Memorable Gifts

Decorating the tree as a child was something to look forward to. Togetherness and memories always brought smiles and fun. It was fun for parents as well because it brought back fun times. The ornaments you had as a child, and all of the handmade ornaments you made. Those were special ornaments and families kept them because they meant so much.

Anything that someone takes their time to make means so much more. I know that there are specific things we want at times for Christmas and birthdays, but as we grow into our own we start to appreciate handmade gifts more. I keep every drawing or card my daughter made. She thinks it’s crazy, but she will do the same with her daughter one day. Children need to experience the art of making and giving. It brings happiness to all involved.

There are many DIY projects that can be done in decorating for the holidays. We can also make things just to decorate our own home. You might even be able to give gifts this year without spending much. I have a small business that includes repurposed items and abstract art. My goal is to inspire you to work together as a family to make things.

Since we are in the holiday season, I will start with some holiday decorating. I like to decorate my door, but not just with a wreath. This project includes items you probably have at home. You may have to go to the dollar tree as well. The list of items you need:

- fake limb from a Christmas tree, or fake garland from dollar tree. You could also use a real branch

- Several ball ornaments that you do not use anymore

- Little boxes (they come with 2 in a package at the dollar tree)

- Hot glue gun and hot glue sticks

- Ribbon (you can recycle a bow from an arrangement or buy ribbon at the dollar tree)

Gather your materials and before you glue anything, lay it on the branch. This lets you see how it will look. There is no right or wrong way, just use your creativity. I have included a link to my Facebook page so you can have an idea. https://www.facebook.com/shelton1973/

Next we move on to porch decorating. I have a small porch, but I still like to make it stand out. You may have some leftover BIG ornaments that you can use for this project. If not, go to the goodwill or search on Facebook marketplace. A lot of people want new everything, so their trash can be your treasure. This project is a Christmas topiary. It can be used inside or outside. The list of items needed for this project are as follows:

- At least 3 really big ornaments

- Old ceramic wide vase, or a pot that you have planted something in

- Stuffing / cotton or fur

- Wood dowel - can be purchased for less than $1 at Lowe’s

- Hot glue gun and hot glue sticks

- Drill for making holes

Use your drill to make a hole on top of the ornament. Once the hole is done, take the ornament hanger off. Insert the dowel. Do the same with the other ornaments you plan to use. Once they are assembled, use the glue on each ornament. Press down on the ornaments where you put hot glue. I have attached a link to my Facebook pageso you can have more of a guide. You are all done!

https://www.facebook.com/shelton1973/

Now we will explore gift giving. So many things can be repurposed. This makes for good conversation pieces and unique gifts. Most of us have an old lamp, sheets we never use, toothpicks, old dishes, forks and coffee filters around the house. Some other things, not so common around the house, are shuttters, metal rakes, cutting boards, framed pictures that you don’t like anymore, old books, rocks and records. While these items may seem weird to use, they can all be repurposed as gifts or decor. All of these items can be found at the goodwill at cheap prices.

The next project could be a gift or decor. Old windows are very popular for decorating, but often times expensive. I really like the look/style but refuse to pay $40 or more. I really thought about it and figured I could make one. As an artist, I have a ton of old canvas that I haven’t painted over. If you don’t have old canvas, go to the dollar tree or goodwill. You can make these small or large. They are not real with glass, but cute for decor. The items you will need are as follows:

- Old canvas (I used 2)

- Measuring tape

- Sand paper

- Jig saw (may not need this)

- Hot glue gun and hot glue sticks (yes I know it’s funny, I use it all the time)

To make your fake window, first take the canvas off. The wood holding the canvas together can easily be taken apart. Gather the wood, lay the pieces out on the floor to look like a window. Some pieces may not be the length they need to be. If this is the case, you can sand the edges or cut them with a jig saw. Once you have them like you want them, hot glue them together. Let them lay to dry for at least 1 hour. You can then paint it and add anything you like to it. I have attached the finished project on my Facebook link. https://www.facebook.com/shelton1973/

I am also going to attach pictures of other finished DYI projects. Many people are visual learners so this may help to inspire you. We all have creativity, it may be hidden, but it’s there. Anyone can do all of these projects. You will feel very accomplished by doing your own Christmas decor, I promise. If you decide to give handmade gifts you will save money and bring a smile to someone’s face. Good luck and Merry Christmas!

This Facebook link will show you the following:

Coffee filter flowers I made, cutting board decor, old shutter with coffee filter flowers, olld framed picture I got at goodwill for $2. I painted the frame then did fluid art on the glass.

https://www.facebook.com/shelton1973/