Overspending can strain anyone’s holiday spirit. Keep your spending in check with these budget-friendly decorating ideas from Kathy Peterson, an author, syndicated columnist and host of the TV show “Town & Country Crafts with Kathy Peterson”:

¢ If you’re entertaining, consider using solid-color plates, tablecloths and napkins that can make the transition to everyday use. Accent with inexpensive seasonal accessories.

¢ Tie a colorful ribbon and a jingle bell onto each wine glass, or tie each napkin in raffia or ribbon embellished with greenery, a jingle bell or an old Christmas light.

¢ Decoupage a shoe box with leftover wrapping paper or holiday cards to hold mail and Christmas cards.

¢ Enhance inexpensive grocery-store bouquets with greenery from your yard.

¢ Watch for half-off coupons from craft stores to use for holiday decorations.

¢ Visit thrift stores for vintage ornaments and holiday accessories that you can use as is or refurbish in your own style.

¢ Recycle chipped glassware by filling it with a candle wick and melted soy wax or beeswax, available in craft stores, or by filling it with water and floating cranberries and a candle in it. Stemware can be turned upside down and used as a candle stand.