We finally got our tree up last weekend! I was determined to do it before we got any closer to Christmas - unlike last year, when we put it up two days before and took it down about two days after. Our main dilemma last year was an inquisitive 18 month old who couldn't keep away from the shiny glass balls, which in turn, led to a few smashed decorations. Not a drama at all, I was more concerned that he'd cut his fingers on broken glass. So, in a bid to have my tree up relatively early and looking its best, I decided to buy and make some toddler friendly decorations.
I made these cute stars from felt, using this tutorial at the Purl Bee. I didn't do any beading on them, as I was aiming for toddler friendly (and that includes the 1 year old who is drawn to the tree like a magnet!!). The silver thread works really well as a contrast colour on the red, but I also love the silver on white too.
These started out as papier mache decorations that I painted red and decorated with some silver paint and the blunt end of a bamboo skewer - I did do one with the sharp end, but that was way too time consuming for this time of year!
I really wanted to get a wreath for the front door, but they were so ridiculously over-priced that I figured I could make my own. I bought a plain twig wreath and some wired red berries from a florist supplier and tied it all together with some ribbon leftover from our wedding presents (over seven years ago!!). I would've loved a gorgeous clip-on bird decoration amongst the berries and may alter it a bit for next year, but was quite happy with how it turned out.
My very clever mother has learnt how to make Temari balls and made these for us. Aren't they gorgeous?
THey look great! My kiddies have left the tree alone this year (for the first time) and I have even put presents under it and they have left them alone too!! A Christmas miracle!
ReplyDeleteHave a great Christmas Sash, love to the fam.