With the decorating season almost here, I thought I would share some of my ideas for stretching your dollars.  I love my house looking all festive and I don’t spend a fortune to make it look nice.  Here are some of my money saving tips:

1.  Shop early for discounts and sales.  Right now Michaels Crafts is having a huge sale on Christmas decor, everything from pre lit Christmas trees to floral picks and stems, to themed ornaments dimensional holiday lighting, and even animated Christmas figures.

2.  Make your own wreaths, garlands, and centerpieces.  Here is how I make my own Christmas silk wreath.  I also decorate by wrapping tables and lamps with big red bows, and making my own centerpieces by using Christmas ornaments.  Its easy and really does save money.

3.  Take a trip to your dollar store and stock up on wrapping paper, gift bags, and bows.  I’ve found wonderful decorative gift bags at my local dollar store and have used them to decorate a bare corner.  I’ve even hung them on the walls! 

4.  Make a collage of Christmas cards you receive, which makes a great table centerpiece.