Create Your Own Stunning Christmas Decorations: A Guide to a Festive DIY Christmas

The festive season is upon us! There’s nothing quite like the warm, cosy glow of twinkling lights, glittering baubles, and seasonal greenery to transform your home into a winter wonderland. 

But this year, instead of splashing out on shop-bought decorations, why not embrace the joy of crafting and create your own? 

Not only is it a wonderful way to personalise your Christmas decor, but it also makes for a fun, creative activity to enjoy with family and friends.

So, let’s get started with some fabulous DIY ideas that will help you deck the halls in style!

1. Handmade Ornaments: Baubles with a Personal Touch

There's nothing more satisfying than hanging your own handcrafted decorations on the tree. Making your own ornaments is easier than you might think, and it allows you to create unique pieces that reflect your personal taste.

What you’ll need:

Clear glass or plastic baubles

Acrylic paint, glitter, or metallic pens

Ribbon or twine for hanging

Foliage (small pine cones, holly, or sprigs of pine)

PVA glue

How to make them:

For a simple and elegant design, swirl some acrylic paint inside clear baubles to create marbled patterns.

For a more festive look, fill the baubles with sprigs of holly, pine needles, or even a pinch of fake snow.

Add a bit of sparkle by coating the inside with glitter. Simply pour some PVA glue inside, shake it around, then add glitter before letting it dry.

Finish by tying a festive ribbon on top for hanging.

2. Wreath Making: A Classic Door Decoration

A beautiful wreath on your front door is a welcoming sight for guests and a perfect way to spread Christmas cheer. The best part? It’s easy to create one using natural materials that you might already have around the garden or can forage during a winter walk.

What you’ll need:

A wire wreath frame or a circular base (you can make one from a coat hanger)

Fresh foliage (holly, ivy, eucalyptus, or pine branches)

Floral wire

Dried fruits, pine cones, cinnamon sticks, and ribbons for embellishments

How to make it:

Start by attaching your greenery to the wire frame using floral wire. Overlap the sprigs to cover the entire frame.

Once you’ve covered the base, add dried fruits, pine cones, and cinnamon sticks to bring texture and fragrance.

Tie a festive ribbon at the bottom for a finishing touch, and your wreath is ready to hang!

3. Homemade Garlands: A Touch of Rustic Charm

Garlands aren’t just for draping around the tree — they can add festive flair to your mantelpiece, staircase, or windowsills.

What you’ll need:

Twine or jute string

Fresh or dried orange slices, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, and greenery

A large needle (if using cranberries) and scissors

Optional: fairy lights for an extra sparkle

How to make it:

For a rustic garland, simply string together dried orange slices, cranberries, and cinnamon sticks using twine. Alternate with sprigs of greenery for a fuller effect.

To add extra cheer, intertwine fairy lights along the garland, bringing a cosy glow to your home.

4. DIY Candle Holders: Create a Warm Glow

Nothing sets the festive mood quite like the soft flicker of candlelight. Making your own candle holders is an easy way to add some sparkle to your Christmas table setting.

What you’ll need:

Mason jars or old glass jars

Epsom salts, glitter, or faux snow

Tea lights or small pillar candles

Ribbon, twine, and seasonal embellishments like holly or pine cones

How to make them:

Coat the outside of a jar with a thin layer of PVA glue, then roll it in Epsom salts or glitter for a frosted effect.

Once dry, tie a ribbon around the top, adding sprigs of holly or a small pine cone for extra charm.

Pop a tea light inside, and your candle holder will cast a lovely, festive glow.

5. Upcycled Decorations: Sustainable and Chic

If you’re looking to be more eco-friendly this Christmas, consider upcycling old decorations or repurposing items you already have around the house.

Ideas to try:

Transform old wine corks into mini Christmas trees by stacking them in a pyramid shape, painting them green, and adding a star on top.

Use old fabric scraps to make bunting or sew your own Christmas stockings.

Repurpose glass bottles as candle holders by filling them with fairy lights or fresh greenery for a chic, minimalist look.

6. Salt Dough Ornaments: A Family-Friendly Craft

Salt dough ornaments are a classic craft that’s perfect for families. It’s an inexpensive, fun way to create personalised decorations, and it’s a wonderful activity to keep the little ones busy.

What you’ll need:

1 cup of plain flour

½ cup of salt

½ cup of water

Cookie cutters, paint, and glitter (optional)

How to make them:

Mix the flour, salt, and water to form a dough. Roll it out and use cookie cutters to cut out festive shapes like stars, trees, or snowflakes.

Make a hole at the top of each ornament for hanging. Bake at a low temperature (about 100°C) for 2-3 hours until fully hardened.

Once cooled, decorate with paint and glitter, then thread a ribbon through the hole to hang on your tree.

Final Thoughts: A Joyful, Handmade Christmas

Making your own Christmas decorations is not only a great way to save money, but it also brings a touch of personal warmth and creativity to your home. Whether you’re crafting with friends, family, or enjoying some solo time with a hot cup of cocoa, these DIY decorations will fill your home with festive cheer and lasting memories.

So, this year, why not take a break from the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping and try your hand at creating your own stunning Christmas decorations? Your home (and your guests) will thank you for it!

Happy crafting, and have a wonderfully festive Christmas!

Why Magazine Subscriptions Make Perfect Christmas Gifts

The festive season is upon us, and with Christmas just around the corner, the search for the perfect gift is in full swing.

If you're looking for something that’s thoughtful, personal, and will bring joy long after the decorations have come down, consider giving a magazine subscription this Christmas.

It’s a unique gift that keeps on giving, month after month, delivering a slice of happiness straight to the recipient's door. Here’s why magazine subscriptions make for fantastic Christmas presents.

The Gift That Lasts All Year

One of the most delightful aspects of a magazine subscription is its longevity. Unlike other gifts that might be used up or forgotten within days, a magazine subscription is a present that brings joy throughout the entire year. Every time the latest issue arrives, it serves as a little reminder of your thoughtfulness. It’s a gift that truly keeps on giving and ensures your loved ones have something to look forward to long after the Christmas festivities are over.

Personalised to Their Interests

Magazine subscriptions are not a one-size-fits-all gift. In fact, they can be incredibly personal. With a wide range of magazines covering every imaginable interest—from gardening, fashion, and food to tech, travel, and gaming—there’s something for everyone. Whether your recipient is a foodie, a fashionista, a nature enthusiast, or an avid sports fan, there’s a publication that will align with their hobbies and passions. This level of personalisation shows that you’ve put real thought into choosing something that aligns with their interests.

A Sustainable, Space-Saving Option

With a growing focus on sustainability and reducing waste, many of us are rethinking our approach to gifting. Magazine subscriptions offer a more environmentally conscious option compared to buying disposable or quickly outdated gifts. Many publishers now offer digital subscriptions, making them a perfect choice for those looking to reduce paper waste. Even physical magazines are more sustainable than ever, often printed using eco-friendly materials and recyclable packaging.

Moreover, magazine subscriptions are perfect for those who might be short on space or prefer not to accumulate material items. A new issue each month is a treat that doesn’t add clutter but still offers something tangible to enjoy.

Great for All Ages

Whether you’re shopping for a child, a teenager, or a grandparent, there’s a magazine out there to suit every age group. Children’s magazines are packed with educational content, puzzles, and fun activities that can keep little ones engaged and entertained. For teenagers, there are magazines covering everything from the latest in pop culture to science and technology. And for adults, whether it’s interior design, fitness, or mindfulness, the options are endless.

A magazine subscription can be a fantastic way to encourage reading in children, nurture a budding hobby in teenagers, or provide a moment of relaxation for busy adults. It’s a versatile gift that can be tailored to suit a wide range of interests and age groups.

Convenient, Last-Minute Gift Solution

Let’s face it—Christmas shopping can be stressful, especially if you’ve left it until the eleventh hour. Fortunately, magazine subscriptions can be arranged online in just a few clicks, making them a convenient option for last-minute gifting. Most publishers offer a variety of subscription plans, allowing you to choose between monthly, quarterly, or annual options, and you can even schedule when the first issue will arrive. Many services also offer e-vouchers that can be printed out or sent directly to the recipient’s email, making it a hassle-free option that doesn’t compromise on thoughtfulness.

Budget-Friendly Options for All

Gift-giving doesn’t have to break the bank, and magazine subscriptions are available at various price points to suit any budget. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious, high-end publication or a more affordable option, there’s something out there to match your price range. You can often find special Christmas deals or discounts, making it an even more appealing option for those looking to stretch their budget.

How to Choose the Right Magazine Subscription

If you’ve decided that a magazine subscription would make the perfect Christmas gift, here are a few tips on how to choose the right one:

Consider Their Interests: Think about what your recipient loves to do in their spare time. Are they into fitness, cooking, or gardening? Are they passionate about cars, art, or travel? There’s likely a magazine that fits the bill.

Opt for a Digital Subscription: If your recipient is tech-savvy or prefers reading on the go, a digital subscription might be a better fit. It’s also a great eco-friendly option.

Check for Special Offers: Many publishers offer discounts or extra perks, such as free gifts or bonus issues, around Christmas time. Be sure to take advantage of these deals to get the most value for your money.

Choose a Flexible Subscription Plan: Some subscriptions are available in 6-month or 12-month plans, while others allow you to pay as you go. Choose a plan that best suits your budget and the level of commitment you want to make.

Wrapping It Up

A magazine subscription is a gift that’s thoughtful, personal, and truly unique. It’s perfect for that friend who’s impossible to shop for or a family member who seems to have everything. With the wide range of magazines available today, you can tailor your choice to perfectly match the recipient’s interests, ensuring they receive something they’ll genuinely enjoy. And with the convenience of online ordering, it’s an ideal solution for those looking for a stress-free, last-minute Christmas gift.

So this festive season, why not spread a little cheer that will last throughout the year? A magazine subscription might just be the most delightful gift you can give.

That's Food and Drink: James May - Launches California Dreamgin' - a Vega...

That's Food and Drink: James May - Launches California Dreamgin' - a Vega...: James May has spent a considerable amount of time in California, driving around in fast cars, mostly at other people's expense  (note: s...

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!

The Art of Sourcing Ready-Mixed Cocktails for a Merry Christmas

The festive season is fast approaching, and if you're like most of us, you're already planning the perfect Christmas gathering. Amidst the hustle and bustle of decking the halls, arranging the turkey, and wrapping presents, there's one key aspect that can make or break your festive celebration: the drinks menu.

This year, why not save yourself the hassle of mixing cocktails all night by opting for premium ready-mixed cocktails? Not only are they a fantastic way to keep your guests happy, but they also take the pressure off playing bartender when you'd rather be mingling. Here's everything you need to know about sourcing the best pre-made cocktails to make your Christmas celebration truly special.

1. Why Choose Ready-Mixed Cocktails?

Let's face it: while there's something magical about handcrafted cocktails, the reality is that mixing them to perfection can be time-consuming, especially when you're hosting a crowd. Ready-mixed cocktails offer a convenient and high-quality solution. Today's pre-bottled options are crafted with as much care and expertise as any drink you'd find in a top-tier bar, with premium spirits, fresh ingredients, and well-balanced flavours.

Plus, with the festive season being all about enjoying the company of loved ones, having a selection of ready-mixed cocktails on hand means you can spend more time creating memories rather than shaking, stirring, and muddling behind a bar.

2. What to Look for When Sourcing Ready-Mixed Cocktails

When it comes to buying pre-made cocktails, not all are created equal. To ensure you’re getting the best quality, consider the following factors:

Quality Ingredients: Look for brands that use natural ingredients and avoid artificial flavours or preservatives. Cocktails made with fresh juices, craft spirits, and aromatic bitters will taste much closer to something you'd make yourself.

Alcohol Content: Ready-mixed cocktails come in varying strengths, so check the ABV (alcohol by volume) to ensure they suit your party vibe. For daytime events or family gatherings, a lower ABV might be ideal, while something stronger could be perfect for an evening soiree.

Variety and Versatility: Stocking a range of cocktails means you can cater to different tastes. Classic options like Espresso Martinis, Negronis, and Old Fashioneds are always crowd-pleasers, while something more festive like a Mulled Wine Punch or Spiced Rum Old Fashioned can bring a Christmas twist.

Eco-Friendly Packaging: With sustainability on everyone's minds, opt for brands that use recyclable or biodegradable packaging. This way, you can toast to the holidays without the guilt of excess waste.

3. Top Picks for Christmas Ready-Mixed Cocktails

Here are some standout options available in the UK that are sure to impress your guests:

Whitebox Cocktails: Known for their bar-quality canned cocktails, Whitebox offers classics like the Pocket Negroni and Squeezy Margarita. Their sleek cans are perfect for parties, and the cocktails are mixed to perfection.

The Cocktail Society: For a touch of luxury, The Cocktail Society delivers beautifully bottled cocktails like the Smoked Negroni and Espresso Martini. Each bottle is crafted using small-batch spirits and artisan ingredients.

MOTH (Mix of Total Happiness): MOTH offers a range of pre-mixed cocktails, including a refreshing Mojito and a robust Old Fashioned. Their cocktails are designed to be enjoyed straight from the can or over ice.

Tipplesworth: If you're after something with a festive twist, Tipplesworth's pre-bottled Spiced Ginger Mule or the Bramble will add a seasonal flair to your drinks table.

4. How to Serve Ready-Mixed Cocktails for Maximum Impact

While ready-mixed cocktails take away the stress of preparation, there’s still room to add a personal touch:

Presentation is Key: Serve your cocktails in elegant glassware with garnishes like citrus twists, sprigs of rosemary, or sugared cranberries for that festive flair. A well-presented drink will always elevate the experience.

Chill in Advance: For cocktails served cold, be sure to refrigerate or chill them in ice buckets before guests arrive. This ensures that they're perfectly refreshing from the first sip.

Warm Up with Mulled Cocktails: If you're serving something like mulled wine or a hot toddy, gently warm it on the hob just before serving. Add a cinnamon stick, star anise, and a slice of orange for an aromatic finish.

5. Where to Buy Ready-Mixed Cocktails in the UK

You can find an impressive selection of ready-mixed cocktails at major retailers like Morrison's, Waitrose, Marks & Spencer, and Selfridges. For a more extensive range, consider browsing online at sites like TheDrinkShop, Master of Malt, or The Whisky Exchange, where you'll find exclusive, small-batch brands not typically available on the high street.

6. Conclusion: Make This Christmas Effortless and Delicious

Christmas is a time to relax, enjoy good company, and savour the spirit of the season. By sourcing high-quality ready-mixed cocktails, you can take the stress out of hosting and ensure that your drinks are as delightful as your festive decor. With the right selection, you'll be able to toast to a merry Christmas with ease, leaving more time for what truly matters: making joyful memories with your loved ones.

So, as you plan your festive gathering, consider adding a few bottles or cans of expertly crafted ready-mixed cocktails to your shopping list. After all, it’s the season to eat, drink, and be merry—and a good cocktail is the perfect way to celebrate!

GATHER produce a lovely range of delicious ready mixed cocktails https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2024/10/gather-for-christmas-with-gather.html

Cheers to a stress-free and sparkling Christmas!

Boots Christmas Advert. How much controversy is it causing Boots?

 

Tesco unveils a sweet way to help charities fighting hunger this Christmas

Tesco is proud to announce that it is giving a little extra help to two leading charities that are fighting hunger this Christmas, with a 10p donation from each gingerbread product sold at Tesco.

The donation, across a wide range of tasty gingerbread products, will help Tesco’s long-standing charity partners Trussell and FareShare support people in communities across the UK. 

Trussell works with the UK’s biggest community of foodbanks, helping people in hardship with food when they need it most, while FareShare redistributes surplus food to support more than 8,000 local charities and community groups.

With gingerbread at the centre of Tesco’s Christmas campaign this year, Tesco Chief Commercial Officer Ashwin Prasad said making a donation for each gingerbread product sold provided the ideal opportunity to help feed the Christmas spirit.

“Gingerbread is a great tradition of Christmas for many, as is helping others,” he said. “By picking up one of the delicious gingerbread products that we we stock, and maybe even trying your hand at building a gingerbread house this Christmas, Tesco customers will be helping to support the vital work of our friends at Trussell and FareShare in fighting hunger.”

Kris Gibbon-Walsh, CEO at FareShare, said the donations would make a real difference. "We are really incredibly grateful to Tesco for a brilliant festive fundraising opportunity for FareShare,” he said. “All funds raised through the purchase of gingerbread items at Tesco will help us to get good food to charities and community groups across the UK providing meals and bringing people together this winter."

Sophie Carre, Trussell's Director of Public Engagement added: “We are obviously extremely grateful to Tesco for donating 10p to Trussell from the sale of gingerbread products this Christmas. Whether you buy a kit to build a gingerbread house with your family or treat yourself to a pack of festive biscuits, every purchase made will help to support our work to end hunger in the UK. Food banks are facing an extremely tough winter but, thanks to the generosity of Tesco and its customers, they will be able to be there for anyone facing hardship in their community.”

In total 18 different types of gingerbread will trigger a donation, with Tesco’s own gingerbread products and those from leading and regional brands falling under the scheme, too. Donations will be made on products purchased from today, November 13, right through to Christmas Day and donations will be split equally between the two recipient charities.

This year Tesco’s Christmas campaign tells the heartwarming and poignant story of a young man called Gary’s journey to rekindle a cherished tradition of building a gingerbread house; something he used to do with his grandmother. 

Viewers see Gary and his grandfather come together to re-live the tradition and nostalgic comfort of the project, and their home-made biscuit build takes pride of place on the Christmas table. The advert is set to the soundtrack of On Melancholy Hill by Gorillaz and first aired during the Great British Bake Off on November 12. It can be seen in cinemas until December 23 or online here: Helping #FeedYourChristmasSpirit

FACTFILE:-

Tesco Stores Limited will donate 10p through the sale of gingerbread products between 13/11/24 and 25/12/24 either in-store or online. The total donations raised will be split equally between FareShare, a registered charity in England and Wales (1100051) and Scotland (SC052672) and Trussell, the operating name of The Trussell Trust, a registered charity in England & Wales (1110522) and Scotland (SC044246) to help provide access to food for people in the community that need our help. Tesco Stores Limited will make available the final total of donations shortly after the Christmas period.

Products included Are:-

Tesco gingerbread biscuit

Tesco 5 gingerbread men kit 199g

Tesco 30 mini gingerbread men 300g

Tesco create your own gingerbread house 613g

Tesco seasonal gingerbread biscuit

Tesco 10 mini gingerbread men

Tesco gingerbread mix 225g

Kopernik iced gingerbread 153g

Organix 15 gingerbread men 135g

Organix mini gingerbread men biscuits 5x20g

Tesco free from gingerbread men 154g

McVitie’s mini gingerbread men 6x19g

Tesco mini gingerbread men 100g

Furniss Cornish gingerbread with dark choc 200g

Oreo gingerbread 154g

Tesco gingerbread Christmas tree kit

Tesco gingerbread dough 350g

Tesco mini gingerbread village

Yeah, I feel certain that The That's Christmas team will be making our way to our nearest Tesco (lucky for us it's a big one with a massive baked goods section!) to stock up on ginger bread products. 

It's actually a bit of a tradition of ours to build our own gingerbread houses and it looks likely that Tesco gingerbread Christmas tree kits could be the way we'll be going this Christmas! 

Why don't you join us, if you can and build your own gingerbread houses and Christmas trees? Come on! It'll be a lot of fun.

You can email you entries to afj_UK@yahoo.com