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Christmas can be daunting when you're on a budget. All those presents to buy, not to mention the increase in social events and occasions. And then there's the decorating!

What if I told you that transforming your home into a winter wonderland doesn't have to burn a hole in your purse? With a combination of DIY tricks and being a bit stingy, you can deck out your tree whilst saving the pennies.

Make your own.

One of my favourite ways to be thrifty is crafting. Christmas is the perfect time to get your DIY on and make some beautiful decorations. This year, I've made these gorgeous festive pom poms, which I'm going to hang from my tree and make into garlands. If you haven't already, check out my post about the Hobbycraft pom pom workshop I attended.

I also have these bows that I made a couple of years ago. Simply get some wired ribbon and tie them into a bow shape. You can plump them up and pop them on the branches of your tree.

There are so many options out there when it comes to making your own Christmas decorations; whether you love papercraft, sewing or even baking. Just have a look on my Pinterest board for ideas.

Head to the charity shop

Second hand Christmas decorations can add some real character and charm to your tree or mantlepiece. If you're a lover of kitsch and vintage, head to your local charity shop and pick up some old-fashioned decks. What's more, is that you're also doing a good Christmas deed by giving to charity. I've always wanted one of those kitschy deer ornaments, and I'm still yet to find one in the shelves of a thrift shop.

Ask around

It may sound a bit stingy, but if you're having your first Christmas and struggling to buy all the decorations, why not ask around for spares from family and friends? People will have a box of baubles or an old star lying around somewhere, and if it's going to a good home, they'll probably be glad to donate it to you.

I raided my mums Christmas decorations and found a box of my childhood baubles. I even found some cute stockings that I made when I was in Primary school.

Buy from small businesses

Be sure to check out small businesses and Etsy shops. Loads of people are selling really cute, and affordable, handmade decorations at this time of year. Help someone out by buying off them, it might allow them to buy their child or mum an extra Christmas present. Share the love and support small businesses!

On that note, I'm going to unashamedly plug my newly opened Etsy store. I've started making these cute pom pom garlands and baubles that are perfect for hanging around the home or adding to gifts as an alternative to paper bows. They're also really cheap, so won't break the bank!