Only a perfect specimen of balsam fir will be worthy to bear upon its branches the fragile perfection of the straw figures that come to us from Sweden. Collecting figures and forms for such a tree would prove a delightful hobby the year round. In these works of art are contained sermons of the simplest and deepest concepts of life.

When you see the straw figures and the geometric designs decorating this tree, listen with your heart and hear the message they bring to you. Straw, to remind us the Read the rest of this entry

Why not follow the custom of the ancients and make use of the design qualities of the Palmetto?

For this highly stylized tree, take seven 4' lengths of Palmetto and cut the leaves with a sharp knife or scissors into an oval, spear, or free-form design.

The stems can be manipulated into pleasing curves by placing both thumbs on the under side of the stem with the fingers folded over the top of the stems. The heat from your hands will soften the stems. Bend and press gently but firmly until a curve is achieved. Tie a No. 32 wire just above the curve of the stem, pull the Read the rest of this entry

Could there be a more suitable material to use for a Christmas tree than palm branches, which have symbolized victory and rejoicing from the time of Christ to the present day? This tree possesses a majesty which bears witness through its graceful branches to the dynamic rhythm of the Universe.

Arrange the branches to resemble Read the rest of this entry

Why not create a smart gem of a tree based on the topiary art of orna­mental gardening where trees are trimmed into fancy shapes of a highly stylized design?

Place a dowel stick 3/4" thick x 40" long in a small tub of sand. Sink to a depth of 5". Paint tub and stick chartreuse green.

Cut three sets of circles from 1" chicken wire: two 12" in diameter; two 9" in diameter; and two 6" in diameter. Place a 2" layer of Read the rest of this entry

The people of Norway and Sweden have for centuries observed the quaint custom of preparing a Christmas tree for the birds. It is made from a sheaf of choice grain which has been carefully stored from the time of the harvest. The day before Christmas, the grain is tied to the end of a long pole, carried into the yard, and placed near the house to attract the birds who, they believe, bring happiness and good fortune to those within. No family would consider celebrating its own Christmas until the birds had first been provided for.

Could you and your children find a more delightful way to express the spirit of Christmas than to follow these customs?

I am sure that the children and even Dad will want to help make the trimmings and set up the tree. Don't be surprised if fixing the birds' tree becomes as happy a time as Read the rest of this entry

This type of mini-Christmas Tree is made from a cone of chicken wire filled with slightly moistened sphagnum or wood moss.  It is easy and fun to make.  Fun for home use, the office and even to Read the rest of this entry

These are easy and fun to make Christmas Ornaments & Christmas Decorations using aluminum foil and some creativity.  Great Christmas project for Read the rest of this entry

Make eight or ten popcorn balls, and insert a candy cane in the center of each. You can then heap them on Read the rest of this entry

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Evergreen ropes, garlands, or festoons are made in much the same manner as wreaths. Fairly heavy wire, an old rope, or an old electric light cord is recommended for the base or frame unless you are making a short decoration. One end of the cord or wire should be fastened to a stationary object, such as a door knob or chair, to make your work easier.

Short evergreen sprigs, about 3 to 4 inches long, are then fastened on with florist's wire in the same fashion as in making the wreath. To add color to the decoration, attach cones, fruits and berries - or even fresh fruits - at regular intervals. Your favorite Christmas cards may also be used.

Festoons, garlands, and ropes make very good pieces for exterior door and window deco­rations, for staircases, or for the front of fire places.

If you are fortunate enough to have an old set of sleigh bells you have an excellent base for an interior rope or garland.  Attach your sprays of evergreen at the top and bottom of the bells, but do not cover them.  You may also find loos sleigh bells at your local dollar store or craft store.

In addition to the regular wreaths, there are many other ways of decorating  front door so that it will say "Merry Christmas" for you.  Such decorations are quite colorful, and should be large enough to be enjoyed by passersby as well as visitors.

Sprays are very useful, and even easier to make than wreaths, since they use a Read the rest of this entry