December Creative Weekly :: Ornament Central

Rebecca Luminarias

Bring on the snow! I'm an East Coast transplant living in Southern California and I always miss the snow this time of year. So in place of the real thing, I decided to surround myself with handcrafted snowflake ornaments instead. I wanted a very layered and textured look for my ornaments, so I took wood and chipboard snowflakes, tulle, lace, and patterned paper punches and built several ornaments from them. I painted the wood and some of the chipboard flakes silver and gold and then layered all of the other pieces on top of them. I finished off each ornament with a fabric brad, seasonal tag, or a small wood bird or tree. I think these will definitely help to fulfill my wish for a snowy Christmas!

Michiko Kato

When my daughter was little, I made a mini bag shaped like a sock and tucked Christmas presents inside it. I then put it next to her pillow at night. When she woke the next morning and opened the bag, her expression was of delight and excitement. I'll never forget that moment as it brought me great pleasure to see her so happy. Today, even though she's all grown up, she still uses the "stocking". I'm extremely greatful that she treasures the precious gift and as a tribute, I created ornaments from patterned papers that look just like the sock I'd made her so long ago. On top the ornaments, I layered soft, ruffled ribbon and pieces of Sleigh Ride's colorful chipboard. I plan to give the ornaments to my daughter alongside a gift come Christmas. I can't wait 'til she see's them!

Tami Gookstetter

I don't know about you, but this time of year is busy, busy, busy for me! So I'm always looking for ways to multi-task, which is what I love about these simple ornaments made with paper from the Crate Sleigh Ride collection. Not only are these quick to make, you can also make this project with your kiddos, the perfect thing to keep them busy while they are home on Winter break. As an extra bonus, these could also double as unique and crafty package toppers for your holiday gifts! All you need for this project is some colorful double sided patterned paper from the collection, stapler, hole punch, and twine. Cut the paper into strips as wide as you like (I varied mine from 3/4" to 1" widths) and then cut two each; short, medium, and long. Gather together at one end and staple, then push the other ends down until they all line up and staple again. Punch a hole to hang, or tie on, and add your twine. If you like, you can add an eyelet to your hole for a little something extra. I always have good intentions to make some really original and detailed "fancy" decor this time of year, but in the end, I have to be realistic, can you relate?