Luck of the Irish

St Patrick's Day BannerLeprechauns and a pot of gold are certainly hallmarks of St. Patrick’s Day. Below are a few crafting ideas to help you get ready for this upcoming celebration of all things Irish.

Shamrocks
Ireland, known as the Emerald Isle, is famous for its shamrocks. If you are lucky enough, you may even find a four-leaf clover. Notice the almost woven effect created by the natural layering of these leaves. Irish knot work patterns, such as the one illustrated below, are inspired by the natural world.

Carved Marble Knots
Eternity knots can be found on everything in Ireland. The pattern shown here has been carved into marble. It could also be carved or burnt into wood, stenciled onto a wall, or drawn and/or painted onto t-shirts, handbags, or even a comforter. Jewelry makers include knot designs for their beauty as well as the symbolism of eternal love.

Cookies & Irish Coffee
A great way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day is with a few shamrock cookies and a creamy mug of Irish coffee. In case you didn’t know, this coffee gets its high-octane kick from a shot of Irish whiskey.

Irish Soda Bread
Store bought Irish soda bread is usually made ahead of time and may be too dry. It’s best enjoyed straight out of the oven.

Jewelry Charms
The four-leaf clover is a very popular good luck talisman. A leather cord is a very inexpensive way to make a necklace. The cord can be cut to the desired length, and special cord tips are attached to the ends along with a spring ring or lobster claw clasp. Any charms with a large enough bail can be slid onto the cord and easily changed for a new look. Prefer ready-made jewelry? Ready to wear cords can be purchased with the charms of your choice.

St. Paddy's Day Parade
Of course you’ll need to wear something green to really get into the spirit of the holiday. A little green fabric is all you need – a hat, scarf, socks – anything will do.

Irish Icons
These icons are often found on everything from mugs and T-shirts to bumper stickers. Iron-ons are inexpensive and easy to apply. Craft stores also have stickers, as well as temporary tattoos, which have all the cool designs without any of the commitment.

Irish Embroidery
Embroidery is a great way to dress up any garment with lively, eye-catching graphics and funny sayings.

Shamrocks Crochet
If crocheting were your specialty, these three leaf clovers would make a very unique scarf or hat. They could also be used as decorative accents on a pillow or afghan.

Beer & Shamrocks
There are plenty of colorful holiday-themed sheets in the papercrafting aisle, or you might want to design your own. If there’s a subliminal message in this design, I suppose it would be: “I love shamrocks and beer!” Who doesn’t? (lol)

Art Clay
Working with art clay can be a fun activity for the whole family. Figures like these pictured above could be used as jewelry pendants, or attached to hair accessories or refrigerator magnets, just to name a few.

Irish Angel Stained Glass
Stained glass is a beautiful way to incorporate holiday themes and of course the color green and requisite shamrock for luck.

Ceramic Irish Bear
Belleek, is a well-known brand of Irish pottery, recognized by its neutral cream color, which often includes hand painted shamrocks. You can achieve the same look, at a fraction of the price, by visiting a ceramics studio to paint your own using a similar color scheme.

Lucky Horseshoe
An up-turned horseshoe has always been considered good luck. The addition of a four-leaf clover may be all that’s needed to amplify good fortune to the next level. well, it’s certainly worth a try.

On St. Patrick’s Day, everybody is Irish! So wear something green, enjoy a pint, and keep an eye out for a rainbow – there might just be a pot of gold under it waiting to be discovered!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day and Happy Crafting!

Ice & Snow Sculpting

Angel & Peacock Ice Sculptures

Artists face many challenges bringing their works to life.  It’s the price to pay for creativity, but it is so worth the effort.  If your medium happens to be ice or snow, temperature and time conspire against you. 

Carving Ice

Chain Saw & Ice Chipper

Many tools are utilized in creating these sculptures, including chainsaws and ice chippers. Changes in texture, lighting, opacity, and color result in spectacular works of art. Let’s explore this frosty world before it melts, living on only in our memories.

Medieval Dragon

Dragon Clear Ice

This dragon springs to life with his gaping jaws, flexing wings, and a swoosh of the tail. Every tiny detail, from the reptilian scales to the razor-sharp teeth, can be seen from a distance. My only criticism is that the individual blocks of ice are still visible in some portions of the sculpture.

Chinese Dragon

Chinese Dragon with LEDs

A golden dragon is an auspicious sight, signifying good fortune and wealth. Backlighting from soft LED lights provides the perfect aura for this highly esteemed creature.

Full-Color Chinese Dragon

Dragon with Colored Ice

Food coloring, added to the water prior to freezing, produces ice sculptures with bold, powerful presence.  Notice how the ice becomes opaque with the infinite color possibilities, while the sleek shine reminds us of its frozen nature.

Wolf on the Prowl

Ice Hotel Bar Wolf Sculpture

Cool-white LED lighting, and precarious placement overhead, on what appears to be a slim tree branch, produces an unsettling sense of drama in this beautiful wolf sculpture.

Bird of Prey

Bird of Prey

A fierce expression, threatening stance and cool color LED lighting give this predator the respect he is due. At any moment, he may fly off in search of easy prey.

Don Quixote Rides into Battle

Don Quixote

Momentarily, Don Quixote pauses his heroic journey to turn and look at his surroundings. Opaque white ice highlights their faces as well as the rider’s contorted body, which is probably an outward sign of his conflicted mind.

Seductive Dancer

Woman Dancing

Soft feminine lighting, a delicately beaded necklace, and long, flowing tresses of hair come together to focus all attention upon this seductive woman’s face, but it’s the opaque whites of her eyes that truly draw you in and dare you to come closer. 

Reclining Smoking Man

Man Smoking

It’s all in the details. The checkerboard flooring, the folds and patterned trim upon his clothing, the tufted cushions, and the exquisite curves of the sculpted waterpipe are astounding. The soft, blue and purple lighting creates a hazy atmosphere as if smoke is floating upon the air.

The Peanuts Gang

Peanuts Gang

Snoopy, Charlie Brown and the gang are very popular with adults and children. These adored comic strip characters spring to life in spectacular, three-dimensional form, and dazzling colors.

Santa’s Reindeer & Christmas Tree

Reindeer & Xmas Tree

It wouldn’t be Christmas without some flying reindeer and a decorated tree. The fragile antlers, textured tree garland and decorative gift bows are meticulously sculpted.

Harbin China Ice & Snow Carving Festival

Sculpted Ice Architecture

The largest ice and snow carving festival in the world is held in Harbin China. Did you know there is an ice sculpture festival in Florida? The Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando hosts its festival in December, where the interior temperature is a balmy 9°F.  Yes, you read that correctly. Fortunately, the resort provides parkas! Brrrrr! Guess where the ice carving artists are from? Harbin China.

Snow Carved Children Playing

Snow Sculpture Kids

Sculptors, who enjoy working outdoors, carve snow in the winter and sand every summer. Not many artists have their materials provided by nature.

Snow Carved Dog

Snow Sculpture Dog

Everyone has built at least one snowman in a lifetime. Why not think outside of the box by sculpting a dog. This handsome boy looks like he’s ready to jump up any minute to chase a squirrel.

Snow Carved Wall Art

Ice Hotel Wall Art Winter Scene

Relief sculptures adorn the walls of this ice hotel. Tiny crystals catch the light like twinkling stars against a field of snow.

Snow Carved Architecture

Snow Architecture

Seeing this impressive structure, with lacelike architectural details, it is easy to forget it is made entirely of snow. The warm glowing lights inspire visions of what it would be like to step inside.

Snow & Ice Carved Lounge

Ice Hotel Lounge

Looking for a place to chill out? The lounge in this ice hotel offers sculpted walls of snow and carved ice seating draped with fur throws. (I have a romance writing friend who will love these chairs.)

Snow & Ice Carved Chapel

Ice Hotel Chapel

Brides, grooms and their guests will need to bundle up before the ceremony inside this chapel carved from ice and snow. No architectural details have been overlooked, from the “stone” walls to the impressive arched windows with diamond-paned glass.

Backyard Snowman

Snowman

So here we are looking at the typical backyard snowman. Stack a few oversize snowballs, add fashionable accessories, the facial details, and call it done. But it could be so much more…

Frosty the Snowman

Snowman Ice Carving

With blocks of ice and sculpting tools, a master ice carver can create masterpieces like this Frosty the Snowman, an audience favorite.

Mother Nature’s Dragon

Dragon Haareis

Haareis (Hair Ice) is a rather rare but natural phenomenon on dead wood, where ice crystals grow in hair-like formations. This amazing dragon is just a little reminder to all of us that Mother Nature is the original Artiste.

I hope you have enjoyed exploring the world of ice and snow sculpting. Do you have any favorites? Please let me know in the comments.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Let’s Go Sledding!

Closeup Photo Sledding

We are well into the new year and at the midpoint of winter.  Snow can’t be far behind.  I have some wonderful memories of sledding as a child, and those escapades are the inspiration for a playful centerpiece.  This project is very easy to make, using many items you may already own.

Wooden Sled
Wooden Sled

The most important element in this project is the sled.  The approximate dimensions are: 22” long x 13” wide.  Craft stores have huge clearance sales, making it a real bargain to pick up a sled or any additional items you may need.

Cruising on a Bed of Faux Snow
Sled with Snow
This snow is actually left over Halloween spider webs. Simply lay it out on the table and pull and stretch it into a shape resembling a snow-covered slope.

Snowman Base Form
Base snowman
The main character in this fun sledding scene is a cheerful snowman that started out as a “blank canvas” so to speak, with three foam balls wrapped in white fabric.

Adding a Few Details
Snowman Details
The buttons and carrot nose were sold separately.  The eyes were painted using light blue and black fabric paints and a dot of white. The smile consists of jewelry maker’s metallic blue seed beads, glued in place using light blue fabric paint.

Finished Snowman
Finished Snowman
The scarf was crocheted with some leftover navy yarn. Sticks for arms came from the backyard. The black top hat was the finishing touch, with the addition of festive trim on the brim, cut from a floral pick.

Completed Sledding Centerpiece – Front
Sledding Front
With the snowman in the center of the sled, it’s time to add a few friends to share the ride. Beanie Babies are a great choice in size, color, and whimsy. We chose animals typically found in the snow: a penguin, a reindeer, and a seal. The caroling pig is a family joke, and you can choose whatever characters will bring joy to your family.

Completed Sledding Centerpiece – Back
Sledding Back
We added a few sprigs of artificial evergreen on the back of the sled to coordinate with the existing wreath. The little guys look so cute with their feet hanging off the back.

Alternate 1 – Sledding Penguin
Penguin Sledding
This centerpiece can be quickly changed by switching out the smaller animals, or by using a different central character, such as a penguin, polar bear or moose.

Alternate 2 – Sledding Moose
Moose Sledding
On those gloomy winter days when there is no snow for playing outdoors, enjoy a little whimsical sledding with a snowman and friends.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Fat Tuesday

Assorted Donuts

Fat Tuesday is just one of many names for the day before Ash Wednesday, which includes Mardi Gras, Fastnacht Day, and Shrove Tuesday. Today, we are going to talk about donuts. There are so many choices: holes versus no holes, fillings, varying shapes, flavored doughs, and icings, etc. Everyone has their favorites. If you cut them into halves or quarters, you can try a little of each. Let’s get started…

Fastnachts

Fastnacht Donuts

These powdered sugar coated German donuts are an integral part of any pre-Lenten celebration.

Plain Donuts

Plain Donuts

Whether they are dunked in hot chocolate or toasted with butter and jelly, plain donuts offer a blank canvas for your creative culinary skills.

Cinnamon & Sugar Donuts

Cinnamon & Sugar Donuts

Butter, cinnamon & sugar are a heavenly flavor combination.

Glazed Donuts

Glazed Sugar Coated Donuts

Simply sweet, these popular donuts have extra sparkle thanks to a dusting of sugar prior to glazing.

Vanilla-Glazed Chocolate Donuts

Vanilla Glazed Chocolate Donuts

This vanilla glaze is the perfect complement to a rich moist chocolate donut.

Crumb Topped Donut

Crumb Topped Donut

The secret to this coffeecake flavor comes from cake crumbs and a sugar glaze.

Frosted & Chocolate Dipped Donuts

Frosted & Chocolate Dipped Donuts

Many donuts have frosting on top, while others a dipped in chocolate or other sweet candy coatings.

Double Chocolate Coffee Donut

Chocolate Coffee Donut

Coffee & Chocolate are two very popular flavor combos.

Frosted Donuts Topped with Sprinkles or Nuts

Frosted & Sprinkled Donuts

Sprinkles and nuts easily adhere to the frosting layer beneath.

Frosted Donut Topped with Coconut

Coconut Donut

Cookie Monster may have to change his name before biting into this coconut cutie.

Donut Holes Rolled in Powdered Sugar

Donut Holes

If you make donuts, you’re going to have lots of leftover holes. Thanks to companies, like Dunkin Donuts, donut holes are the perfect bite-size treat. You can’t eat just one.

French Cruller

French Cruller

These delicious treats are light and fluffy on the inside and coated with a honey glaze. They get their unique shape by being piped from a pastry bag.

Jelly Filled Donut

Jelly Filled Donut

Jelly donuts come in a variety of flavors, including strawberry, apricot, and raspberry.

Custard or Creme Filled Donut Topped with Powdered Sugar

Custard Cream Filled Donuts

Angel cream and Bavarian crème are just a few of the tempting filling options.

Boston Crème Donut

Boston Creme Donut

Boston Crème is a classic favorite with luscious chocolate and sweet creamy custard.

Chocolate Crème Filled Donut Topped with Powdered Sugar

Chocolate Filled Donut

Chocolate makes everything better. Just looking at this photo makes my mouth water.

Frosted & Filled Heart-Shaped Donut

Heart Shaped Donut

Donuts don’t have to be round. They can be heart-shaped, square, or triangular. The dough can be hand-twisted to create textured, fluted and even pretzel shaped donuts. Interesting shapes and colors appeal to the eyes as well as the tastebuds.

Decorated Donuts

Decorated Donuts

Decorations include icing, chocolate chips, shavings, & powder, candy, marshmallows, cake crumbs, pretzels, sprinkles, and nuts.

Strawberry Shortcake Donut

Strawberry Shortcake Donut

Not usually found in donuts, Strawberries and Cream is another classic flavor combo. Hidden inside is a rich whipped cream filling waiting to blend with the sweet juicy strawberry. It’s love at first bite!

Specialty Donuts

Specialty Donuts

Maple Bacon and Samoa Donuts are exotic flavor combos. Smokey maple syrup and salty bacon will satisfy sweet and salty cravings. The Samoa donut tastes like the popular Girl Scout Cookie, with chocolate and caramel drizzle over coconut.

Eating is the Best Part

Raccoon Holding a Donut

And now, I’m hungry. How about you? I hope there’s something in the kitchen to satisfy my sweet tooth. If not … Dunkin Donuts, here I come! Lol  What kinds of donuts do you like? Please let me know in the comments section.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Valentine’s Day Crafts of Love

Love Birds
Valentine’s Day is a great time to let those special people in your life know how much you care – spouse, partner, girlfriend, boyfriend, mother, father, kids, grandparents, friends, and the list goes on… Flowers are nice, but a show of affection doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, some of the simplest ways cost very little, but mean so much.

Drawing, Coloring & Painting
No Words Necessary
Sometimes no words are necessary. Create a simple drawing or a fine arts painting.

Papercrafting & Creative Writing
Papercraft
Instead of buying expensive greeting cards, buy fancy paper or card stock and write your own message. A few well-chosen words or a favorite quote will do nicely, or you might want to challenge yourself by writing a poem.

Candle Light For A Romantic Evening
Candle Light For A Romantic Evening
Candles provide light, scent and ambiance. The incredible selections include beeswax, fragrances, multicolor, tea lights, pillars, tapers, battery operated LEDs, and electric. If you can’t find exactly what you want, get a candle making kit.

Baking Sweets For Your Sweet Heart
Baking Sweets For Your Sweet Heart
With the infinite number of recipes on the Internet, and the availability of boxed baked goods, anyone can bake delicious cookies, cakes, and breads.

Who Doesn’t Love Candy?
Candy & Flowers
Store-bought candy comes in mouth-watering flavors. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, buy candy melts and a mold to surprise the chocolate lover in your life with a few homemade confections. A heart shaped box can be purchased to complete this romantic theme.

Jewelry Making
Jewelry Making
Jewelry is a versatile gift for women, men and kids. Obviously there are many readymade items on the market, but if you make your own, it’s sure to be one of a kind.

Valentine’s Figurines
Valentine’s Frog Figurines
If you can’t find the right words, and the thought of making something gives you chills, there are plenty of inexpensive Valentine’s figurines sure to charm your loved one.

Stuffed Animals
Teddy Bear
A big cuddly bear could be just the ticket to getting a big “bear” hug.

Charms & Trinkets
Charms
Located in the jewelry aisle of the craft store, charms and pendants can be added to an existing bracelet or necklace, and can also be used on key chains and purses.

Flower Arranging
Silk Flowers
While fresh cut flowers can be outrageously expensive for Valentine’s Day, silk flower can be arranged in a pretty vase or container at a much more affordable price.

Photography & Framing
Decorative Silver & Blue Picture Frame
We all have special moments in our lives. Times we want to remember for a lifetime. Take a photo of that special person, event or location and place in an attractive frame.

Knitting & Crocheting
Knitted Gloves
Crocheted or knitted hats, scarves and gloves are always appreciated. The addition of faux fur trim is a hot trend in fashion today.

Don’t Forget Your Furry Friends
Dog in a Blanket
A blanket is the perfect accessory for a warm and cozy nap on a cold winter day.  If needlework is not in your skill set, a new toy or a playdate will thrill your pet.

It doesn’t matter how you choose to say it. Just let your loved ones know how you feel.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Pick Your Poison

Cocktails on a Bar

Regardless of whether you call it a bar, pub or saloon, bartenders frequently say to customers, “Pick Your Poison.”  If you are unfamiliar with this expression, it means what kind of alcohol do you want.  I found a “Pick Your Poison” sign, which will make a great addition to my brother’s bar. Let’s get started.

Unfinished Sign

Unfinished Sign

I purchased this sign at Michaels Arts & Crafts from their Halloween collection. Experiment with color schemes on scrap paper and then choose your supplies. Later in this post, you will see further experimentation using photo editing software.

Supplies

Markers & Paint

Supplies:
“Pick Your Poison” Sign (14” wide x 1” deep x 8” high)
Acrylic Paints – black
Magic Markers – green, black
Paintbrushes

First Line Colored Black

Letters Colored Black

Using a black marker, color the top line of text. It may require a few coats.

Second Line Colored Green

Letters Colored Green

Color the next line of text green. It may require a few coats.

Top & Bottom Trim Painted Black

Top & Bottom Painted Black

Paint the trim black. I wanted the word poison to really stand out but the marker just wasn’t enough. I switched to paints as you will see below.

Revised Supplies

Paints

Revised Supplies:
Acrylic Paints – black, metallic green
Paintbrushes

Painted Letters

Painted Letters

Paint the word Poison with several coats of metallic green. I considered adding drips of 3D paint to make the green letters appear to be bubbling or oozing but decided against it. You could stop at this point if you like the wood grain background.

Photo Editing – Experiment 1

Photo Editing Test 1

Using photo editing software, I experimented with different background colors. I was just dabbling so I apologize for the sloppy lettering. It was just what I needed to decide how to proceed.

Photo Editing – Experiment 2

Photo Editing Test 2

I also tested different color combos for the text against the new backgrounds.

Photo Editing – Experiment 3

Photo Editing Test 3

Because I liked the high contrast and implied sense of danger, I chose red as the background color.

Finalized Supplies

Paints

Finalized Supplies:
Acrylic Paints – black, metallic green, red
Paintbrushes

Painted Background Red

Background Painted Red

Paint the background red. Due to streaking, which did not appear until after the paint had dried, it took several coats of paint.

Finished Sign

Finished Sign

Here is the finished sign, ready to be hung above the bar.

I hope you enjoyed this quick & easy project as much as I did. Sitting here at the bar, I drink a toast to my readers. I’ll save the seat next to me in case you decide to join me.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Year of the Rabbit 2023

Floppy Ear Rabbit

January 22nd marks the beginning of the Chinese New Year.  This is the Year of the Rabbit. These gentle creatures have a lot to teach us and we can all use a little motivation and inspiration. 

Get Plenty of Sunshine & Exercise

New Year’s resolutions are difficult to keep, but even a short daily walk outdoors will do wonders for the mind and body.

Remember to Rest

Rabbit Resting

Sleep recharges our batteries, giving us renewed energy for whatever the day may bring. What could be better than an afternoon nap?

Appreciate your Family

Mommy & Baby Rabbits

Take care of each other. Sometimes all it takes is a kind word or a smile to let someone know you care.

Learn to Share

Rabbits Sharing a Carrot

Everything is better when shared with a friend.

Stop & Smell the Roses

Rabbit Eating Clover Flower

Appreciate the beauty of nature. When you do, life’s magic will astound you.

Let Someone Else do the Driving

Baby Bunny in a Shirt Pocket

Everyone wants to be in the driver’s seat, but as a passenger you can admire the view.

May the Year of the Rabbit be your best one yet! 

Happy New Year & Happy Crafting!

Countdown – Top Six Posts 2022

It seems we are always keeping an eye on the time.  Busy schedules and ever-growing “To-Do” lists often prevent us from stopping to review our accomplishments.  Let us take a few minutes to look back at the highest ranked posts, as voted by you, the readers. Below is a list of the Top Six posts of 2022, in ascending order:

Number 6: Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice

In Autumn, as the leaves begin to turn, pumpkin flavored items begin popping up everywhere, from coffee shops to fast food restaurants and even the local pub.  To read more, please click here. 

Number 5: Decorating Easter Eggs

Dyed eggs are a staple of any Easter celebration.  To read more, please click here.

Number 4: Collages: Old School vs. High Tech

Collages can be created by two different methods: 1) “Old School” Traditional, or 2) High Tech.  To read more, please click here.

Number 3: Inspiration: Lost & Found – Part 1

Sometimes it feels like inspiration is impossible to find. It hides in plain sight, masquerading as mundane items in our daily lives. To read more, please click here.

Number 2: Halloween: Naughty or Nice?

There are all sorts of Halloween themes and characters to help us celebrate this imaginative holiday.  To read more, please click here.

Number 1: Blogging Vacation

Throughout the summer, I usually take a break, by posting every other week.  This year there were so many inspirations to share I simply kept going. To read more, please click here.

And there we have it – the top 6 posts of 2022.  We have a new year to explore the world of creativity.  There are always new ideas and I’ll be sure to include more of your favorites.  Your opinions are greatly appreciated, and I look forward to so much more this year.  If you have any suggestions for future posts, please let me know. 

Thanks for Reading! 

All the best in 2023 and Happy Crafting! 

Happy New Year 2023!

Is it my imagination or do the months go by faster and faster every year?  How could the holidays be over already?  I suppose it is an exciting time as we are presented with a clean slate in a year filled with new opportunities and interesting experiences.

I just wanted to take a moment to thank all my wonderful visitors for reading, following, liking, and commenting!  You inspire me every day to create new works of art and to share ideas with so many of you with a passion for creativity and admiration for the beautiful world in which we live. 

May all your dreams come true in 2023!

Happy New Year & Happy Crafting!

Holiday Table & Decor

Indoor Decorating
Decorating the interior of your home for the holidays can be an overwhelming task. With entertaining, overnight guests, and gift buying, it’s a very hectic time of year. If you do a little at a time, and enlist the help of your family, you can create the festive atmosphere you’ve always wanted. Let’s get started with a few decorating ideas.

Christmas Poinsettia Wreath
Poinsettia Wreath & Garland
The first thing your guests will notice starts with the front door. A simple evergreen wreath comes to life with the addition of a few silk poinsettias. Real or artificial evergreen sprays can be hung on either side with coordinating red ribbon.

Fruit & Pinecone Wreath
Fruit Wreath
This unusual wreath consists of pomegranates, oranges, pinecones and flowers layered over an evergreen wreath base.

Jingles Bells Wreath
Wreath Jingle Bells
Bring the festive sounds of jingle bells into your home with this unique wreath. Every time someone opens the door it will sound like Santa has arrived.

Wine Connoisseur’s Wreath
Wreath Wine Corks
If you collect wine corks, this is the wreath for you. The layered pattern forms a beautifully textured wreath, but remains lightweight. The liquor bottle in the center is optional.

Hanging Evergreen Wreath
Hanging Wreath
A hanging arrangement is a beautiful and unexpected pleasure. If you are lucky enough to have evergreens and pine trees on your property, you’ll have most of the supplies you’ll need. Simply layer the greens on a wire wreath frame, insert battery-operated candles, and scatter about several apples and berries. A few cinnamon sticks will provide a sweet & spicy scent. Ornate ribbon will conceal metal hanging rods, or you can purchase decorative chains at home improvement stores.

Candle & Holly Centerpiece
Candles Centerpiece
Holly naturally brings in the festive colors of Christmas. A few candles and some pinecones complete this lovely centerpiece.

Glass Ball Candle Wreath
Glass Ornament Wreath
To make this colorful display, you could purchase a ready-made glass ball wreath, or buy a bunch of ornaments and use hot glue to assemble it.

A Study in Red & Green
Red Candle
Red is such an attention getting color. Red berries, green leaves and evergreen surround a bold pillar candle. The candlelight and white string lights lend a romantic atmosphere.

Fancy Metal Tray Centerpiece
Candle Tray
Using something you already own, such as a tray, is an inexpensive way to create something new. To complete the project, simply add colorful ornaments and a candle. You can easily use this centerpiece all year long by changing the contents to suit the season or whatever makes you happy.

Festive Table Settings
Christmas Table
Creating an attractive Christmas table doesn’t have to cost a lot. Alternating layers of green and red is the key to this festive setting. Fabric squares and colorful paper napkins provide contrast and texture. A red Christmas ball on top becomes a keepsake for each guest in remembrance of the occasion. In fact, you could write each person’s name with a metallic Sharpie marker and use the ornaments as place cards.

Neutral Palette
Neutral Palette Table
Textured white dishes are offset by gold flatware, gold chargers, and gold bell ornaments. Elegant white roses are an element of softness, while the crystal goblets provide the sparkle.

Sophisticated Contemporary
Contemporary Centerpiece
Sleek lines, reflective metallic ornaments, and indirect lighting are keys to creating this ultra contemporary holiday setting. The red pops of color draw the eye and the reindeer figurine adds a bit of whimsy.

Christmas Crackers
Christmas Crackers
Crackers are part of Christmas celebrations in several countries around the world. The red and white theme of this table setting is created with the tissue paper fans, white tablecloth and plates, and the metallic red foil crackers.

Ornamental Table Runner
Garland Table Runner
Table runners can be quite expensive, and may be difficult to find for longer table lengths. Make you own by using a real or artificial evergreen garland and some brightly colored ornaments,

Gift Box Centerpiece
Gift Box Centerpiece
Craft stores often sell sets of decorative gift boxes such as the ones shown above. Some include light woven inside for extra sparkle. After the holidays, the boxes nest within each other for easy storage.

Gift Tags as Place Cards
Gift Tag Place Cards
Place cards don’t have to be drab white. Purchase gift tags or make your own. The ribbon bow is a nice finishing touch.

Flower Power – Poinsettias
Poinsettias
Red, white or pink poinsettias are multi-purpose decorations. Whether you choose live or artificial plants, poinsettias make colorful additions to any room. To create a back to nature themed Christmas tree, silk blooms, pinecones and red berries can be used as ornaments.

Festive Red & Gold Fireplace
Fireplace
The fireplace is the perfect spot for relaxing by a cozy fire, and reminiscing about holidays past. Floral garland, red and gold candles, a Santa Claus statue and a pretty poinsettia provide a welcoming atmosphere, accented by stockings hung by the fire with care.

Display Collectibles
Nutcracker
At some point, most people acquire collections that never see the light of day. Collectibles, such as nutcrackers, snow globes, and carousel horses, can be artfully arranged on mantels or shelves to create unique holiday displays you’re sure to love.

Decorating for the holidays can be fun as well as entertaining. Each new item you create will become a treasured keepsake next year. Over time you will have an eclectic collection to be enjoyed for years to come. Let your holiday spirit guide your creativity.

Happy Holidays & Happy Crafting!