Handmade Traditions

Making holiday ornaments is a fun and easy way to give something special

by Neha
 WHAT better way to show you care than with something handmade? The holiday ornament — perfect for decoration, gift accessory or a gift in itself — offers a simple way to express yourself, share memories and start new traditions.
   ”There are so many gifts that are simple to make and can add meaning without spending lots of money,” says Meg Cox, Princeton quilter, journalist and author of The Quilter’s Catalogue (Workman, $18.95) and The Book of New Family Traditions (Running Press, $12.95). “Holiday ornaments are a great way to give something special.”
   Princeton resident Carolyn Brown, events manager at The Wooly Lamb in Pennington, agrees. “There’s a huge sweep back to handmade,” she says. “Ornaments are a fun way to create something simple and meaningful.”
   Whether you’re crafty by nature or craft-challenged, below are two handmade ornament designs that are quick to make and sure to please.
   PAPER HEARTS ‘N STAR

    Design By: Meg Cox 
   These pretty paper ornaments are adapted from quilted fabric ornaments in Ms. Cox’s latest book The Quilters Catalogue, where there are 11 other fun projects including quilted greeting cards. Templates for the star and heart can be traced directly from the book.
   Tools and Materials (makes four to six ornaments)
   • Scissors
   • Quality craft/fabric glue — like Sobo or Aleene’s Tacky Glue
   • One sheet poster paper
   • One sheet green and red (or holiday themed) paper, or wrapping paper
   • Additional collage materials — such as old holiday cards or gift tags, stickers, buttons, beads and family photos (printed on regular computer paper)
   • Festive ribbon
   Finished size — roughly 5-by-5 inches
   How to:    1. Using poster paper, cut out two of the shapes you want — heart, star, etc. — for each finished ornament.
   2. On both sides, decorate entire surface with colored paper or wrapping paper. Cover entire surface with one or more papers, or use strips and triangles like a crazy quilt.
   3. Assuming they will be hung, one side will be facing out so make that a more lavish display, reserving any family photos for this side.
   4. Be sure there are no spaces where the poster paper shows through and glue down all paper edges carefully.
   5. Before gluing the two sides together, cut a thin strand of ribbon for a handle. Glue on the undecorated side of one of the shapes so it doesn’t show when the two sides are joined.

   6. If desired, also add ribbon hanging down from the bottom. Add beads for a festive touch.
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