Monday, December 7, 2015

Designer Craft Connection - Handmade Holiday Decor Ideas

It is truly beginning to look a lot like Christmas!  Each year I tell myself there is no need to add anything new to the large collection of holiday decorations I already have.  Then inspiration strikes or I see something I would like to try and find a reason to create new decorations.  This year I have a couple of new additions.  I will also share some that have been around for a number of years and are family favorites.

The newest are the holly painted white burlap runner and the square glass candle holder with holly & berry embellishments.  NOTE: I also use handmade gifts from friends (the snowman) and a simple chalkboard to add more holiday flair.



My holiday decorations always begin with lights.  I have changed over to all clear lights.  The bulbs can vary but the remain clear.  They are wrapped on garlands that are hung over doorways  and windows or for stairway railings.

Handmade wooden reindeer, vintage glass ornaments in a vintage sleigh.

Handmade stacked benches hold a basket of vintage cookie cutters and other holiday-related items.

An old slate board gets a special holiday message and simple, tiny brush trees add a holiday touch.
I use elements that I already have as part of my decor and just add or change them up to show-off a holiday theme.
A tiny mitten banner made from handmade paper hangs on a vintage coat rack in the front hall.
A fabric and paper JOY banner on the guest room door.

One of my favorite decorations to use around the house anytime are banners and during the Christmas holiday season they are definitely utilized.  I have made several different kind through the years.  Many are used at home and many have been given away.
Assorted jars, epsom salt, ribbons, embellishments, and tealights
Here are candle jars made from an assortment of glass jars.  They can be used anywhere, alone or clustered together for a warm festive glow.  I instructed a group of ladies from our community on how to create them and each one was so unique.

I could go on and on with photos of handmade decorations that I made or received from others, but I end with one that was made several years ago from a small doll house kit.



Normally I begin the process of decorating the house the Saturday after Thanksgiving.  Unfortunately that was not the case this year.  I'm still putting things in place here and there around the house.  I hope that the few visuals I shared here will give you some inspiration to create your own versions of handmade decorations of you own.  Make something for yourself or someone else - Enjoy the Holidays!!!  Please check out the Designer Craft Connection Blog and Facebook page for more ideas from several others - DCC Link - Facebook Page Link