure your gifts are the best under the tree. 

21. Never run out of paper

That dreaded moment when you’ve cut paper from the roll only to find it’s just not quite big enough. Not anymore. According to this TikTok user, by turning your gift diagonally you can make the paper situation work. Sorted.