It may seem as though summer has only just finished, but the festive season already looms large on the horizon and if you want to make the most of the celebrations, it’s helpful to start your preparations sooner rather than later.
For example, why not use some of the spare time you have with your children in the run-up to 25th December to create some homemade Christmas decorations? OK, so it’s easy to stock up on festive items in the shops, but your own versions will have that all-important personal touch. Also, getting stuck into craft sessions with your kids could save you cash!
Paper chains
Inexpensive yet impressive, paper chains have long been a festive favourite. You can use these decorations to add colour and cheer to Christmas trees, mantelpieces, doorways and more. The best thing; they’re simple to make. All you need are some scissors, paper and either glue or staples.
To make these chains, measure and cut strips of paper so that they are even in shape and size. The dimensions you choose will depend on the look you’re going for, but as a rough guide you can aim for pieces that are one inch wide and eight inches long. To create the chains, glue or staple the ends of the first strip of paper together to form a loop. Next, feed a second strip through the loop and join the ends. Continue this process until you have reached the desired length for your chain.
Christmas Bells
Tree decorations in the style of Christmas bells can also look fabulous and all you need to create these items are paper cups, ribbons, pipe cleaners, string, silver or gold paint and glitter. Firstly, paint your cups, adding some glitter for extra sparkle. Next, poke a hole in each base and feed through a length of pipe cleaner with a small loop at the bottom. Simply fix the bell to the loop using a small piece of string.
So that the items hang from your tree, create a large loop at the other end of the length of pipe cleaner that meets just above the cup. Meanwhile, to complete the objects, tie a neat bow around the pipe cleaner at the base of this loop.
Of course, these are just two ideas for decorations. There are plenty more for you and your kids to try out.
Sources: http://www.parents.com/holiday/christmas/crafts/adorable-chime-ornament/
http://www.parents.com/holiday/christmas/crafts/handmade-gifts/
http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Paper-Chain
http://www.firstpalette.com/Craft_themes/Music/Paper_Cup_Bell/Paper_Cup_Bell.html