04 December 2023 , 15:01
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Nothing says Christmas quite like stockings hung over the fireplace.
But as the cost-of-living continues to hit Brits hard, cutting down on those little luxuries sometimes feels like the only option. However, you can make your very own Christmas stocking for free - and all you need is an old jumper.
It's a great way to get creative and upcycle some of the clothes you no longer like, that will otherwise live at the back of the wardrobe forever.
The idea comes from Erin Sowell, an expert in all things thrifted and DIY. Her latest project sees her transform two jumpers she bought for less than £2 into 'adorable' stockings.
Posting a tutorial on Instagram, Sowell simply traces a stocking onto an unwanted jumper and cuts the shape out. Then she turns the cloth inside out and sews the sides together. However, if you're not great when it comes to using the needle, you can simply glue the sides together. The mother then add a loop for it to hang on. You can add ribbon, or any other forms of decoration you like - get creative!
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"There are so many uses for thrifted sweaters -ones that are damaged, or you no longer wear," Sowell said. "Those sweaters are perfect for repurposing into Christmas stockings, a sweet holiday mitten garland, cute gift bags, pillows, and so much more!
Now that your stockings are hung up and filled with little treats, it's time to make the whole house smell like Christmas. Savvy mum Chantel Mila recently shared her cheap hack to create the perfect festive aroma.
In a viral TikTok video, she says: "Boil four cups of water before chucking in one sliced orange... This will give that signature zesty aroma. After that, add half a cup of cranberries, two sprigs of rosemary and different spices.
"You can also add apples, star anise, fresh ginger, pine, vanilla or whichever smells remind you of the holiday season!'' Social media users were blown away by the simple concoction, with one user stating: "I have done that many times. Love it. You can pretty much add anything.''
Do you have any budget-friendly Christmas hacks? Let us know in the comments section below