Crafty Christmas Creations

Berries framed in ice. Pour water in a shallow pan and leave

outside in freezing conditions. Loosen carefully and stick in the 

snow. To achieve a crystal clear, transparent surface, the ice 

should form as slowly as possible, i.e. not in extremely cold 

temperatures. In the freezer, the ice often turns frosty, not 

clear.

The countdown for Christmas has begun; only a few more weeks to go! Out comes the box with decorations (it's a pretty big box), and along with it, my special collection of holiday DIY objects. These projects are all simple, unique and beautiful - exactly what I wish for the season. They often also involve an activity that can be shared with others. So, double the fun! After all, isn't that what this time of year is all about?

I'd love to hear about your favourite Christmas project! What's cooking in your own DIY workshop?

You'll need a heart-shaped cookie cutter, 

a flower bud and thin wire to make

this adorable outdoor decoration. Put the

flower bud in the cookie cutter, shape the

the wire as a loop. Add water, making

sure the wire is immersed in water. Freeze.

Hold the heart in your hands for awhile and 

it will come out from the cookie cutter and

will be ready to hang.

Who doesn't like ginger cookies?

Not only do they taste good, they 

also look fabulous in the Christmas

tree!

More ginger cookies, this time made of felted wool. 

Paperwhites are the ultimate Christmas flower. 

Delicate, proud and sweet.

Plant them in a tall glass

container to enhance the

vertical shape. The visible

root system adds texture

and interest.

A creative spin on the traditional wreath.

This one is made of recycled sweaters, 

yes sweaters, cut in squares and triangles.

I saw it in Chatelaine last year and thought

it was ingenious! You'll need thick-gauge

wire, 3 to 5 old sweaters, good fabric scissors

and ribbon. Bend the wire into the shape of a 

wreath with a loop at one end. Thread the

knitted squares onto the wire, until 1 inch of the

wire remains. Feed the wire end through the loop

and twist to close. Finish off with a large bow.

Another stunning wreath from Chatelaine, this

one made from pot scrubbers!

Apples double as candle holders. 

Natural and simple.