Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Christmas Decorating



Furred Tree by akuadesigns


I knew we needed a new artificial tree.  How many times can you fold and unfold branches, losing precious artificial needles each time, before the tree is so 'needlebare' that your ornaments outnumber the needles?  Somewhere around 11 or 12.  My vacuum has eaten its more than fair share of the little green bits and I'm sure the animals may have ingested some over the years as well.
But, I do have to say, the tree my husband picked out this year had me feeling depressed every time I looked at it.  We went from a 7 foot tree to a 4 1/2 foot.  Sure, space is limited, and I knew in my heart it was better this way, but looking at the little 4 1/2 footer sitting on our trunk, I had actually considered taking it down and hiding it while my husband was at work and bringing up the old tree.  After all, hang enough decorations on it, no one would notice the lack of needles.

I did leave it though, thinking each time I looked at it of Christmas trees past.

Crocheted Bird Ornament from CraftingCallie
My favourite one comes to mind:  my Grandma Dobson's tree.  Complete with birds, and those aluminum reflectors around the bulbs, just thinking about it brings up such happy memories of Christmases at Grandma's house.

With two weeks until Christmas, there is still time to whip up some ornaments for your tree, or as last-minute gifts.  Why not keep a basket of handmade ornaments to hand out to holiday guests?
Some patterns available from team members:


Left:  crochet pattern for Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, from lostsentiments.  Check out  her patterns for a bear, snowman and even a tiny elf hat!


Right:  Mr and Mrs Bonhomme pattern for gift bags from crochetsal, app. 4 1/2" tall, or use crochet thread for a much smaller bag ideal for a tree ornament.














 These animal ornaments to the left would be great on your Christmas tree, or to decorate year round!  Although this set is sold, wigglysee does accept custom orders!











To close:  a quick and easy free pattern for a snowflake to use as an ornament, or glue a magnet to the back for a fridgie.  Uses worsted weight yarn.
Sweetie the Snowflake