23 Cozy DIY Winter Decor Projects to Warm Up Your Home
As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like coming home to a warm, inviting space. I’ve always loved the way a few simple decorations can transform a room, making it feel cozy and festive during the winter months. That’s why I’ve put together this collection of 23 DIY Winter decor projects that anyone can tackle, regardless of their crafting experience.
These projects range from quick and easy to more involved, but they all share one thing in common: they’ll help you create a winter wonderland right in your own home. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, put on your favorite holiday playlist, and let’s dive into some crafting fun!
Check out some of my favorite products for winter decorating.
1. Mason Jar Snow Globes
One of my favorite winter decorations is the classic snow globe. There’s something magical about those tiny snowflakes swirling around a miniature scene. But did you know you can easily make your own version using mason jars? Here’s how:
You’ll need:
- Mason jars with lids
- Small figurines or ornaments
- Glitter or fake snow
- Glycerin
- Hot glue gun
- Distilled water
Start by hot gluing your chosen figurine to the inside of the mason jar lid. Once it’s secure, fill the jar almost to the top with distilled water. Add a few drops of glycerin (this helps the glitter fall more slowly) and a sprinkle of glitter or fake snow. Carefully screw on the lid, making sure not to disturb your little scene. Flip it over, and voila! Your very own snow globe.
I love placing these on windowsills or mantels. They catch the light beautifully and add a whimsical touch to any room.
2. Pinecone Fire Starters
Nothing says winter quite like a crackling fire. These pinecone fire starters not only make starting a fire easier, but they also fill your home with a lovely scent. Plus, they make great gifts!
You’ll need:
- Pinecones
- Candle wax
- Scented oils (cinnamon, pine, or vanilla work well)
- Twine
- Old candles or wax melts
First, tie a length of twine around each pinecone, leaving a long tail for easy lighting. Melt your wax in a double boiler, add a few drops of scented oil, and then dip each pinecone in the wax mixture. Set them on wax paper to dry. Once they’re cool, you can use them to start your next fire or package them up as gifts.
I keep a basket of these near my fireplace. They’re not only functional but also add a rustic charm to my decor.
3. Cozy Flannel Throw Pillow Covers
When the weather turns cold, I love to snuggle up with soft, warm textures. These DIY flannel pillow covers are perfect for adding a touch of warmth to any room.
You’ll need:
- Flannel fabric (look for fun winter patterns!)
- Sewing machine (or fabric glue for a no-sew option)
- Scissors
- Existing throw pillows
Measure your throw pillows and cut two pieces of flannel for each pillow, adding an extra inch on all sides for seam allowance. Place the right sides of the fabric together and sew around three sides. Turn the cover right side out, insert your pillow, and hand-stitch the opening closed. If you’re using fabric glue, follow the same steps but use the glue instead of sewing.
These pillow covers are so easy to swap out when the seasons change, and they instantly make a room feel cozier.
4. Cinnamon Stick Candles
The scent of cinnamon always reminds me of winter baking and warm, spiced drinks. These cinnamon stick candles bring that lovely aroma to any room, even when you’re not cooking.
You’ll need:
- Pillar candles
- Cinnamon sticks
- Twine or ribbon
- Hot glue gun
Simply hot glue cinnamon sticks vertically around the outside of your candle, making sure they’re straight and evenly spaced. Once you’ve gone all the way around, tie a pretty ribbon or some rustic twine around the middle to cover the top of the cinnamon sticks.
I love placing these on my dining table or coffee table. They look beautiful, and when the candle warms up, it releases a subtle cinnamon scent that fills the room.
5. Frosted Mason Jar Luminaries
These frosted mason jar luminaries create a beautiful, soft glow that’s perfect for dark winter evenings. They’re surprisingly easy to make and add a touch of magic to any space.
You’ll need:
- Mason jars
- Frosted glass spray paint
- Painter’s tape
- Battery-operated tea lights
Clean your mason jars thoroughly and let them dry. If you want to create patterns, use painter’s tape to mask off areas before spraying. In a well-ventilated area, apply the frosted glass spray paint according to the can’s instructions. Usually, two light coats work best. Once dry, remove any tape and place a battery-operated tea light inside.
I love lining these up along my mantelpiece or using them as centerpieces for winter dinner parties. The soft, diffused light they create is so warm and inviting.
6. Rustic Twig Candle Holders
There’s something so charming about bringing a bit of nature indoors during the winter months. These rustic twig candle holders do just that, and they’re incredibly easy to make.
You’ll need:
- Clean, dry twigs
- Glass jar or vase
- Twine or ribbon
- Hot glue gun
- Pillar candle or battery-operated LED candle
Start by gathering twigs from your yard or a nearby park. Make sure they’re roughly the same length as your glass container. Using your hot glue gun, attach the twigs vertically around the outside of the jar. Once you’ve covered the entire surface, tie a piece of twine or ribbon around the middle for a finishing touch. Pop a candle inside, and you’re done!
I love how these look on my coffee table or as part of a larger centerpiece. They bring a cozy, cabin-like feel to any room.
7. No-Sew Flannel Blanket Scarf
Who doesn’t love a cozy blanket scarf in winter? This no-sew version is super simple to make and perfect for snuggling up on chilly evenings.
You’ll need:
- 2 yards of flannel fabric in a winter pattern
- Fabric scissors
- Fabric glue or iron-on hem tape
Cut your fabric into a large square (about 55″ x 55″ works well). If you’re using fabric glue, apply it along the edges and fold over about half an inch, pressing down firmly. If you prefer iron-on hem tape, follow the package instructions to create a neat hem all the way around. Let it dry completely before using.
I love draping mine over the arm of my favorite reading chair. It’s not only decorative but also practical when I want to cozy up with a good book.
8. Painted Birch Log Candle Holders
Birch logs have a beautiful, wintry look that’s perfect for seasonal decor. These painted birch log candle holders add a touch of elegance to any room.
You’ll need:
- Birch logs (about 4-6 inches in diameter)
- White acrylic paint
- Small paintbrush
- Drill with a large bit
- Tea light candles
Cut your birch log into sections about 4 inches tall. Drill a hole in the top of each log section, large enough to fit a tea light candle. Using your paintbrush, add some white paint to the bark in random patterns to mimic snow. Once dry, pop in your tea lights.
These look stunning grouped together on a mantel or as a table centerpiece. The contrast between the natural wood and the white “snow” is so striking.
9. Winter Berry Wreath
A wreath is a classic winter decoration, and this berry version brings a pop of color to your door or wall.
You’ll need:
- Foam wreath form
- Faux berry stems (red, white, or a mix)
- Hot glue gun
- Ribbon for hanging
Start by separating your berry stems into small clusters. Then, working in sections, hot glue these clusters to your foam wreath form. Make sure to cover the entire surface for a full look. Once you’re happy with the coverage, attach a loop of ribbon to the back for hanging.
I hang mine on my front door to welcome guests, but it also looks beautiful above a fireplace or on a bare wall that needs a little winter cheer.
10. Sweater Covered Vases
Old sweaters are perfect for creating cozy winter decor. These sweater-covered vases are a great way to upcycle and add some texture to your space.
You’ll need:
- Old sweaters (the chunkier the knit, the better)
- Glass vases or jars
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun
Cut a section of sweater large enough to wrap around your vase with a bit of overlap. Apply hot glue to the vase and carefully wrap the sweater around it, making sure it’s smooth and even. Trim any excess fabric at the top and bottom, then glue down the edges for a neat finish.
I love filling these with winter branches, pinecones, or white flowers. They add such a cozy touch to any surface.
11. Epsom Salt Luminaries
These luminaries look like they’re covered in freshly fallen snow and create a beautiful, soft glow.
You’ll need:
- Glass jars or votive holders
- Epsom salt
- Mod Podge
- Foam brush
- Battery-operated tea lights
Apply a layer of Mod Podge to the outside of your jar using the foam brush. While it’s still wet, roll the jar in Epsom salt, making sure to cover the entire surface. Let it dry completely, then place a battery-operated tea light inside.
I like to line these up along my windowsills or use them as part of a winter-themed table setting. They create such a magical, frosty atmosphere.
12. Wooden Snowflakes
These oversized wooden snowflakes make a big impact and can be used year after year.
You’ll need:
- Wooden paint stirrers
- White paint
- Hot glue gun
- Twine or ribbon
- Glitter (optional)
Arrange three paint stirrers in a star shape and glue them together in the center. Create two of these stars and then glue them together, offsetting them slightly to create a snowflake shape. Paint the entire thing white and add glitter if desired. Attach a loop of twine or ribbon for hanging.
These look fantastic hanging on walls, in windows, or even from the ceiling. They add a whimsical touch to any winter decor scheme.
13. Knitted Mug Cozies
Keep your hands warm and your drinks hot with these adorable knitted mug cozies.
You’ll need:
- Yarn in winter colors
- Knitting needles
- Buttons
If you’re comfortable with basic knitting, you can easily create a simple rectangle that wraps around your mug. Add a button closure for a secure fit. Don’t worry if you’re not a knitter – you can achieve a similar look by cutting the sleeve off an old sweater and adding a button.
I love making these in different colors and patterns. They’re perfect for enjoying a cozy cup of cocoa on a cold winter’s day.
14. Pinecone Garland
This natural garland brings a touch of the outdoors inside and looks beautiful draped across a mantel or staircase.
You’ll need:
- Pinecones
- Twine or thin rope
- Hot glue gun
- White paint (optional)
Collect pinecones of various sizes. If desired, paint the tips white for a snowy effect. Once dry, hot glue a loop of twine to the base of each pinecone. Then, thread all the pinecones onto a long piece of twine, spacing them out as you like.
I love how this garland adds a rustic, woodsy feel to my winter decor. It’s simple but so effective.
15. Scented Wax Sachets
These scented wax sachets are like little packets of winter fragrance that you can hang anywhere in your home.
You’ll need:
- Soy wax
- Essential oils (pine, cinnamon, or vanilla work well)
- Small cookie cutters in winter shapes
- Twine
- Wax paper
Melt the soy wax and add a few drops of your chosen essential oil. Pour the wax onto a sheet of wax paper and use your cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Before the wax fully hardens, poke a hole at the top of each shape and thread with twine.
I like to hang these on doorknobs, in closets, or on my Christmas tree. They release a subtle scent that makes the whole house smell like winter.
16. Faux Fur Throw Pillows
Nothing says cozy quite like faux fur. These throw pillows add instant warmth and texture to any space.
You’ll need:
- Faux fur fabric
- Fabric for the back (fleece works well)
- Sewing machine (or fabric glue for a no-sew option)
- Pillow stuffing or pillow forms
Cut two squares of faux fur and two squares of backing fabric, slightly larger than your desired pillow size. Place the right sides together and sew around the edges, leaving a small opening. Turn the cover right side out, stuff with your pillow form or stuffing, and hand-stitch the opening closed.
I love tossing these on my couch or bed for an instant winter upgrade. They’re so inviting, you can’t help but want to cuddle up with them!
17. Frosted Pine Cone Centerpiece
This centerpiece brings the beauty of a frosty winter forest right to your table.
You’ll need:
- Pine cones of various sizes
- White spray paint
- Clear glitter spray
- Large glass bowl or vase
- Battery-operated string lights
In a well-ventilated area, lightly spray the pine cones with white paint. Once dry, add a layer of glitter spray for some sparkle. Arrange the pine cones in your glass container, weaving the string lights throughout.
I use this as a centerpiece on my dining table or coffee table. When you turn on the lights in the evening, it creates such a magical, wintry atmosphere.
18. Scandinavian-Inspired Wooden Trees
These minimalist wooden trees add a modern, Scandinavian touch to your winter decor.
You’ll need:
- Wooden dowels of various sizes
- Saw
- Sandpaper
- White paint (optional)
Cut your dowels into different lengths to create a variety of tree heights. Sand the cut ends smooth. If desired, paint the trees white or leave them natural for a more rustic look. Arrange them in groups on shelves or mantels.
I love the simplicity of these trees. They’re a great way to add a winter touch without going overboard on the holiday theme.
19. Wool Felt Snowflake Coasters
These cute coasters not only protect your surfaces but also add a touch of winter charm to your coffee table.
You’ll need:
- White wool felt
- Scissors
- Snowflake template (you can find free printables online)
- Hot glue gun
Cut out your snowflake shapes from the felt. For each coaster, layer two or three snowflakes, rotating them slightly for a more intricate design. Secure the layers together with a dab of hot glue in the center.
I keep a stack of these on my coffee table all winter long. They’re functional and festive at the same time!
20. Cinnamon Stick Candle Holder
This project fills your home with the warm, spicy scent of cinnamon – perfect for those cold winter days.
You’ll need:
- Glass hurricane vase
- Cinnamon sticks
- Ribbon
- Hot glue gun
- Pillar candle
Using your hot glue gun, attach cinnamon sticks vertically around the outside of your hurricane vase. Tie a ribbon around the middle to cover the tops of the cinnamon sticks and add a decorative touch. Place your pillar candle inside.
I love putting this on my kitchen island or dining table. When you light the candle, the warmth releases the cinnamon scent, making your whole house smell amazing.
21. Book Page Winter Village
This charming paper village is a great way to upcycle old books and create a whimsical winter scene.
You’ll need:
- Old book pages
- Scissors
- Glue
- Battery-operated tea lights
- Glitter (optional)
Cut simple house shapes from your book pages. Fold and glue them to create 3D structures. Cut out windows and doors, and use a bit of glue and glitter to add “snow” to the roofs. Arrange your village on a mantel or shelf, placing tea lights inside the houses for a warm glow.
This project always reminds me of the tiny, magical villages in snow globes. It’s a great way to add some whimsy to your winter decor.
22. Winter Branch Chandelier
Bring the outdoors in with this striking branch chandelier.
You’ll need:
- Large branches
- White spray paint
- Fishing line or clear thread
- Ornaments or crystals
- Hooks for hanging
Spray paint your branches white for a snowy effect. Once dry, hang them from your ceiling using hooks and fishing line. Suspend ornaments or crystals from the branches at varying heights.
I hang mine over my dining table or in a corner of my living room. It creates such a magical, winter wonderland feeling – like you’re dining under a snow-covered tree.
23. Knitted Cable Pillow Cover
For those who enjoy knitting, this cable knit pillow cover is the perfect winter project.
You’ll need:
- Chunky yarn in a winter white or cream color
- Knitting needles
- Cable needle
- Pillow insert
If you’re familiar with cable knitting, create a pattern of your choice. If you’re new to it, there are plenty of beginner-friendly cable knit patterns available online. Once you’ve knitted your cover, seam it together and insert your pillow.
Even if you’re not a knitter, you can achieve a similar look by upcycling an old cable knit sweater into a pillow cover. Either way, the result is a cozy, textured pillow that screams “winter comfort.”
Conclusion
Winter is a season of comfort, warmth, and coming together. These DIY projects are more than just decorations – they’re a way to create a cozy sanctuary from the cold outside world. Whether you’re crafting alone or with loved ones, each project is an opportunity to infuse your space with personal touches that make winter feel special.
Remember, the key to great winter decor is layering textures, incorporating natural elements, and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Mix and match these projects to create a winter wonderland that’s uniquely yours.
As you work on these crafts, don’t forget to enjoy the process. Put on some festive music, brew a cup of hot cocoa, and let your creativity flow. The best part about DIY decor is that it doesn’t have to be perfect – it’s the handmade charm that makes it special.
So, grab your supplies and start crafting! Before you know it, you’ll have transformed your home into a cozy winter retreat that you and your loved ones will enjoy all season long. Happy crafting, and stay warm!
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