Prepare Stockings and Begin Decorating| Day 19 of 60 | Holiday Prep

The Joy of Christmas Stockings: A DIY Guide to Creating Your Own

As the holiday season approaches, one of the most cherished traditions is hanging Christmas stockings. These festive decorations not only add to the holiday spirit but also serve as a delightful way to surprise loved ones with small gifts and treats. In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of Christmas stockings, provide a step-by-step guide on how to make your own, and share ideas on what to fill them with, when to fill them, who gets a stocking, and where to hang them if you don’t have a fireplace.

A Brief History of Christmas Stockings

The tradition of hanging stockings dates back to the 4th century and is often associated with the legend of St. Nicholas. According to the story, St. Nicholas secretly provided gifts to a poor family by dropping gold coins down their chimney, which landed in the stockings that were hung by the fire to dry. Over the years, this practice evolved into the festive custom we know today, where stockings are filled with small gifts and treats on Christmas Eve.

DIY Christmas Stocking Instructions

Creating your own Christmas stocking is a fun and creative project that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to making a personalized stocking:

Materials Needed:

Felt or fabric (red, green, or any festive color)
Scissors
Sewing machine or needle and thread
Fabric glue (optional)
Ribbon or embellishments (optional)
A stocking template (you can find printable templates online)

Instructions:

Choose Your Fabric: Select a fabric that reflects your style. Felt is a great option for beginners as it doesn’t fray and is easy to work with.
Cut the Fabric: Using your template, cut out two identical pieces of fabric for the front and back of the stocking. You can also cut out a contrasting piece for the cuff.
Decorate: Before sewing, consider decorating your stocking. You can add names, patterns, or festive designs using fabric paint, glitter, or additional fabric pieces.
Sew the Stocking: Place the two pieces of fabric together, with the right sides facing each other. Sew around the edges, leaving the top open. If you’re using a sewing machine, a straight stitch works well. If sewing by hand, use a simple running stitch.
Add the Cuff: If you’re using a contrasting cuff, sew it to the top of the stocking now. Fold it down to create a decorative edge.
Turn It Inside Out: Carefully turn the stocking right side out. Use a pencil or a chopstick to push out the toe and heel for a nice shape.
Add a Loop: Cut a small piece of ribbon or fabric, fold it in half, and sew it to the top of the stocking to create a hanging loop.
Final Touches: Add any final embellishments or decorations to make your stocking unique.

What to Put in Stockings

When it comes to filling stockings, the possibilities are endless! Here are some classic and creative ideas:

Candy and Treats: Chocolate, candy canes, and holiday-themed sweets are always a hit.
Small Toys: Consider adding small toys or games for children.
Personalized Gifts: Items like keychains, ornaments, or custom-made gifts can add a personal touch.
Practical Items: Fun socks, toiletries, or stationery can be both useful and enjoyable.
Gift Cards: A small gift card to a favorite store or coffee shop is a great surprise.

When to Fill Stockings

Traditionally, stockings are filled on Christmas Eve, often after the children have gone to bed. This adds an element of surprise and excitement for Christmas morning. Some families choose to fill them earlier in December as part of their holiday celebrations.

Who Gets a Stocking?

Stockings can be made for everyone in the family, including pets! It’s a wonderful way to include everyone in the festivities. You can also create stockings for friends or neighbors as a thoughtful gesture.

Where to Put Stockings Without a Fireplace

If you don’t have a fireplace, don’t worry! Here are some creative alternatives for hanging stockings:

On a Staircase: If you have stairs, hang stockings on the banister for a charming display.
Wall Hooks: Use decorative hooks on the wall to hang stockings.
Christmas Tree: Hang smaller stockings on the branches of your Christmas tree for a whimsical touch.
Shelves or Mantels: If you have shelves or a mantel, these can be perfect spots for displaying stockings.

Christmas stockings are a delightful tradition that brings joy and excitement to the holiday season. By creating your own stockings and filling them with thoughtful gifts, you can make this festive custom even more special. Whether you hang them by the fireplace or find a creative alternative, stockings are sure to bring smiles to your loved ones’ faces.

Happy crafting for a Merry Christmas!

NOTE: I bought my stocking. If you are busy and don’t want to be crafty, you can purchase one at a craft store, at a home goods store or online. My stocking,purchased this year for my new apartment, cost under twenty dollars.

November 10, 2025November 9, 2025

6 Weeks Until Christmas! Day – Day 18 of 60 Days of Preparing for Thanksgiving and Christmas

Note: There are 6 Weeks and 46 days until Christmas. When we reach December 1, 2025 An Advents post title will be used on the blog. Please do not stress, it is still the same Holiday prep.

Note: 24 days before Christmas the Holiday Dash becomes an advents calendar. If you are starting the Holiday prep today, skip the non essentials and ask someone else to focus on Thanksgiving if you are not ready for the party. 60 Day dash refers to the holiday season not the days before Christmas. There are 46 days before Christmas.

Creating Stunning Holiday Centerpieces for Your Kitchen Counter

The holiday season is a time for gathering, celebration, and creating memories with loved ones. One of the best ways to set the mood for these festive occasions is by decorating your space with beautiful centerpieces. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply want to add some cheer to your kitchen counter, a well-designed centerpiece can elevate your decor. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of size and height limitations for centerpieces and provide DIY instructions for two distinct styles: a formal centerpiece and an urban-inspired one.

The Perfect Centerpiece for the Space

When designing a centerpiece, it’s essential to consider its size and height. A centerpiece that is too tall can obstruct views and conversations, making it difficult for guests to engage with one another. A centerpiece that is too small may get lost on a large table. If your centerpiece looks too small make an arrangement of three centerpieces to keep the decorations balanced.

For kitchen counters, where space is often limited, it’s crucial to create a centerpiece that complements the area without overwhelming it. Aim for a height that allows for easy eye contact across the table while still being visually interesting – striking. A good rule of thumb is to keep your centerpiece between 12 to 24 inches in height and ensure it doesn’t take up more than one-third of the table’s width.

DIY Centerpiece Ideas

1. Formal Holiday Centerpiece

Materials Needed:

A medium-sized decorative bowl or vase
Fresh or faux flowers (e.g., white roses, red poinsettias, or evergreen sprigs)
Seasonal fruits (e.g., apples, oranges, or pomegranates)
LED Candles (preferably unscented)
Decorative ribbon or twine
Floral foam (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Base: Start by placing your decorative bowl or vase in the center of your kitchen counter. If using floral foam, soak it in water and place it inside the bowl to help keep your flowers fresh.
Arrange the Flowers: Trim the stems of your flowers to varying lengths and arrange them in the bowl. Start with the larger blooms at the back and fill in with smaller flowers towards the front. If using floral foam, insert the stems into the foam for stability.
Add Seasonal Fruits: Tuck in seasonal fruits around the flowers for a pop of color and texture. This not only adds visual interest but also brings a natural element to your centerpiece.
Incorporate Candles: Place a few unscented candles of varying heights around the arrangement. This will create a warm, inviting glow during your holiday gatherings.
Finish with Ribbon: Tie a decorative ribbon or twine around the base of the bowl for an added touch of elegance.

2. Urban-Inspired Centerpiece

Materials Needed:

A shallow wooden tray or rustic platter
Potted plants
Decorative stones or pebbles
LED lights
Ornaments or holiday-themed decor

Instructions:

Set the Base: Place your wooden tray or rustic platter on the kitchen counter. This will serve as the foundation for your urban centerpiece.
Arrange the Plants: Position the potted plants on the tray. Vary the heights and sizes for a more dynamic look.
Add Decorative Stones: Fill in the gaps with decorative stones or pebbles to create a natural, earthy feel. This will also help anchor the plants in place.
Incorporate String Lights: Drape the lights around the plants and stones. This will emphasize and may add a focal point to the display.
Finish with Ornaments: Scatter a few ornaments in the greenery for a festive flair.

Creating a holiday centerpiece for your kitchen counter can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. Enhance your space without overwhelming it and add the holidays to your living space. Whether you opt for a formal centerpiece or something trendy and urban-inspired, these centerpieces will bring joy and the holiday spirit to your holiday celebrations. Happy decorating!

November 9, 2025November 8, 2025

Time to Buy an Ornament or Even Make One | Day 17 of 60 Day Holiday Prep

Crafting Holiday Cheer: The Joy of Making Your Own Christmas Ornaments

As the holiday season approaches, many of us begin to think about how to decorate our homes and create a festive atmosphere. One of the most cherished traditions is adorning the Christmas tree with beautiful ornaments. While store-bought ornaments are convenient and widely available, there’s something truly special about making your own. In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons for crafting your own ornaments, discuss different styles of ornaments for holiday trees, and highlight the joy of buying a yearly ornament to commemorate each holiday season.

The Joy of Crafting Your Own Ornaments

Personal Touch: Making your own ornaments allows you to infuse your personality and creativity into your holiday decor. Each ornament can tell a story or represent a cherished memory, making your tree uniquely yours.
Family Bonding: Crafting ornaments can be a wonderful family activity. Gather your loved ones for a fun afternoon of creativity, laughter, and bonding. It’s a great way to create lasting memories together.
Cost-Effective: If you’re on a budget, making ornaments can be a more affordable option than purchasing high-end decorations. With a few basic supplies, you can create beautiful pieces that won’t break the bank.
Sustainability: In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, crafting your own ornaments can be an eco-friendly choice. You can use recycled materials or natural elements, reducing waste and promoting a greener holiday season.

Different Styles of Ornaments for Holiday Trees

Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner, there are countless styles of ornaments you can create or choose from. Here are a few popular options:

Traditional Ornaments: Classic glass or wooden ornaments can be painted or decorated with glitter, ribbons, and other embellishments. These timeless pieces often evoke nostalgia and can be passed down through generations.
Nature-Inspired Ornaments: Use pinecones, dried fruit, popcorn, or twigs to create rustic ornaments that celebrate the beauty of nature. These can be adorned with twine or natural fibers for a charming, organic look.
Photo Ornaments: Capture memories by creating ornaments that feature family photos. Simply print your favorite images, cut them into shapes, and attach them to a sturdy backing. These ornaments are a wonderful way to reminisce about past holidays.
Themed Ornaments: If you have a specific theme for your tree, such as a color scheme or a favorite hobby, consider making ornaments that align with that theme. For example, if you love travel, create ornaments that represent different countries or cities you’ve visited.
Kids’ Crafts: Involve your children in the ornament-making process with simple crafts like salt dough ornaments or painted wooden shapes. These creations can be cherished keepsakes for years to come.

The Tradition of Buying a Yearly Ornament

In addition to crafting your own ornaments, many families enjoy the tradition of purchasing a yearly ornament that features the date. This practice not only adds to your collection but also serves as a beautiful way to commemorate each holiday season. Here are a few reasons to consider this tradition:

Marking Milestones: A yearly ornament can represent significant events or milestones from that year, such as a new job, a wedding, or the birth of a child. Each ornament becomes a tangible reminder of the memories made.
Creating a Collection: Over the years, your collection of yearly ornaments will grow, creating a visual timeline of your family’s journey. It’s a lovely way to reflect on how much you’ve changed and grown together.
Gift-Giving: Yearly ornaments can also make thoughtful gifts for friends and family. Consider giving a personalized ornament that reflects a shared memory or experience, making it a meaningful present.
Decorating with Purpose: When you hang your yearly ornament on the tree, you’re not just adding decoration; you’re adding a piece of your family’s history. It transforms your tree into a gallery of memories.

Whether you choose to craft your own ornaments or buy a yearly keepsake, the act of decorating your Christmas tree is a celebration of love, tradition, and creativity. Embrace the joy of making your own ornaments, explore different styles, and consider the significance of a yearly ornament to enrich your holiday experience. This season, let your tree reflect not just the beauty of the holidays, but also the warmth of your family’s unique story. Happy crafting and decorating!