When the holidays are around the corner, your home becomes the heart of the season — where laughter, food, and memories fill every room. But if you’re looking around and thinking your space could use a little refresh before guests arrive, you’re not alone.
Whether you want to boost curb appeal, add cozy touches, or simply get organized, DIY holiday projects are a fun, affordable way to make your home feel festive and welcoming. The best part? Most of these ideas can be completed in a weekend (or even an afternoon).
In this article, we’ll cover creative and practical DIY holiday projects that will help you upgrade your home before family and friends walk through the door — from cozy interior upgrades to easy outdoor improvements.
1. Why DIY Holiday Projects Are Worth the Effort
Before we dive into ideas, let’s talk about why taking on DIY holiday projects is such a great choice — especially during the busy winter season.
- Saves money: You can refresh your home without hiring a contractor or decorator.
- Adds personal touch: Handmade updates feel warm, unique, and heartfelt.
- Quick transformations: Most DIY holiday projects can be done in a day or two.
- Increases comfort: A few small updates can make your home cozier and more inviting.
- Boosts home value: Improvements like painting, lighting, or decor also add long-term value.
DIY doesn’t have to mean difficult — it’s about using creativity and a little effort to make your home shine.
2. Entryway Enhancements: First Impressions Matter
The entryway sets the tone for your whole home. As guests walk in from Michigan’s chilly outdoors, you want them to feel warm and welcome right away.
DIY Entryway Project Ideas:
1. Create a Cozy Welcome Space
Add a small bench, some hooks for coats, and a basket for scarves or mittens. If you don’t have built-ins, a floating shelf or DIY coat rack made from reclaimed wood works beautifully.
2. Paint Your Front Door
Nothing brightens up a home like a freshly painted front door. Choose a bold color like deep red, forest green, or navy — perfect for winter charm.
3. Build a Decorative Holiday Wreath
Instead of buying one, create your own! Use pine branches, ribbon, berries, or even ornaments to design a wreath that fits your holiday theme.
(For inspiration, check out HGTV’s DIY wreath ideas for simple, creative designs.)
Little touches like these instantly make your home feel warm and inviting before guests even step inside.
3. Living Room: The Heart of Holiday Gatherings
Your living room is likely where most holiday memories will be made — gift exchanges, movies, hot cocoa, and laughter. Make it feel extra special with a few easy DIY holiday projects that blend comfort and cheer.
– Add a Warm Glow with DIY Lighting
- Wrap string lights around mirrors, windows, or shelves.
- Fill mason jars or glass vases with battery-operated fairy lights.
- Swap out cool-toned bulbs for warm, golden ones to create a cozy atmosphere.
– Create a Holiday Centerpiece
Use pinecones, candles, and greenery to make a festive table centerpiece. Try mixing textures — wood, glass, and natural elements — for an organic, timeless look.
– DIY Mantel Decor
If you have a fireplace, this is your stage for creativity. Use garland, candles, and framed holiday prints. Add personal touches like family photos or DIY stockings.
– Refresh with Seasonal Throw Pillows or Blankets
Even if you don’t redecorate entirely, swapping out textiles for winter colors (like burgundy, forest green, or cream) gives an instant seasonal refresh.
4. Kitchen: Make It Functional and Festive
The kitchen is where holiday magic happens — baking cookies, preparing meals, and sharing stories over warm drinks. A few smart DIY holiday projects can make it both more functional and inviting.
1. Create a Coffee or Hot Cocoa Station
Set up a small corner with mugs, cocoa mix, marshmallows, and candy canes. Use a tray or wooden crate for an organized, rustic feel.
2. Install Floating Shelves
Add extra storage and display space for seasonal dishes or decorations. A quick weekend project with huge visual payoff.
3. Upgrade Cabinet Hardware
Swapping knobs and handles is one of the fastest ways to modernize your kitchen. Choose finishes like brushed brass or matte black for a stylish touch.
4. Add Backsplash Stickers
If you’re short on time, peel-and-stick backsplash tiles offer an affordable way to refresh your kitchen before guests arrive.
5. Dining Room: Set the Scene for Celebration
Your dining area is where everyone gathers for big meals, so you’ll want it to feel festive without overwhelming the space.
1. DIY Table Runner
Make a custom table runner using burlap, linen, or leftover fabric. Add hand-painted snowflakes, pinecone stamps, or simple ribbon accents for holiday flair.
2. Candle Centerpiece
Arrange pillar candles of varying heights in a tray with ornaments or pine branches. Safe, stunning, and simple.
3. Chair Decorations
Add ribbons or greenery to the backs of dining chairs. Small details make a big impact.
4. Refinish or Touch Up Furniture
If your table has seen better days, a light sanding and fresh coat of stain or paint can completely transform it — a classic DIY holiday project that makes your home feel brand new.
For more ideas for any setting, visit DIY Projects for tips throughout the year!
6. Guest Rooms: Comfort for Holiday Visitors
Hosting family or friends for the holidays? Make their stay special with thoughtful, easy updates.
1. Freshen Up Bedding
Add soft throws, flannel sheets, or festive pillow covers. Stick to warm tones and cozy textures.
2. Create a Mini Welcome Basket
Include small items like snacks, bottled water, hand lotion, and a note with the Wi-Fi password.
3. Add Soft Lighting
Use bedside lamps with warm bulbs or hang string lights for ambiance.
4. DIY Wall Art
Print and frame free holiday-themed artwork (many are available online) to make the room feel cheerful and personal.
These DIY holiday projects turn a spare room into a cozy retreat that guests will truly appreciate.
7. Bathroom: Small Touches, Big Impact
Even the smallest room can make a lasting impression. A few DIY holiday projects can help you elevate your bathroom for visitors.
1. Refresh Towels and Mats
Replace old ones with plush, neutral sets or add a festive pop of color like red or evergreen.
2. Add Seasonal Scents
Cinnamon, pine, or vanilla-scented candles and diffusers make your bathroom feel like a spa.
3. DIY Storage Baskets
Use woven baskets or repurposed wooden crates for rolled towels and toiletries. A quick, affordable organization hack.
4. Frame the Mirror
Add a peel-and-stick wood trim or metallic tape border around your bathroom mirror for a simple upgrade.
8. Outdoor & Curb Appeal Projects
Don’t forget the exterior! Guests’ first impressions start at the curb, and outdoor DIY holiday projects can make your home shine — even in snowy Michigan weather.
1. Add Seasonal Planters
Use evergreens, birch branches, and red berries in large pots by your front door.
2. Hang String Lights Strategically
Outline windows, doorways, or railings for a classic look. Solar-powered lights are energy-efficient and easy to install.
3. Paint or Replace House Numbers
Crisp, visible numbers make your home look cared for — and help delivery drivers find you faster during the holiday rush!
4. DIY Front Porch Decor
Craft wooden signs or create a simple “Welcome” board with chalk paint. Rustic and personal touches always stand out.
9. Organization Before the Holiday Rush
Between decorations, gifts, and guests, clutter builds up quickly. Decluttering before the holidays gives you peace of mind (and more space for new things).
1. Create a Donation Box
Before decorating, go room to room and fill a box with items to donate.
2. Label Storage Bins
Use clear bins and labels for decorations, wrapping supplies, and winter gear.
3. DIY Wrapping Station
Set up a corner with wrapping paper, ribbons, tape, and scissors. Use a pegboard or baskets for easy organization.
4. Add Hooks and Racks in High-Traffic Areas
A simple DIY holiday project like adding coat hooks or shoe racks keeps entryways organized when guests arrive.
10. Bonus: Fun Family DIY Holiday Projects
If you want to get the whole family involved, these creative activities double as memory-makers:
- Make homemade ornaments with salt dough or felt.
- Craft personalized stockings with each family member’s name.
- Build a gingerbread village for a decorative (and delicious) centerpiece.
- DIY Advent calendar with treats or daily activities.
- Create a family photo wall with prints from past holidays.
These fun DIY holiday projects bring everyone together and make your home feel filled with love and laughter.
11. Safety Tips for DIY Holiday Project
As exciting as home projects can be, safety always comes first:
- Use protective gear (goggles, gloves, masks) when painting or sanding.
- Keep tools organized and unplugged when not in use.
- Avoid overloading outlets with lights or decor.
- Ventilate spaces when using adhesives or paints.
A safe home is a happy home — especially during the holidays.
Want to Talk About it More?
You don’t need a full remodel to make your home shine this holiday season — just creativity, a few tools, and a bit of time. These DIY holiday projects will help you create a space that feels welcoming, festive, and uniquely yours.
👉 Contact Home Owners Guide today for more tips, tutorials, and expert advice on home improvement, maintenance, and seasonal projects for Michigan homeowners.
