12 Festive DIY RV Decorations You Can Make in Under an Hour

Transform your RV into a cozy holiday retreat with these 12 quick and festive DIY RV decorations perfect for small spaces!

🎅 Quick and Festive DIY Decorations to Make Your RV Feel Like Home

Living in an RV doesn’t mean you have to skip holiday cheer. In fact, it’s the perfect excuse to get creative and keep things simple.

With limited space and time, making festive DIY decorations can feel tricky, but it doesn’t have to be.

Whether you’re hanging twinkly lights or crafting something small but meaningful, in under an hour, you can transform your RV into a cozy, festive retreat that feels like home.

Ready to make the holidays special, no matter where you’re parked? Let’s get started.

🌼 Crafting Simple Wreaths

Sometimes the simplest decorations can bring the most cheer. Wreaths are a classic choice…and the best part? You don’t need fancy tools or a workshop to make one in your RV.

With easy-to-find materials and a touch of creativity, you can whip up a festive wreath in no time.

Here are two easy, under-an-hour wreaths you can make that will bring cozy, holiday vibes to any space.

Pinecone Wreath

If you’re looking for something rustic and timeless, a pinecone wreath is a great choice. You can gather pinecones during a nature walk or pick some up at a craft store.

Creating a DIY pinecone wreath is the perfect way to bring a touch of rustic charm and seasonal warmth to your home!

Start with a sturdy wreath frame and gather pinecones of various sizes, bonus points if you forage them yourself for that extra cozy vibe.

Using a hot glue gun, attach the pinecones in a circular pattern, layering them for a full, textured look. Add pops of color with ribbons, small ornaments, or a dusting of glitter to make it sparkle.

Whether you hang it on your front door or use it as a centerpiece, this handmade wreath will add a festive and personal touch to your decor!

Paper Plate Wreath

For something lighter and more playful, a paper plate wreath is a fun option.

This is a great way to use simple craft supplies you may already have in your RV, especially if you’re crafting with kids.

This wreath is not only lightweight but also easy to pack away if you’re traveling for the holidays.

Both of these wreaths are proof that with a little creativity, you don’t need to sacrifice style or comfort in a small space.

These projects are quick, cozy, and totally doable in any RV. Who’s ready to make one?

🪟 Festive Window Decorations

Even with the cozy, limited space of an RV, your windows are prime real estate for bringing in some holiday cheer.

They’re like a blank canvas just waiting for you to add a little sparkle, whimsy, or tradition.

From creative snowflakes to handmade clings, here are some easy, fun ideas to brighten your RV and set the festive tone.

DIY Snowflakes Make Great RV Decorations

Looking to deck out your windows with a nostalgic touch? Making paper snowflakes is a time-honored tradition that’s simple, requires minimal supplies, and takes less than an hour.

Plus, it’s an excellent activity for kids or anyone looking to tap into their creative side.

Materials Needed:

• Plain white paper (you can use printer paper or go with colored craft paper if you’re feeling bold).
• Sharp scissors (for clean cuts).
• Clear tape or string for hanging.

Instructions:

1. Fold the Paper
   Start by folding your paper into a square. Fold it diagonally into a triangle, then fold it one or two more times depending on how intricate you want your snowflake design to be.
2. Draw and Cut
   Use a pencil to lightly sketch your design on the folded paper. Common shapes include hearts, triangles, or random squiggles. Once you’re happy with your design, carefully cut out the shapes.
3. Unfold
   Slowly open up your paper to reveal your snowflake. It’s a little moment of magic every time! Flatten it gently with your hand or under a book if needed.
4. Hang or Display
   Use clear tape to stick these to your RV windows or tie a bit of string in one corner and dangle them from a curtain rod. You’ll have a winter wonderland right inside your home on wheels.

Seasonal Window Clings

Want a no-fuss decoration that’s bright, colorful, and easily removable? Seasonal window clings are a fantastic choice.

You can either buy them affordably online or create your own for a personal touch.

Making your own clings is a surprisingly fun project that’s perfect for customizing to your style.

How to Make Homemade Window Clings:

You don’t need a ton of fancy tools here, just things you probably already have in your craft stash.

Supplies:

• White school glue
• Liquid dish soap
• Food coloring or washable paint
• Plastic Ziplock bags or plastic sheet protectors
• Paintbrushes

Steps:

1. Mix It Up
   Combine about 2 tablespoons of glue with a tiny drop of dish soap. Add a few drops of food coloring or paint to get the hue you love. Mix well. Pro tip: Use multiple bowls for different colors!
2. Create the Designs
   Lay a Ziplock bag on a flat surface. Using a paintbrush or even a toothpick, paint your design directly onto the bag. Think snowmen, ornaments, stars—or, go abstract for a modern vibe.
3. Dry Time
   Let your designs dry completely. This usually takes 24-48 hours, depending on how thick your creation is.
4. Peel and Stick
   Once dry, gently peel the clings off the plastic bag. Stick them on your RV windows for a pop of holiday charm. When you’re ready to change up the décor, just peel them off without leaving a trace.

Don’t Have Time to Make Them?

You can always grab pre-made clings from online marketplaces or stores.

Look for packs with festive themes like reindeer, holly leaves, or even Santa hats. They’re affordable, reusable, and take all the guesswork out of decorating.

Holiday decorating in an RV doesn’t have to be complicated.

By focusing on small but impactful touches like window decorations, you’ll instantly make your space feel warm, joyful, and inviting.

Who knew windows could bring so much holiday magic?

🌺 Table Centerpieces

A table centerpiece does more than dress up your dining space, it’s like the heart of your festive table setup.

Even in the limited space of an RV, you can create beautiful centerpieces that add warmth and personality without taking up too much room.

With minimal materials and some creative flair, you’ll have your RV holiday-ready in no time.

Mason Jar Lanterns

Mason jars are the ultimate multitaskers when it comes to DIY decor, and lanterns are no exception.

They’re affordable, versatile, and easy to customize depending on your theme. Plus, they fit perfectly on compact RV tables while still making a big impact.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mason jars (any size you prefer)
• Mini LED string lights or tea light candles (battery-operated if you’re safety-conscious)
• Twine, ribbon, or burlap for decoration
• Optional: pinecones, holiday ornaments, faux greenery, or small baubles

How-To:

1. Clean Your Jars
   Start with a clean mason jar. Remove any labels and give them a quick rinse if necessary.
2. Add Decorative Fillings
   Drop in embellishments like faux greenery, mini ornaments, or pinecones. These little details create a festive and layered look.
3. Add Lighting
   Wrap LED string lights around your jar fillers or place a tea light inside. The glow brings a cozy, inviting vibe to your space.
4. Decorate the Jar Top
   Tie twine, ribbon, or burlap around the neck of the jar. Add a little charm like a tiny bell or a sprig of rosemary for extra holiday cheer.
5. Arrange on Your Table
   Place one or a few jars together on your table. Pro tip: Use a tray or placemat underneath to group them visually and protect your table from scratches or drips.

These lanterns are easy to make and pack away, so they’re perfect whether you’re staying put or hitting the road.

Holiday Themed Table Runner

Even the smallest table feels more festive with a charming table runner.

Making your own from fabric remnants is a wonderful way to personalize your decor without spending a lot.

It’s the kind of project where the imperfections only add to the charm.

With just a little effort, these projects can transform your table into a festive focal point that feels warm and welcoming.

This is your space. Why not make it uniquely yours?

🎄 DIY Ornaments for RV Décor

When you’re embracing a cozy holiday season in your RV, ornaments can add a charming touch of festive cheer.

The beauty of DIY ornaments is that they’re budget-friendly, customizable, and small enough to fit perfectly in your space.

Whether you’re using simple kitchen ingredients or everyday items, crafting ornaments in your RV is a fun way to celebrate the season.

Salt Dough Ornaments

Salt dough ornaments are an absolute classic, and for good reason…they’re easy, inexpensive, and endlessly customizable.

Plus, you likely already have the ingredients in your pantry. These make great keepsakes or gifts, and you can create them in any shape or style that fits your holiday vibe.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup salt
• 1 cup water

Steps:

1. Make the Dough
   Combine the flour, salt, and water in a bowl. Mix until it forms a smooth dough. If it’s sticky, add a little more flour.
2. Roll and Cut
   Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface, about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to create shapes—stars, trees, or even camper shapes if you’re feeling inspired!
3. Create Holes for Hanging
   Before baking, use a straw or a skewer to poke a small hole at the top of each ornament so you can add string or ribbon later.
4. Bake and Cool
   Place the shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 200°F for 2-3 hours, flipping them halfway through to ensure even drying.
5. Decorate
   Once cooled, unleash your creativity! Paint them with acrylics, add glitter, or use markers to design something unique. Seal them with a clear spray finish to make them last.

These lightweight ornaments are perfect for hanging on mini RV trees or even along a string of lights for a festive garland.

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Recycled Material Ornaments

Why not turn trash into treasure? Using recycled materials to make ornaments is not only eco-friendly but also a fun challenge.

With a little ingenuity, you can transform everyday items lying around your RV into creative holiday decorations.

You know those Mason jar lights that we made above? Use the covers to make map ornaments.

So simple and so cute. Cut out map locations of all the places you’ve been in the past year (or everywhere you’ve been since you started RVing.)

Ideas for Recycled Ornaments:

1. Cardboard Cutouts
   Cut shapes out of cardboard packaging (like cereal boxes). Use old magazines, wrapping paper, or fabric scraps to cover them and make them pop. Add glitter or ribbon for a finished look.
2. Jar Lid Ornaments
   Have extra mason jar lids? Turn them into ornaments by gluing photos, map destinations, wrapping paper, or small holiday scenes inside. Glue ribbon around the edge for a polished touch.
3. Broken Bulbs Reimagined
   If you have burned-out light bulbs, don’t toss them! Paint them to look like penguins, snowmen, or elves. Add a ribbon to hang them, and you’ve got one-of-a-kind decorations.
4. Takeout Container Snowflakes
   Cut snowflake designs out of clean plastic takeout lids. Spray them with a frosty white paint or leave them clear for a modern, minimalist look.
5. Bottle Cap Ornaments
   Gather a few bottle caps and paint them in festive colors. Arrange them into a snowman shape, adding tiny details like scarves or buttons with scrap fabric and markers. String them up with twine for a rustic vibe.

The best part? These ornaments can be displayed indoors or hung outside as long as they’re weather-resistant.

They’re lightweight, packable, and perfect for RV holiday decorating.

🥰 Creating a Cozy Atmosphere with RV Decorations

A cozy RV feels like the holiday season wrapped up in a little space. It doesn’t take much to transform your motorhome into a snug retreat full of festive vibes.

Sometimes, small changes like soft lights or thoughtful decor make all the difference.

Festive Throw Pillows: Ideas for making or decorating throw pillows with holiday themes

Throw pillows might seem small, but they can make a big impact.

Adding a few holiday-themed pillows can instantly make your RV feel more cheerful and inviting.

You don’t need to spend a fortune either, basic materials and a little creativity go a long way.

Quick Pillow Projects You Can DIY:

1. Swap Out Pillow Covers – If you already own throw pillows, just swap their covers! Look for holiday-themed pillowcases with fun prints like reindeer, snowflakes, or plaid. Many stores have these at affordable prices during the season. You can even sew your own simple covers using festive fabric and a basic stitch.
2. Stencil or Paint Designs – Feeling crafty? Use fabric paint and stencils to add your favorite holiday designs to plain pillowcases. Try painting a tree silhouette, snowflakes, or even lettering like “Merry & Bright.”
3. Add Texture – Glue or sew on embellishments for extra charm. Think tiny pom-poms for edges, felt snowflakes, or even small ribbons. This adds depth and makes the pillows stand out.
4. No-Sew Options – Not handy with a needle? That’s okay. You can use iron-on patches or fabric glue to attach decorative pieces. It’s quick and easy but still looks polished.
5. Gift Bags – Buy a couple of extra large gift bags at the dollar store and wrap your pillow in them. You can either just wrap the excess around the back or cut it and use the iron-on hem tape.

Throw these pillows on your seating area or bed, and watch your RV go from practical to festive in no time.

String Lights Displays: Tips for using string lights creatively for RV Decorations

String lights are a holiday must-have. They add warmth, charm, and that touch of magic that makes any space feel special.

But in an RV, you’ll need to be creative to make the most out of limited room.

Placement Ideas for RV-Friendly String Lights:

1. Frame Your Windows
   Run a strand of string lights around the edge of your RV windows. It creates a soft glow that adds a relaxed holiday feel, perfect for cozy evenings.
2. Wrap Them Around Cabinets
   Most RVs have overhead cabinets or shelves. Wind the lights around these areas for subtle, tucked-away lighting that doesn’t feel overpowering.
3. Highlight a Feature Wall
   Create a mini centerpiece by layering string lights behind a garland or wreath on one wall. This turns an ordinary corner into an eye-catching holiday feature.
4. Add Lights to Your Bedframe
   Drape lights along the headboard or footboard to bring out a cozy cabin vibe in your bedroom area. Use battery-powered lights for convenience and safety.
5. Ceiling Lining
   Add depth by lining the ceiling with lights, particularly along the edges. It feels a bit like gazing up at stars, even while inside.

Extra Tips:

• Command Hooks Are Your Best Friend: They’re removable, damage-free, and ideal for hanging lights in tight spaces.
• Use Battery-Operated Lights: These are safer and more practical in a small space, especially if you’re on the go.
• Mix Warm and Cool Tones: Blend white and colored lights for a magical, layered glow.

String lights add just enough sparkle to make your RV feel inviting, festive, and truly like home for the holidays.

🎴 Crafting Holiday Cards

Making your own holiday cards is a heartfelt way to spread joy. Plus, with just a little creativity, you can create something truly special, even in your RV!

Not sure where to start? Let’s break it down into easy steps, including ways to incorporate natural elements that add an extra layer of charm and personality.

Handmade Greeting Cards: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Personalized Greeting Cards

Nothing says “I care” like a handmade greeting card.

They’re simple, customizable, and budget-friendly. The best part? You can whip up a set in under an hour.

What You’ll Need:

• Blank cardstock or pre-folded cards
• Colored paper or scrapbook paper
• Scissors and glue (stick or liquid)
• Markers, pens, or paint for lettering
• Optional: stickers, glitter, washi tape, or ribbon

How to Create Them:

1. Choose Your Design Style
   Think about your holiday vibe—classic and cozy? Whimsical? Minimalist? Pick a theme and color palette (red and green are classics, but icy blues or metallics can be chic).
2. Make a Base Design
   Cut shapes (like a tree, star, or snowflake) from the colored paper and glue them onto the blank cardstock. Layering adds depth and interest.
3. Add Personal Touches
   Write a heartfelt message inside the card. If you’re not confident in your handwriting, use stencils or print a design to include. You can even add a family photo or a small memento.
4. Embellish Your Creation
   Use glitter for a little sparkle or stickers for quick decoration. Adding ribbon or a 3D embellishment like a button can make the card feel extra luxurious.
5. Tidy It Up
   Trim any uneven edges and let everything dry before slipping them into envelopes. Handmade cards are as much a gift as the words inside them!

Using Natural Elements: Including Organic Touches in Your Card Designs

Want to give your cards a unique, earthy feel? Incorporating natural elements is a creative way to stand out while keeping things eco-friendly.

Materials to Gather:

• Twigs, small pinecones, or dried leaves
• Pressed flowers or botanical prints
• Jute twine or thin rope
• Glue (preferably clear-drying)
• Optional: Mini pine needles or cinnamon sticks

Steps to Add Nature’s Charm:

1. Prepare Your Materials
   If using items like leaves or twigs from outside, make sure they’re clean and dry to prevent warping once glued.
2. Highlight Natural Shapes
   Arrange a small twig into a tree shape or use a pressed flower as the centerpiece. Glue them gently onto the card for a crisp, natural aesthetic.
3. Create Textured Borders
   Frame your card design with twine, small acorns, or sprigs of dried herbs. An asymmetrical layout can give it a modern touch.
4. Add Aromatic Elements
   Attach a mini pine sprig or a cinnamon stick to make your card smell as good as it looks. Just secure them with hot glue or tie them with twine.
5. Keep It Simple
   Less is often more when working with natural materials. Let the organic textures and colors speak for themselves without overloading the design.

Handmade cards with natural accents are not just beautiful, they’re a thoughtful way to bring a touch of the outdoors into your holiday greetings.

Who wouldn’t love receiving a piece of nature wrapped in festive cheer?

🎬 RV Decorations Final Thoughts

Decorating your RV for the holidays doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. In fact, it’s an opportunity to make the space uniquely yours.

From paper wreaths to glowing mason jar lanterns, there are endless ways to add personality and festive magic to your home on wheels.

The key is finding quick, meaningful projects that fit into a small space, and enjoying the process along the way.

So, gather your supplies, tap into your creativity, and have fun turning your RV into a holiday haven. Which decoration idea will you try first? Let the festive vibes begin!

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