Christmas is a time of giving…
But with COVID-19 wreaking havoc on our savings, now might be the best time to try your hand at a few DIYs!
DIYs are an absolute favourite of mine since they allow you to create custom gifts for your loved ones, flex your creative muscle and avoid the dreaded, long Christmas lines. There’s also the added warmth and meaningfulness that comes with a hand-made gift that truly embodies the spirit of Christmas. With that being said, here are my go-to DIY ideas you can try to truly wow your loved ones this season!
DIY Christmas Cards
Get out the cardstock, scissors and your best calligraphy!
Depending on your skill set, you can make DIY Christmas cards as simple or as complex as you’d like. Just remember the charm of the card is that it’s from the heart so don’t worry about making it perfect. Here are a few suggestions to get you started.
Paper strips Christmas tree cards are very easy for those who may not trust their artistic ability. Cutting a few pieces of cardstock into triangles is the simplest way to make Christmas trees you could make! Don’t forget to add some cute decorations to your tree!
Adhering embroidery floss or twine to your Christmas card in the shape of a gift box or Christmas tree is more than enough to give a sophisticated but rustic look for those who are more daring!
For the experts, get out that X-Acto knife and try your hand a carved art! Experiment with an intricate wreath, mistletoe or simply ‘Happy Holidays’ to the front of your card.
DIY Scented Candles
Candles are great for adding to the Christmas atmosphere at home and they also double as amazing gifts! Try a unique blend of fragrant and essential oils to create a signature scent or go with the typical Christmas fragrances like pine, cinnamon or gingerbread.
You’ll need:
- Paraffin wax
- Candle wick
- Jar (I love to upcycle mason jars around the house)
- Fragrance oil
- Hot glue gun
- Clothespin
- Dye (Optional)
- Scissors
Instructions:
- Clean and prepare your jar of choice making sure it free of any water or residue
- Using the glue gun, firmly adhere the candle wick to the bottom of the jar.
- Melt your wax.
- Add your fragrance oil and dye, stirring well.
- Pour the melted wax into your chosen jar.
- Use the clothespin to keep your wick centered as the wax cools and hardens.
- After the candle hardens, cut the excess wick.
DIY Table Centerpiece
The only thing better than being complimented on your centerpiece is being able to reply, “Oh that? I made it myself.”
Here are two options for breathtaking DIY centerpieces (with callbacks to our first two DIYs) that are sure to wow at Christmas lunch or dinner.
An Amazing Edible Centerpiece
You’ll need:
- A serving dish, any shape will do
- Sliced fruit
- Candles
- Decor – artificial Christmas greens, pinecones and ornaments (Optional)
Instructions:
- Place your candle or candles in the center of the dish
- Attractively arrange your sliced fruit around the candles
- Enhance the look with artificial greens, pinecones and ornaments
- Eat up!
DIY Tree Ornaments
Here’s another activity for the family!
DIY tree ornaments aren’t just great for showcasing your creativity. From framing a beautiful family photo to hang to creating a unique and sentimental tree topper, these amazing trinkets can be passed down from generation to generation and can be used to create long-lasting traditions around decorating the tree.