If you want to create something creative and sweet for the Christmas holiday, try these cute felt Christmas ornaments for your home or give them as gifts to loved ones. They don’t take a lot of time but their presence will be, well … felt.
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DIY Felt Ornaments For Christmas
Felt ornaments for Christmas could be easily crafted by you and your kids to make your Holiday tree more cool and unique. They are also useful to adorn other things like branches, mantels, lamps, and so on.
Here are a few ideas to help you make a felt Christmas ornament today!
You can hang these in your Christmas tree or just around any part of your house. They would look great in your kitchen, too. Check out the Dala horse ornament tutorial from Better Homes & Gardens.
They look at you with their beautiful eyes and make for a great appearance. Perfect for your tree, be it natural or faux. Check out the felt owl ornaments tutorial from Juicy Bits.
Either on the table for the Christmas dinner or hanging in the tree — they bring colour and sparkle creativity throughout your house. Check out the felt pine cones tutorial from salttree.
Now that Christmas is fast on its way, we’re in full on holiday baking mode! We like to bake all kinds of things all year round but when it comes to Christmas, pies are the big winner for us. There are just so many deliciously seasonal pies to be made this time of year that we simply can’t resist! That’s why we’ve always got our eyes peeled for holiday recipes we’ve never tried before.
Are you feeling just as enthusiastic as we are, if not more, about the idea of making scrumptious Christmas pies this season? Check out these 15 fantastic ideas, flavour combinations, and recipes that we’ve come across so far in our search!
If you’re going to put in the time and effort it takes to make yourself a homemade Christmas pie from scratch, would you rather make it something totally novelty and eye catching that will also really appeal to the kids? Well, if you’re a lover of sweet things and mint flavours then we’d be willing to bet that you’ll appreciate the way Taste of Home made this awesomely creamy candy cane pie!
Are you the kind of pumpkin lover who still isn’t over the flavour even after eating it all fall? Well, just because it’s winter now doesn’t really mean that you can’t still get your pumpkin fill. Instead, add a bit of seasonally winter flavour to it to customize it a little and change things up! We love the way Blessed Beyond Crazy added some wintery crunch in the form of nuts to make this fragrant pecan pumpkin pie.
If you’ve never tried some kind of brown sugar based pie before than we are very sorry to tell you that you’ve been missing out on something very delicious indeed! We’d suggest fixing that now but putting an awesome holiday spin on things by following the recipe featured on She Wears Many Hats to make the delicious brown sugar run raisin pie that smells just as much like the holidays as it tastes.
Where we come from, cherries might not grow and come into season solely in the winter but they’re certainly a seasonal flavour that has a true hey-day right around Christmas. Cherry chocolates are actually a Christmas morning family tradition in our house! That’s probably why we adored this cherry lattice pie idea from Good to Know so much.
Has your very favourite kind of pie actually always been cream pie but you feel like you don’t often see cream pies that are flavoured for Christmas and the holidays? In that case, we think you’ll be rather pleased indeed to come across this white Christmas pie outlined step by step on Ann’s Entitled Life! Take a better look at their recipe and tutorial to learn how the white chocolate filling is made, as well as how to subtly but perfectly spice it so it smells and tastes like the Christmas spirit.
Apple pie is another simple holiday tradition where we come from, since certain types of apples that are great for baking come into season around this time of year. Just because we grew up with simple, classic apple pies at Christmas, however, doesn’t mean we’re not open to trying new things! For example, we just knew we have to make this apple cranberry streusel holiday pie from Barbara Bakes the very moment we saw it.
Just like we said when we talked about brown sugar pie, you’ve been missing out on a delicious classic if you’ve never had a chocolate pie before! Chocolate might not seem like a typical holiday classic but the Christmas break is certainly the leading time of year when we eat the absolute most chocolate, so we still think it fits the bill! Take a better look at the recipe and tutorial on Creations by Kara to see how this German chocolate pie was made.
Did we actually really catch your attention when we started talking about the idea of making a pumpkin pie even though it’s winter now and not fall, but you’ve also been considering the idea of making a cheesecake as dessert this year? Well, what if we told you that you can actually combine the two in one place so you don’t have to choose at all? We were very excited indeed to learn about this deliciously smooth pumpkin cream cheese pie outlined step by simple, creamy step on Ashlee Marie.
Do we actually still have you thinking about the very first idea we showed you at the top of our list but, if you’re going to make something kind of novelty tasting and unconventional, you think you might like to add more flavour than just candy cane? In that case, we have a feeling you might get along a little better with something like this candy cane Oreo pie instead! See how it’s done with all kinds of flavour on Kleinworth & Co.
Of course, most people’s traditional holiday family pie recipes are, in fact, for sweet and dessert pies, but that’s not actually the only kind you can make for the holidays! Many people prefer to make savoury pies instead of or as well as a dessert. We’ve made classic mince pies many times before, but this year we’re feeling very intrigued by the recipe from Bigger Bolder Baking that shows you how to make a miniature version!
Banoffee pie is the kind of pie that has so many decadent layers you can hardly believe that such a thing is real by the time you’re making it. Far from tasting overpowering, this practically gourmet flavoured pie is actually quite light and pleasant in its taste, making it essentially the perfect dessert. Bananas might not seem like the usual holiday ingredient of course, but the perfect blend of cream and spices included in all of this gives it that hint of flavour that hits just right around the holidays. Get the full details for making your own banoffee from scratch on e-Recipe!
12. Chocolate caramel apple pie with streusel topping
Have you actually felt pretty intrigued by quite a number of the dishes you’ve seen so far and now you’re having trouble deciding which one you want to make first? Well, what if we said that instead of choosing between the elements you’re feeling tempted by, you could make something that has quite a number of them already in one place? This delicious chocolate caramel apple pie with streusel topping, laid out nice and clearly on A Bountiful Kitchen, is the perfect example of what we mean.
Have we really got your attention with this whole idea of making a slightly fall sounding pie but with a creamy Christmas twist on it, but you can’t help feeling like you’ve already eaten enough pumpkin for one season? In that case, we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how Eating Well made this fantastic sweet potato pie with cream cheese swirl instead!
If you’re going to put in the time and effort it takes to make a Christmas pie of some kind from scratch would you much rather make something really unconventional but still Christmas flavoured that your family probably hasn’t tried before? Well, if you’ve ever been a fan of cold treats, then we think you simply must take a look at how Brown Eyed Baker made this incredibly decadent but surprisingly simple cranberry ice cream pie!
Have you actually been scrolling through our list thinking about how you haven’t really felt entirely sold on any of these pies really tasting specifically like Christmas? Well, patience pays off nicely, because here’s a recipe that couldn’t possibly hold more classic Christmas flavour! Take a better look at the recipe featured on Taste of Home to see how it’s made in more detail.
Do you have another favourite Christmas pie recipe that’s always a huge hit in your household but that you don’t see here on our list? Tell us all about it or share the recipe with us in the comments section so we can give it a try as well!
Over the years, we’ve lived in lots of places that simply didn’t have room for an actual Christmas tree. Other years, we had the room but we were so busy that we just never got around to purchasing one or putting one up. Now, we’ve kind of started to really like the idea of getting a little crafty and building ourselves some kind of alternative tree, just for fun! That’s why we’ve had our eyes peeled recently for DIY Christmas tree alternatives that we’ve never tried before.
if you’re feeling just as intrigued as we were, if not more, by the whole concept of building yourself an alternative Christmas tree this year, check out these 15 fantastic ides, designs, and tutorials that we’ve come across so far in our search!
Are you a little bit of a woodworker who enjoys creating structured things in a very hands-on way? Well, if you can get your hands on some wooden dowels, then we’re pretty sure this tutorial from Homey oh My will be right up your alley! We love the dowel tree’s minimalist aesthetic, especially once the ornaments are put into place.
Have you always been a collector of trinkets with pretty eclectic taste? Well, we’re much the same, so we certainly can’t say we blame you! That’s probably why this awesome festive lights and trinkets bucket “tree” caught our eye so well. This tutorial from Imagine Gnats has all the details you’ll need to make your very own version.
Did we really catch your attention with the concept of building your own structure and doing some cutting, but you don’t actually have the room to put a weighted bucket on the floor like you saw in the wooden dowel tree tutorial? In that case, we’d definitely suggest taking a look at this wall mounted PVC pipe sections alternative instead! We simply adore the way Martha Stewart made a collage-like collection of PVC sections on a wooden backing and then put their colourful Christmas ornaments right inside the rounded sections, almost like miniature trinket shelves.
Are you feeling quite interested in the idea of making something a little structured but you’re also usually more of a soft materials enthusiast, preferring to work with things like fabrics? In that case, we’d be willing to bet that you might get along a little better with something like this triangular cardboard and felt Christmas tree outlined step by simple step on So Sew Easy!
Are you a lifelong fan of balloons who loves cartoony things and is feeling pretty open to a slightly more challenging idea than some of what you’ve seen so far? In that case, we’d absolutely suggest taking a look at this full tutorial and instructions list from 123 Peppy that teaches you, step by step, how to make a full Christmas tree from balloons, complete with ornaments, a star, and some gifts below! Yes, this really is made with real balloons. Impressive, we know!
Have your favourite ideas so far on our list been either the one involving lights or the minimalist idea that looked rather understated and classy, but you’re having trouble decided between those two very different aesthetics and energies? Well, who ever said you have to choose? Instead, check out how Oh Me, Oh My combined a little bit of both ideas in order to make this absolutely stunning firefly lights tree that suspends from ceiling to floor with a simple, wintery display at the base.
Are you feeling very crafty indeed but you’re also looking for something very unique and alternative indeed, even if it doesn’t actually look like a tree much at all? Well, if you happen to be able to get hold of an old dress form, then we’re pretty sure this design from Living After Midnight is just the kind of artistic piece you’re looking for! We think the evergreen branches of the skirt hearken back just enough to a classic tree to get the hint across, but the burlap top of the dress just gives the whole thing a unique vintage vibe we fully can’t get over.
8. “Almost traditional” space saving Christmas tree
Are you actually the kind of person who really enjoys having a classic Christmas tree, but the new place you’re living in simply doesn’t have the space for it? In that case, we think you’ll have much better luck with this shockingly easy tutorial from Lily Ardor that teaches you how to make a custom one that sits flush against the wall, saving you all kinds of space but still giving you that traditional Christmas aesthetic you adore!
Are you feeling very enthusiastic indeed about the suspended or mobile style Christmas trees we’ve talked about but you’re just not sure that a lighted version is really the route you want to take, since you can’t put your beloved ornaments on light strings? Then perhaps you’d prefer to strategically string up those ornaments to the ceiling on clear line until they make the shape of a tree themselves right there in the air! You can find help for getting your placement just right on Not Martha.
Are you the kind of person who collects books more than anything else and loves to make just about any DIY project you make into an opportunity for celebrating your passion for reading? In that case, we think you just might be the perfect person to give this awesome stacked book “tree” a try! This tutorial from Alice Wingerden even shows you how to decorate your books with simple pom pom trim to emulate Christmas tree garland.
Are you actually so strapped for space this year that you really don’t have the room for anything bigger than a flat piece that can lie right close to the wall? Well, if you’re the kind of crafter who really enjoys painting things, then we’re convinced you’ll get a real kick out of the way Jaymee Srp used chalkboard paint, chalk, and a flat slab of wood to make this modern painted tree that would even fit on a mantel if you don’t have enough floor space.
Did you really love the shape of the felt covered Christmas tree we showed you earlier but you can’t help feeling that if you’re going to make the base shape out of cardboard first, you might as well let that shine through in its natural, minimalist charm? Then we’re absolutely convinced that you’d much prefer to follow a tutorial like this one from Instructables Living that shows you how to do essentially that. They even make recommendations for wrapping your gift boxes along that same paper aesthetic.
Are you still really loving these clearly crafter and wall mounted Christmas trees but the only space you have free in your apartment is actually in the corner, so you’re wondering whether there might be any designs out there specifically meant for that part of a room? Well, you’re in luck! This tutorial from ShakeShakee actually shows you how to make a corner mounted Christmas tree from crepe paper and decorate it with pretty tinsel for a simple and charmingly DIY look.
Are you still thinking about how much you loved the wooden look of the very first dowel tree we showed you, but you can’t help wishing its whole style was a little more rustic rather than minimalist, even if that means taking up more space? In that case, we’d absolutely suggest taking a look at how Sustain My Craft Habit made this stunning tree from repurposed driftwood! It’s like combining all the holiday spirit of Christmas with the atmosphere you miss from your summertime beach house.
Maybe woodworking is still an idea that appeals to you but you’re also the kind of person who will never hesitate to add a little bit of sparkle to just about anything you’re making? Well, if your kids are even half as obsessed with the current flip sequin trend as ours are, then we’d be willing to bet that this awesome wooden framed tree adorned with very Christmassy green and red flip sequin just might be the best project for everyone in your household! Get the full details for making your own version on At Charlotte’s House.
Have you made another kind of awesome DIY alternative Christmas tree before that you were very happy with and still put on display but that you don’t see here on our list? Tell us all about what you created and how you did it or link us to photos of your finished work in the comments section!
One of the biggest gifts you get by being an avid crafter and DIY enthusiast or kitchen enthusiast is the gift of being able to do things a little differently. Customization is perhaps the best part of learning how to do and make things yourself! The holiday season is no exception to that. We especially like to use our DIY skills in the kitchen around this time of year, even when it comes to helping our kids leave a snack for Santa. Why put out the same store bought cookies and standard glass of milk when you can make something extra fun and delicious? We’ve been on the lookout lately for awesome recipes that we’ve never tried before that would make awesome snacks for Santa on Christmas Eve.
Are you feeling just as enthusiastic as we are, if not more, about the idea of making new kinds of homemade treats for Santa this holiday season rather than just buying biscuits? Check out these 15 ideas, recipes, and tutorials that we’ve come across so far in our search!
If you’re going to put in all the time and effort it takes to make something a little different for your kids to leave out for Santa, would you rather make it very unique indeed? Well, just in case you’re also still a little caught on the traditional idea of leaving cookies, here’s an idea that lets you do both of those things! Check out how The Stay at Home Chef outlines the process for making chocolate chip cookie milk shots.
Are you actually totally still hung up on the idea of leaving cookies for Santa but you’d also really like to use the occasion as an opportunity to try out a new kind of recipe that you’ve never made before? Well, if you’re a total peppermint lover then we think maybe this recipe from Cooking Classy is the one for you!
If you’re going to make something delicious with your kids, would you rather make it something very bright and novelty, or something they can get all kinds of creative decorating? Well, especially if you’re feeling determined to find a good alternative to the classic cookie idea, then we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how One Little Project made these super fun triangular cut brownies and had their kids help embellish them with green icing, sprinkle ornaments, candy stars, and candy cane tree trunks!
Maybe you’re totally interested in this whole idea of making fun looking decorative cookies with your kids to leave for Santa but you’re not so keen on involving quite so much icing, as your whole household tends to find it a little too sweet? Then we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how Home Cooking Memories made these twisted colour batter candy canes with crushed candy cane topping! They’re sweet and minty without being too overpowering or rich.
Like us, are you a huge fan of the kind of combination recipe where one treat tastes like all the best parts of another treat you love? In that case, we’d be willing to bet that you’ll adore these cinnamon bun cookies featured on Wanna Come With just as much as we do! They’re still a cookie like the tradition but they’ve got a zing of flavour that’s a little different than usual.
What if you’re actually feeling quite convinced that a simple butter cookie, like most people traditionally set out, is actually the best thing for you to set out, but you’re also pretty determined to decorate it for the occasion? In that case, we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how The Nerd’s Wife made theirs shaped like rectangles and then put their iced lettering skills to the test writing “Dear Santa” across the top, just like the letters your kids undoubtedly wrote earlier in the season. The idea is traditional, but still levelled up a little!
Are you actually a little bit pressed for time and you’re looking for a cookie idea that’s on theme and a little more special than your average, plain homemade batch, but you certainly won’t be able to put effort into careful iced lettering? In that case, we’d absolutely encourage you to take a look at these reindeer and Santa inspired cookies that are embellished with cherries, pretzels, glaze, and crushed candy cane for a bit of extra festive flavour, but that are still nice and quick to do. Get the full details for making them happen on The Cozy Apron.
In your opinion, is the smell and taste of ginger the total epitome of holiday baking and kitchen scents? In that case, we’d totally suggest using your Santa’s snack as an opportunity to fill the house and your bellies with ginger! One of our actual favourite holiday recipes is this one from Skip to My Lou that teaches you how to make festive ginger snaps that have been icing dipped on one side.
In our house, there are several types and kinds of nice chocolates that are traditional holiday staples and that we let ourselves totally indulge in each year. We love cherry cordials, Guilian praline shells, Turtles, and Toblerone bars, just to name a few. If you’re the kind of person who adores Toblerone during the holidays just as much as we do, then we’d definitely suggest giving these delectable double chocolate Toblerone cookies outlined on Olive Magazine some consideration as this year’s Santa snack.
Did we almost catch your attention when we started talking about the idea of making butter cookies to leave for Santa but you can’ help wishing that you could take their flavour to the next level rather than just how they’re frosted? Then maybe you’d be better off making butter crinkle cookies instead! We’d recommend checking out these ones from Wicked Good Kitchen specifically because they also have the added bonus of a very Christmassy tasting eggnog flavour.
Has your favourite suggestion on our list so far actually been the first one because you liked that it combined the classic milk and cookies idea in one place, but you’re just not sure how you feel about the idea of incorporating an actual drink of milk as part of the food? Then perhaps you’d get along better with this novelty but slightly less quirky milk and cookies cupcake recipe from Life is Better With Cake instead.
Have we actually got you feeling a little bit torn between the idea of making deliciously buttery crinkle cookies and the idea of making something that tastes like ginger, but you’re having trouble deciding between the two? Well, who ever said that you have to choose? Instead, check out how Posh in Progress made these fragrant and flavourful gingerbread crinkle cookies!
Did we almost nail it when we said that you might be torn between two of the options you’ve seen on our list, but those weren’t specifically the things you’re having trouble choosing between? Well, if you’re feeling more inclined to choose between the cookie cups and the eggnog cookies, then here’s another combination idea that might help you make the Santa snack you’re really dreaming of instead! Take a better look at the recipe and tutorial on Liv for Cake to see how these eggnog cheesecake cookie cups were made in more detail.
Rather than thinking that some of the treats we’ve shown you so far might be a little too sweet for what you had in mind, are you actually hoping for an even more candy filled recipe, just because it’s Christmas? In that case, we’re not sure you’ll find a sweeter or more satisfying option than this one from Hungry Happenings! Check out their recipe to learn more about these Christmas magic bars and all of the different wonderful things you can top them with.
Are you actually still finding yourself thinking about buttery crinkle cookies and whether there might be even more holiday versions out there than what you’ve seen so far? In that case, here’s one more recipe for your consideration before we go! Check out the details outlined nice and clearly on Buttercream Blondie to see how these delicious red velvet crinkle cookies were made.
Have you made other kinds of delicious homemade treats for Santa before that your kids had a blast helping you with and setting out but that you don’t see here on our list? Tell us all about it or link us to the recipe so we can try it out too!
Where we come from, the weather is so wet and cold that decorating the outside of our house for Christmas can be difficult. Things either freeze or get so damp that they get ruined, so we usually stick to some pretty, winter-resistant lights and then decorate even harder on the inside to make up for it! Of course, making our own decorations is a lot more satisfying than buying them, so we’re always on the lookout around this time of year for awesome DIY things we’ve never tried before.
are you feeling just as intrigued as we were, if not more, by the idea of making your very own homemade indoor Christmas decorations? Check out these 15 fantastic ideas, designs, and tutorials that we’ve come across so far in this year’s search!
If you have any kind of fireplace, central electric heater with its own surround, mantel, or even just a nice shelf you like decorating, then this very first idea might just be the one for you! Take a better look at the tutorial on Craft, Create, Cook to see how this adorable little mitten garland was made in just a few simple steps.
Perhaps your regular home decor scheme is actually a little bit rustic already and you’ve been scrolling through DIY Christmas decor options trying to find something that will work with the aesthetic you’ve already painstakingly built? In that case, particularly if you’re interested in learning some very simple woodworking techniques, we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how Blooming Homestead made this lovely winter woodland sign to lean in their living room!
Did we actually really catch your attention with the idea of making some kind of wooden based project but you’re also really interested in adding some winter nature elements to your decor scheme for the season? In that case, we think you might get a real kick out of the way The Sweet Escape used cut branch pieces embellished with tea light candles and little tinsel trees to create a pretty birch centrepiece for their table!
In our house, advent calendars are an annual tradition and everyone in the family gets one. Rather than simply buying the chocolate filled kind that go on sale in stores every Christmas, however, we’ve been thinking lately about making reusable ones of our own! That’s why this beautiful wood and miniature bucket Christmas tree shaped advent calendar outlined step by step on Sugar & Charm caught our eye so well.
Perhaps you’re actually a little bit pressed for time and in need of something affordable since this is your busiest season at work, but you’re still thinking about how you’d love to add at least some little seasonal DIY elements to your home? Well, if you can get your hands on some pretty red velvet ribbon at the local craft store, then we’d definitely encourage you to take a look at how Stone Gable hand tied these lovely Christmas bows that look lovely fastened just about anywhere.
Are you actually still thinking about the idea we mentioned of creating lovely indoor Christmas decor using pieces of outdoor winter nature, but you’re just not sure you want to get into cutting branches because you’d like to involve your kids in the project too? Then send them out to find some pinecones in the backyard and then check out how SmART Class guides you through the steps for making these adorable pinecone Christmas trees!
Just in case you loved the idea of creating some kind of holiday image on a wooden backing but you’re just not sure you feel like getting out the stencils and paints, here’s another idea for those who prefer working with softer materials like fabric and ribbon! This tutorial from Beyond the Picket Fence shows you nice and clearly how this ribbon star mounted on a wooden background was made, similarly to the nail and string art you might have seen trending lately.
Are you the kind of colourful person whose home is already doused in pastels, and you’re looking for some kind of idea that will help you celebrate the holidays in your favourite slightly unconventional colours this season? In that case, rather than going for classic greens and reds, we think you might get along a little better with something like this tutorial from Studio DIY that teaches you how to make a little pastel Christmas village.
No matter the season, we love making wreaths. That’s especially true near Christmas, however, because they’re so much more classic as decor around this time of year? Just because we love something, however, doesn’t mean we aren’t willing to change it up a little here and there. That’s why we thought this hanging ceiling wreath, rather than a more traditional door wreath, was such a neat idea. Get the full details for making one of your own on Our House Now a Home.
Has your favourite perk of the holidays always been the treats and candies that come back into season around this time of year? In that case, we think you’re going to adore this next idea, especially if you’re a peppermint lover! The step by step guide found on By Stephanie Lynn walks you through the simple process of making a peppermint topiary that would catch anyone’s eye.
Whether you decide to make large ones to put on either side of a doorway or little ones to arrange in a vase on the table like a wintery alternative to a bouquet of flowers, this lovely idea from In My Own Style will certainly add some frosty looking sparkle to your room! We love the way their tutorial shows you how to use glitter in order to add some winter shine to any space.
Just in case you’r actually still thinking about how much you love the idea of making a DIY Christmas garland of some kind but you’re also torn between that and the concept of decorating your home with Christmas lights, here’s an idea that lets you combine those two ideas in one place! Check out how Create Craft Love made this beautiful garland for knotted strips of burlap in neutral and Christmas colours.
This next project might not look like one that’s perfect for avid knitters, but its base is actually made from an old knitting needle, so it’s secretly a great way to upcycle some of the old tools in your notions stash! Take a better look at the tutorial featured on In My Own Style to see how this tabletop ornament tree was made using a knitting needle as its central frame for standing upright.
14. Egg carton Christmas flower and greenery garland
Just in case you’re actually still considering your options when it comes to making some kind of light up garland but you’re just not sure that your space needs more burlap than it already has, here’s an alternative that will let you upcycle something that might otherwise be thrown out and that will help you add a little more greenery to your space! Check out how Hearth & Vine made these little red flowers for each light using egg cartons and intertwined their lights with some evergreen fir.
Do you actually already have a whole range of garlands you’ve either made or purchased before that you’d like to hang up but you’re just not sure how you’d like to arrange them in your room or where you’d like to put them? Then perhaps you’ll find some inspiration in this guide from Tater Tots & Jello that teaches you how to make a very colourful Christmas garlands mantel that involves all kinds of garlands at once! You can play with the idea and make a design that’s all your own, but we found their basic concept and discussion very helpful indeed.
Have you made other kinds of lovely DIY indoor Christmas decor before that you really enjoyed but that you don’t see here on our list? Tell us all about what you created and how you did it or link us to photos of your finished work in the comments section!
In our family, and several of our friends’ families, it’s a Christmas morning tradition to make cupcakes together. We make them in all kinds of Christmas and holiday designs, icing and embellishing them in the afternoon, and eating them nice and fresh in the evening after dinner. We’ve been doing the same thing for so long, though, that this year we started feeling like we’d tried every Christmas design in the book! That’s why we started combing the Internet for inspiration. We didn’t expect, however, to find quite so many amazing ideas still left that we wanted to try! We came to a decision in the end, but we won’t pretend it wasn’t hard to choose.
Just in case you’ve also been on the lookout for winter, Christmas, and holiday-themed cupcakes to make over what’s left in the holidays before school and work start up again, here are 15 amazing Christmas cupcake designs that will help you celebrate the season in a sweet, fun way!
1. Pom pom and sprinkle Christmas ornament cupcakes
Are you pretty experienced in cupcake decorating and baking and you’re feeling up to a challenge this Christmas because you’d like to create something really beautiful? Then these stunning metallic iced Christmas bobble cupcakes from Pop Sugar are just the thing for you! They’re rounded like a large cake pop and they’re made with special icing and edible glitter, so they’re basically a party on a baked good.
Are you looking for an idea that’s adorable, kitschy, and Christmas-y but you still want to keep things somewhat simple? Then maybe you should stick to working with just icing and candies that are easy to come across. We love the way Your Cup of Cake created a simple wreath on top of the cupcake using green icing, used miniature M&Ms to look like bobbles, and cut pieces of Fruit By the Foot to tie a “bow”.
If you’re going to make cupcakes for your kids, do you really want to give them a treat? Then building a Christmas character on top with some of their favourite candies is a great way to amp up the sweetness of your delicious baked goods! We love the way Catch My Party covered their vanilla icing with shredded coconut to look like snow and then made snowmen from marshmallows, pretzels, Oreos, and fruit leathers.
Maybe you’re just looking for a classically pretty design that will remind everyone how lovely winter can be, even when it’s very cold outside, as long as you’re all together for the holidays? Then check out how Mommy Moment made use of pretty blue icing, fondant cut in the shape of delicate snowflakes, and metallic silver ball sprinkles to make a pretty winter scene.
So far in your scrolling, has the thing that caught your eye most actually been the delicate embellishments that you’ve seen on the cupcakes, regardless of the scene on top or the design the cupcake features? We were quite taken with those details too but the things we liked best were the little bows made from chewy fruit candies! Just in case you agree with us, here’s a tutorial for how to make them from pieces of Fruit By the Foot on Your Cup of Cake.
Would you prefer that the cupcakes you make with your family make your kids giggle when they eat them? Then we have a feeling these funny little snow-banked Santa treats will be right up your alley! Check out how Sugar Siren Cakes Mackay shows you how to make a pair of legs and shoes sticking out of the icing using jujubes. We love the way they added fine clear sprinkles to the white icing to give it a sparkle just like snow!
If you’re going to put a bow on your cupcake, would you rather put a really exciting looking bow right on top that makes your cupcake look just like a fancy Christmas present sitting under the tree on Christmas morning? Then we definitely think you should take a look at how My House and Home turned some Christmas ribbons into cupcake toppers in just a few simple steps.
8. Christmas bobble cupcakes with mini Rolos and Smarties
We know we already showed you one way of turning a batch of cupcakes into round Christmas bobble style ornaments, but that way certainly takes some dedication and patience. That’s why we thought we’d give you this simpler candy alternative too! Your Cup of Cake guides you through the process of using miniature M&Ms and miniature Rolos laid out strategically on top of simple vanilla icing.
Rather than making a Santa in a snowbank on top of your cupcake, would you rather just make the whole cupcake actually look like Santa himself? Then here’s a simple idea that’s perfect for decorating with kids because it’s simple but also a lot of fun! Take a look at how Frugal Coupon Living used sprinkles, mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and M&Ms to create a friendly face and a snowy beard.
Are you still thinking about how pretty the winter scene cupcakes we showed you earlier were and how much you loved the idea of laying down a heavenly bed of icing and simply resting some beautiful sugared snowflakes on top? Then here’s another idea that might give you some inspiration for making your own winter wonderland cupcakes! We adore the way Home and Heavens wrapped their cupcakes in a pretty, intricate laser cut liner. You could design your own if you have a Cricut or a Silhouette!
Are you actually a little bit pressed for time but you’re still intent on making delicious cupcakes with your family to keep up tradition? Then perhaps all you need to do is nestle a simple miniature candy cane on top of your icing, just like Wedding Dinner did here! We personally think this chocolate cupcake and vanilla icing combination would taste best, but you can really do any kind of cake and icing flavouring you like best!
Maybe the supplies you have to work with when it comes to decorating are a little bit limited this year because you didn’t have much time to shop but you’re still determined to make your cupcakes look like wondrous winter snacks? In that case, reach for the nearest tube of green icing (or make it yourself and add a little bit of food colouring) and use mini M&Ms to act as Christmas bobbles dotted all over the place, just like Your Cup of Cake did here.
Perhaps you have some guests coming that are traveling a couple hours to get to your house for dinner but you know, because it happens every year, that everyone will probably eat so much that they won’t even make it to dessert before they have to go? Rather than trying to package up cupcakes to go without having them tip over or and having the icing sticking to the side of the box you put them in, try making a mason jar cupcake for each guest just like this one from Emmaline Bride instead! They’re quicker to make than you think.
So far we’ve shown you how to decorate your cupcakes for Christmas in many different ways, but we haven’t actually shown you that many Christmas specific recipes for cupcakes that taste a particular way for the holidays, rather than just looking like a holiday treat. We wanted to make sure we included at least one option that was a little bit different! We’ve made these lovely holly inspired red velvet cupcakes from Chef Tia several times now and they’re always a huge hit.
Have your family members always been big fans of treats that involve both a sweet and a salty taste to them so that you get the best of both worlds? Then we have a feeling you’ll be big fans of these funny little reindeer cupcakes too! Check out how Your Cup of Cake made them from M&Ms, sprinkles, mini cookies, and pretzels for the antlers.
Have you made other adorably delicious Christmas cupcake designs before that were a big hit with your family but that you don’t see on our list? Tell us all about how you decorated them or link us to pictures of your finished cupcakes in the comments section!
We’re finally down to Christmas crunch time for the year but that doesn’t mean people aren’t doing lots of last minute preparations and cooking! This year, our last minute recipe search is for great vegetarian Christmas dishes because we just found out that some of our guests recently gave up eating meat. We’ve already planned to make several vegetarian side dishes, so our guests are covered there, but what about the main entrée? Vegetarians aren’t going to take part in the turkey aspect of the meal, so what can you make for them instead?
Are you on the search for some good vegetarian turkey alternatives too? Then check out these 15 awesome veggie based recipes that we found during our last minute search!
Are you a bit of a whiz in the kitchen and you’re looking for something a little more gourmet and “main dish” than just more steamed vegetables with salt and butter? Then we definitely think you should take a look at this truffled mushroom and chestnut wellington recipe from Mildred’s Recipes! It’s a satisfying meal paired with all of the delectable vegetarian side dishes you’ve already got on the menu.
Perhaps you’re okay with making a few more vegetarian side dishes as long as they’re satisfying, filling, and completely delicious? Then we’d suggest taking a look at this delicious gratin from The True Spoon! They show you how to prepare it from pureed cauliflower and a wonderfully fragrant blend of herbs, as well as how to bake it in the oven.
Speaking of things that will make sure everyone stays filled up and tied over until the rest of dinner, delicious homemade breads are a great option for vegetarian friends too. We always like to make sure that there’s a lot of flavour involved though! That’s why we’ve made this mouth watering rosemary lemon focaccia bread so many times. Find out how it’s done on Yup, It’s Vegan.
Perhaps you’re actually quite experienced with vegetarian and vegan cooking and you’re accustomed to working with actual meat alternatives to make diet-friendly versions of classic dishes? Then we have a feeling this loaf, which is akin to classic meatloaf, won’t be much of a challenge for you! Take a look at how Fat Free Vegan made this mushroom seitan loaf with a flavourful veggie gravy.
We’ve always been huge fans of making our families dip appetizers to eat while they wait for Christmas dinner to be finished and served. We especially like dips, though, because they’re so easy to make as a vegetarian dish. They’re also satisfying with the right bread or crackers for people who might be skipping the meat in the entrée. Find out how this caramelized onion dip is made on Yup, It’s Vegan.
6. Vegan creamy kale soup with spicy roasted chickpeas
Serving a soup with your Christmas dinner might not sound like a classic element in the holiday tradition, but we love making sure our vegetarian guests are taken care of and feel just as full as everyone else at the end of supper. This soup recipe featured on Connoisseurus Veg is actually a vegan one but it’s delicious no matter your diet. They’ll teach you how to make a cream soup with kale and spicy roasted chickpeas.
If you’ve never had a savoury pancake then we’re sorry to tell you that you’ve been missing out! That’s why we’d suggest giving this mouth watering vegetarian mushroom pancake recipe a try. It’s a great way to serve someone a satisfying main dish while still making sure it’s within their dietary restrictions. Harriet Emily shows you how to make both the pancakes themselves and the fragrant mushroom and lentil topping.
Whether you’re vegetarian or not, potato hash is always a great side dish. It’s also the kind of side dish that, for real potato lovers, often takes over as the centre of the meal. That’s especially true if you make it with sweet potatoes the way A Sweet Pea Chef did here! They show you how to roast the potatoes just right, as well as how to season and garnish them.
Maybe your family skips the standard “traditional” Christmas meal all together and chooses a different “family favourite” style meal every year instead? Then spaghetti is an amazing option and it’s also something that can be easily (and deliciously) altered into a meat-free meal. For example, check out how Harriet Emily made the tomato sauce for their spaghetti using lentils to fill it out rather than ground beef!
Spaghetti isn’t the only turkey alternative meal that’s great for large family dinners like Christmas! We find that Mexican food makes an awesome treat for a special occasion as well. Enchiladas happen to be our favourite dish, but we only recently discovered that they’re also quite simple to make in a vegetarian style, just like everything else you’ve seen on this list so far. Find out how to make them satisfying with mushroom, kale, and quinoa on Food 52.
Were you very intrigued by the wellington idea we showed you earlier because you’ve had meals of that style before that you really enjoyed, but you’ve never actually been a huge fan of mushrooms? Then perhaps you’d like to try another kind of wellington instead! We recently made this beet version from Yup, It’s Vegan for another family gathering and it went over very well, even with the guests who aren’t vegan or vegetarian.
Maybe you’re looking for something heavier than the average vegetarian side, like when you include rice or potatoes for carbs, but you know your guests are trying to watch their calories as well as their dietary content? Then here’s a healthier alternative that will certainly fill tummies but is still vegetarian and healthy! Simple Veganista guides you through the process of making a sesame quinoa tofu that will take great with just about any other side dish or entrée feature, meat or no meat.
13. Vegan lentil Shepard’s pie with parsnip and potato mash
Where we’re from, one of the most popular alternatives to a fully turkey dinner on Christmas eve or Christmas day is Shepard’s pie. Some people make it with ground beef and others make it with full chunks of steak! For families with vegetarian members and guests, however, there’s another alternative too that will still get you that great Shepard’s pie taste. Food 52 teaches you how to make a Shepard’s pie with the same great fluff potato topping but a filling made from lentils and parsnip instead of steak or ground beef.
Not everyone’s stuffing is made with actual meat or prepared inside the bird like the traditional recipe, but that doesn’t mean it’s not prepared with some kind of meat based broth. If you’re expecting guests who don’t eat meat and meat related products, we’d suggesting making this alternative vegetarian mushroomstuffing recipe from The True Spoon instead. You’ll be surprised how everyone around the table eats this one up.
Are you the kind of fall and winter lover who will take any opportunity you possibly can to enjoy a seasonal pumpkin recipe because that’s your favourite flavour and you want to enjoy as much pumpkin as you can before the spring comes and it’s all out of season again? Then you’re going to love this turkey alternative meal idea from Hummusapien! Their creamy pasta dish features pumpkin, peas, and walnuts for a deliciously holiday appropriate blend.
Do you know someone who has vegetarian family members coming for dinner over the holidays and who could use some help finding recipes that will work for everyone? Share this post with them to give them lots of new, delicious ideas to consider!
When it comes to Christmas décor, there are so many different kinds of creative things you can make. There’s one thing, however, that we recently learned isn’t as popular as we thought, even though we’ve been making them around the holidays for years. Every Christmas, we spend an afternoon with our kids making sun catchers and window hangers! We like the way they catch what little sunlight our neighbourhood still gets in the darker, colder months because they make the place feel brighter. We thought making sun catchers was a common thing in the winter, but we were told only recently that most people make them in the summer instead!
That’s why we want to share how great winter sun catchers are, as well as just how many awesome Christmas designs you can make!
1. Christmas tree cookie cutter and melted bead hangers
Have you ever made melted pony bead jewelry before? Well, this the technique that Chica Circle teaches you in this tutorial is similar to that, only made inside a metal cookie cutter! They show you how to make a melted bead Christmas tree with beads that are see-through enough to let just a little bit of light through when you hang them in the window.
When we talked about working with beads above, did your mind automatically picture the pretty plastic faux crystals you’ve made necklace pendants with before? Perhaps you’ve actually even made pieces with actual crystals before. Either way, those are exactly what you’ll need to make these beautiful angel shaped window hangers featured on Heartstrings By Morgan. The rounded beads and the tear drops are particularly great for these!
If you’ve ever done wire wrapping crafts before, then you’re already familiar with some of the technique you’ll be working with here! We love the way Wild Woman Jewelry used jewelry wire and small seed beads to make a pretty morning star, but we’d remind you to make sure you use transparent beads so they actually catch the sun when you hang your finished star in the window.
Are you actually still thinking about how pretty the raindrop shaped crystals we were talking about earlier looked in the angel project but you think you’d rather work with just those because they remind you of icicles twinkling in the sunlight? Then we have a feeling you’re going to love this simple window ornaments from Darice. They’ll add a pretty sparkle to any room.
If you’ve ever made faux stained glass crafts before, then you already know how much fun it can be, but not every craft idea out there is quite right for getting creative with your kids. That’s why we liked this easy, festive star bunting idea from Shalom Schultz Designs! The shapes are easy, the stars look great hanging in your window throughout the holidays, and your kids will have a total blast smashing the crayons to make it happen!
6. Paper plate and wax paper Christmas ornament hangers
While you quite enjoy the fancier ideas we’ve shown you so far, made of things like jewelry wire and beading, are you really searching for something a little simpler that your kids might be able to make by themselves? Then perhaps you’d prefer this cute paper plate and wax paper Christmas bobble hanger from Playground Park Bench! We love the way they jazzed things up with festive looking sequins that will catch the light as the sunlight shines through the wax paper.
Were you very into the idea of making ornaments by melting plastic beads or pony beads like we showed you earlier on our list, but you’ve already make the cookie cutter kind and you’d like to try something else? Then pick out all the clear beads you can find and try your hand at this awesomely icy looking snowflake ornament design from Sarah Jane’s Craft Blog! The light will shine right through it in a very cool way.
Are you feeling really enthusiastic about the melted plastic and bead idea but you’d like to make some window hangers yourself, so you’re looking for an idea that requires a little more skill and precision? In that case, we’d suggest taking a look at this layered Christmas tree ornament from Creative Ornament. Just make sure you choose beads that are made from transparent plastic so your trees still do catch the sun!
Have the transparent paper style of window hanger always been your favourite because the materials are so simple to work with so you can make more shapes and more intricate designs? Then Fave Crafts definitely has the best idea for you. Their tutorial walks you through the process of making tissue paper poinsettia flowers that will glow red against your window as the sun rises or sets.
Perhaps your kids have already made the paper plate window catcher design we showed above so you’re still on the hunt for an idea they can make all on their own? In that case, check out these adorable glitter glue and wax paper snowmen from Craftulate! This is a great way for kids who live in warm places and don’t have snow to make real snowmen to feel like they still got to decorate one this season.
There are plenty of tutorials out there about how to use the shiny side of an old CD for all kinds of flashy DIY projects, but did you know that if you scratch all of that off, you’re left with a clear plastic disc? Makezine is here to remind you what’s underneath and to show you how to turn it into an awesome window hanger that looks just like stained glass! This idea is perfect for imitating the pretty geometric designs you’d find in snowflakes.
Are you still thinking about how cool paper window hangers look hanging in the sun but you don’t have any tissue or wax paper to work with right now and your kids are really itching to get crafting? In that case, we’d suggest reaching for the coffee filters! They’re just as simple to make cute, fancy looking snowflakes out of but they’re also transparent enough to let a little bit of sunlight through. Check this whole idea out in more detail on Inspiring Mama.
Are you hoping to make a sun catcher that you could easily create in holiday colours but that you might also be able to reuse year after year so you get some longevity out of your DIY holiday décor? In that case, we definitely think you should check out how Hometalk made these stunning window hangers from embroidery hoops and cut sections of thin silk scarves in pretty designs. The sunlight shining through will create a bit of a subtle glow.
Have your crafting and DIY strengths always been yarn based and you’re very confident in your crochet skills especially? In that case, you sound like the perfect person to tackle making these beautiful lace window hangers inspired by intricate and unique snowflakes. Find some stunning and easy to follow patterns to follow on Etsy Studio.
Are you leaning towards having your kids make some tissue paper window hangers but they’ve done those several times so you’d like to shake up the basic technique just a little bit in order to keep them interested? Then try having them tear sheets of paper in all different colours and collage the pieces together in a mitten shape, just like you see from Simply Sprout here! The finished product has a cute patchwork or quilted effect.
Have you made other adorable suncatcher and window hanger holiday crafts with your kids but you don’t see any similar designs on our list? Tell us all about how you did it or link us to pictures of your finished work in the comments section!
The beauty of a classic movie like The Nightmare Before Christmas is that it’s a good enough story to be adored by both kids and adults, and there are two particular times of year that you can enjoy it! We happen to adore the movie, so we like to celebrate it in crafty ways near both Christmas and Halloween. That’s why we’ve been on the search for themed DIY projects recently that are a little more on the spooky side!
Just in case you love The Nightmare Before Christmas as much as we do, if not more, and would also like to get your spooky themed crafting time in, here are 15 of the coolest and most Halloween-ish movie crafts we could find.
If one of your favourite ways to get creative with your kids actually by making exciting novelty treats together in the kitchen? In that case, we have a feeling you’ll get a big kick out of the way Disney Family made these wonderful doughnuts shaped like characters from the movie! They show you how to make Jack, Sally, and Zero.
Paper plate crafts are a classic that we’ll never get tired of. They’re just so simple and quick that our kids can do them without supervision, meaning they feel very independent and we can be happy that they’re getting creative time in while we cook or read! We were very pleased indeed to stumble upon this cute little tissue and construction paper Jack Skellington made on a paper plate base by Glued to My Crafts.
Do you still have a spare pumpkin lying around that didn’t get carved up when you made your Jack-O-Lanterns and you’ve been wondering how you and the kids might get creative with it in a different way? Then we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how Isle of Halloween used paint to turn a pumpkin into Jack, complete with his signature stitched smile!
Have you always loved making Christmas wreaths for the holidays? In that case, we think you’ll really appreciate the way Shelterness created the same kind of idea but with a darker Halloween twist! We adore how they made all kinds of movie reference crafts and included them in with their spooky branches.
If you’re going to put effort into making a themed piece of Halloween decor, would you rather make something very impressive indeed that you can reuse as decor for years to come? In that case, we’d absolutely suggest taking a look at how Instrucrables made this adorable light up Zero that looks like he’s actually floating above the ground!
If your kids are going to get creative with you, will they always choose the sparkliest option of the crafts, nine times out of ten? Well, if they like the Oogie Boogie scene even half as much as we do, then we have a feeling these large sized sparkling dice that look just like his will be right up their alley. Find the full details for making a set of your own on Blogs of Art.
We’ve always loved hand painting planters because it’s a fun way to get our kids in on our love for having greenery around the house and porch. It also get them practicing careful painting techniques, even on unconventional surfaces! We’re sure you can imagine, then, just how thrilled we were to come across these cute Jack Skellington planters on Disney Family.
Just in case we really caught your attention when we started talking about getting creative with your kids in the kitchen but the donuts weren’t really a project that spoke to you, here’s something a little different for your consideration! Check out how Crumbs and Corkscrews put some marshmallows on lollipop sticks, dipped them in white chocolate, and used baking detail pens to add faces so the marshmallows turn into miniature Jacks!
Have you actually been scrolling through and thinking about how you might prefer to make something from the movie besides just the characters, but you’re not sure you want to use as much glitter as the dice calls for? Well, if you’ve ever enjoyed working with clay, we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how Instructables recreated the jars Sally keeps her supplies in!
Is Jack undoubtedly your favourite character in the movie so you’re looking for a project that will let you make as many versions of him in one place as possible? Then we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how Disney Family made this fantastic string art project that includes several Jacks, all of whom you can give different facial expressions to!
Have you always adored working with softer supplies and materials because your best DIY skills actually lie in things like sewing and embroidery? In that case, you just might be the perfect person to give this stunning Sally doll that has been stitched together just like the character herself was a try! Get the full pattern on Instructables.
What if you loved the idea of making a doll or figurine but you’re more of a crochet enthusiast than a hand stitching expert? Then we’d suggest turning your attention to this fantastic amigurumi style pattern instead! Ahooka’migurumi teaches you how to make a miniature Oogie Boogie that we just can’t get enough of.
13. Painted Nightmare Before Christmas standing yard decor
Have you actually been scrolling through our list looking for a way to make your love for all things Nightmare Before Christmas themed known to the world around you? Well, if you are a hand painting enthusiast like we talked about but you just haven’t seen the project that’s held your attention yet, consider this fantastic standing painted yard decor by Christmas 365 instead!
14. Egg carton Nightmare Before Christmas characters
Just in case you’re an upcycling lover who has been wondering where all the repurposed options on this list are, your patience has finally paid off! Grab that empty egg carton out of the recycling box and check out how Live Your Art painted and customized a set of cut out cups to make each character.
Rather than upcycling something from your recycling bin in order to make a Jack Skellington themed craft, would you rather reuse a piece of clothing from the bin you’ve been meaning to turn into rags? In that case, we have a feeling you’ll get along a little better with something like this adorable Jack themed sock doll outlined step by step on Easy Me World!
Do you know a fellow DIY lover and crafting enthusiast who adores The Nightmare Before Christmas more than just about anything, especially around Halloween? Then share this post with them so they have all kinds of awesome DIY projects to try along their favourite theme!
In our house, cookies are one of the very best parts of Christmas. You’ll definitely find us making Christmas cookies before the big day but, because we love them so much, you’ll actually probably find us making even more Christmas cookies in the days right after! Because we’re usually off work between Christmas day and New Year’s Eve, that’s prime baking time for us and we’re very festive, so we’ll take any excuse to prolong the holidays a little further by continuing to make holiday treats. Because we make so many Christmas cookies some years, though, that sometimes we feel like we could use new ideas for kinds and flavours. That’s why we took to the Internet to find some new flavours!
Just in case you could use some new Christmas cookie recipes to try out in the next few days too, here are 15 of the best kinds we’ve come across so far!
Have you always loved the idea of making teat recipes that remind you of or taste like other sweet things you really enjoy as well, just for maximum taste? In that case, we have a feeling you’ll be a big fan of these candy cane cookies from My Ideas Bedroom. Besides being delicious cookies and giving you awesome minty candy cane flavour, they also let you enjoy some flavorful Hershey kisses too!
In your family, is half the fun of making cookies always in decorating them with your kids? Then it’s probably just a simple cookie recipe you’re using or looking for but maybe you could use some inspiration when it comes to shapes and designs! We love this suggestion from Dishmaps for making different classic Christmas shapes and characters and icing them in fun holiday colours to give them features and fun patterns.
Did we really catch your attention when we started talking about cookie recipes that involve Hershey kisses but there are so many good flavours out there that you think it’s a shame to settle for just candy cane? Well, who ever said you can’t make other kinds of mouth watering chocolate cookies too? We love the way Creations By Kara made simple chocolate thumbprint cookies but filled each spot in the middle with a different kind of chocolate kiss!
Maybe you’re very into the idea of making cookies with flavoured centres but you’ve been eating a lot of Christmas chocolate lately so you’d rather make a baked sweet that tastes like something else? Then we’d definitely suggest giving these cream cheese pinwheels from Backsplash a try! We love the way they filled the centre prints in their cookies with different types of delicious fruit jam. You could use whatever kind you like best!
Is your taste in cookies actually a little simpler and you’re not sure you’ll have time to get very fancy with the decorating so you’re looking for something simple that’s still delicious and somehow festive? Then we have a feeling you’re going to love these multi-coloured Christmas swirl cookies from Sarah’s Sweet Treats! Besides adding the colour, the fun in these ones is making the swirling shape before you bake them.
Have you always loved the flavours of sweet chocolate and salty snacks in one place but you don’t often find cookie recipes with that particular flavour combination involved? In that case, we just know you’re going to absolutely love these reindeer cookies from Budding Baketress! They show you how to make peanut butter cookie dough and decorate the cookies to have features and antlers using M&Ms and chocolate covered salted pretzels. They’ve got a satisfying crunch with every bite!
Are you okay with making a cookie recipe that doesn’t really look too overly Christmas-y as long as they taste completely delicious? Well, if you’re also a chocolate lover, then you’re going to completely adore these “snowfall” style cookies from Aaron’s Sweet Spot! Besides showing you how to make a delicious cookie batter, they also show you a great technique for rolling and sprinkling them with sweet powdered icing sugar so that they both taste and look wonderful.
Perhaps one of the guests you have staying with you over the Christmas holidays these year has some dietary restrictions when it comes to eating animal products because they’re vegan and you’ve been looking for ways to make them feel included when it comes to your cookie making? In that case, these delicious sugared chocolate chunk cookies from Big City Vegan are here to save your day!
Were you pretty intrigued by the idea of making minty tasting candy cane Christmas cookies but you’ve actually always been a little more partial to chocolate cookie batters than you have been to other kinds? Well, we certainly can’t say we blame you! Luckily for all of us, Bradley Kitchen has an awesome chocolate alternative to the recipe we showed you earlier on our list. The crushed candy cane chunks give each cookie a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Perhaps you’re not too picky about the way your cookies taste as long as they’re sweet and delicious because your real priority is making them look like cute holiday cookies made of snow? Then we can’t wait to show you how adorably seasonal shredded coconut cookies like these ones from Sugar Loco look! They made theirs round to look like snowballs but they added extra favour by putting differently flavoured jam thumbprints in the centre of theirs.
Have you been thinking about the chocolate snowfall cookies since we showed you the recipe earlier on our list but you’re worried that the combination of chocolate batter and powdered sugar might actually be a little too much sweetness for you? In that case, here’s a slightly less rich (but still deliciously sweet) alternative idea from Cooking With Sugar! Add as much or as little “snow” as you want.
Do you feel like you’ve tried just about every Christmas cookie recipe out there so now you’re wondering whether you might start looking at Christmas classics from around the world instead? Well, anyone with Italian family members will tell you that this delicious recipe from Taste of Home is a great alternative to your regular family recipe if you’ve already made those once or twice this year! We love the lightly sweet glaze drizzled on top.
Perhaps you’re really looking for a cookie idea that your kids can decorate with their cousins to keep them busy on a chilly winter afternoon but you’re not sure you’ll really have time in the next couple days to make homemade cookie batter for them to get creative on? Then check out how The Simple Parent helped their kids using icing, sprinkles, and M&Ms to make some Nutter Butter cookies look like miniature Santas!
Perhaps your taste in cookies is a little less rich and decadent and a little more uniquely flavoured, so you’re still scrolling hoping for something a little less chocolatey …but still covered in sugar? Then we have a feeling these sugar dusted almond cookies with perfectly roasted coffee beans nestled right into the middle of each cookie might be a lot more up your alley. Find out how they’re made on Design Your Lifestyle!
For us, the flavour of the cookie is the real priority, so we’re totally fine with the only “holiday” association being the colour of the cookie! That’s why these white chocolate cherry cookies featured on Creations by Kara caught our eye. This is also a great recipe for people who love the sweetness of chocolate but find milk and dark chocolate too rich. White chocolate is delicious too!
Do you have another favourite kind of Christmas cookie that you love making for your family every year but you don’t see a similar recipe on our list? Tell us all about how they’re made in the comments section or link us to recipes and pictures of your finished cookies!
When the holiday season arrives each year, we find ourselves hanging onto simple crafting supplies in larger bulk than usual. This is because whenever our kids have time off from school, they go into turbo crafting mode and want to get creative with just about anything in sight! Those are the days when we find easy crafting techniques and tools like working with popsicle sticks the most useful. They can make all kinds of things quite simply on their own while we wrap presents or get dinner ready for the family.
Just in case you like to keep simple crafts like popsicle stick projects on hand around this time of year too but you’d also like to keep things as seasonal as possible, here are 15 adorable Christmas crafts made with wooden crafting sticks and glue!
Have your kids always taken a liking to crafts that relate to the stories they’ve heard or the films they’ve watched? Well, if their at all familiar with the nativity story, they’ll certainly know all about the North Star that lead the three wise men to the manger! Help them recreate what they think that beautiful star looks like by painting popsicle sticks light blue and gluing them in layers and at different angles. We love the way Fashion Blog gave things a subtle winter touch by adding little snowflake shaped beads too.
Perhaps your kids are very little and you’re hoping to keep things as simply shaped as possible, while still managing to make them Christmas-y and fun? In that case, we think this adorable triangle Christmas tree idea might be just the kind of thing you’re looking for! Crafty Crafted shows you how to easily colour the sticks, glue the triangle, and even decorate the “tree” with colourful foam dots.
3. Popsicle stick and wooden spool Christmas trees
Just because you’re crafting with popsicle sticks doesn’t mean that has to be the only tool you use, or even the main focus of the project! We love the way Crafts Unleashed thought outside the box and made the sticks the trunk of a Christmas tree, but used wooden spools as the stand and thick card with pearly puffy paint as the tree and decorations. We’d make these in all different colours, just like theirs!
Do you like the idea of sticking to simple shapes but you also think your kids are old enough to handle a little bit more embellishment that the triangle Christmas tree called for? Then maybe creating an adorable reindeer character will be more fun for them! We love the way The Suburban Mom added sparkly pipe cleaners, googly eyes, and pom poms to their popsicle sticks to make them look like Rudolph the red nosed reindeer.
Okay, we know we said we were going to stick to crafts that dealt with crafting sticks, but we came across this stunning Christmas tree wall hanger in our search and we just couldn’t resist including it because it’s so pretty! Fun Crafts Kids shows you how to string together horizontal sticks in decreasing length to make a tree shape, as well as how to add beads so they look lie pretty Christmas bobbles. It’s like a natural, Bohemian Christmas tree!
Are you stilling totally into the idea of popsicle stick trees but none of the ones we’ve shown you so far have been quite right for your little ones? Then maybe they’d prefer to make a version that’s got a little more bling to it! We love the way One Little Project made a simple, layered stick Christmas tree and then added plenty of sparkly by sticking rhinestones all over it.
Do you already know that your kids absolutely love working with popsicle sticks so you’re just trying to collect as many cute characters as you possibly can? Then we definitely think you should add a fun little snowman to your list! Check out how Dump A Day pieced this one together and gave him a little hat and friendly face.
Do you love the idea of making little popsicle stick snowmen with your kids but you don’t actually have enough sticks to make the collaged kind above and you know you’ll be too busy to go grab more? Then try making single stick snowmen instead! Fashion Blog shows you how to use felt to make a hat, carrot nose, and scarf.
Do you love the idea of making something our of several popsicle sticks stuck together because you like that the finished product looks like an actual wooden project? Then we have a feeling you’ll love making these cute little sled ornaments by Shore Girls Creations! We love the way they embellished theirs with snowflake sequins and stamps.
Has your favourite Christmas story always been The Nutcracker and you’re looking for a way to incorporate that into your list of popsicle characters to make with your kids over the holidays? Then these cute little soldiers are the perfect craft to add! Remodelando la Casa shows you how to give them uniform jackets using paint or paint markers.
Is your Christmas tree topper this year a star shaped topper rather than an angel so you’ve been meaning to make some angel shaped ornaments to hang elsewhere on the tree to make up for it? Well, why not set your kids to the task instead using, of course, their trust popsicle sticks? We love the way Kristal Project made these angels with cute ruffled dresses and little stars.
Are you still a big fan of the idea of piecing together several popsicle sticks to make a character that’s a little bit bigger than some of the ones you’ve seen because you know your kids will love painting faces on that wider surface? Well, what better face to paint than that of The Grinch? Whether your kids decide to make him devious looking or happy like he is at the end of the story, This Girl’s Life is here to show them the steps for making it happen.
Are you still thinking about the idea of helping your kids make characters from different holiday stories they’ve heard but you’d also like to use that craft as a learning opportunity? Then why not help them make a popsicle stick nativity scene just like this one from Simply Real Moms? The building and characters are simple but the finished product is very cute.
While your kids are making reindeer and snowmen are you actually itching to start a more involved popsicle stick craft of your own because you see a lot of potential in them? Then we think you’ll have a blast making these wonderfully wooden layered Christmas trees to decorate your mantel or side table with! Home Esthetics shows you how they’re made but you could customize them with paint and sparkly embellishments to your heart’s content too.
Have you already made a pretty well rounded cast of popsicle stick Christmas characters with your kids but seeing the miniature nativity scene we showed you earlier made you realized you’re missing three individual wise men? Then perhaps you should make them from single sticks just like Made by Mollie’s Mom did here! We like the way they gave each wise man a fancy jacket befit for someone bearing valuable gifts, just like in the story.
If we had to choose one thing about winter that we love most (and we assure you that’s not a very easy thing for us to do because there are so many beautiful things to choose from), we’d probably say that we mostly appreciate the beauty of how the snow all around us sparkles in the sunlight. It’ll come as no surprise to you, then, that our favourite winter crafts to make are the ones that are covered in glitter so they have just as much sparkle as the world around us!
Just in case you and your kids love crafting with glitter as much as we do, here are 15 seasonal craft ideas that will help you keep things Christmas-y even if you’re used to crafting with glitter all year long.
If you’ve never done dried glue crafting projects then it’s time you started, because they’re really worth the potential mess, even if your kids are very little! The way the glue dries in the precise shape you squeeze it out into is very cool no matter how old you are. Imagine how awesome it all looks, then, when you add glitter on top of the shape you’ve created! We can’t get enough of these sparkling glue snowflakes from The Homeschool Hive.
Okay, we know that this idea might not exactly be what you were thinking of when you started searching for glitter crafts specifically, but the technique is just so cool that we couldn’t resist putting it on our list! The Inspired Treehouse guides you step by step through the process of smashing candy canes into a fine red and white “dust” that you can sprinkle over glued shapes just like you would with glitter in order to make a very holiday-like version of just about anything you’d usually make with glitter.
The process of making five=point stars from popsicle sticks might not be a particularly exciting one because they’re a classic craft that you’ve probably made before. That’s why we love the idea of jazzing your stars up a little bit! Moms Have Questions Too shows you how to make that happen using- of course- glitter! Try making them in all different colours.
Are you actually so into the idea of glitter and glue sprinkled crafts that you’ve perfected your skills such that you can stencil with the glue now? Then you’re going to love this glittered reindeer silhouette idea from Just Daisy Dreaming! We love how classy the gold looks here but you could also try it in silver or a more classic Christmas colour.
If you’re going to work with glitter and put in the effort and inevitable mess that comes with it, would you rather make yourself something you can use every year following, enjoying your project for many years of holidays? Then maybe these sparkling glass Christmas ornaments from A Girl’s Guilty Pleasure are the best idea for you! We love the idea of making them in a range of Christmas colours.
Have you ever looked at a random decorative trinket in your house and thought about how much better it might look if it was sparkly rather than plain? Well, we can’t say we blame you because we of this all the time! Organize Your Stuff Now did the same thing with these vintage keys they had lying around. We love that the silver glitter they chose sparkles just enough to make it look like they’re covered in a fine layer of frost, making them look much more wintery than they did before.
We’ve always love the idea of pine cones as winter décor because it brings just a little bit of the outside in. We’re sure you won’t be surprised to learn, however, that we love the idea of pine cone décor even more when the pine cones are covered in glitter! dMy Nail Art Hobby shows you how to do it making sure that all the little nooks and crannies of the pine cones get some pizzazz.
Believe it or not, glitter can be used to make things with a little more organization than just sprinkling it haphazardly will get you! These pretty Santa themed wine glasses from Made By Madison are the perfect example of what we mean. They show you how to strategically brush the glass with glue only in certain spots as you sprinkle the glitter so the colours stay separated and you can make them into actual shapes.
Crafts made with glue aren’t the only things you can sprinkle glitter on to get an excitedly sparkly finished product. Sometimes it’s nice to make yourself a more solidly shaped trinket or ornament that you can mould from scratch yourself. That’s why we liked this salt dough idea from Crafty Morning so much! They give you an awesome salt dough recipe and show you how to both mould and glitter a snowflake shape.
Do you remember playing with Spirograph kits when you were a kid, making all kinds of stunning spiralling patterns and creating a different design each time? Well, that’s kind of what creating this cute waving wreath art by Glued to My Crafts is like! The difference is that they show you how to add glitter for a little extra sparkle. Try gluing on a ribbon bow and some buttons for ornaments too!
In our house, you’ll find just about every spare surface covered in some type or seasonal decoration no matter the time of year. At Christmas, however, that’s especially true and the trinkets and décor pieces you’ll find are usually hand made! Because our kids love glitter just as much as we do, those handmade decorations are also usually covered in glitter. They actually recently made these sparkling Christmas trees from All Crafts made with upside down foam cones.
Are you still thinking about how much you liked the idea of making sparkled wine glasses because you love how they look but you don’t actually drink wine so you don’t feel like you really have use for the glasses themselves? Try turning the glasses upside down and using them as candle holders instead! Keeper of The Cheerios shows you how to make sparkling designs using blue shades so they look like they’re frosted with a light dusting of snow.
Decorative trinkets and sparkly ornaments are cute, especially if they’re simple enough that you can make them with your kids, but what if you’re hoping to make something you can hang up more like art? Well, here’s an option that’s a little more pop art inspired and funky than some of what you’ve seen so far! A Diamond in The Stuff shows you how to turn upcycled Christmas light bulbs and an old frame into sparkling 3D green and red art.
Have your kids always loved gingerbread men and decorating them to have faces and features but you’ve already made several batches this season and you’re just not sure they need more cookies right now? Then why not have them make gingerbread man inspired crafts instead? We love the way The Keeper of The Cheerios created this jumbo gingerbread face by sparkling an upcycled circular pizza pan and painting a cheerful smile and some “icing” on.
No matter what time of year it is, we’ve always loved making candles. One of our favourite ways to create our own candle designs or customize the plain candles we already have is to paint dip them in all different colours. Around Christmas time, though, we prefer to use glitter to dip instead because we love the way it sparkles like everything else! Find out how it’s done on Create, Craft, Love.
Do you know a fellow glitter lover who has been searching for fun Christmas crafting ideas to make with their kids? Share this post with them to give them some sparkling inspiration over the holidays!
If you ask us, choosing our very favourite part of Christmas is really hard. We love spending time with friends and family, having a little bit of time to relax, and getting to eat all of the delicious food we could possibly imagine. Okay, we’ll admit it, we also love getting fun gifts on Christmas morning! One of our very favourite parts of the entire holiday, however, is setting up and enjoying the Christmas tree! Not everyone, however, has the space for a whole full sized Christmas tree in their home, even if it’s a fake one rather than a real tree. If that describes you then don’t stress! Your DIY skills are here to save the day, as always.
Check out these 15 totally awesome Christmas tree DIY projects that will have your home feeling festive and fun even if you don’t have the space or time to put up a full on Christmas tree!
79 Ideas suggests getting the tools out to make yourself an awesome Christmas tree alternative! You’ll still get the cute, classic shape of a tree and you’ll even still get to hang some adorable little decorations all over it, but it’s a lot more space efficient because it’s 2D. See how they used nail art techniques to make a tree shape by hammering the nails into a slab of wood in the correct shape and wrapping green yarn around them.
Are you the kind of crafter who will take any opportunity to use up scraps or upcycle at the same time as you’re making something new? Then this is the kind of Christmas tree DIY for you! It’s made of scrap wood from an old palette cut into a tree shape and then strung with a chain of adorable orb lights. Check out the full details on My Scandinavian Home!
Do you love the look of rustic chic projects that are clearly DIY and upcycled? Do you adore things that light up? Then we think you’ll be pretty into the idea of repurposing an old wooden standing ladder as a Christmas tree! We love the way NE Design Build wrapping this ladder in a string of Christmas lights and hung a few ornaments from them. It’s not necessarily the best option if space is your issue, but it’s a great way to still enjoy a “tree” if your qualm was with having to actually go get a real Christmas tree itself.
Do you love the idea of bringing a little bit of the outside world in for Christmas but you don’t want to cut down a perfectly healthy, living tree to do it? Try using a dried tree or a large, naturally fallen branch as your Christmas tree instead, just like Norske Interior Blogger did here! Sure, it might be a little more sparse looking than your traditional luscious fir, but there’s something charming about the way the ornaments contrast the naked branches they adorn.
Perhaps the issue isn’t either space or the ability to go get a Christmas tree, but rather that you’re going to be away for most of the holidays and you don’t have time to set up something special that’s separate from your already existing home decor? Then it’s time to use what you’ve already got! Instead of bringing a new tree into the house, simply hang your favourite ornaments on the house plants you already have. If you have many, it’ll be like you have lots of little Christmas trees instead of one big one!
Are you looking for a DIY Christmas tree design that really keeps it easy and stays right out of your way? Then why not try this washi tape tree idea from Bloesem? The technique is so simple that we hardly need to describe it for you; simply choose your colours and stick straight lines of washi tape to your wall in the shape of a Christmas tree! You could even use other wall stickers or party garlands inside the tree as “ornaments” if you felt like getting fancy.
Are you a huge book worm with more of an appreciation for artistic versions of things rather than really overtly festive designs? Then this “Christmas tree” made of piled books is definitely the one for you! Make the trunk out of regular closed books turned so we can see their ends and then pile opened books on top in decreasing size so they make a smaller point closer to the top, just like the shape of a fir tree. Check out how it’s done on Twig and Thistle.
Have you been obsessed with felt lately? It’s just so versatile! Whether you’re sewing projects from felt material or straight up felting, it’s a great tool to work with for DIY. It can also help you out when it comes to unconventional DIY Christmas trees! Check out how Papier Valise made this adorable little textured tree by cutting out lots of felt circles and pinning them to the surface of a foam cone.
Are you an artist? Do you live in the kind of fun household that has a whole chalkboard wall in one room? Then perhaps you don’t need to DIY yourself a physical tree at all! We absolutely adore the way A Legg Up sketched out this super decorative Christmas tree design. The best part, to us, is that you can make it look however you want without being constricted by which ornaments you actually own in real life!
Is someone you love a struggling college student who you know won’t have either a Christmas tree or a whole lot of spare cash to really treat themselves or celebrate the holidays with? Then take the old saying literally and make them a money tree! Then She Made shows you how to fold bills to look like fir branches, wrap them in wire to make a vertical trunk shape, and decorate them for Christmas!
Maybe your favourite part of decorating the Christmas tree is just that- the decorating part- and you’re so in love with all of your cute little ornaments that you don’t really care whether there’s an actual tree or not? Then this awesomely kitschy little trinket tree design from Apartment Therapy is the one for you! If you don’t have enough ornaments to make a tree the size you want on the wall, follow their lead and throw in some random household objects or tools for extra character! We spy at least one unconventional “ornament” here and we think it’s hilarious.
Do you still want to keep tat classic Christmas tree shape and style you love so much, but you really need to have a teeny, tiny version of the tree you usually set up this year? Then try using the art of paper folding to make a little tabletop tree! Paperman Origami guides you through the process of folding your very own Christmas tree, complete with a star on top.
Have you always had a taste for vintage glamour that you try to sneak into every decor scenario possible because it suits your home and personal style? Then we’ve found the only Christmas tree DIY project for you. Over the course of the year, collect gift boxes, storage boxes, shoe boxes, or hat and clothing boxes that have a pretty, decorative feel. Make sure you get them in all different sizes so that you can stack them in decreasing order, then pile them up to make a pointed tree shape and voila! We love this blue toned one from House of Bliss.
Maybe you don’t have the space for a full blown Christmas tree this year but you still want to keep at least a hint of the traditional tree alive for your kids? Something like the origami tree is a good idea, but Oh Happy Day has thought of something more fun. Paint, silk screen, print, or buy a picture of a Christmas tree on some fabric and hang it on the wall. Next, cut out and decorate little Christmas bobbles and number them 1 to 24. Each day, starting on December 1st, stick one bobble to the tree to decorate it while you count down from 24 days until Christmas morning! It’ll be like a tree decorating advent calendar and your kids will have so much fun that they won’t mind having a print instead of a tree.
No matter what time of year it is or what event we’re celebrating, we love styling our hair to suit the occasion. In fact, we just plain love styling our hair, if we’re being honest! There doesn’t have to be a party or holiday to make us look up fun ways to make or locks look particularly great, but we admit we usually feel a little more inspired to look nice around the holidays.
Check out these 15 gorgeously simple DIY hairstyles for all lengths of hair that we think are pretty and perfect for the Christmas season.
When you’re dressing up for the biggest holiday part of the year, do you always imagine dressing yourself up like a big, fancy gift, all wrapped in a nice bow? Well, unless you feel like making a headpiece out of an actual gift bow, then this adorable hair bow is the easiest way for you to really get into the spirit! See how it’s done on JustBebexo.
Do you love the simple, timeless look of gathering your hair at the nape of your neck, but you like to change up the way you style it once it’s there? Then we definitely suggest this triple braided style by Camille Styles! It give you the classic silhouette of a sweet, low bun but with a bit of a twist and a little more modern style.
Maiden braids are back in style in a huge way and we’re not even a little bit mad about it! We think it’s very sweet looking and it hearkens back to a time of simple updos. We absolutely adore, however, the way A Beautiful Mess has replaced one of the braid strands with with the fabric of a thing scarf, wrapping it at the top like a cute hairband.
Do you have little ones who, if they’re going to go through the process of sitting still enough to get their hair done, want to go all out in terms of holiday style? Then this hilarious novelty reindeer bun by Princess Piggies is definitely the style for them! Create a sock bun and embellish it with googly eyes, a hilarious red nose, and even some pipe cleaner antlers!
Have you always thought that a small bouffant on top is the perfect way to give any holiday look a little bit of classy glamour? We love this classic style so much that we often do it even if we’re just leaving our hair down, but sometimes it’s nice to fancy up a traditional style a little. Missy Sue did that by adding a gorgeously loose French braid to the bouffant! It’s like the vintage Hollywood glamour of Brigitte Bardot meest the whimsical braids of a mermaid.
Braids are always fun, but when we’re dressing up around the holidays, sometimes it’s nice to do even fancier versions of the regular looks you love. That’s when we usually foray into the world of four strand braids! They give your look a little bit of extra intricacy, especially if you add an interwoven ribbon like Babes in Hairland did here.
Do yo love the idea of a novelty bun decorated to the nines for the holiday season, but you’re not sure the reindeer style is the one for you? Then try just embellishing your daughter’s (or your own) bun with gift bows, ribbons, or other holiday accoutrements instead! The more the hairstyle looks like a gorgeous present, the better. Check out this particular style by Princess Hairstyles in more detail.
Did you like the maiden braid style but you’ve been wearing a lot of braids lately and have been looking for something else to give things a new twist? Then consider giving things a real, actual twist by creating a rope twist halo instead! You’ll still get that lovely face framing effect but with a different style all the way around. See how it’s done on Cute Girls Hairstyles.
Are you completely obsessed with braids but always looking for ways to make them even more awesome and unique than they already are? We especially love doing this around the holidays because we have so many events to go to and we think we’ve found the one for you! Learn how You’re So Pretty turned what started out as a regular braid into pulled strands that look like little bows.
Waterfall braids have been trendy for a while now and, despite how layered and intricate they look, they’re actually much easier to do than you’d think! If you ask us, that’s the perfect recipe for a good holiday style. It takes a little more effort than you might usually put into your hair, but it’s still cute enough to look effortles Seventeen shows you how it’s done.
Have you always been a huge fan of simple pigtail braids but you think the holidays are time to get into the spirit of decor, even in your own personal style? Then don’t leave your hair out! We love the way Hair Romance has added a beautiful head chain down the part. It’s adds some glamour to a casual style and makes the whole look whimsical.
Do you love braids of any kind, but particularly enjoy ones that cross the head at interesting directions? Then you’ll love this diagonal ribbon braid from Princess Hairstyles ! Besides the cute direction, the ribbons give you the opportunity to add some Christmas colours.
Have you mastered the art of a casual half up, half down bouffant but you’re still looking for a way to make it more festive? Then why not take the option that’s so obvious you might not even have thought of it? Hook some pretty little Christmas bobbles into your hair, just like Styles Glamour did here!
Are you still searching for the perfect hilarious novelty style to help your little girl win the dress up competition at her school’s Christmas dance? Then you must check out how Raising Lifelong Learners created an actual Christmas tree between a pair of long pigtails! Ribbon is the key here, and you’ll put your braiding skills to work as well. We’re in love with the “ornaments” made from small clips!
Are you so in love with braids that you’d be perfectly happy to pile braids on braids on braids? Well, that’s basically what Pretty Hairstyles did here! We love the way a classic French braid looks done simply down the back, but with a smaller braided band around the whole head to add some contrast that’s still on theme. Adding a bow just tops the whole style off and takes it to that higher level of dressy style.
Do you know someone who loves to get creative with their hairstyles during the holidays just like we do? Share this post with them for a little bit of inspiration!
Do you have holiday parties coming up in December that you want to look your absolute best for? Are you a huge fan of showing off your DIY skills through the art of fashion alterations and custom embellishments, particularly in the form of flashy Christmas wear? Are you convinced that you have the perfect attitude for rocking homemade sweaters, especially themed ones, like nobody else has ever rocked a sweater before? Then it’s time to buckle down and make yourself your very own ugly Christmas sweater!
Check out these 15 DIY clothing alteration and embellishment ideas that will guaranteeyou first place in the year’s biggest event: the office ugly Christmas sweater party!
What’s better than an ugly sweater look? An ugly sweater look that actually makes use of your whole body, of course! If you really want to win the competition, then wearing a sweater that simply looks good while you’re standing normally might not be enough. Surprise your coworkers by throwing your arms out to the side so they look like the top of the mantle with stockings hanging down from the sleeves!
Maybe you’re looking for something just a tad more eye catching? You know, nothing too over the top, but not understated either. Something with a little mystery. Then you need to check out this sweater from Instrcutables that transforms you into the chimney Santa got stuck in! You probably don’t need to be able to see your computer screen on the last day before the Christmas holidays anyway.
Have you always said that you eat so many gingerbread house pieces during the holidays that one day you might actually turn into one? Well, we imagine this is how you might look if you did! Between the lace “icing” and the pom pom “jujubes”, you’ll be the sweetest looking belle at the ball that day.
Have you ever eaten way too much Christmas candy or enjoyed a few too many spiked egg nogs and lost your (literal) cookies at a holiday party? Well, this Imgur user imagined what it might look like if Rudolph the red nosed reindeer did the same thing! Recreating this one for your office work party is bound to gain you some brownie points (or maybe just cause your coworkers to subtly steer you away form the drinks table).
Did you love the idea of involving your entire body in your ugly Christmas outfit but you’re just not sure that transforming yourself into a mantle is quite your style? Then try making yourself a beautiful Christmas tree instead! Just imagine how much fun you’ll have showing everyone what happens when you raise your arms! On top of that, tinsel is awesome and your coworkers will totally appreciate you shedding cheerful, sparkly strands all over their desks all day.
What’s better than an ugly Christmas sweater? An ugly Christmas sweater made out of ugly Christmas ties, of course! It’s like a case of Christmas themed inception and we’re not mad about it at all. Visit thrift stores, novelty Christmas pop up shops, or your dad’s closet and collect all of the gorgeously tacking neck ties you can find, and then tack them to the front of your sweater arranged in a pyramid like a Christmas tree. Bright buttons and ribbons make the perfect decorations for your tie tree, and you get more bonus points for creativity the less your buttons match the ties. Check it out in more detail on I Love to Create!
Okay, okay, so you probably can’t take your rabbit to work with you to compete in the ugly Christmas sweater contest as well, but we’d be willing to bet that he’d win if he could! This Imgur user knitted their bunny an ugly Christmas sweater and we think it’s so darn stylish that we’re considering knitting differently sized versions for our cats and dogs too.
Are you an avid knitter with an eye for colour who wants to show off your crafty skills and your personal style all at once in the office this holiday season? Then you definitely need to make your own version of this Imgur user‘s ugly Christmas sweater made from leftover yarn scraps! You’re pretty much guaranteed to be the brightest person at the whole party, if not the outright winner upon walking through the door.
Are you looking for a DIY sweater design that does a little more than show off your personal style when it comes to clothes? Maybe you want a sweater that really says something about who you are in your life outside of work? Well, if we were to choose a sweater like that for ourselves, it would certainly be this crazy cat lady design from Instructables! Besides being an accurate depiction of what your living room at home looks like every year when we try to set up the tree, the sweater lights up. If that doesn’t sweep the competition, then we’re boycotting Christmas all together.
Obviously even we know that, no matter how good your DIY skills are, there’s no way to make an ugly Christmas sweater that actually involves real snow in any way unless you want to attend your work party soaking wet. Instead, simulate fluffy white snow by sticking shredded cotton all across the bottom like this Instructables design! We love the idea of “burying” Santa and a reindeer in the snow, but watch out for silly coworkers trying to catch snacks in there when you’re not paying attention.
When it comes to sweaters that will entertain your coworkers, then this snow globe design by ryeomans1, which they can actually kind of participate in by watching the snow as you move, totally takes the cake! As if all the trimmings, like the tinsel and the felt snow, weren’t enough, there’s actually loose snow inside that will “blow around” like a storm if you jump up and down. There’s no harm in fixing the competition by using your distracting visual apparel to hypnotize your coworkers into crowning you winner of the ugly Christmas sweater competition, right?
If you’re going to wear ugly Christmas clothing, you might as well go all out, right? Instead of just making yourself an ugly Christmas sweater, try making yourself a complete Christmas outfit instead! We’re completely in love with this gift bow and tinsel dress by EroSennin and we also quite enjoy that, in the event one of your coworkers hasn’t quite finished wrapping their gifts yet, they can just borrow your outfit after to get everything wrapped and ready to go!
Yes, you read that right. It’s an ugly Christmas poncho. Just in case the sweater designs we’ve been listing didn’t quite have that flair of classically ugly style on top of their amazingly tacky embellishments, this design from Toglefritz is here to really take things over the top! Just in case it’s not enough that the garment resembles the tree skirt we put around the base of our Christmas tree, it actually lights up too!
If you weren’t considered the story teller of the office before you wore this sweater to the Christmas party, you will be now! Besides hearkening back to the classic Christmas film A Christmas Story, this sweater by scooter76 actually tells part of the story visually all across your middle. Thank goodness for the visual tale spinning tool that is felt!
Whether you’re more of a pop drinker or a beer drinker, you probably have the ability to collect a lot of bottle caps between now and your office Christmas party. This bottle cap tree design by Pop Sugar takes quite a few, so we hope you’re thirsty! We can’t guarantee your coworkers won’t be alarmed by how many sugary drinks you’ve downed or how many different brands of beer you’ve tried before, but we can guarantee they’ll be impressed with how thrifty your idea was. You’ll be like a walking advertisement for upcycling!
Have you made other DIY ugly Christmas sweaters that you’ve convinced are even more glorious than these ones? Perhaps you even have a couple of seasoned contest winners in your closet? Tell us about how you made them or link us to pictures of how great you look in them in the comments section!
One of our very favourite Christmas traditions is hanging Christmas stockings. We love the idea of filling each person’s giant sock with little trinkets and personalized gifts, and we also love reading in and finding out what’s in our own! Besides that, stockings are a great opportunity to get decorative and crafty all at once. The neater your stocking looks, the more it’ll contribute to your Christmas decor! We absolutely adore making our home look as festive as possible. When it comes to DIY stockings, however, there’s one crafting technique that, for us, takes the lead in terms of favourites.
Check out these 15 beautiful crochet Christmas stocking patterns that will make your space look warm and festive and make your family members’ faces light up on Christmas morning!
No matter what colours you do your stripes in, the lovely little scallops and waves in this stocking pattern will make them look amazing! We love the little crocheted holly detail on the cuff and we’re also glad to see that the stocking as a loop so you can hand them up wherever you please! (by Gleeful Things)
Are you looking for a design that’s a little more classic and looks closer to something you’d see in a TV show or movie or in a magazine? Then we think you’ll like this design a little more than one that’s very colourful! Granted, you could make the foot and the heel and toe of this design in whatever bright colours you please, but it’s pretty lovely in traditional Christmas colours, if you ask us. (by Red Heart)
Perhaps your version of a perfect stocking is one that actually doesn’t look traditional at all? If you’re the kind of person who loves bright colours and eye catching designs, then this crochet pattern and colour scheme design are the perfect option for you. We’re completely in love with the little pom poms all around the top of the cuff. (by 3 Squeezes)
Are you a little bit more experience in your crochet techniques and looking for something that will put them to use? Perhaps you’re still quite new but you’re looking for something to learn now that’s a little more challenging than the basics? Well, if you ask us, it sounds like it’s time to start cabling! This gorgeous cabled stocking pattern looks classic, traditional, and absolutely lovely by the time it’s done. Make sure to do it in a light or bright colour, as darker hues don’t show details and patterns quite as well. If you’re going to put all that work in, of course you want people to see it! (by Red Heart)
Usually granny squares are made for things like baby blankets and afghans, but we love using traditional techniques for new projects! Creating each little square separately and then joining them together around the border is a fun process that will keep you busy in the evenings while you watch TV or catch up with your family. Granny square projects are also great for teaching new corcheters because they’ll feel very accomplished every time they finish a simple square. Finally, they’re great for teaming up on a project with someone else! We love the adorable patchwork effect the finished product has. (by Family Circle)
Do you love a little bit of visual detail but you’re not looking for anything too fancy? Try this absolutely adorable zig zag pattern! Besides how great it looks in shape, we really like the idea of being able to choose multiple colours to create a scheme. Both brights and neutrals will look great and the overall effect will be nice and textured. (by Make My day Creative)
If you’re going to make stockings for the family this year, remember to make one for every member of the family- even the four-legged ones! we’re absolutely in loved with this crocheted paw print stocking, which could actually be made for families with any paw-having pet if you leave out the adorable bone embellishment. (by Red Heart)
Do you love the idea of doing some colour work in your stocking? Then try this simple little snowman pattern! The base, cuff, heel, and toe are all rather simple, and the snowman is actually a lot easier than you’d think to make, but keep in mind that you will have to count stitches and watch your rows when it comes to adding details. The finished product is so cute, however, that it’s totally worth it! (by Yarnspirations)
We’re pretty sure these stockings have the word “heirloom” in the name because they’re so darn cute and classic that, if you make them from quality yarn, they’ll stay in your family for generations to come. That’s the greatest thing about hand crocheted gifts! Your kids will enjoy them this year, but in the future it might be your grandchildren pulling teats and toys out of the toes. We’re in love with the cute little Christmas tree details on the side! (by Maggie’s Crochet)
Are you a huge fan of stockings but your kids are actually all grown up and your Christmas celebrations are going to be a small, adult family affair this year? Well, that’s no excuse to give up on stockings all together! Instead of crocheting a big stocking that will go unfilled, try creating an adorable little stocking ornament for your Christmas tree. We love the concept of calling them “elf stockings” because it gives us the most hilarious mental image of tiny Santa’s elves wearing them as socks! (by Fav Crafts)
Do you like the idea of making mini stockings but you’d rather add a little bit more flair to your design? Then we definitely think you’ll appreciate the use of fun fur yarn here! We love the way the fringy texture lines the edge of the cuff all the way around the top. Talk about opening up new possibilities for colour combinations! (by Craftsy)
Don’t you just adore crafts that let you combine more than one of your crafting skills to make the same awesome DIY project? That’s what it takes to make these gorgeous, vintage looking stockings! Once you’ve crocheted the stocking itself, you’ll actually switch techniques and start cross stitching in order to add the picture on the front. Whoever you gift these stockings too will be head over heels for the gorgeous details you’ve added. (by Yarnspirations)
We understand that this name might be a little bit misleading. When we first clicked on the “baby stocking” pattern, we suspected that it would lead us to a crochet pattern for a stocking that was small enough for a baby to wear or enjoy. To our surprise, we were met with the instructions for crocheting a stocking so big that the baby actually fits inside! Imagine all of the adorable Christmas portraits you can take. It’ll also keep Baby warm and toasty on chilly holiday mornings! (by Red Heart)
Perhaps you’re looking for a stocking pattern that’s a little more pretty and intricate than some of the more classic or novelty patterns you’ve seen on our list so far? In that case, a lace stocking design is definitely what you need! There are few finished projects that will ever look quite as gorgeous as crocheted lace, nor be quite as rewarding when you’re finally done. This one’s for crochet enthusiasts who are a little more experienced! (by Fav Crafts)
Perhaps you’re a big fan of colour blocking and you’re plain and simply looking for some fun, bright, easy stripes? Then you’ll love this awesome effect that, depending on which colours you choose for your stripes, can look totally traditional and Christmas-y or totally wild and rainbow. We really like the cute Fleur de Lise detail around the cuff, but if you’re experienced enough to read design charts, you can embellish that part however you please! (by Fav Crafts)
Do you know someone who loves funny Christmas stockings and crocheting just as much as we do? Share this post with them for a little bit of holiday inspiration!
If you’re a person who is particularly busy around the holidays, who lives in a very small space, who does your best to be co friendly at all times, or who simply likes to get a little more creative then the standard, then you’re also someone who might enjoy our latest holiday obsession: homemade alternatives to Christmas trees! We came across the idea earlier this month and, honestly, we’ve been pouring over Internet tutorials and inspiration photos ever since. We just can’t get enough of the concept of putting a creative twist on the traditional idea of setting up a Christmas tree and we also can’t believe just how many creative options there are out there.
If you’re a gardener looking for a quick concept that you can set up in under an hour, then we’ve definitely found the best idea for you already! Check out how NEDC simply set up a peaked wire tomato cage, which already resembles the shape of a classic fir tree, and wound twinkling lights around it to give it a festive glow.
Have you actually been looking for different ways to make your Christmas decor scheme a little more mod and minimalist then usual? Perhaps you’d just like to give your kids an additional holiday canvas to get creative on without having to worry about them breaking any glass ornaments that might be family heirlooms. Either way, we’d definitely suggest checking out how Instructables made this fantastic 3D cardboard Christmas tree!
What if you’ve actually already decorated your Christmas tree for the year and discovered that you have lots of cute ornamental balls left over that won’t fit comfortably, but you still want to display them creatively? Then we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how In My Own Style created this adorable stacked ornament tree instead! It makes a great centrepiece, depending on the size.
Maybe you’re looking for something very minimalist and space efficient that won’t take up any floor room at all but will still be a reminder of the classic Christmas spirit during your extremely busy holiday season? Then perhaps you’d get along a little better with something like this horizontal branches outline! Almost Makes Perfect shows you how to make it happen using rosemary (which actually means it’ll help make your home smell great too).
Maybe you love the idea of making a flat wall tree because you do live in a very small space but you’re just not sure that the rosemary idea is quite crafty enough for you? In that case, we think perhaps something like this fringed tissue paper tree craft outlined step by step on Curbly might be a little more up your alley.
Have you actually been scrolling through our list hoping to come across something a little more whimsical looking? Maybe you just prefer working with softer materials like fabrics rather than using paper or hard tools. In any case, we can’t get over just how stunning and fantasy-like these lovely little white tulle Christmas trees featured on Girl in The Garage look! We love the idea of making them in all different colours of tulle as well.
Just in case paper crafts are actually your favourite kind but you’re also always on the lookout for ways to add an upcycling or recycling element to your DIY process, here’s an idea from Kayla Aimee Writes for the avid reader who can’t bear to see damaged books go to waste! Check out how they made decorative miniature Christmas trees from book pages. We adore the way they glittered the outside edges for some extra sparkle.
Does your home have a distinctive upcycled or rustic chic aesthetic that you’ve been trying to work with while you also consider your limited space this year? Well, that doesn’t have to mean that you must miss out on the fun of hanging Christmas ornaments and lights! Check out how Redhead Can Decorate used theirs to create an abstract Christmas tree on a reclaimed wooden pallet.
Were you feeling pretty intrigued indeed by the idea of making a Christmas tree from stacked spherical ornaments but your sense of personal style is also a little bit flashier than the average person? Then maybe you’d prefer to get really modern with things and make something like this multi-sized disco ball Christmas tree instead! We’re completely in love with this design from Studio DIY.
Maybe we caught your attention when we started talking about readers turning pieces of their favourite thing into Christmas decor to save them from being thrown out, but your passion is actually music? Then here’s a sheet music version of a similar idea for you to try instead! Instead of being fringed by page, this tutorial from Twig Decor uses crafting foam as a base.
Just in case you’re still thinking about how you can make something that’s simultaneously both rustic and alternative, here’s an awesome design from Crafts a la Mode that will help you upcycle all that brown paper from your last move! We love the way they waved and pinched the paper to make it look ruffled from top to bottom within each layer.
Are you still thinking about how much you liked the flat wall hanging Christmas tree ideas but you think you’d rather make a version that still has a pop of colour? In that case, reach for some simple wooden dowels and a pack of bright baubles (or plain ones that you can paint) and check out how Jenny Batt made this lovely Christmas tree alternative!
Did we really catch your attention when we started talking about alternative ideas that are a little brighter and more eclectic than the average design but you’re not sure the disco ball concept we showed you has quite enough bright pops of colour for your tastes? In that case, we’d absolutely suggest taking a look at how Sugar and Cloth created this wonderful rainbow tree replacement using colourful balloons and expanding paper pom poms!
Paper pom poms aren’t the only kind you can use to make a Christmas tree alternative. For those who prefer working with softer materials, here’s a lovely homemade design from Pillar Box Blue that uses DIY yarn pom poms for great texture, just like a real tree! We adore the way they used hand felted balls to make their tree look like it has been decorated in ornaments as well.
Just in case you’re still not decided on a specific idea but you’re convinced that something with mod looking visuals is the way to go, here’s a concept that’s a little more rounded around the edges! Check out how Home Depot fastened cut sections of PVC pipe to a canvas, arranged to look like a peaked tree. Make the tree look decorated for the holidays by setting Christmas ornaments right inside the sections of pipe!
Being the huge yarn enthusiasts we are, the holidays are basically a Christmas present for us before we even get to open any of the presents we got from family and friends. That’s because it’s one of the only times a year we have to sit and work on our favourite hobby with very few interruptions: we finally have time to crochet! This year, we’ve really been feeling the holiday spirit and that’s made us want to crochet a few specifically Christmas themed things while we’re at it.
Just in case you’d love to do some Christmas themed crochet projects this holiday season as well, here are 15 of the best ideas we’ve come across so far in our search!
No matter how many people have or how many they receive, Christmas stockings make great gifts. we’ve long been fans of crocheting our loves ones Christmas stockings and filling them with all kinds of little, affordable treats and goodies as a gift to brighten their holiday. Get this pattern on Make and Do Crew.
Would you rather crochet something that’s got a little bit of funny personality and character to it, or perhaps a bit of novelty? Then we think you simply must take a look at how Stacey Trock made this adorable little penguin plushie that wears its own Santa hat! Their tutorial walks you step by step through the whole process.
Have we actually caught your attention quite well talking about Christmas characters but you think you’d rather create something that’s a little less cartoonish and a little more inspired by Christmas tradition, even though it’s still unique? In that case, we have a feeling you’re going to totally dig the way Crafty Braam made these funny little Christmas gnomes complete with fluffy beards.
Perhaps you’re actually feeling intent on learning how to make Christmas stockings someday but right now you’re still a beginner, so you don’t feel ready to tackle the full, fillable size just yet? In that case, we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how Lemons and Sucrettes made these adorable miniature Christmas socks instead! They make great ornaments and they’re still good for very small gifts as well.
Are you actually quite experienced at crochet so you’re looking for a little decorative project that will challenge your skills a little heavier? Well, if you like working with finer wools as opposed to think ones, we have a feeling you’ll get along quite well with this lacy crocheted Christmas tree motif outlined step by step on Anabelia Craft Design.
Are you very intrigued indeed by the idea of crocheting little, delicate looking motifs that you can hang around your house as ornaments or apply to larger projects as appliques, so you think you’d like to do more than just trees? Then here’s a beautiful snowflake from Attic 24 for your consideration as well!
Just in case your kids like to crochet along with you, here’s another project that’s simple enough for beginners and also little hands. We’ve made many of these adorable wreaths by Whiskers & Wool over the years and we find they make great gifts and Christmas party favours.
In our house, every member of the family gets a Christmas stocking, right down to the dog and cat! By now, you’ve probably noticed that we really like themed things, so we’re sure it’ll come as no surprise to you at all that we’ve actually made two of these funny paw and bone stockings from Red Heart for our two pooches.
No matter how silly they look, we will always be huge fans of funny novelty photo crafts. There’s just something so amusing about turning pictures of our family or friends into all kinds of creative displays, especially if there’s a themed involves, and these little crocheted Santa face ornaments from Grandma Perkins are no exception.
Just in case you’re still thinking about how much you love to crochet plushies as you scroll but you haven’t seen one that held your attention yet, here’s a fantastic pattern from Dawn Toussaint that will teach you how to make an adorable reindeer! We can’t get over how cute he looks wearing a yarn work scarf of his own.
Just in case you had something a little more classic in mind, here’s a pattern to help you make something that we actually remember our great grandmother making when she we were kids! Check out how Grandma Perkins made these folding and unfolding Christmas trees that stand on their own when you pinch them at the sides.
Has your favourite kind of ornament actually always been the rounded bauble kind that have always been put on Christmas trees traditionally, but you’re of the believe that just about anything can be recreated out of yarn? Well, we happen to be on the same page! That’s why we adored this fantastic dual coloured Christmas ball pattern with a wave and a tassel, outlined on 10 Hours or Less.
Have you long been obsessed with the idea of crocheting things in miniature, trying your hand at things like adorable amigurumi style designs? Then we’re pretty sure these cute little snowmen outlined with care on Dapper Toad are going to be right up your alley! We adore their little scarves and the way their features have been simple embroidered, like a sketch.
Just in case you’re looking for a holiday project that’s a little more challenging and makes a little bit more of a statement, here’s a way to jazz up any throw pillows or cushions you might have sitting on your couch! Crochet these awesome holiday slip covers featured on Daily Crochet and slide them right over the pillows you already have until the holidays are over.
Have you just finished wrapping your holiday gifts and looked around to realize just how much leftover stuff you have? Well, some of it you can undoubtedly save until next year and use again, but what about the pieces that are too small or too few to really be helpful during Christmas seasons to come? We usually use those for crafting and we find that things like scraps of wrapping paper and spare Christmas cards make for some of the most fun upcycling projects we do all year long!
Just in case you love the idea of turning your old cards and gift wrap into festive crafts just as much as we do, if not more, here are 15 of the very best designs, ideas, and tutorials that we’ve come across so far.
We have so many ornaments and little Christmas trinkets that we hardly know what to do with them. We adore putting them out on every single surface, but we also really love finding Christmassy alternatives to things we usually have set out and use a lot, like the bowl we put our change and receipts in on the hallway table. Last year, we used this tutorial from Design Everyday to make a trinket box out of spare Christmas cards and we used that to keep on the table throughout December instead!
Of course, your Christmas wallpaper probably doesn’t have pink flamingoes all over it, but we’re completely in love with the idea of using wrapping paper as wallpaper. Do you have one that you bought a spare tube of because you loved its slightly more obscure shapes, patterns, or colours so much, even though it doesn’t actually scream Christmas” to you? Then we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how The Homes I Have Made paper their wall with gift wrap in a few surprisingly simple steps!
Not every gift we give is shaped or made in such a way that it can be easily wrapped in paper like a box or a book might be. That’s why we loved this idea for making gift bags out of the paper! This way, all our gifts can be coordinated and matching even if we can’t find pre0made bags made in the same pattern. See how it’s done on The Happier Homemaker.
Maybe you’re the kind of person who loves the holidays so much that you’d like to preserve a small element of that Christmas cheer all year round? Well, if you’ve ever used clipboards for home notes, sports, or things at work, then we have a feeling you’re going to love the way The Happy Housie did a bit of decoupage to create a lovely wrapping paper clad clipboard that’s cool no matter what pattern you use.
Maybe you actually just really like the colours or shine of the wrapping paper you used for the holidays this year and, even if it’s in abstract, you can’t help thinking it would look really neat recycled as a piece of art? In that case, we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how Oh Joy! created simple collage art and framed it to make it a whole decorative piece.
Maybe the gifts you have that aren’t quite right for wrapping in paper are actually also a little too small for the kinds of DIY bags we showed you above and you’re worried something delicate like jewelry will get lost in all that space or be thrown out with the tissue? Then we’d absolutely suggest taking a look at how Poppytalk used a small paper enveloped that has been unstuck at the glued seams as a template for making lovely wrapping paper envelopes instead!
Were you ever made to create paper sleeves for your textbooks in highschool to keep the covers a little more protected until you handed them in at the end of the year. Well, that’s kind of what Eighteen25 teaches you how to do here, only this time you’re using colourful wrapping paper! We used this technique to wrap our favourite holiday cookbooks so we can more easily recognize which ones have the Christmas recipes in them in a really festive way.
Maybe we caught your attention when we started talking about the idea of making abstract things where the colours of your wrapping paper really stand out but you can’t necessarily tell that the paper was once covered in reindeer or holly, even though you think the collage idea was a little too scattered for your taste? In that case, we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how We Are Scout made this geometric paper art that has a lovely quilted effect!
Would you rather decoupage the frame itself rather than the space inside? Well, nothing’s stopping you from doing just that in order to create all kinds of seasonal frames that you can set your favourite Christmassy photos of your family and friends in! Take a look at Onelmon to see how it’s done in a really easy way.
Maybe you’d like to give yourself a little Christmas surprise here and there all year long without adding any holiday decor to your house that might look out of place to guests? In that case, we’d absolutely suggest taking a look at how iHeart Organizing used wrapping paper to line their drawers! Whether it’s your sock drawer or the spoons in the kitchen, you’ll get a bit of holiday cheer each time you open that drawer without interrupting your year-round decor scheme.
Maybe you’re actually looking for some kind of upcycling project that your kids can get in on as a way to keep them busy while they’re off school for the holidays, even once Christmas is over? In that case, we think these adorable little origami stars might be precisely what you’re looking for! We love the way wrapping paper works just like regular paper for most crafts. See how these are made in more detail on Crafting a Green World.
Perhaps the scraps of Christmas wrap you’ve been left with are very small indeed so you’re looking for a craft that will only use very small sections of the pattern or design? Then we have a feeling you’ll get along just fine indeed with this fantastic homemade advent calendar by Crafty Nest! Each square on each day is a motif from a different scrap of gift wrap.
Recycled material and upcycled Christmas ornaments just might be our very favourite kind to make. We’re sure you can imagine, then, just how excited we were when we found this fantastic tutorial from Lil Blue Boo that teaches you how to make just that while also reusing a section cut from an spare Christmas card! This display is lovely no matter what design your card features.
When it comes to making Christmas dinner, we often happily offer to host. Even when we don’t, however, we’re still eager to get in on the cooking fun and contribute to the meal! That’s because we’re convinced the holidays offer up the best kinds of recipes all year long. Sure, we love turkey and all, but for us it’s actually the unique and flavourful side dishes that really make the meal! We’ve always got our eyes peeled for exciting new Christmas dinner side dishes to try out on our loved ones.
Just in case you could use some side dish inspiration this year as well, here are 15 of the most delicious looking and unique recipes we could find to help you have a mouthwatering Christmas dinner this season!
What’s better than having plan dinner rolls with your meal? Garlic bread! What’s even better than enjoying a thick piece of warm garlic bread? The same thing but topped with cheese, of course! This recipe from Delish, however, doesn’t just teach you to make any old cheesy garlic bread. These little Christmas dinner rolls are particularly perfect in texture and taste, making them a great option for dinners that involve lots of hungry guests who you’d like to impress.
2. Maple sage smashed yams with marshmallow butter
Now, being the unique recipe lovers we are, we’ve tried just about every single kind of yam and sweet potato recipe out there, particularly the ones where marshmallows are concerned. There’s just something we love so much about the flavour combination! This particular tutorial from Mom on Timeout, however, teaches you how to take that concept to the next level by adding maple and sage to the mix as well.
We’ll admit it; sometimes we get so distracted with potatoes and other carbs that we forget just how versatile and unique holiday vegetable dishes can be! This incredible cranberry pecan roasted vegetable recipe outlined step by step on Yellow Bliss Road is the perfect example of what we mean. We’ve made this before and received rave reviews from family and friends.
Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t necessarily meant that every single dish you make has to be served hot on Christmas! We will love adding a salad to the table so that everyone has some delicious, fresh greenery on their plate too. Pomegranate has become a favourite holiday ingredient for us lately, which is why we loved this pear, pomegranate, and spinach salad so much. See how it’s made in more detail on Cooking Classy.
Did we really catch your attention when we started talking about cheese recipes earlier on the list but you’ve already got the bread dish covered so you’re looking for an alternative? Then we’re pleased to report to you that cheese tastes just as delicious, if not more so, on vegetables! This amazing cheesy baked asparagus from Delish is no exception.
If you’ve never tried a fluff salad, or any other kind of sweet or marshmallow based salad, then we’re sorry to tell you that you’ve been missing out! Catch up on the experience ASAP of giving this stunningly flavourful cranberry fluff salad, outlined step by sweet, gooey step on Yellow Bliss Road. Even just the colours makes us feel like we’re in the Christmas spirit!
We always make sure that there’s lots of stuffing to go around during Christmas dinner but recently we’ve been trying to play with how we make the stuffing! We’ll always love the classic recipe but sometimes it’s nice to add new ingredients or put a spin on things. This fragrant chicken, sausage, and herb stuffing featured on Skinny Taste is the perfect example of what we mean!
Just in case you actually would like yo make your family and friends a new, delicious holiday bread to go with their meal but you’re just not feeling the addition of cheese, here’s a more herb based recipe that’s so flavourful no one will even care what you skipped! Check out how Yellow Bliss Road made delicious garlic and rosemary skillet bread in just a few quick steps.
You’ve probably been reading a lot about mashed potatoes and sweet potatoes while you’ve been searching through interesting side dish options, but did you know that those aren’t actually the only things you can smash to help make part of a yummy meal? We love the way Delish mashed and seasoned Brussel sprouts in order to show everyone how delicious they really are despite their bad rep.
Where we come from, cranberry sauce is an essential part of just about any holiday meal, but that’s especially true about Christmas! Even though we adore that regular player in Christmas dinner, we’re also always open to putting new twists on our favourite things. This super flavourful homemade cranberry orange sauce outlined step by step on Yellow Bliss Road is the perfect example of what we mean!
Perhaps you love the flavours that go into stuffing and you’re intent on making something along those lines but you actually have some relatives who can’t eat bread because they’re gluten intolerant? In that case, we have a feeling you’ll get along much better with something like this fantastic wild rice stuffing recipe outlined step by step on Iowa Girl Eats!
By this time, we’ve cooked for so many different Christmas dinners that we already know how to make mashed potatoes. In fact, we know how to make all different kinds, in all different ways. Imagine how surprised we were, then, when we stumbled across this recipe from Delish and realized that we’d never tried making them with cream cheese! This tutorial shows you how to make them so they’re perfectly creamy and delicious.
If we’re being fully honest with you, we’d never tried a cornbread casserole before. We’d certainly tried traditional cornbread itself, but we had no idea that you even could make it into a creamy casserole dish! That’s why we tried an experimental round of it before the holidays come using this recipe from Yellow Bliss Road and we’re pleased to report that it was a huge success! We’d absolutely make this for Christmas dinner with the family.
Did we really make an impression on you when we started talking about side dishes made from rice and gluten free options? Well, just in case the wild rice stuffing idea wasn’t quite up your alley and you’d like an alternative, here’s a fantastic idea from Carlsbad Cravings! They show you how to make cranberry apple pecan wild rice pilaf (and it’s so good that we actually make this even outside the holidays too).
Corn has always been one of our top choices when it comes to picking which vegetables we’ll make to go along with our Christmas dinner and it has been a staple for us for years. That’s why we’re feeling open to changing how we prepare it this season! Right now, we’re feeling pretty tempted by this delicious slow cooker creamed corn recipe featured step by step on Delish.
Few things make us feel quite as cheerful as making, decorating, and eating cupcakes. That’s especially true around the holidays! Don’t get us wrong; we make cupcakes all year around (probably more often than we should, if we’re being honest), but Christmas time gives us an awesome excuse to get particularly creative with the flavours, ingredients, and designs.
Just in case you love the idea of making creatively delicious and festive looking Christmas cupcakes just as much as we do, if not more, here are 15 of the very best recipes we’ve seen so far this season!
1. Gingerbread cupcakes with cream cheese frosting
What could sound better than a cupcake that comes with another bonus treat on top? Nothing we can think of! That’s why we’ve actually already made these fantastic gingerbread cupcakes with cream cheese frosting outlined step by step on Cooking Classy once this season. The spice of the gingerbread and the creaminess of the frosting contrast perfectly… plus cake!
If you’re going to create a flavour contrast, would you rather include a salty element with your sweet, rather than a spiced one? In that case, we’d suggest taking a look at how The Cake Blog created these mouthwatering chocolate covered pretzel cupcakes instead! Bonus points for the fact that pretzels sold around this time of year are shaped like Christmas trees so they look holiday themed too.
White chocolate lovers rejoice, there’s a decadent option on our list for you as well! We’re completely in love with the way Hungry Happenings made these adorable polar bear themed cupcakes using vanilla cake, vanilla buttercream frosting, and white chocolate cups in different sizes to make the bear itself on top.
Are you absolutely enticed by the idea of making a cupcake that has chocolate and salted pretzels but you haven’t found the tree shaped ones in stores so you’re looking for a different cupcake topper concept to make sure things still look Christmassy? In that case, we think you’ll get along a little better with something like these pretzel and Nilla cookie reindeer instead! See how they’re made in more detail on Your Cup of Cake.
Rather than just piling flavour combination elements onto the tops of your cupcakes, would you rather actually make a cupcake and frosting recipe that has unique holiday flavour built right in? In that case, we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how Life, Love, and Sugar made these flavoruful cupcakes that don’t just taste like eggnog but more specifically (and more deliciously) eggnog lattes!
Are you still thinking about how much you love the idea of making cupcakes that taste like white chocolate but you think you’d actually prefer to combine the flavour with another taste, just for a bite of more intense tasting holiday contrast? In that case, we have a feeling you might get along a little better with something like these refreshing white chocolate peppermint cupcakes featured on The Cake Blog!
Now, these hot cocoa cupcakes featured on Baker by Nature aren’t just any old hot cocoa inspired, chocolate flavoured cupcakes. These are taken to the next level! Check out their tutorial to learn how they made absolutely perfect chocolate sponge and topped it with smooth chocolate icing, a layer of holiday sprinkled and dried chocolate syrup, and even a toasted marshmallow on top!
Maybe you’re feeling pretty intrigued by the idea of making cupcakes that taste like holiday peppermint but white chocolate really isn’t your favourite flavour? In that case, we think you’ll be pleased to learn about this alternative mint recipe from Your Cup of Cake that combines Oreo cookies and crushed peppermint instead!
Are you actually a little bit practiced in cupcake decorating and you’re feeling quite confident in your icing skills? Then perhaps you’d rather use those to create a design yourself instead of just placing things on top to make a theme! We love this very simple cupcake decorating idea from Lydia Bakes that’s great for beginners and teaches you how to make an adorable iced Christmas tree complete with sprinkle ornaments.
If icing the decor right to your cupcake and just embellishing the design from there sounds like the best idea for you, here are some adorable frosted snowmen outlined step by step on Beyond Frosting! Make their arms from pretzel sticks and their hats from halved Oreos and a bit of red icing too.
Even though we love getting very fancy indeed with our cupcake designs, sometimes the best ones we make are the ones that keep things a little simpler. These fantastic Christmas lights cupcakes featured on Baked Bree are the perfect example of what we mean! Ice then in vanilla frosting, pipe a thing spiral around in black, and use M&Ms as coloured Christmas lights!
Have you been scrolling through our list and realizing that you’re torn between the latte recipe and the peppermint flavours we’ve shown you? Well, who says you have to choose between the two? Instead, try your hand at making these delicious peppermint mocha cupcakes featured on Baker by Nature! We love that the crumbled candy cane gives them a bit of a crunch.
Maybe you’re looking for a flavour of cupcake that might appeal a little more to adults than kids since that’s who you’ll mostly be hosting over this holiday season, even though you still want delicious Christmassy flavours? In that case, we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how The Sprinkle Factory made these fragrant chocolate cherry amaretto cupcakes in surprisingly few simple steps!
Have you actually been thinking about how cute the idea of Santa hat cupcakes might be ever since you saw the miniature frosted Santa hats on the snowman cupcakes we showed you earlier? Then we think you’ll be pleased to hear that Frugal Mom Eh! is here to make your day! We love the way they used marshmallows to add all the hat’s pom pom and trim.
Just in case you’re new to the world of icing and piping but still determined to learn, here’s a design that will get you doing some simple techniques in that regard but also still embellishing with other delicious tidbits! Your Cup of Cake guides you step by step through the process of making a Christmas wreath cupcake using a piping star tip, pieces of fruit leather, and some M&Ms.
Pom poms are undoubtedly one of our favourite things to make. Whether we’re making them with many colours or just one, and no matter what size we’re creating, they’re simply a blast to wrap, tie, and set free. The fact that we taught out kids how to make them recently has had us in the mood to use them for all kinds of different projects, so we’ve been spending downtime looking for inspiration when it comes to Christmas themed pom pom crafts that we can all work on together!
Just in case you love the idea of making DIY holiday pom pom projects just as much as we do, if not more, here are 15 of the best designs we’ve come across so far.
Have you actually been hoping to learn more about making pom poms that include more than one colour but without random colour scattering, even though you still want to keep things quite simple? In that case, we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how Love Knitting made this adorable Christmas pudding the involves a dual coloured pom pom, a smaller solid one, and some cute little felt leaves.
Are you and your kids or your friends (or maybe just you on your own) in the mood for making lots of pom poms? We find we like sitting down to do them while we watch movies or TV! In any case, use those pom poms once you’ve got a pile of them to create this lovely little Christmas tree design featured on Joann!
Have you ever looked down at a pom pom you just finished making and thought about how it looks like a fluffy little animal? Well, what if we told you that you can turn it into a furry creature? Check out this fantastic double pom pom moose tutorial from Not on The High Street that uses felt for the antlers, ears, and facial features.
Are you the kind of detail oriented crafter who almost always prefers to make things in miniature? In that case, we have a feeling you’ll really enjoy the way Lia Griffith made these absolutely adorable little double pom pom snowmen! Their eyes are beads, their ear warmers are pipe cleaner, and their scarves are yarn. Mixed media crafts always make for some fun!
5. Pom pom Christmas tree and candy cane stick craft
Not every pom pom craft you make has to be done with yarn pom poms that you made from scratch yourself! Simple crafting pom poms can be a blast to work with as well, especially for simple kids’ crafts. We love the way Playing House in Maryland cut out the base shapes of Christmas trees and candy canes in cardboard and let their kids use pom poms to fill in colours and designs.
Just in case you’d rather help your kids make a pom pom craft that’s a little more wacky and unconventional, here’s a fully tree project that’s built around a stick of cinnamon! Check out how Our Sixth House added faux fir branches and used poms poms as ornaments but also as filler in a glass or small vase to help the tree stand up.
Are you actually so intrigued by the idea of pom pom stuck all over a tree that you’d like to take the concept further and really create a project that looks like a pom pom tree? In that case, we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how Aunt Peaches made this dry branch centrepiece a lot bright looking and more festive by adding pom poms all over the ends.
If upcycling crafts have ever been your think, we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how Northstory used miniature, colourful crafting pom poms to give a plain old Christmas bauble a very interesting facelift indeed! Add a ribbon tied in a bow for some finishing touches and voila.
Perhaps you quite enjoy the idea of making Christmas baubles from pom poms but you’d rather work with DIY yarn pom poms then the pre-made crafting kind? In that case, save up some old pop bottle lids as well and take a look at how The Crafty Swedes made these soft Christmas balls where the lids take the place of the metal settings on the top where the baubles hang onto the tree!
Were you rather intrigued indeed by the idea of making a pom pom based project that required a lot of yarn pom poms because you find making them a soothing thing to do on your down time but the stacked pom pom Christmas tree idea just didn’t appeal to you that much? In that case, we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how Twine & Table made this stunning pom pom door wreath! You could choose any colour and theme, technically, but their cream and off-white polar bear idea, complete with felted bears, is nothing short of stunning.
Have you actually been looking for wats to share you love for pom poms with the people around you? In that case, we have a feeling you’re going to find this idea from A Lovely Lark very interesting indeed! Regardless of which kind of pom pom you like using better, we love their suggestion for using them as gift toppers when you wrap your Christmas presents. This is a great way to add colour to the wrapping scheme if you’ve gone the upcycled paper route rather than using new gift wrap!
Have you ever seen those fantastic pom pom crafts that are cut into different shapes once they’re tied into place, kind of like the way a bush would be pruned in the garden? Well, they’re actually a total blast to make and this adorable little shaped pom pom tree project featured on Picot Pals is a great beginner’s craft to get yourself trying it out.
Are you still feeling rather intrigued by the idea of turning pom poms into classic Christmas characters but you just haven’t seen the one that ha caught your eye yet? Well, if you’re the kind of person who loves to adorn your house in lovely holiday angels, then this next project might be the one for you! See how these angels were made from yarn pom pome, wooden pegs, and felt on Janer Designs.
Maybe you’re quite new to the DIY pom pom game or you’re trying to keep things very simple indeed because your kids are still little, so you’re just looking for a way to display Christmas coloured pom poms as they currently are? In that case, we’d definitely suggest taking a look at how Make It Yourself Girl arranged theirs across the top of the mantel like a garden in order to add a colorful pop of cheer to their space!
Just in case your favourite kind of craft is always the option that involves some kind of photo because you’re a nostalgic person, here’s an adorable idea from One Little Project for making a pom pom picture ornament! We love the way they made some look like Christmas wreaths and others look like stars, just to keep things interesting.
