The Ultimate Way to Recycle for Christmas: Transforming Old Jewellery into Bespoke Gifts for the Loved ones in your life

The festive season is upon us, bringing with it the annual dilemma: finding that perfect gift for the people we love. 

But instead of joining the Christmas rush and picking up yet another mass-produced present, why not embrace a more meaningful approach this year? 

Imagine giving a gift that is not only unique but also imbued with personal history—a gift that symbolises love, creativity, and sustainability. The answer? Transform your old or broken jewellery into something truly bespoke.

Why Upcycling Jewellery is the Perfect Christmas Gift

There’s something magical about jewellery. It holds memories, marks milestones, and serves as a timeless token of affection. But what happens when these cherished pieces break, fall out of fashion, or simply languish in the depths of a drawer? Rather than letting them gather dust, why not breathe new life into them by taking them to a jeweller to be refashioned?

This creative recycling process transforms your sentimental pieces into new, one-of-a-kind items that can be cherished for years to come. And what better time to do this than at Christmas, a season that’s all about giving meaningful gifts and celebrating loved ones?

The Benefits of Upcycling Jewellery for Christmas

Sustainable Gifting: In a world where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, recycling old jewellery is an eco-friendly way to celebrate the festive season. By choosing to upcycle rather than purchase something new, you’re reducing waste and promoting a more sustainable approach to gift-giving.

A Truly Unique Gift: Mass-produced jewellery lacks the personal touch that makes a gift truly special. By refashioning existing pieces, you create something that’s entirely bespoke and tailored to the recipient’s tastes. Imagine gifting a friend a ring made from the gemstones of an old brooch, or a pair of dazzling earrings crafted from a forgotten necklace.

Preserving Sentimental Value: Many of us have inherited jewellery that carries sentimental value but doesn’t quite suit our style. Instead of keeping these pieces hidden away, you can repurpose them into something that’s both modern and meaningful. It’s a wonderful way to honour family heirlooms while creating something new and beautiful.

Supporting Local Artisans: When you take your jewellery to a skilled jeweller, you’re not just getting a bespoke piece—you’re also supporting a local craftsperson. In an age of fast fashion, investing in the artistry of a local jeweller is a way to champion craftsmanship and creativity.

How to Get Started: The Process of Upcycling Jewellery

If the idea of turning old trinkets into new treasures has captured your imagination, here’s how to get started:

Gather Your Jewellery: Go through your jewellery box and set aside any broken pieces, outdated designs, or items you no longer wear. Consider pieces with sentimental value—old engagement rings, broken chains, or even single earrings missing their pair.

Find a Trusted Jeweller: Choose a local jeweller with experience in bespoke designs and upcycling projects. It’s essential to work with someone who understands your vision and can guide you through the creative process. Be sure to check their portfolio to get a sense of their style and craftsmanship.

Consultation and Design: Once you’ve chosen a jeweller, schedule a consultation. This is where the magic happens! Share your ideas and the story behind the pieces you’ve brought. The jeweller will help you brainstorm ways to transform the materials into something entirely new—a sleek pendant, a bold cocktail ring, or a delicate bracelet.

Enjoy the Transformation: After agreeing on the design, let the jeweller work their magic. The process may take a few weeks, so it’s best to start early to ensure your gift is ready in time for Christmas.

Presenting Your Bespoke Gift: The look on your loved one’s face when they receive a bespoke piece of jewellery made just for them is priceless. Knowing that it was once an old family heirloom or a piece from their past makes it even more special.

Ideas for Upcycled Jewellery Gifts

To inspire you, here are some creative ideas for upcycling your old jewellery:

Gemstone Earrings: Convert gemstones from broken rings or pendants into a stunning pair of earrings.

Charm Bracelets: Gather mismatched charms or small pendants and combine them into a bespoke charm bracelet.

Stackable Rings: Turn several old rings into a set of trendy stackable bands, each with a unique design.

Modern Pendants: Transform a large brooch or outdated necklace into a sleek, contemporary pendant that can be worn daily.

A Gift That Keeps on Giving

This Christmas, embrace the spirit of giving in a way that’s meaningful, sustainable, and uniquely personal. By transforming old or broken jewellery into bespoke gifts, you’re not just recycling—you’re creating something entirely new that holds sentimental value and lasting beauty.

So, why settle for something ordinary when you can give a gift that tells a story, celebrates craftsmanship, and contributes to a greener planet? This year, make your gifts truly unforgettable by upcycling jewellery and bringing joy to your loved ones with something that sparkles anew.

Happy gifting, and here’s to a Christmas filled with creativity, love, and a touch of sparkle!

How to use decoupage to create stunning art piece Christmas gifts using polystyrene heads

What was the genesis for this blogpost? My wife and I visited a charity shop and I saw a decoupaged head that was life-sized. 

I examined it and realised that it was a polystyrene model's head designed for displaying hats and wigs. 

As I have experience with decoupage, I realised that I could make these heads myself and that they would make excellent Christmas gifts.

This is the basic instructions of how you can make them, too.

Decoupage is a fantastic way to create stunning, personalised Christmas gifts, especially with items like polystyrene heads, which offer a unique 3D canvas. Here’s a detailed guide on how to transform these foam forms into festive art pieces using decoupage techniques.

Materials You’ll Need:

Polystyrene heads (commonly found in craft shops or online from some hairdressing supply retailers, Temu or Amazon.)

Decoupage glue (like Mod Podge or PVA glue)

Decorative papers (tissue paper, Christmas-themed napkins, decoupage paper, images cut from newspapers or magazine, or thin wrapping paper)

Acrylic paints (optional for base coat)

Paintbrushes (one for glue application, one for painting)

Scissors

Craft knife (for intricate cuts)

Foam brushes or sponge applicators (for smooth application)

Fine glitter, ribbons, sequins, or embellishments (for extra decoration)

Clear acrylic sealer spray (for a durable finish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Polystyrene Head

If desired, paint the head with an acrylic base coat to hide the white foam and create a coloured background for your design. Allow it to dry completely.

Lightly sand the surface if it’s too rough to make the decoupage smoother.

2. Select and Prepare Your Decorative Papers

Choose papers with Christmas themes such as holly, snowflakes, or festive patterns.

If using napkins, separate the top patterned layer from the plain ones. You only need the thin, printed layer.

Cut or tear the paper into manageable pieces. Tearing the edges creates a more natural, blended look.

3. Apply Decoupage Glue

Use a paintbrush to apply a thin layer of decoupage glue on a small section of the polystyrene head.

Carefully lay your decorative paper onto the glue-covered area. Smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles using your fingers or a foam brush.

4. Layer and Build the Design

Continue adding paper pieces, slightly overlapping them to ensure full coverage. Work in sections to prevent the glue from drying too quickly.

Once you have covered the entire head, let it dry for 30-60 minutes.

5. Seal the Surface

Apply a final layer of decoupage glue over the entire head to seal the design. This will give it a subtle sheen and protect the paper.

For a more durable and shiny finish, you can spray a coat of clear acrylic sealer after the glue has dried.

6. Add Extra Details and Embellishments (Optional)

Use glitter for a sparkling effect: brush a thin layer of glue on selected areas and sprinkle the glitter.

Add ribbons, sequins, or other embellishments to enhance the festive look. You can also glue on small accessories like miniature hats or holly sprigs.

For a whimsical touch, use acrylic paint to draw on features like eyes, or leave it abstract and focus on texture and patterns.

7. Final Touches

Once everything is dry, check for any areas that might need extra glue or a touch-up.

Allow your art piece to dry completely for 24 hours before wrapping or displaying it.

Gift Ideas Using Polystyrene Heads:

Festive Centrepieces: Arrange a few decorated heads in a holiday-themed basket with fairy lights.

Personalised Gifts: Customise the decoupage patterns with themes that reflect the recipient’s interests or favourite colours.

Ornaments: Attach a hook or ribbon to the top and use the heads as unique, oversized Christmas tree decorations.

With a bit of creativity, decoupage can turn simple polystyrene heads into eye-catching art pieces that make for memorable Christmas gifts. Happy crafting!

Calligraphy Christmas Gift Ideas for the Artistically Inclined in Your Life

mage courtesy delo of Pixabay

As the festive season approaches, finding the ideal Christmas gift can often be a delightful yet daunting task.

Especially when it comes to selecting something special for the artistically inclined. 

If you have a loved one with a passion for calligraphy, you’re in luck! Calligraphy is a craft that continually offers new avenues for creativity, and a gift related to this art form is both thoughtful and unique. 

Here’s a guide to choosing the perfect calligraphy gifts to make their holiday season extra special.

1. High-Quality Calligraphy Pens

Every calligrapher will appreciate a set of top-notch calligraphy pens. If they’re just starting out, a beginner’s set with both pointed and broad nibs will allow them to experiment with different styles. For more advanced artists, consider specialised tools like oblique holders or professional-grade dip pens. Brands like Pilot, LAMY, and Manuscript offer a variety of choices, including refillable pens and nibs that cater to various techniques.

Tip: For a luxurious touch, look for fountain pens with interchangeable nibs that allow them to switch between lettering styles.

2. Speciality Inks

While black ink is a staple, gifting a selection of speciality inks can open up a world of possibilities. Consider metallic inks for shimmer, or eco-friendly inks with unique colours. Watercolour inks or those with pearlescent finishes add depth and sparkle to their work, ideal for festive projects. Some popular options include the Winsor & Newton ink sets, Diamine inks from Liverpool, or Herbin's shimmering series.

Tip: Put together an ink bundle with a few different colours or finishes for an extra-special presentation.

3. Calligraphy Paper and Sketchbooks

Quality paper can make all the difference in calligraphy. Look for smooth, bleed-resistant paper that can handle a range of inks without smudging. Rhodia and Clairefontaine are top brands with a reputation for producing calligraphy-friendly notebooks and sketchpads. For practising letters or flourishing new designs, dot or grid paper is also an excellent choice.

Tip: Consider pairing high-quality paper with a beautifully designed notebook cover or binding for a sophisticated look.

4. Personalised Stamps and Wax Seals

Custom stamps or wax seals add a unique element to calligraphy projects, especially for artists who enjoy creating cards, letters, or decorative pieces. You could order a wax seal with their initials or a motif that has personal significance to them. If they enjoy experimenting with various colours, include a selection of wax beads for them to play with.

Tip: A wax seal set, complete with a stamp, melting spoon, and coloured wax beads, makes for a complete and stylish gift package.

5. Instructional Books or Online Courses

For those keen to expand their skillset, instructional books or online classes are thoughtful ways to encourage growth in their craft. Books like Mastering Copperplate Calligraphy by Eleanor Winters or Modern Calligraphy by Molly Suber Thorpe offer expert guidance and exercises. Alternatively, a subscription to an online learning platform such as Domestika or Skillshare can provide access to a wide variety of calligraphy and lettering classes.

Tip: Choose a book or course aligned with their current skill level, whether they're beginners, intermediate, or advanced calligraphers.

6. Desk Organisers for Calligraphy Tools

Keeping calligraphy supplies organised is key to a productive workspace. Elegant organisers made of wood, metal, or leather can neatly store their pens, inks, paper, and tools. Look for multi-compartment options or customisable setups that suit their collection.

Tip: Add a personal touch by engraving or embossing their initials on the organiser, giving it a unique and practical twist.

7. Lightbox for Tracing and Practice

A lightbox is a valuable tool for calligraphers who like to trace designs or practice consistency in their strokes. Lightweight and portable LED lightboxes make tracing easy, whether they're at home or on the go. It’s a great way to elevate their technique, especially for artists who enjoy creating intricate lettering designs.

Tip: Look for adjustable brightness settings, which make it easier to work with various paper types.

8. Custom Calligraphy Nameplate or Art Piece

For a truly personal touch, consider commissioning a piece from a local or online calligrapher. A beautifully lettered nameplate, quote, or monogram will make a heartfelt addition to their workspace or home décor. It’s a gift that celebrates their craft and gives them something inspirational to look at each day.

Tip: Frame the piece in a style that complements their aesthetic, whether that’s rustic, minimalist, or vintage.

9. Brush Pen Set for Modern Calligraphy

Brush pens are versatile tools for both traditional and modern calligraphy styles. They’re particularly fun for experimenting with expressive, flowing scripts. Tombow, Pentel, and Ecoline offer high-quality brush pens in a range of colours and tip styles. For beginners, a starter set with both soft and hard tips is ideal, while more seasoned artists may appreciate a set of vibrant colours for creative projects.

Tip: If your loved one is new to brush pens, include a practice book or instructional guide with their set.

10. Gift Cards for a Local Art and Craft Supply shop

Sometimes, the best gift is letting them choose for themselves. A gift card to a well-stocked art supply shop or a speciality calligraphy store can allow them to pick out the specific materials they need. They might even discover a new product they hadn’t considered before!

Calligraphy is a timeless art form that brings elegance and beauty into everyday life. By gifting thoughtfully chosen calligraphy supplies, tools, or experiences, you’re encouraging the artist in your life to continue creating and exploring. With any of these gifts, you’re sure to bring a smile to their face this Christmas—and perhaps even inspire their next masterpiece!

I have to admit that I have tried calligraphy but was never able to master it. Hopefully the recipient of your calligraphy gift will be able to do better than I did. My handwriting is so "interesting" that someone praised my shorthand. Imagine their surprise when I revealed that it wasn't shorthand but my own somewhat sloppy scrawling writing! 

Make Extra Money for Christmas with Your Baking Skills

With Christmas approaching, you might be looking for ways to make a bit of extra cash to ease the holiday expenses. 

If you’re skilled in baking or confectionery, now is the perfect time to turn your talents into a profitable festive side hustle. 

Christmas fairs, markets, and sales events provide an ideal venue for selling seasonal treats, where beautifully crafted bakes are always a hit. 

Here’s how you can use your baking skills to create irresistible treats that capture the spirit of the festive season.

1. Pick a Festive Theme

A Christmas-themed spread is visually appealing and instantly grabs attention. Think of classic favourites like mince pies, shortbread, gingerbread biscuits, and yule logs. These traditional items are always popular, but you can make yours unique by adding a personal twist. For instance:

Gingerbread People and Houses: Offer customisable options for gingerbread people or intricate gingerbread houses, which can double as edible gifts or decorations.

Snowflake or Star Biscuits: Elegant, shaped biscuits dusted with icing sugar, edible glitter, or delicate royal icing details add a touch of winter wonder.

Festive Flavours: Incorporate seasonal flavours like cinnamon, nutmeg, cranberry, or peppermint to stand out from the standard offerings.

2. Experiment with Edible Gifts

Christmas markets thrive on festive giftable items. Try packaging treats in small, gift-ready portions that make easy stocking fillers. Options include:

Decorated Biscuit Tins: Offer decorated tins filled with an assortment of biscuits, a gift that looks just as delightful as it tastes.

Hot Chocolate Kits: Create kits with homemade hot chocolate mix, mini marshmallows, and a chocolate stirring spoon, all beautifully wrapped for gifting.

Candy Cane Fudge or Peppermint Bark: Colourful and festive, these treats are easy to make and eye-catching at the stall.

Marzipan Fruits or Chocolate Truffles: These indulgent treats can be arranged in small gift boxes, perfect for a luxury feel.

3. Perfect Your Presentation

How you present your products is nearly as important as the taste. People are more likely to be drawn to a beautifully displayed stall with festive decorations, so consider using:

Seasonal Packaging: Christmas-themed boxes, paper, or cellophane wrapping add to the seasonal charm.

Labels and Signage: Clearly label each treat with the name, ingredients, and price, and don’t forget to list any allergens.

Gift Tags: Small touches like a “Handmade with Love” tag can elevate the perceived value of your items and attract buyers looking for unique gifts.

4. Offer Sample Bites

Sampling can be a powerful way to entice customers to make a purchase. Offer small bites of some of your best treats so people can taste before they buy. This is particularly effective if you have something a bit unusual, like a new flavour combination or a twist on a classic.

5. Price for Profit

One of the biggest challenges in selling handmade goods is pricing them right. Take into account your ingredient costs, time, and any packaging materials. It can be tempting to underprice your items, but remember to value your time and skill. Many customers at Christmas fairs are willing to pay a bit more for quality, especially if it’s presented as a unique or artisanal product.

6. Spread the Word

If you’re going to be at a particular fair or sale, let people know in advance through social media or community boards. Share pictures of your treats and provide details on where and when you’ll be selling. Encourage family and friends to share your posts and help spread the word.

7. Prepare for All Weather

Many UK Christmas fairs are outdoors, so be prepared for all weather conditions. Consider bringing a waterproof covering for your treats and a way to keep them warm if needed. A festive thermos of hot tea or cocoa for yourself can keep you comfortable as well!

8. Keep Track of What Sells

Each market will have its own quirks, so track which items sell best and make notes. If people love your peppermint bark but only sample the spiced biscuits, focus on producing more of the popular items. Adjusting as you go can help increase your profitability.

Final Thoughts

Turning your baking skills into a festive business venture is a great way to spread Christmas cheer while earning a little extra. From selecting popular seasonal treats to presenting them in creative, gift-worthy ways, there’s plenty of opportunity to make an impact at local Christmas fairs. So, dig out your best recipes, start baking, and enjoy the fun of spreading a bit of festive sweetness while giving your holiday budget a boost. Happy festive baking!

Boost Your Income This Christmas by Crafting for Craft Fairs

As Christmas draws near, it's the perfect time to think about ways to boost your income. One fantastic and fulfilling option is to turn your crafting skills into a profitable venture at holiday craft fairs, pop-up markets, and online shops. 

Handmade items are more popular than ever, and there’s a growing appreciation for unique, thoughtfully crafted goods. Here’s a guide to getting started, finding the right products to make, and maximising your sales.

1. Find Your Niche

Finding a niche is key in the world of handmade crafts. Think about your strongest skills and what’s most enjoyable for you to make, whether it’s knitting, woodwork, pottery, jewellery, or paper crafts. Trends can influence demand, so take a look at what’s popular this season. In recent years, there’s been a strong interest in sustainable items, vintage-inspired Christmas decor, and practical, personalised items.

By narrowing down your focus, you can create a cohesive collection of products that reflects your unique style. Having a speciality will make you stand out at craft fairs and establish you as a go-to for those types of products.

2. Craft with Quality in Mind

Customers at craft fairs are drawn to handmade items because they offer something distinct from mass-produced goods. They expect quality, so aim to create products that feel worth their price. Choose materials that are durable and attractive and pay attention to details, such as finishing touches. Whether it's a handmade knitted scarf or a custom ornament, quality craftsmanship and unique design go a long way in winning over customers.

3. Christmas-Themed Products Sell!

Christmas markets are all about the festive spirit, so give your products a seasonal twist. Here are a few Christmas-themed ideas to inspire you:

Ornaments and Decorations: Try your hand at personalised ornaments, wreaths, or even miniature Christmas trees.

Stocking Fillers: Small gifts like soaps, candles, hand-warmers, or miniature notebooks make fantastic stocking fillers.

Gifts for Pets: Pet owners are often looking for unique, festive gifts for their furry friends. Think pet stockings, holiday-themed bandanas, or catnip toys.

Gift Wrapping Accessories: Create a line of handmade gift tags, wrapping paper, and gift bags.

Adding a festive touch to your creations can make them even more appealing to shoppers in search of the perfect Christmas gift.

4. Plan Your Pricing Strategy

Deciding on a fair and attractive price for your crafts can be tricky. You’ll want to account for your materials, time, and any overheads such as booth fees if you’re attending a fair. Research prices for similar items, and ensure yours are competitive while still providing a worthwhile profit. Offering “bundle deals” or discounts for multiple purchases can encourage people to buy more and help you stand out in a market filled with other stalls.

5. Prepare a Professional Setup

Craft fair shoppers often decide to browse a stall based on its appearance, so put effort into creating an inviting setup. Display your items thoughtfully, grouping similar products and using attractive props or seasonal decor to highlight your Christmas theme. Good lighting, organised displays, and clear signage for prices and payment options are essential. If possible, add a small sign with information about you and your crafting journey – customers enjoy buying from makers they can connect with.

6. Market Yourself

A social media presence is invaluable, even for local craft sellers. Use Instagram or Facebook to show off your products and the process behind creating them. Let followers know where they can find you at fairs or encourage them to reach out for custom orders. If you don’t already have a brand name, now might be the time to think of one, along with a simple logo or label to give your products a professional finish.

7. Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Process

Creating crafts to sell can be rewarding both financially and personally. Remember to enjoy the process and embrace the festive spirit that makes Christmas markets so magical. Engaging with customers and other crafters can be a brilliant way to find inspiration, learn new techniques, and grow your crafting business beyond the holiday season.

Final Thoughts

The festive season is one of the best times to make extra income through crafting. By choosing the right products, paying attention to quality, and presenting your creations attractively, you can transform your crafting skills into a Christmas success. So dust off your craft supplies, start creating, and get ready to make the most of the Christmas markets and fairs near you. Happy crafting!

You can also look at selling on sites like eBay (https://www.ebay.co.uk) or Etsy (https://www.etsy.com) to reach a wider audience for your crafting skills.

How to Create a Cosy, Homemade Crafty Christmas

As the festive season approaches, many of us feel the urge to make our homes sparkle with holiday cheer. But rather than relying solely on store-bought decorations and gifts, why not embrace the charm and warmth of a homemade crafty Christmas? 

There’s something magical about creating your own Christmas decorations, gifts, and wrapping from scratch. Not only does it allow for a personal touch, but it’s also an eco-friendly and budget-conscious way to celebrate.

Here are some delightful ideas to inspire your crafty Christmas this year:

1. Handmade Christmas Decorations

Nothing beats the feeling of trimming the tree with decorations you've made yourself. This year, try crafting your own ornaments:

Salt Dough Ornaments: Salt dough is incredibly easy to make using just flour, salt, and water. Roll it out, cut it into festive shapes (such as stars, hearts, or trees), and bake until hardened. Once cooled, paint them with acrylic paints, and don’t forget to add some glitter for extra sparkle.

Upcycled Paper Baubles: If you have old magazines, wrapping paper, or even sheet music lying around, you can transform them into beautiful baubles. Simply cut circles from the paper, fold them in half, and glue them together to create a sphere.

Pinecone Decorations: Nature often provides the best materials. Gather pinecones from a walk and give them a festive makeover with a bit of gold or silver spray paint. Add a ribbon, and you have a charming, rustic ornament.

2. Homemade Christmas Cards

Sending out Christmas cards is a cherished tradition, but instead of buying packs from the shops, why not make your own?

Watercolour Cards: A splash of watercolour on thick cardstock can create stunning designs, whether it's a simple wash of colour or a more intricate scene like a snowy village. If painting isn’t your forte, you can use stencils to guide your brushwork.

Stamped Cards: Craft your own stamps using potatoes or rubber carving blocks. Simple designs like stars, trees, or reindeer can be easily carved, dipped in paint, and pressed onto your cards. For a unique look, try layering different colours.

Pressed Flowers and Leaves: For a nature-inspired card, use pressed flowers or leaves. These can be glued onto your card for an elegant, minimalist design.

3. Personalised Gift Wrap

There’s no need to spend money on expensive wrapping paper when you can make your own that’s both eco-friendly and charming.

Brown Paper Wrap: Brown kraft paper offers a simple, rustic look that you can customise with stamps, drawings, or hand-written messages. Tie it up with twine and add a sprig of holly or eucalyptus for an earthy, festive feel.

Fabric Wrapping: Using fabric, like old scarves or tea towels, is a sustainable way to wrap gifts. The Japanese technique of furoshiki involves folding and tying fabric to securely wrap your presents, and the fabric itself becomes part of the gift!

Recycled Paper Wrapping: Reuse old newspapers, maps, or sheet music as wrapping paper. Add a colourful ribbon or hand-drawn doodles to make the package pop.

4. Crafty Homemade Gifts

Creating personalised gifts not only saves money but shows your loved ones how much thought and care you’ve put into their presents.

DIY Candles: With a few basic supplies (wax, wicks, and essential oils), you can create your own candles. Choose festive scents like cinnamon, clove, or pine to really evoke the Christmas spirit. Decorate the jars with ribbon or personalised labels to add a final touch.

Homemade Bath Bombs: For a pampering gift, make your own bath bombs with ingredients like baking soda, citric acid, and essential oils. Add some dried lavender or rose petals for a touch of luxury.

Hand-knitted Scarves or Hats: If you’re handy with knitting needles, this is the perfect time to create a cosy scarf or hat for a loved one. Choose a festive colour or opt for neutral tones to suit their style.

If you are a talented artist or a skilled woodworker you will be able to produce some truly unique and -one-of-a-kind handmade Christmas gifts for the people in your life who you really care about.

5. Festive Food Gifts

Food is often at the heart of Christmas, and homemade edible gifts are always well-received. Some ideas include:

Spiced Biscuits: Christmas biscuits, whether gingerbread or spiced shortbread, make for lovely gifts. Decorate them with icing or wrap them in festive packaging for a delightful homemade treat.

Flavoured Oils and Vinegars: Infused oils or vinegars are simple to make but add a gourmet touch to any kitchen. Add herbs, chillies, or garlic to a good-quality oil or vinegar, and store in a pretty glass bottle.

Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix: Layer cocoa powder, sugar, and mini marshmallows in a jar, tie it with a festive ribbon, and you’ve got a cosy gift perfect for cold winter nights.

6. Get the Family Involved

Making Christmas crafts isn’t just fun for adults; it’s a great activity for children too. Involve your little ones in simple projects like decorating biscuits, making paper snowflakes, or assembling Christmas garlands. Not only will you create lasting memories, but the kids will also feel a special sense of pride when they see their handiwork displayed around the house.

Conclusion: A Christmas to Remember

A homemade crafty Christmas is about embracing creativity, reducing waste, and making the season truly personal. The effort you put into creating these handmade decorations, gifts, and cards will not only fill your home with warmth but also bring joy to those around you. So, gather your supplies, put on your favourite Christmas playlist, and let the crafting begin!

Checkout local retailers and also Home Bargains, The Range, Rymans, Hobbycraft, Poundland and One Beyond for a wide range of DIY Christmas goodies.

Here’s to a cosy, crafty Christmas that’s filled with love, creativity, and a sprinkle of DIY magic!

Craft your way to Christmas with Stars for Europe

Stars for Europe offers step-by-step guides for festive DIY enthusiasts.

Whether as a pot plant or cut flower in bouquets and arrangements, with its beautiful bracts, the poinsettia, also known as the Christmas Star, is widely used as interior décor as the nights draw in and thoughts turn to Christmas.

Careful cultivation over the years has resulted in a broad variety of poinsettia plants in a beautiful array of colours, from trendy Viva Magenta and Apricot Crush (Pantone Colours of the Year for 2023 and 2024 respectively), to pure Scandi-chic white and cream to hot Barbie Pink and – of course – traditional red.

This spectacular array of coloured bracts can be turned to all manner of fun and satisfying craft projects, suitable for DIY enthusiasts with different skill levels. Here the experts at Stars for Europe set out a range of projects that you can enjoy creating at home, from beautiful centrepieces and planters to special wreaths and bouquets.

Homemade flower and candleholders featuring poinsettias make a natural table decoration that's quick and easy to make and can be used in a variety of ways. These DIY flower holders also make wonderful gifts.

For these mini flower vases and candleholders you will need mini poinsettias, frosted apples (available from florists), candleholders on spikes, taper candles, test tubes, moss, craft wire, gold glitter, a vegetable peeler, oranges, pins and red ribbon.

For the poinsettia candleholder, carefully remove the mini poinsettia from its pot, wrap the root ball with moss and bind the moss ball with the craft wire. Then insert a test tube into the hole, fill it with water and place a cut poinsettia in it. Tip: Immediately after cutting, dip the poinsettia stem in hot water (about 60°C) for a few seconds and then in cold water. In clean water, the poinsettia will stay fresh and beautiful for up to two weeks.

Tip: Water the plant beforehand so the root ball is moist before pushing in the candleholder.

Wrap the red ribbon around your oranges, tie a bow on top and secure in place with a pin in the base of the fruit. Arrange your homemade poinsettia vases and candle holders on the table. Place the decorated oranges and more frosted apples next to them.

Scandi-chic candle planter

This DIY candle planter makes a Scandi-style centrepiece out of gorgeous cut cream poinsettias that takes very little skill to make. You will need a bowl, chicken wire, floral tape, high-strength glue, a candle, a short piece of plastic pipe, poinsettias, kangaroo paw (Anigozanthos manglesii), winterberry (Ilex verticillata), wild asparagus (Asparagus acutifolius), eucalyptus pods (Eucalyptus robusta), James Storie orchids (Aranthera James Storie) and kiwi vines (Actinidia deliciosa).

Step 1: Stick the plastic tube to the bottom of the bowl using the glue.

Step 2: Cut a length of chicken wire to roughly the diameter of the bowl, scrunch it up and place it inside the bowl, around the section of pipe and fix it in place, using floral tape placed over the edge of the bowl.

Step 3: Insert the cut poinsettias and the other florals close together into the chicken wire. Finally, place the candle into the plastic tube and add water to the bowl. Tip: Cut poinsettias will last for up to two weeks if you immerse the cut stem end in hot water (approx. 60°C) for a few seconds immediately after cutting and then in cold water, then place the cut flower in fresh water.

This stunning bouquet of winterberry stems, grasses and cut red poinsettias has a long vase life if regularly given fresh water and is simple to make in just a few steps. In addition to the florals you will need small test tubes, craft wire and ribbon.

 Step 1: Attach the test tubes to the winterberry stems with craft wire.

Step 2: Tie the winterberry stems and grasses into a bouquet and secure it with the red ribbon.

Step 3: Fill the test tubes with water, insert the cut poinsettias into them and place the bouquet in the vase with fresh water. 

Tip: The poinsettias will stay fresh for up to two weeks if, immediately after cutting, you first dip the cut ends in hot water (about 60°C) for a few seconds and then in cold water. Faded poinsettias can also be easily replaced in this winter bouquet.

Kokedama Advent Wreath

With its floating moss balls and scarlet mini poinsettias, this Kokedama decoration is show stopper. You can create this original design idea in a few steps using a log slice, mini poinsettias, moss, gold craft wire, three taper candles, three candle holders on spikes, wooden kebab sticks, a pine branch, a cordless drill and secateurs. 

Tip: The number of poinsettias you need will depend on the size of your log slice.

Step 1: Use the cordless drill to drill holes in the log slice for the candle holders and the wooden kebab sticks. You will place the kokedamas onto the sticks later, so make sure the holes are evenly spaced out over the log slice.

Step 2: Insert the spiked candle holders and the sticks into the pre-drilled holes. Space the candle holders out evenly.

Step 3: Remove the mini poinsettias from their pots, wrap the root balls with moss and secure it with the gold craft wire. Tip: Water the plants beforehand so the root balls are moist.

Step 4: Gently push the poinsettia kokedamas onto the wooden sticks so they are level with each other here.

Step 5: Finish off the arrangement with the pine branches. You can also attach the sprigs to the candle holders with craft wire. Finally, put the candles in the holders and place the arrangement in a bright place protected from draughts. Place the finished wreath in your desired spot and light the candles.

Tip: You can water the mini poinsettias gently from above. Alternatively, place the wrapped root balls briefly in a container with a little water to allow the moss to soak it up.

More information about the poinsettia and lots of decoration ideas can be found at https://www.starsuniteeurope.eu

Stars for Europe is a marketing initiative from European poinsettia breeders Beekenkamp Plants, Dümmen Orange, Selecta One and Syngenta Flowers.

The initiative was founded in 2000 with the aim to promote and secure long-term poinsettia sales. Through carefully defined themes, targets and an image refresh, the initiative taps into new buyer groups and increasingly inspires younger generations with poinsettias. The campaign is now active in 22 countries.

We'd like to thank Stars for Europe for providing the image used.

Kokedama Advent wreath

For this Kokedama Advent wreath, you will need a log slice, red mini poinsettias, moss, gold craft wire, three taper candles, three candle holders on spikes, wooden kebab sticks, a pine branch, a cordless drill and secateurs. Tip: The number of poinsettias you need will depend on the size of your log slice.

Festive Winterberry bouquet. A striking feature: this festive bouquet of winterberry, grasses and cut red poinsettias will definitely not go unnoticed. This design has a long vase life and is simple to make in just a few steps. In addition to the florals mentioned, you will need a large vase, small test tubes, craft wire, ribbon and secateurs.

Step 1: Attach the test tubes to the winterberry stems with craft wire.

Step 2: Tie the winterberry stems and grasses into a bouquet and secure it with the red ribbon.

Step 3: Fill the test tubes with water, insert the cut poinsettias into them and place the bouquet in the vase with fresh water. Tip: The poinsettias will stay fresh for up to two weeks if, immediately after cutting, you first dip the cut ends in hot water (about 60°C) for a few seconds and then in cold water.

Winterberry stems and cut poinsettias have a particularly long vase life if they have fresh water regularly. Faded poinsettias can also be easily replaced in this winter bouquet.

A striking feature: this festive bouquet of winterberry stems, grasses and cut red poinsettias will not go unnoticed. This bouquet has a long vase life and is simple to make in just a few steps. In addition to the florals mentioned, you will need small test tubes, craft wire and ribbon.

Step 1: Using a drill, make holes in the upper edge of the bowl at intervals of about 5cm. Make sure there is enough space between the holes and the edge.

Step 2: Cut 25cm lengths of the thick gold wire, one for each hole you drilled. Fold one length of wire in half and push the closed end through one of the holes. Form a small loop on the closed end so the wire doesn't slip out again. Repeat with each hole.

Step 3: Spread the open ends of each length of wire and twist one of the two ends, first around the adjacent length of wire, then back around the other half, to create a wire mesh like the one in the photo.

Step 4: Fill the bowl with compost and plant the mini poinsettias close together. Fill the border around the poinsettias with moss.

Step 5: Around the poinsettias, tuck the winterberry stems into the wire mesh until it is no longer visible.

Step 6: Finally, secure the ends of the winterberry stems to the wire mesh using the thin wire so that they don't stick out. Tip: Make sure to angle all the stems in the same direction so that they form a circular shape. This creates the impression of a swirl when you look at the arrangement from above.

Place the finished poinsettia bowl in a bright place indoors, protected from draughts. Water sparingly to avoid waterlogging.

A bowl planted with mini poinsettias and decorated with winterberry stems makes a beautiful centrepiece that will brighten up any room. With a little skill, you can create this festive DIY idea yourself.

11 Unique and Budget-Friendly Christmas Gift Ideas

Christmas is a wonderful time of year, filled with love, laughter, and the joy of giving. While it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of Christmas gift shopping, finding unique and budget-friendly Christmas gifts can be a rewarding challenge. 

This year, why not surprise your loved ones with gifts that show thoughtfulness and creativity, without breaking the bank? In this blog post, we've compiled a list of 10 unique and inexpensive Christmas gift ideas that are certain to bring smiles to the faces of your friends and family members.

Personalised Ornaments

Create custom ornaments that reflect the recipient's interests or special memories. Whether it's a photo ornament or one with their name beautifully crafted, personalised ornaments are both sentimental and affordable, too.

Homemade Treats

Put your culinary skills to work and bake a batch of homemade cookies, fudge, or other treats. Package them in decorative containers or jars, and add a heartfelt note. Homemade goodies are always appreciated.

Home filled wicker hamper

Everyone loves a special wicker hamper filled with delectable Christmas treats such a mince pies, Christmas cakes, Christmas puddings, waxed cheeses, wines, beers, liquors, spirits, scented candles, trinkets and special, quirky gifts. You can easily obtain your own wicker basket (we buy ours from The Works https://www.theworks.co.uk and fill them up with whatever we think the intended recipient will love. Especially helpful if you want to create a bespoke wicker hamper for someone who has health issues such as being a coeliac, vegan, etc.  

Indoor Plant

A small potted plant, such as a succulent or a mini herb garden, can be a thoughtful gift that brings a touch of nature to a loved one's home. It's a gift that keeps on giving.

DIY Photo Album

Create a scrapbook or photo album filled with cherished memories and mementos. You can find budget-friendly albums at craft stores, and it's a wonderful way to relive special moments.

Handmade Jewellery

Craft a one-of-a-kind piece of jewellery using beads, wire, or even polymer clay. Personalize it to match the recipient's style and taste. Handmade jewellery carries a unique charm and sentimental value.

Customized Recipe Book

Compile a collection of your favourite recipes or family recipes and present them in a beautifully decorated notebook or binder. Add personal touches like handwritten notes or cooking tips.

Film Night Kit

Put together a cosy film night kit with popcorn, their favourite cinema-style sweets, and a DVD or a streaming service gift card. It's a thoughtful gift that encourages relaxation and quality time.

DIY Candles

Make your own candles with scents that you know the recipient will love. You can find candle-making kits and supplies at craft stores, etc. And the end result is both personal and functional, too.

Personalised Calendar

Create a custom calendar featuring photos or artwork that hold special meaning for the recipient. They can enjoy a year filled with memories and reminders.

Craft Kits

Give the gift of creativity with a DIY craft kit. Whether it's knitting, painting, or making handmade soap, there are numerous affordable kits available that provide hours of creative enjoyment. They can be found at craft stores, B&M Bargains, Home Bargains, The Range, on Amazon, etc.

Finding unique but inexpensive Christmas gifts doesn't have to be a daunting task. By putting thought and effort into your gift-giving, you can show your loved ones how much you care without breaking the bank. 

Whether it's a personalised ornament, homemade treats, or a handmade craft, these thoughtful gifts are sure to warm the hearts of those you cherish. This Christmas season, let your creativity shine and celebrate the spirit of giving in a meaningful and budget-friendly way. You'll have fun sourcing them and creating them and the recipient will have a special and unique Christmas gift that is personal to them.

You'll find more details of what to do, where to go and what to buy in this blogpost

https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2023/08/why-not-try-crafting-for-christmas.html

Get Crafty this Christmas with Thorndown's Christmas craft packs

Learn why Thorndown’s Christmas craft packs are the ultimate in bespoke Christmas décor for 2023.

Arty homeowners who want to create their own bespoke window decorations this Christmas need look no further than Thorndown Paints’ Christmas craft pack.

The pack, available now for just £20, contains four tins of Thorndown’s special Peelable Glass Paint, plus six nifty festive stencils and an art brush.

Together, the pieces can be employed to create some truly stunning festive window scenes, personalised presents and one-of-a-kind decorations.

Caroline Thornborough, who is Thornborough's Design Director, said: “Christmas is a fantastic time to get stuck into crafting. It’s something the whole family can do together to create something really personal to them and the family. Plus, it’s a great way of making sure your festive window displays are really, genuinely and truly unique.”

The craft packs are also fantastic and ideal for those who are looking to create their own Christmas presents and decorations. 

From tealight holders to sweet jars, they'll all add a personal touch wherever they are used.

The Christmas Craft Packs are available now from thorndown.co.uk priced at £20 each.

For ideas and inspiration, visit: https://thorndown.co.uk/project-category/arts-crafts

Why Not Try Crafting for Christmas?

Why not try your hand at crafting for Christmas this year? It’s a great way of learning new skills or honing old ones. 

And you will be able to gift loved ones unique, handmade gifts and also save on money, too.

There are many retailers that sell crafting kits and equipment. National chain stores, Etsy stores, Amazon (where many people selling crafting items are in reality “Mom and Pop” operations working from home) and local retailers from your own town also sell crafting items. Large chain stores and some supermarkets also have crafting departments so they are worth checking out, too.

What can you make? If you have never crafted before you can check out crafting videos on YouTube and see what other people have made or are making. (Unfortunately some TikTok channels carry "faked" crafting videos so are best treated with caution, in our experience, as you might never be able to achieve the results they claim to have achieved.)  Incidentally, some crafting supply stores and crafting kit manufacturers have videos on their websites to show what you can do with their products. 

They also sometimes have demonstrations and classes at their local branches with experts displaying their skills or teaching crafting techniques, so these are worth looking out for, too. Some local colleges also have arts and craft courses, so check with them to learn what they have to offer the aspiring artist or budding crafter.

What can you try your hand at? What about Knitting, crochet, painting, glass or ceramic painting, woodworking, sewing, baking, cheese making, wine and beer making (obviously checking on the legality of this where you live) upcycling furniture, resin crafting including embedding items such as flowers, etc, origami, air dry clay crafting, embroidery, tie dying, cyanotype printing, upcycling clothing, paper crafting, DIY wall art, macrame, quilting, sewing, woodworking, gluing, etc, etc.

If you start now, in late August, you’ll be able to learn new techniques and to perfect them well before Christmas when you will be able to gift your perfected handmade presents.

You can also buy crafting kits as gifts for people in your family and your group of friends who you know will appreciate such a “crafty” gift. 

That’s Christmas has already covered the innovative company Sugru who offers a wide range of crafting items for you to use to create fantastic gifts, or for you to give out as Christmas presents for other people.

There’s their Kintsugi Repair Kit in Gold or Silver, Multicolour Wool Clothing Repair Kit, Fix & Create Kit by Sugru all of which you’ll be able to learn about at this post, here:

https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2022/10/gift-them-art-of-repair-with-sugru.html 

The following retailers/companies sell craft and crafting items, so why not check them out?

https://www.poundland.co.uk

https://www.hobbycraft.co.uk

https://www.theworks.co.uk/c/art-and-craft/craft-supplies

https://www.craftyarts.co.uk

https://www.fredaldous.co.uk

https://www.madarches.co.uk

https://www.coltoncrafts.co.uk

https://www.bakerross.co.uk/craft-supplies

https://www.etsy.com/uk/c/craft-supplies-and-tools

https://www.littlecraftybugs.co.uk/craft-supplies.html

https://www.craft-supplies.co.uk

https://home.bargains

https://www.therange.co.uk

https://sugru.com

https://www.daler-rowney.com

Craft Gin Club Launches Gin Advent Calendar to Welcome in Christmas 2023

The Craft Gin Club (www.craftginclub.co.uk) is to launch its fabulously festive Craft Gin Advent Calendar for 2023 at a price of £94.95 from 1st September (pre-sale) and on general sale from 1st October on the Craft Gin Club online shop.

The calendar features 25 miniature bottles, each containing a double shot (50ml) of craft gin, so you'll get to enjoy a special G&T on Christmas Day, also!

All the craft gins are new to the calendar for this year, and the selection includes seven exclusive gins created just for Craft Gin Club by master distilleries from all over the UK

For example, the massively popular Cornish craft distiller, Tarquin's, has created an exclusive Mince Pie Gin recipe. This gin can't be purchased anywhere else.

The gins come from the finest craft distillers from around the UK and also from across the globe.

Featuring a fun and fabulously retro hand-drawn design, the calendar will take pride of place in any festive gin-lover's living room!

The advent calendar also has three tasty cocktail serving suggestions to try at home: a 'Claus-mopolitan', a 'Festive Snowball' and a 'Sloe Gin Negroni'

The back of the calendar also outlines a suggested mixer and garnish to pair with each individual gin, as chosen by Craft Gin Club's in-house mixologist, so you can enjoy the perfect G&T with each and every door opening; a 'pairing bundle' of mixers will be available on the online shop to accompany the advent calendar from September.

Looking for stocking fillers? Then get Christmas crafts at Poundland!

The kids have finished school and are enjoying their time off, and it’s easy for parents to feel panicked about how to keep them entertained during the Christmas holidays.

"Poundland has come up with some festive and affordable craft ideas that can keep the kids occupied for hours. We’ve turned some of these ideas into a generic article about Christmas crafts, which we felt your readers may enjoy," explained a spokeswoman.

What springs to mind when you think of childrens’ Christmas crafts? Hair full of glue and glitter, a carpet covered in sequins and snowflake paper cuttings to clear up at the end? Yes, thought as much.

It all looks ever so easy on Blue Peter, with the famous ‘one I made earlier.’ But in reality, we don’t all have the time, patience or artistic ability to pull off a full size rocket made from toilet rolls and PVC glue... especially when there's also a Christmas dinner to cook and presents to wrap! While we all like the idea of being the perfect parent who embraces creative activities and then sweeps up the mess in one fell swoop, we all know this is difficult to achieve when we’re busy and stressed and there's a host of relatives knocking on the door.

It’s great to get children thinking creatively and expressing themselves through arts and crafts and – if you know where to look – it can be a pleasure, not a pain. Much precious time can be spent with the kids over the Christmas holidays making cards together, wrapping presents, creating your own crackers or even making decorations to put up around the home.

The warmth of the oven is also an inspiring place to start with crafts at Christmas. Baking a delicious Christmas cake needn’t cost a fortune, and the whole family will enjoy decorating it with snow white icing and fun accessories. If Christmas cake isn’t to your taste, what about crispy gingerbread men or cute Christmas cupcakes? Edible glitter is easily available and food dye makes for colourful and tasty treats! Best of all, ideas like these needn’t cost a fortune.

There are plenty of websites with handy tips on what to make and where to begin. Activityvillage.co.uk is a great website with plenty of ‘how to’ guides for kids’ crafts that are straightforward and something they will actually be able to achieve. Plus there are ideas to suit different age groups and budgets. Mummy bloggers often test a whole variety of products with their kids so it’s also worth checking out a few reviews and seeing what they have to say.

Most importantly, you don’t want this to cost a fortune as Christmas is expensive enough as it is! It’s great to recycle things from around the home (yes, toilet rolls included!) and as well as being a green way to craft, it keeps the cost down. Old shoe boxes can be decorated to make beautiful memory boxes, old sheets and garments are ideal for at home Nativity plays and flattened cereal boxes can be re-crafted to make bespoke Christmas cards from the kids.

Best of all, hobby and craft products are readily available on the high street so you don’t need to battle the Christmas shopping madness to find niche art stores for your supplies. Make sure you find a store that sells a range of arty products that are inexpensive. You can let the kids choose the items that catch their eye so they can get excited about using them and you don’t have to worry about the cost mounting up.

And who knows, with enough encouragement and a bit of assistance, you might have a little Michelangelo in the making!

Great sources for children’s craft ideas:

http://www.allfreecrafts.com/
www.crafts.kaboose.com/holidays/christmas/christmas-crafts.html

A crafty gift from Dremel

The Dremel 7700 White Edition is for the creative crafter or hobbyist on your Christmas shopping list. 

This kit comprises the versatile Dremel 7700 cordless multi-tool, five engraving accessories, 15 multipurpose accessories and two ready-made engraving templates - presented in a stylish, translucent white storage case. 

It's a great kit for decorative hobbies, general crafts and seasonal adornments in glass, wood, ceramic, paper and other materials.

Priced at £49.99 - saving nearly £35 on the usual price - from B&Q, www.amazon.co.uk or www.tool-shop.co.uk.

For more info, visit:  http://www.dremel.co.uk