Category: Christmas Project

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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Decorate: Before sewing, consider decorating your stocking. You can add names, patterns, or festive designs using fabric paint, glitter, or additional fabric pieces.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.

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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Incorporate Candles: Place a few unscented candles of varying heights around the arrangement. This will create a warm, inviting glow during your holiday gatherings.
  5. 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:

  1. Set the Base: Place your wooden tray or rustic platter on the kitchen counter. This will serve as the foundation for your urban centerpiece.
  2. Arrange the Plants: Position the potted plants on the tray. Vary the heights and sizes for a more dynamic look.
  3. 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.
  4. Incorporate String Lights: Drape the lights around the plants and stones. This will emphasize and may add a focal point to the display.
  5. 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!

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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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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!

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Wrap Presents! | Day 14 of 60 Day Holiday Prep

Preparing for Christmas: Wrapping Presents and Keeping the Magic Alive

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the joy of gift-giving! As we prepare for Christmas, one of the most delightful tasks is wrapping presents for our loved ones. It’s a time to get creative, add a personal touch, and build excitement for the big day. In this blog post, we’ll explore some tips for wrapping gifts, suggest mailing dates to ensure timely delivery, and share clever ideas for keeping those wrapped presents under wraps until Christmas morning.

Wrapping Presents: Tips and Tricks

1. Choose Your Wrapping Supplies: Gather all the materials you’ll need before you start. This includes wrapping paper, scissors, tape, ribbons, and gift tags. Consider using eco-friendly wrapping options like reusable fabric wraps or recycled paper to add a sustainable touch to your gifts.

2. Create a Wrapping Station: Set up a designated area for wrapping presents. A large table or clean floor space works well. Make sure you have good lighting and all your supplies within reach to streamline the process.

3. Personalize Your Gifts: Add a personal touch to each gift by using unique wrapping paper or embellishments that reflect the recipient’s personality. You can also write a heartfelt note on the gift tag to make it even more special.

4. Get Creative with Techniques: Experiment with different wrapping techniques, such as the classic box wrap, the Japanese furoshiki method, or even using a gift bag with tissue paper. Don’t be afraid to mix and match styles for a fun and festive look!

Mailing Gifts: Important Dates to Remember

To ensure your gifts arrive on time, it’s essential to plan ahead. Here are some suggested mailing dates based on common shipping carriers:

– USPS: For domestic shipping, aim to send your packages by December 15th for First-Class Mail and December 20th for Priority Mail. For international shipping, consider mailing by December 5th to allow for potential delays.

– UPS: For ground shipping within the U.S., send your packages by December 15th. If you’re using UPS 2nd Day Air, aim for December 21st, and for Next Day Air, December 22nd.

– FedEx: For FedEx Ground, mail by December 15th. For Express services, send your gifts by December 22nd for overnight delivery.

Always check with your chosen carrier for the most up-to-date shipping deadlines, as they may vary based on location and service level.

Keeping the Magic Alive: Preventing Early Openings

The excitement of Christmas can sometimes lead to early gift openings, especially for curious little ones. Here are some strategies to keep those wrapped presents a surprise until the big day:

1. Designate a “Gift Zone”: Choose a specific area in your home for storing wrapped gifts. This could be a closet, a spare room, or even under the bed. Make sure it’s a place that’s not easily accessible to children or pets.

2. Use a Gift Box or Container: Consider placing wrapped gifts inside a large box or storage container with a lid. This adds an extra layer of protection and makes it less tempting for little hands to explore.

3. Create a “Do Not Open” Sign: If you have older children, involve them in the process by creating a fun “Do Not Open Until Christmas” sign to hang on the door of the gift zone. This can help build anticipation and excitement.

4. Get Creative with Hiding Spots: Think outside the box when it comes to hiding gifts. Consider placing them in less obvious locations, such as the attic, basement, or even in the trunk of your car (if it’s safe to do so). Just be sure to remember where you’ve hidden them!

5. Involve the Family: Make wrapping gifts a family activity. This way, everyone is involved in the excitement, and it can help deter anyone from sneaking a peek at their own gifts.

As you prepare for Christmas, wrapping presents is just one of the many joyful tasks that come with the season. By planning ahead for mailing dates and finding clever ways to keep gifts hidden, you can ensure that the magic of Christmas remains intact. So gather your supplies, get creative, and enjoy the process of wrapping those special gifts for your loved ones. Happy holidays!

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Start Buying Holiday Craft Supplies | Day 11 of 60 Day Holiday Prep for Thanksgiving and Christmas

Setting Up Basic Craft Supplies for Your 60-Day Holiday Prep

The holiday season is just around the corner, and now is the perfect time to start preparing for all those festive DIY projects! Whether you’re planning to create handmade gifts, decorations, or cards, having the right craft supplies on hand will make your holiday prep a breeze. Today marks the beginning of your 60-day countdown to the holidays, so let’s dive into the essential craft supplies you’ll need and some simple DIY projects that even the least crafty among us can tackle.

Essential Holiday Craft Supplies

Before you hit the stores or shop online, here’s a comprehensive list of basic craft supplies to gather:

  1. Paper Supplies:
  • Cardstock (various colors)
  • Wrapping paper
  • Tissue paper
  • Craft paper (for scrapbooking)
  1. Adhesives:
  • Glue sticks
  • Liquid glue
  • Double-sided tape
  • Hot glue gun and glue sticks
  1. Tools:
  • Scissors
  • Craft knife
  • Ruler
  • Cutting mat
  1. Decorative Supplies:
  • Ribbons and twine
  • Stickers and embellishments
  • Washi tape
  • Glitter and sequins
  1. Painting Supplies:
  • Acrylic paints
  • Paintbrushes (various sizes)
  • Sponges for texture
  1. Fabric and Textiles:
  • Felt sheets
  • Cotton fabric (for sewing projects)
  • Embroidery thread
  1. Miscellaneous:
  • Holiday-themed stencils
  • Craft foam sheets
  • Beads and buttons
  • Holiday-themed cookie cutters

Simple DIY Projects for Non-Crafters

If you’re not particularly crafty but still want to create something beautiful for the holidays, here are three simple DIY projects that require minimal skills but yield stunning results:

  1. Holiday Mason Jar Gifts:
  • Supplies Needed: Mason jars, hot cocoa mix, marshmallows, chocolate chips, ribbons.
  • Instructions: Layer the hot cocoa mix, marshmallows, and chocolate chips in the mason jar. Seal it and decorate the jar with a festive ribbon. Attach a tag with instructions for making the perfect cup of cocoa!
  1. DIY Holiday Ornaments:
  • Supplies Needed: Clear glass or plastic ornaments, paint, glitter, and ribbon.
  • Instructions: Remove the top of the ornament and pour in a small amount of paint. Swirl it around to coat the inside, then add glitter for extra sparkle. Replace the top and hang a ribbon for a beautiful ornament that adds a personal touch to your tree.
  1. Personalized Gift Tags:
  • Supplies Needed: Cardstock, scissors, hole punch, and decorative elements (stickers, stamps).
  • Instructions: Cut the cardstock into tag shapes and punch a hole at the top. Decorate with stickers or stamps, and write the recipient’s name on each tag. These personalized touches will make your gifts stand out!

Conclusion

With your basic craft supplies gathered and a few simple projects in mind, you’re well on your way to a festive and creative holiday season. Remember, the key to enjoying your holiday prep is to have fun and let your creativity shine. So, grab your shopping list, head out to gather your supplies, and get ready to craft your way through the holidays! Happy crafting!

Below is a Checklist you can use for shopping:

Holiday Craft Supply Essential Deluxe Checklist

Use this handy checklist to ensure you have all the essential supplies for your holiday crafting projects.

  • [ ] Cardstock (various colors)
  • [ ] Wrapping paper
  • [ ] Tissue paper
  • [ ] Craft paper (for scrapbooking)
  • [ ] Holiday-themed scrapbook paper
  • [ ] Glue sticks
  • [ ] Liquid glue
  • [ ] Double-sided tape
  • [ ] Hot glue gun
  • [ ] Hot glue sticks
  • [ ] Scissors
  • [ ] Craft knife
  • [ ] Ruler
  • [ ] Cutting mat
  • [ ] Hole punch
  • [ ] Ribbons (various colors and widths)
  • [ ] Twine
  • [ ] Stickers (holiday-themed)
  • [ ] Washi tape
  • [ ] Glitter
  • [ ] Sequins
  • [ ] Beads
  • [ ] Acrylic paints (various colors)
  • [ ] Paintbrushes (various sizes)
  • [ ] Sponges (for texture)
  • [ ] Felt sheets (various colors)
  • [ ] Cotton fabric (for sewing projects)
  • [ ] Embroidery thread
  • [ ] Fabric scissors
  • [ ] Holiday-themed stencils
  • [ ] Craft foam sheets
  • [ ] Holiday-themed cookie cutters
  • [ ] Clear plastic or glass ornaments (for DIY projects)
  • [ ] Mason jars (for gift projects)
  • [ ] Craft storage bins or boxes
  • [ ] Ziplock bags (for small items)
  • [ ] Labels (for organizing supplies)
  • [ ] Notebooks or sketchpads (for planning projects)
  • [ ] Markers or pens (for writing and decorating)
  • [ ] Holiday-themed templates or printables (for inspiration)

Feel free to print this checklist or keep it handy on your phone as you shop for your holiday crafting supplies. Happy crafting!

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DIY: Create Your Advent’s Calendar | Day 10 of 60 | Preparing for the Holidays

Advents Calendars don’t have to be filled with chocolate or bought in the store

Crafting Your Own Advent Calendar: Creative Ideas and Gift Suggestions

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and anticipation, and what better way to count down the days to Christmas than with a DIY advent calendar? While traditional calendars often feature chocolates or candies, you can get creative and design one that suits your style and preferences. Whether you choose to use envelopes, boxes, or bags, the possibilities are endless! Here’s how to create your own advent calendar and some thoughtful gift ideas to include.

1. Creating an Advent Calendar with Envelopes

Using envelopes is a simple and versatile way to create an advent calendar. Here’s how to do it:

Materials Needed:

  • 24 small envelopes (you can decorate them with festive designs)
  • String or ribbon for hanging
  • Clothespins or tape
  • Small gifts or notes to fill the envelopes

Instructions:

  1. Decorate the Envelopes: Use markers, stickers, or washi tape to personalize each envelope. Number them from 1 to 24 for the days leading up to Christmas.
  2. Fill the Envelopes: Instead of sweets, consider filling each envelope with small gifts, notes, or even cash. For example, I created an advent calendar filled with money to spend after Christmas on holiday shopping. This gives me extra spending money for post-holiday sales and avoids the temptation of extra chocolates or candies in the house.
  3. Display Your Calendar: Hang the envelopes on a string or ribbon using clothespins, or arrange them on a shelf or table for easy access.

2. Creating an Advent Calendar with Boxes

If you prefer a more structured approach, using small boxes can be a fun way to create your advent calendar.

Materials Needed:

  • 24 small boxes (you can use gift boxes, matchboxes, or even repurpose small containers)
  • Decorative paper or wrapping for the boxes
  • Number stickers or tags
  • Small gifts or treats to fill the boxes

Instructions:

  1. Wrap the Boxes: Decorate each box with festive wrapping paper or paint. Number them from 1 to 24.
  2. Fill the Boxes: Choose a variety of small gifts, such as mini candles, ornaments, or beauty products. You can also include handwritten notes with fun activities or experiences to enjoy during the holiday season.
  3. Arrange the Boxes: Stack the boxes in a pyramid shape, line them up on a shelf, or create a festive display on your dining table.

3. Creating an Advent Calendar with Bags

Using small bags is another creative option for your advent calendar. This method is especially great for a more casual and playful look.

Materials Needed:

  • 24 small bags (paper, fabric, or burlap bags work well)
  • Twine or string for hanging
  • Number tags or stickers
  • Fun gifts or surprises to fill the bags

Instructions:

  1. Decorate the Bags: Use tags or stickers to number each bag from 1 to 24. You can also personalize them with festive designs or names.
  2. Fill the Bags: Consider including a mix of small gifts, such as tea bags, handmade coupons for activities, or even a few holiday-themed items like ornaments or decorations.
  3. Display the Bags: Hang the bags on a string or arrange them in a basket for a charming display.

Creating your own advent calendar is a wonderful way to add a personal touch to your holiday season. Whether you choose to use envelopes, boxes, or bags, the key is to fill them with thoughtful gifts. By customizing your advent calendar, you can make the countdown to Christmas even more special, all while avoiding the extra calories that often come with traditional calendars. So gather your materials, get creative, and enjoy the process of crafting a unique advent calendar that reflects your style and spirit! Happy holidays!

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DIY: Make Gift Tags and Wrapping Paper | Day 9 of 60 | Health Storey Holiday Prep | Christmas Project

Get Creative This Christmas: Making Homemade Gift Tags and Wrapping Paper

The holiday season is a time for giving, and what better way to show your love and thoughtfulness than with beautifully wrapped gifts? This year, why not add a personal touch by making your own gift tags and wrapping paper? Not only is it a fun and creative activity, but it also allows you to express your unique style. Here’s how to get started on your homemade gift tags and wrapping paper for Christmas!

Why Go Homemade?

Creating your own gift tags and wrapping paper adds a special touch to your presents. It shows that you’ve put in extra effort and thought into your gifts, making them even more meaningful. Plus, it’s a great way to recycle materials you already have at home, reducing waste and saving money.

Making Homemade Gift Tags

Materials Needed:

  • Cardstock or recycled cardboard (old cereal boxes work great!)
  • Scissors
  • Hole punch
  • String or ribbon
  • Markers, stamps, or decorative washi tape
  • Optional: Stickers, glitter, or other embellishments

Steps:

  1. Cut Out Your Tags: Start by cutting your cardstock or cardboard into tag shapes. You can make them rectangular, circular, or even use cookie cutters for fun shapes. Aim for a size that’s easy to write on.
  2. Decorate Your Tags: Use markers, stamps, or washi tape to add festive designs or patterns. Get creative! You can draw Christmas trees, snowflakes, or simply write “To” and “From” in beautiful lettering.
  3. Add a Hole: Use a hole punch to create a hole at the top of each tag. This is where you’ll thread your string or ribbon.
  4. Finish with String: Cut a length of string or ribbon and thread it through the hole. Tie it securely so your tag is ready to attach to your gifts.
  5. Personal Touch: Consider writing a heartfelt message or a special memory on the back of the tag to make it even more personal.

Creating Your Own Wrapping Paper

Materials Needed:

  • Brown kraft paper, white paper, or recycled paper (like old newspapers or maps)
  • Stamps or stencils
  • Paint or ink pads
  • Markers or colored pencils
  • Optional: Natural elements like pinecones, leaves, or twine

Steps:

  1. Choose Your Base: Start with a roll of brown kraft paper or any large sheets of recycled paper. This will be your canvas for wrapping.
  2. Design Your Paper: Use stamps or stencils to create festive patterns. You can stamp snowflakes, Christmas trees, or even use your hands to create fun designs. If you’re feeling artistic, paint or draw directly onto the paper.
  3. Add Color: Use markers or colored pencils to add extra details or color to your designs. This is a great way to make your wrapping paper truly unique.
  4. Incorporate Natural Elements: For a rustic touch, consider adding natural elements like twine, dried flowers, or pinecones to your wrapped gifts. Simply tie them onto the package for an extra special touch.
  5. Wrap Your Gifts: Once your wrapping paper is ready, use it to wrap your gifts. Secure with tape and finish with your homemade gift tags for a cohesive look.

Making your own gift tags and wrapping paper is a delightful way to add a personal touch to your holiday gifts. Not only does it allow you to express your creativity, but it also makes your presents stand out under the tree. Plus, it’s a fun activity to do with family and friends, creating lasting memories as you prepare for the holiday season. So gather your materials, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the process of making your gifts truly special this Christmas! Happy crafting!