We couldn’t let the holiday season pass without trying a few simple and festive decorating projects. These are quick, easy ideas you can complete in minutes using everyday items you likely already have at home. For this set of looks we only bought a bag of moss from Michael’s for under $5 and a small box of silver-toned ornaments for $4.99.
Start with a simple cylinder vase you already own. Add a few inches of moss and top it with a handful of miniature ornaments. The result is an instant, low-effort accent that adds texture and shine:
These vases look charming on a side table, mantel, coffee table, or as a centerpiece for holiday dinner — and they take only minutes to assemble.
If you don’t have a cylinder vase, other glass vessels work equally well. A glass bowl makes a pretty display, and a larger hurricane vase simply requires a bit more moss and extra ornaments for the same festive effect:
You can also create a very quick, elegant vignette without any moss at all. Placing a single striking ornament in a decorative bowl on a side table adds instant sparkle in seconds.
When surfaces need to be multipurpose for guests, combine snacks and décor. Fill a large serving plate with small ornaments and then add a cup of popcorn, candy canes, mixed nuts, breadsticks, Twizzlers, or red-and-green jelly beans. The result is both practical and festive.
Windowsills are an easy place to add winter charm. Instead of candles, try a small mercury glass vase filled with a dab of moss and a few mini ornaments for daytime sparkle. Stuffing inexpensive vases with paper and covering the top with moss lets you make multiple little “topiaries” from a single bag of moss—a smart way to stretch your budget.
If you prefer a glowing accent, place a pillar candle inside a glass bowl, hurricane, or vase and surround it with a small ring of moss and a few mini ornaments. This creates a warm, layered centerpiece that’s both simple and stylish.
These quick projects are designed to be affordable and fuss-free while delivering a festive look. If you have other easy holiday decorating ideas, we’d love to hear them—share your favorites and inspire more simple seasonal creativity.
Update: Many favorite holiday décor finds are available at budget-friendly prices, including several options under $15.