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 1, 2025October 31, 2025

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:

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.
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.
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.
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.
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:

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.
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.
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.
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.
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!