Upcycled Christmas Decorations: Refresh Old Faux Swags

Turn your outdated faux Christmas swag into a showstopper in just minutes! With a few new pinecone and greenery picks and a bold velvet ribbon, you can create an effortlessly elegant decor piece that’s right on trend.

An outdated Christmas swag with old dusty ribbon and tacky gold beads and bells

Why you might want to try this upcycled Christmas decorations project

If you’re looking for a fresh holiday look without splurging on all-new decor, upcycling could be the perfect solution! This year I volunteered to help decorate a large community space for Christmas, and I wanted it to feel cozy and welcoming. While going through their storage closet, I found a stash of old faux greenery swags with velvet bows. They were a great classic decor piece but looked a little tired, so I decided to try a few small updates for a fresh twist. I’m so happy with the outcome!

You may have decor pieces tucked away that just need a few small tweaks to feel current and festive again. Swapping a faded bow for a rich, trendy velvet ribbon, or adding some updated greenery, can instantly transform a piece without costing much. This idea lets you enjoy a new look while honoring pieces you already own, blending the nostalgia of the past with the excitement of something fresh.

Upcycling isn’t just budget-friendly; it’s also a chance to create something uniquely yours. Whether you’re revamping your own collection or scouting for thrifted treasures, you can turn almost anything into a beautiful holiday decoration with a little creativity. I hope this craft project inspires you to take a fresh look at your own Christmas stash. You might just find hidden gems ready for a little festive makeover!

Supplies needed for this Christmas Swag Upcycled Christmas Decor

Supplies needed for an upcycled Christmas swag

New evergreen picks with pine cones
Flocked pine cone pick
Wire cutters
Floral wire
Small, clear zip ties
Velvet ribbon – 2 1/2 inches wide by 1 1/2 yards long

I bought all the supplies at a craft store when we were visiting the States last month. Unfortunately, I can’t find similar items online right now.

Watch the Video of this Upcycled Christmas Decorations Project

I filmed this process and shared it as a short video on my social media channel. It may help to watch the video below before you read the steps, since it might make more sense to watch it than to read it! ;) Click on the video below to watch:

Step by step process to make these Christmas Swags

Remove the old velvet ribbon and the dated baubles, and set them aside.
Fluff up the faux greenery of the swag and insert the faux picks with pine cones, tucking the long wires behind the swag.
Use zip ties or floral wire to attach the picks firmly to the swag.
Tie the velvet ribbon into a bow, and insert a long piece of floral wire through the back of the knot.
Hang the swag on the wall and choose the spot where you’ll wire on the velvet bow.

That’s it! Now you have a fresh new look from a simple upcycling craft project!