Posted 2 weeks ago
Tue 18 Nov, 2025 11:11 AM
With the nights drawing in, the campus lights are twinkling, and the smell of mince pies is in the air... Christmas is officially on its way!
Whether you’re staying in Leeds over the holidays or just want to bring some festive cheer to your space, now’s the perfect time to transform your room into a cosy winter wonderland.
Here are some fun, budget-friendly ideas to get started:
DIY decorations
Instead of spending lots of money on shop-bought decorations, why not get creative and make your own?
Before buying anything, check what you already have. A little creativity goes a long way, and it’s more sustainable too!
Christmas jars: Use empty jars and fill them with fairy lights, baubles, or pinecones for a cosy glow you can line up on a table or shelf.
You’ll need:
A square piece of paper (white or coloured)
Scissors Pencil (optional for drawing patterns)
Steps:
- Start with a square sheet of paper. If you only have A4, fold one corner diagonally to the opposite edge and trim off the excess to make a square.
- Fold the square in half diagonally to make a triangle.
- Fold the triangle in half again to make a smaller triangle.
- Fold the triangle into thirds. Bring one side across, then the other, so it looks like a narrow wedge. Adjust until the folds are even.
- Trim the top. Cut off the uneven ends so you have a neat point.
- Cut out shapes along the edges. Use small triangles, curves, or zigzags — the more cuts, the more intricate your snowflake will look.
-
Unfold carefully.
You’ll reveal a beautiful, unique snowflake!
Wall art: Cut out festive shapes or create a Christmas collage with old magazines to add to your wall.
Paper snowflakes: This is a timeless classic and easy way to add festive charm to your walls or windows.
Remember:
Use blue tac and removable command strips to make sure you don't damage the walls when you decorate.
Fairy lights & photos
Fairy lights make any space feel warm and inviting.
Hang them across your walls or around your desk, and add a personal twist by attaching printed photos of past festive photos with family and friends.
You can even add new snaps with your flatmates this year!
Note: You should only use battery powered Fairy Lights in your room in Halls to prevent fire risks.
Get a mini Christmas tree
A small tree is perfect for student rooms.
You can find affordable ones in supermarkets or homeware stores which you can decorate with baubles, tinsel, or even handmade ornaments for a unique look.
Advent Calendar
Nothing says Christmas like counting down the days until 25 December!
Whether you go for a chocolate calendar or a DIY version with little notes or treats, it’s a fun way to build excitement.
Festive scents
Bring the smell of Christmas into your room with Reed diffusers, or room sprays.
Think cinnamon, pine, or spiced orange for that cosy vibe.
Watch and listen to Christmassy music & shows
Create a Christmas playlist to set the mood, from classics to modern hits.
Or you could plan a festive movie night with your flatmates and binge watch Christmas films with mince pies and mulled wine.
Show us your festive rooms!
Ready to make your room festive?
Share your decorations with us on social media tagging uol_res_life, we’d love to see your winter wonderland!
