makingfrugalfun on LTK

When I saw these mini storage totes for $2.50, it was an immediate add-to-cart situation. 🛒 This is such a fun “gift idea for him” for Valentine’s Day, Father’s Day, birthdays, or even Christmas. They come in a few different colors, and you can customize it so easily based on what your guy loves. How to make this mini toolbox gift: • Grab a mini storage tote (Home Depot find!) • Fill it with your guy’s favorite candy • Add a few dollar store tools to keep it on theme • Tuck in a gift card if it’s in the budget (or just fill it with candy — that’s just as fun!) • Finish it off with a ribbon or tag for a cute touch It’s simple, affordable, and actually feels thoughtful — especially for the Valentine who’s impossible to shop for or always working on a project. 💌 Comment GIFT and I’ll send you the link to grab these adorable mini storage totes! ✨ Save this idea for later ❤️ Frugal, fun, and easy to customize Follow along for more frugal gift ideas, DIYs, and everyday celebrations made fun. LTKHome LTKFindsUnder50

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6.5-Qt Tough Storage Tote in Black with Red Lid | The Home Depot

6.5-Qt Tough Storage Tote in Clear with Red Lid | The Home Depot

6.5-Qt Tough Storage Tote in Black with Yellow Lid | The Home Depot

6.5-Qt Tough Storage Tote in Black with White Lid | The Home Depot

Made the easiest little strawberry chocolate bites last night and I’m obsessed 🍓🍫

Perfect when you want something sweet but not a giant dessert.

How I made them:
• Chop strawberries into really tiny pieces
• Melt a few Hershey bars (I put them in a bowl with the wrapper on, pour boiling water over, let them melt, then snip a corner and squeeze like a piping bag 🙌)
• Add strawberries to a heart-shaped silicone mold
• Pour chocolate over the top and gently mix

They didn’t hold together as well as I was hoping in the heart shapes—but still SO good.
Next time I’d do chocolate → strawberries → more chocolate to help them stay together better.

I love these because they’re:
✔️ portioned
✔️ just sweet enough
✔️ cute for Valentine’s, date night, or a little after-dinner treat

#LTKfoodie #LTKHome

So I finally gave up on the destroyed blinds, and tried this Artscape window privacy film… and I’m obsessed.

It’s non-adhesive (just water + static cling), so there’s zero pressure. If you mess up, you just peel it off and readjust…no stress, no sticky residue.

It was super easy to cut to size and install, and this is such a simple little weekend project.

I love that natural light still comes through, but you still get the privacy of blinds…without the blinds.

And this old English / leaded glass texture is SO good. Especially because I’m thinking about painting this room dark green and moody, and I already know it’s going to look incredible together.

If your blinds are hanging on by a thread, or you have a window that needs some privacy and pizzazz…this is such a good idea!

#LTKHome

These little paint sets paired with this free printable are such an easy and cute classroom Valentine! 💘

You can use my free printable with ANY colorful item:
🎨 paint sets
🖍️ crayons
✏️ markers
🌈 play-dough
🎉 even colorful stickers

Simple, fun, and no sugar overload.

Find the free printable at makingfrugalfun.com ❤️🎀

#LTKmomlife #LTKKids #LTKHome

Affordable valentines home decor finds at Walmart.

#LTKSeasonal #LTKFindsUnder50 #LTKHome

Christmas cleanup but make it organized ✨

• Large wreath storage bags (fits multiple wreaths 🙌)
• Ornament storage cubes (no more broken ornaments)
• Christmas tree bags (when you can’t get it back in the box)
• Storage bin racks that maximize vertical space and keep everything accessible

Save this, shop it, and thank yourself later.

👉 Follow for more frugal home + organization ideas

#LTKHome #LTKSeasonal #LTKFindsUnder100

Kitchen pantry and fridge organization favorites!

#LTKHome

I tried the fabric bow balloon hack, but I used silver sequin fabric for the cutest New Year’s Eve decoration!

I’ll be honest, I was skeptical as I was doing this project, I was worried the fabric was not going to hold to the balloon once I inflated it but it worked and looks so cute! 🥰

How to:

🎀 Spray a giant bow shaped balloon with permanent spray adhesive.
🎀 Gently lay a large piece of fabric over the bow (I had my son help and it made it way easier to get the wrinkles smooth)
🎀 Flip it over and cut around the bow shape leaving about 1-2 inches of fabric around the edges.
🎀 Spray edges of balloon and fabric with spray adhesive and fold around the edges.
🎀 I added a small strip of fabric to the back to use to hang it on the wall like a wreath.
🎀 Inflate and enjoy!

Inspired by: @deannadunn

#DIYdecor #newyearseve #newyearsdecorations

#LTKHoliday #LTKHome

Tame the toy clutter with these storage and organization finds.

#LTKHome #LTKKids #LTKmomlife

Still one of our all time favorite gift ideas! Our kids play with it all the time!

Gift ideas for kids
Mario kart track for kids

#LTKKids #LTKGiftGuide

Give me all the bows! This sparkly bow tree topper is too cute. I used it on my New Year’s Eve tree 😍

#LTKFindsUnder50 #LTKHome #LTKHoliday

Pink Christmas trees in the girls’ room = instant magic 🎄💗

This one is affordable, fun, and totally worth it.

follow @makingfrugalfun for more fun decorating ideas, and comment PINK if you want the links for the tree and ornaments.

#LTKHoliday #LTKHome #LTKFindsUnder50

I couldn’t resist turning a classic holiday treat into something a little extra ✨

This edible Rice Krispie wreath is so easy to make, budget-friendly, and honestly the cutest centerpiece or sweet treat for December.

How I made it:
1️⃣ Make a batch of Rice Krispie treats like normal
2️⃣ While they’re still warm, lightly grease your hands and shape the treats into a circle to form a wreath. I used aluminum foil to help shape the wreath so it wouldn’t be so sticky!
3️⃣ Let it set completely
4️⃣ Cut Fruit Roll-Ups into strips and tie them into bows
5️⃣ Press the bows into the wreath to “decorate”

That’s it! Simple, festive, and fun for kids to help with 🎀

Perfect for a holiday party, Christmas movie night, classroom treats, or a fun family baking day without spending a ton.

Save this for later and share it with someone who loves cute holiday food ideas 🎄

Follow @makingfrugalfun for more easy, affordable holiday ideas that look way fancier than they are.

#makingfrugalfun #frugalholidays #holidaytreats #christmasdesserts #easyholidayrecipes #holidaydiy #kidfriendlyrecipes #festivefood #holidaybaking #christmasideas #frugalliving

#LTKfoodie #LTKHome #LTKHoliday

If you want to be festive all week without spending festive money, these Walmart holiday sweaters are it. 🎄

They’re only $12, actually cute, and easy to dress up or down for school drop-off, errands, parties, or cozy nights at home.

The best part? Most sizes and colors are still in stock right now, but they’re definitely going fast as we get closer to Christmas.

I’ll link all my favorite styles so you can grab one (or two) before they’re gone.

Follow @makingfrugalfun for more affordable holiday finds, easy outfit ideas, and festive-on-a-budget inspo.

#holidaystyle #christmassweater #walmartfinds #budgetfashion #festiveonabudget #frugalliving #momstyle #holidayoutfits #affordablefashion #christmasvibes #walmartfashion #holidaywear

#LTKmomlife #LTKHoliday #LTKFindsUnder50

I saw this bell wreath selling for $229… so obviously I had to try making my own 😅

And I’m happy to report: this one came together for under $20 and looks just as festive.

Here’s exactly how I made it 👇

• I started with a simple wire wreath form
• Found metal bells at Dollar Tree, I couldn’t find enough gold so I spray painted silver ones.
• I tested hot glue and super glue first, but neither held up well on the wire form
• Zip ties were the real MVP – they let me pull each bell tight so nothing shifts
• I also tried floral wire, but I couldn’t get the bells secure enough
• Once all the bells were attached, I trimmed the zip ties and added the cutest velvet bow.

That’s it. Simple, sturdy, and way more budget-friendly than the $229 version.

If you’re decorating on a budget but still want that classic, cozy holiday look, this one is a win.

✨ Save this for later if you want to try it
🛎️ Comment “BELL” and I’ll send you the supply links

➕ Follow @makingfrugalfun for more affordable DIYs, holiday decor, and frugal home ideas that still feel beautiful. 🤩

#diychristmasdecor
#christmaswreath
#frugalhome
#budgetdecor
#holidaydiy
#dollartreediy
#walmartfinds
#christmasdecorideas
#cozychristmas
#frugalliving
#homedecoronabudget
#makingfrugalfun

#LTKHome #LTKHoliday #LTKSeasonal

Decorate the porch with me! I wanted a simple but magical red and white peppermint theme this year, and it all came together with a mix of Walmart basics, Dollar Tree finds, and a few things I already had on hand.

I started with two strands of the 25-ft pre-lit rope garland from Walmart to wrap around the doorframe. Using two gives you a slightly fuller look and creates a sturdy base for any lighter tinsel decorations. Across the top, I added a pre-lit garland from my holiday stash for extra glow.

Dollar Tree came through with the cutest red and white tinsel pieces—candy canes, ornaments, and those little nutcrackers that were not $1.25 (they were $7 each), but they matched my Home Depot wreath perfectly, so I couldn’t resist. I used small cable ties to secure everything evenly around the garland.

To finish the look, I flanked the doorway with two small pre-lit trees and added any red and white ornaments I could find from our collection. For the layered rug moment, I kept the black and white base rug we already owned, added a smaller red and green plaid rug from Target, and topped it with my SwitchMat and a Merry Christmas insert.

It looks so cute day or night, and it turned out almost exactly how I pictured it.

Save this for porch inspo and follow @makingfrugalfun for more frugal holiday decorating ideas, DIYs, and home projects all season long.

#christmasdecor #holidaydecor #porchdecor #decoratewithme #budgetdecor #frugalhome #frugalliving #dollartreedecor #walmartfinds #christmasporch #holidayhome #beforeandafter #christmasideas

#LTKHome #LTKSeasonal #LTKHoliday

Tween boy gift ideas
Gift guide for boys ages 8-12

#LTKGiftGuide #LTKHoliday #LTKKids

If you’re short on space or working with a tiny budget this year, this wall-mounted Christmas tree is the easiest festive project you can make.

I did the entire thing with Dollar Tree supplies, and it turned out so pretty. It’s also perfect for playrooms, small apartments, or toddler-proof decorating since nothing is within reach.

Here’s how I made it:

What you need
• Tinsel garland (I used 4–6 strands depending on size)
• Battery operated lights
• Small ornaments and ribbon
• Mini command hooks
• Optional: a bow or tree topper

How to make it
1. Map out your tree shape on the wall first. I started with a center point and worked downward.
2. Place mini command hooks in a zig-zag pattern to outline the tree. These will anchor your garland and keep the shape clean.
3. Hook your tinsel garland onto each command hook, forming the outline of the tree.
4. Layer on battery-operated lights. I tucked the battery packs behind the garland for easy hiding and access.
5. Add your ornaments, ribbons, and any small accents. Keep them lightweight so they adhere well to the wall.
6. Finish with a bow or mini topper at the top.

Such a fun, affordable project and a great solution when you want a magical tree without taking up floor space. I’ll link similar supplies in LTK so you can recreate the look.

Save this idea for your holiday decorating and follow @makingfrugalfun for more budget-friendly Christmas DIYs.

#diy #diymom #christmasdiy #christmasdecor #christmastree #walldecor #dollartree #dollartreediy #dollartreefinds #holidaydecor #budgetdecor #frugalhome #frugalliving

#LTKHome #LTKHoliday #LTKmomlife

Decorate the porch with me! I love a good before and after, especially when it’s done on a budget.

Most of this look came together with Dollar Tree finds, a few Walmart staples, and some simple DIY touches to make it feel magical using ornaments, garland, and little trees we already had.

If you’re working on your outdoor decor this week, save this for inspo and follow @makingfrugalfun for more frugal holiday ideas, easy DIYs, and home projects that make a big impact without a big price tag.

#christmasdecor #holidaydecor #outdoordecor #frugalhome #frugalliving #budgetdecor #holidayporch #christmasporch #decoratewithme #beforeandafter #holidayinspo #christmasideas

#LTKHome #LTKHoliday

#ad Officially obsessed with the goal of having a Christmas tree in every room over here.

Added this gorgeous 7.5 foot pre lit tree from Best Choice Products to our bedroom and I love how warm and cozy it feels.

If you prefer the warm twinkle light look over bright white LEDs, this tree is beautiful.

The branches look so realistic, it’s really full especially at the bottom, and it was easy to assemble and fluff.

I went with a blue ornament theme to match the room and paired it with the slatted wood tree collar for that designer look without the designer price. Such a great value for the quality.

Comment TREE for the link to this tree and more decor faves and follow @makingfrugalfun for holiday inspo all season long!

@bcproducts #christmasdecor #holidaydecor #christmastree #prelittree #warmwhitechristmaslights #bestchoiceproducts #holidayhome #cozychristmas #holidaystyle #holidayinspo #christmasathome #homedecoronabudget #christmasbedroomdecor #christmasbedroom

#LTKHome #LTKHoliday

This cozy simmer pot is the easiest way to make your whole house feel festive, and you can do it in a slow cooker or on the stovetop.

It’s totally customizable, so use whatever you already have on hand. Here’s what I used this time:
• 2 apples, sliced
• 2 oranges, sliced
• 1 bag of cranberries
• 6 cinnamon sticks
• 4 sprigs of rosemary
• 8 cups of water

Set your slow cooker to high with the lid off and let it simmer for several hours. Instant Christmas vibes.

Save this for the next cozy day at home and follow @makingfrugalfun for more simple, beautiful holiday ideas on a budget.

#crockpotpotpourri #stovetoppotpourri #christmas #christmasideas #christmasrecipes #holidayrecipes #diymom #frugalchristmas #holidayhome #cozychristmas #frugalhome #momhacks

#LTKSeasonal #LTKHoliday #LTKHome

#ad @maxandlilyfurniture #mymaxandlily

I’ve been trying to make this shared room work with two separate twin beds, but it always felt cluttered and cramped… and I was constantly worried about my toddler rolling off.

Switching to the Twin Over Twin Low Bunk Bed with Easy Slide & Stairs was the best decision for this space.

The bottom bunk is almost on the floor, the top bunk sits much lower than traditional designs, and the girls love having a slide and stairs instead of a ladder.

It instantly made the room feel brighter, cleaner, and so much more functional. And honestly, the price point compared to similar bunk beds is such a win.

Plus, the girls think it’s the coolest thing ever, which makes it the perfect “biggest gift under the tree” idea if you’re looking for something fun and practical.

Comment BUNK and I’ll send all the Max & Lily links straight to your inbox so you can shop their furniture and see all the styles they offer.

Follow @makingfrugalfun for more cozy room ideas and budget friendly home finds.

#kidsroomdecor #sharedroomideas #kidsbunkbed #kidsroommakeover #girlsroomdecor #homedecorideas #roomrefresh #smallspacesolutions #playroominspo #affordablehomefinds

#LTKHome #LTKGiftGuide #LTKHoliday

And yes we put our pet gerbils on our first Christmas card…don’t worry about it. 😆🤭

A new favorite mantle idea that costs almost nothing.

I used $1.25 ribbon from Dollar Tree, punched a small hole in the corner of each Christmas card, and tied them onto a simple garland I already had. That’s it. And somehow… it might be my favorite holiday DIY this year.

It instantly makes your garland look fuller, more personal, and so cozy.

Use whatever you have:
• old family Christmas cards
• Santa photos
• kids’ holiday artwork
• or even the new cards that come in throughout December

I love being able to see all 14 years of our Christmas cards in one place. It’s such an easy tradition to keep, and it makes the whole room feel extra magical without spending money.

Comment CARDS and I’ll send you the link to the Christmas cards we love.

#christmasdecor #christmasdiy #holidaymantle #frugalhome #frugalliving #budgetfriendlydecor #dollartreediy #garlanddecor #christmascards #holidaytraditions #cozychristmas #simplechristmas #makingfrugalfun #holidayinspo #christmasathome #momhacks #holidayhomedecor #christmas2025 #mantledecor #easychristmascrafts

#LTKHoliday #LTKHome #LTKSeasonal

One of our favorite Christmas Eve traditions you can recreate with whatever you already have at home.

We set up a little DIY station and the kids make a simple little batch of “reindeer food” using oatmeal, holiday sprinkles, and a little glitter for extra sparkle on the lawn.

Set up a station with some baggies and let the kids scoop, mix, and label their own bags. It’s easy, festive, and such a sweet memory to repeat every year.

Save this for later if you want to add a little magic to your Christmas Eve!

Follow @makingfrugalfun for more cozy holiday ideas, family traditions, and simple ways to make the season feel special on any budget.

#christmaseve #christmastraditions #familytraditions #holidayfun #holidaytraditions #kidscrafts #holidayideas #frugalfun #frugalliving #christmasmagic #holidaymemories #momhacks #makingfrugalfun #momlife #christmasathome

#LTKmomlife #LTKHome #LTKHoliday

Cutest deer pajamas at target! Love that these are Christmas-y but you can still wear them afterwards, I mean we wear Christmas pajamas year round if they still fit, but you know what I mean 😆

#LTKHoliday #LTKKids #LTKFindsUnder50

Christmas cards
Shutterfly

#LTKHoliday #LTKmomlife #LTKHome

I play carol of the bells in my head every time I turn these on. 😆

There’s nothing better than a quiet December morning, the house still dark, and turning on every Christmas light with one tap.

These little smart plugs are one of my favorite Christmas gadgets because they make the season feel extra magical without any extra work.

I use them for the tree, garlands, outdoor lights, and banisters and more!

If you want a super simple way to add a little everyday magic (and ease) to your home this season, try this! You can also get the ones that connect to Alexa.

Comment LIGHTS and I’ll send you the smart plug links.

Follow @makingfrugalfun for more cozy holiday ideas, simple home upgrades, and frugal family fun all season long.

#christmashacks #holidayhacks #christmasdecor #cozychristmas #holidayhome #frugalhome #hometechtips #smarthomeideas #simpledecorideas #momlifehacks #holidaydecorideas #christmasathome #makingfrugalfun

#LTKHoliday #LTKmorningroutine #LTKHome

Nostalgic matching family stockings
Pottery barn Christmas decor
Christmas decorations
Decorate with me
Christmas mantle decor

#LTKHoliday #LTKHome #LTKCyberWeek

Decorate with me! I really only have a few more things to do. I’ve been way ahead this year on decorating because we wanted to have most of the decor done before Thanksgiving since Dan’s parents were going to be here.

These garlands with the ornaments on them are old. We have had them for a few years and they used to be in our old podiatry office, but they look so pretty here.

I used these affordable, simple pre lit garlands to wrap around them to give them light and make them look fuller. I’ll tag some similar finds in my LTK.

If you’re working room by room this season, save this for your banister glow up and follow @makingfrugalfun for more cozy Vlogmas decorating inspo, frugal holiday finds, and simple ways to make your home feel magical on a budget.

#vlogmas #vlogmas2025 #decoratewithme #holidaydecor #christmasdecor #christmasdecorations #christmasathome #cozychristmas #banisterdecor #garlanddecor #frugalhome #frugallivingstyled #budgetfriendlydecor #walmarthome #amazonhome #holidayhome #homedecorinspo #cozyhomeideas #makingfrugalfun

#LTKHoliday #LTKHome #LTKvlog

These little personalized hot cocoa mugs make great gifts and perfect for Christmas movie nights!

Gift guide
Gifts for kids

#LTKGiftGuide #LTKHoliday #LTKHome

If you’re planning a Christmas movie night, make these whipped cream hot cocoa toppers! They are the easiest little holiday hack and they look so festive in every mug.

Here’s how to make them:

Spray whipped cream directly into a muffin tin, filling each cup about halfway.
Add your toppings: sprinkles, crushed peppermint, mini marshmallows, whatever fits your holiday vibe.
Freeze for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better).
Once they’re solid, pop them out and keep them in a freezer bag until you’re ready to serve.

Set one on top of warm cocoa and it melts perfectly, cools the drink down for the kids, and instantly makes movie night feel extra magical. Such an easy, frugal, holiday mom win.

Comment COCOA for links to supplies used!

Follow @makingfrugalfun for more holiday ideas.

#christmasrecipes #holidayrecipes #diymom #momhacks #holidayhacks #christmasideas #hotcocoa #hotchocolate #hotcocoabar #hotchocolatebar #kidfriendlyrecipes #easyholidayrecipes #holidayentertaining #frugalfun

#LTKmomlife #LTKHome #LTKHoliday

The number one thing on my 7 year old’s wish list! Baseball lifestyle 101 shorts and gear!

Gift guide for boys

#LTKGiftGuide #LTKKids #LTKCyberWeek

#ad Partnering with Best Choice Products to share the garland hack I’m using on repeat this year.

Their 9ft cedar garland is so full and realistic, plus it comes pre-lit with LED lights, a twinkle mode, and a timer so it looks magical every night without needing to remember to turn it on and off.

I used this fun tension-rod trick to hang it, simply wrap it around the rod, decorate it with ornaments or bows, and pop it right into place.

No holes, no tools, and no waiting for help...haha.

For the price, the quality is honestly better than a lot of the big retailer garlands I’ve tried.

Comment GARLAND and I’ll send the link your way!

Follow @makingfrugalfun for more holiday home hacks and affordable decorating ideas.

#christmasdecor #holidayhacks #garlandhack #bestchoiceproducts #holidayhome #cedargreenery @bcproducts

#LTKCyberWeek #LTKHoliday #LTKHome

I was supposed to be cleaning and getting ready for guests when I found these lights in my office, and this just seemed like way more fun. 😜

These are the same Govee lights I used for the Halloween cloud ceiling, and I planned to reuse them in here once I was finished. They look so cool and were easy to install with the peel and stick backing!

A quick little “not on the to-do list but here we are” project.

Comment LIGHTS and I’ll send you the link, and follow @makingfrugalfun for more fun home projects.

#homedecor #homeproject #mediaroombuild #budgetdecor #frugalhome #affordabledecor #dailyvlog #momlife #goveelights #ledlights #simpledecor #minimakeover #quickhomeprojects #homemakeover #beforeandafter #diyhome #holidayhome #cozyhome #onabudget #moviroomdecor #ledvibes @govee

#LTKHome

This food warming mat came in so handy today for Thanksgiving dinner!

Hosting finds
Holiday entertaining
Amazon finds

#LTKHome #LTKfoodie #LTKHoliday