When it comes to decorating for Christmas, nothing quite captures the magic of the season like a touch of sparkle. Glitter and gold are the ultimate holiday duo, adding glamour, warmth, and a little bit of festive shine to your home. Whether you’re dressing up your tree, creating a festive table setting, or adding finishing touches to your mantel, glitter and gold can elevate your decor to new heights. Best of all, these materials are both affordable and easy to incorporate, even if you’re on a budget.
In this guide, we’ll explore creative ways to add glitter and gold to your Christmas decor, making your home feel like a winter wonderland, while still maintaining a sophisticated and luxurious look.
1. Glittering Christmas Tree Ornaments
The Christmas tree is often the centerpiece of your holiday decor, and nothing brings more joy than a tree covered in sparkling ornaments. Adding glitter and gold ornaments to your tree can instantly create a sophisticated, magical atmosphere.
1.1 DIY Glitter Ornaments
If you’re looking to add a personal touch to your tree, why not make your own glitter ornaments? This is an easy and affordable DIY project that yields stunning results.
- Materials: Clear glass or plastic ornaments, glitter, mod podge or glue, ribbon for hanging.
- How to Make It: Begin by coating the inside of a clear ornament with mod podge or glue. Then, pour glitter inside and swirl it around to coat the inside of the ornament. Allow it to dry, and then add a decorative ribbon to hang it from your tree.
- Tip: Use a combination of gold glitter and clear glitter for a beautiful, shimmering effect.
1.2 Gold-Tipped Ornaments
Gold is the epitome of luxury, and it pairs beautifully with glitter. Gold-tipped ornaments can add a refined touch to your tree decor.
- How to Create Them: You can use small paintbrushes to carefully apply gold paint to the tips of your existing ornaments, creating an ombre effect. Alternatively, wrap the top of each ornament with a gold ribbon or use gold leafing to add a bit of elegance.
- Tip: Combine gold-tipped ornaments with clear or white glitter ornaments for a refined and balanced tree look.
2. Glittery Garlands and Ribbons
Garlands and ribbons are an excellent way to add texture and sparkle to your tree, staircase, or mantel. By incorporating glitter and gold into these elements, you can create a luxurious, eye-catching display.
2.1 Glitter Garland
Glitter garlands can be draped across your tree, windows, or even along your staircase railing. These garlands instantly elevate the overall feel of the space, especially when combined with other sparkly decorations.
- How to Make It: Create your own garlands by stringing together glittered pinecones, beads, or stars. You can also buy pre-made glitter garlands in gold or silver from craft stores. For a DIY touch, use a needle and thread to create a garland of glittered paper shapes, stars, or hearts.
- Tip: Mix gold garlands with clear glass beads or small golden bells for added dimension and shine.
2.2 Gold and Glitter Ribbon
A simple way to add glitter and gold to your decor is by using decorative ribbon. Gold ribbons with glittery accents can transform any plain garland or wreath into a glamorous holiday piece.
- How to Use It: Use gold and glitter ribbon to tie bows around your tree, drape it along your mantel, or accent your wreaths. The sparkle from the ribbon will add texture and shine wherever it’s used.
- Tip: For a polished look, combine a thick gold ribbon with thinner glitter ribbons to create layered bows on your tree branches.
3. Glittery and Gold Mantel Decor
The mantel is often the focal point of the living room during the holidays. Adding glitter and gold to your mantel decor can create a dazzling holiday display.
3.1 Gold Candlesticks and Glittery Candle Holders
Candles are a must-have during the Christmas season, and when combined with gold and glitter, they can create a breathtaking focal point.
- How to Decorate: Use gold candle holders or gilded candlesticks to elevate your mantel decor. Add glittery candles or simply dust your existing candles with gold glitter to make them sparkle. You can also use gold-leafing or paint on the candle holders for a luxurious look.
- Tip: For a cozy touch, scatter small glittery ornaments or faux snow around the base of the candles to enhance the festive feel.
3.2 Gold and Glitter Wreaths
A gold and glitter wreath can add a bold, festive look to your mantel or front door. These wreaths are easy to create and instantly brighten up the space.
- How to Make It: Use a plain artificial wreath and add gold-painted pinecones, glittery baubles, and golden ribbon. You can also purchase ready-made gold and glitter wreaths, or use gold paint and glitter to update an old wreath you already own.
- Tip: Make sure to use a mix of shiny gold and matte finishes for an elegant balance.
4. Glittering Table Settings
For a truly luxurious Christmas dinner, add a touch of glitter and gold to your table setting. Simple elements like gold chargers, glittery placemats, and elegant napkin rings can make a big impact.
4.1 Gold Rimmed Glassware
Elegant glassware with gold accents adds a refined touch to your holiday table. Whether it’s a wine glass with a gold rim or a gold-lined glass plate, these subtle details can bring a touch of class.
- How to Style: Invest in glassware that has gold detailing around the rim, or buy plain glassware and use a gold metallic paint pen to add your own design.
- Tip: Pair these gold-rimmed glasses with glittery coasters or placemats to create a seamless, sparkling look.
4.2 Glittery Napkin Rings and Place Cards
Dress up your napkins with glittery napkin rings, and add a touch of sparkle to your table with personalized place cards.
- How to Make It: Create your own glittery napkin rings by wrapping them with glittered ribbon or using a glittered pipe cleaner. You can also make glittery place cards using gold card stock and gold or silver glitter pens.
- Tip: For a personalized touch, add small glittery ornaments or stars to your napkin rings as a thoughtful and festive accent.
5. Gold and Glitter Holiday Accessories
Sometimes, the simplest decor accessories can make the biggest impact. From glittery table runners to gold-plated trays, small details can bring together the opulence of your holiday decor.
5.1 Glittery Table Runner
A glittery table runner can instantly dress up your dining table and create a dramatic backdrop for your meal.
- How to Make It: Choose a neutral-colored table runner and add glitter using fabric glue. You can also buy pre-made glitter runners in gold or silver.
- Tip: Pair your glittery table runner with gold flatware and shimmering napkins for a cohesive, luxe look.
5.2 Gold-Plated Trays and Decorative Bowls
Trays and bowls in gold can serve both as functional and decorative pieces during the holidays. Use them to display festive candles, ornaments, or treats.
- How to Style: Use a gold-plated tray on your coffee table or dining room table as a place for glittery ornaments, pinecones, or candles.
- Tip: If you have old trays, you can easily refresh them with gold spray paint to match your holiday theme.
6. Glitter and Gold DIY Projects
If you’re feeling crafty, there are plenty of DIY projects that can help you incorporate glitter and gold into your Christmas decor.
6.1 Glittered Pinecones and Gold Leaf
Pinecones are a classic holiday decoration, and they take on an even more luxurious look when coated in gold leaf or glitter.
- How to Do It: Simply apply a layer of gold leaf to the edges of pinecones or coat them entirely in gold or silver glitter. These can be used in wreaths, garlands, or scattered around the tree.
- Tip: Use glitter and gold pinecones as the base for a beautiful holiday centerpiece by arranging them in a glass bowl or basket.
6.2 Glittered Holiday Signs
Create your own custom glittery holiday signs for your mantel or entryway. Whether it’s a welcome sign or a “Merry Christmas” banner, these DIY projects add a personal touch.
- How to Make It: Buy a wooden sign from a craft store and paint it gold. Once dry, add glitter to the edges or certain parts of the letters to make it sparkle.
- Tip: You can add battery-operated fairy lights to your signs for an extra twinkle effect.
Conclusion
By incorporating glitter and gold into your Christmas decor, you can create an atmosphere of elegance, warmth, and festive cheer. Whether through DIY projects, statement ornaments, or simple accents, these materials can make a big impact without breaking the bank. The key is to balance the sparkle with sophisticated elements, ensuring that your holiday decor feels both glamorous and tasteful. So, go ahead and add some shine to your space—this Christmas, make your home sparkle like never before!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I add sparkle to my Christmas tree without going overboard?
To add subtle sparkle, choose one or two glittery statement pieces, such as gold-tipped ornaments or glittered pinecones. You can also add a few gold or glittery ribbons to your tree without overwhelming it.
2. Are gold and glitter decorations too much for a small space?
No, gold and glitter can work in small spaces if used sparingly. Focus on using them in key areas like the tree or a mantel. Smaller, elegant accents can have a significant impact without overcrowding the space.
3. How do I make glitter decorations last longer?
To make glitter decorations more durable, use a strong adhesive like Mod Podge or a sealant spray to keep the glitter in place. This will prevent it from shedding and ensure that your decor stays sparkly throughout the season.
4. Can I use glitter and gold in a rustic or farmhouse-style home?
Yes! Gold and glitter can work beautifully in rustic or farmhouse-style decor. Pair them with natural materials like wood, burlap, or plaid fabric to balance the glam with rustic charm.
5. How can I reuse glitter decorations year after year?
Store your glitter ornaments and decorations carefully in plastic containers to avoid damage. You can also touch them up with additional glitter if necessary, keeping them fresh and sparkly for the next holiday season.
6. Is there a way to incorporate glitter and gold in a minimalist decor?
Yes! In a minimalist space, keep the glitter and gold accents simple. Use a few strategically placed items like gold-rimmed glassware, glittery candles, or a gold-framed mirror to add subtle sparkle without overpowering the decor.
7. Can I make DIY glitter ornaments with kids?
Absolutely! DIY glitter ornaments are a fun and easy craft for kids. Simply let them paint their own ornaments and sprinkle glitter on top. It’s a great way to get the whole family involved in the holiday decor.
8. How do I keep glitter from making a mess around the house?
To minimize glitter mess, work in a contained space like a table or tray. You can also use a disposable tablecloth to catch excess glitter, and make sure to shake off decorations outside before bringing them inside.
9. Can I use glitter on outdoor Christmas decorations?
Yes, but make sure to use outdoor-safe glitter and materials to ensure the decorations last throughout the season. Consider using glitter spray for an even, long-lasting finish.
10. How do I store glitter decorations after the holidays?
To protect glitter decorations from damage, store them in sturdy boxes or plastic bins with soft padding. Avoid storing them in damp or humid areas to prevent glitter from falling off.