It's almost impossible to not make something each Christmas to either fill an empty space in a new rental or satisfy a slight shift in tastes! As I was pulling out boxes and boxes of Christmas decor and deciding what should make an appearance this year, I got really nostalgic for Christmases past. I decided it was about time to do a little roundup of some of my favorite DIY's from the last six (or seven) holiday seasons.
Himmelis were a traditional Finnish decoration long before they became mainstream and are still filling trees and gracing mantles in my Instagram feed. Here's an incredibly inexpensive and easy tutorial from 2013, the year I swapped out the colored Shiny Brites for something geometric.
Decorative Clay Bell DIY for A Beautiful Mess. A fun addition to any garland or to add to your mantle.
One of those handmade projects you'll keep forever and pass down to your kids.
I still have this wreath and only one vintage ornament has been needing replaced! One of my favs.
A trio of simple pillows to spruce up your space. Find the full tutorial over here.
Straw himmeli ornaments are simple to make and great as gift toppers!
Spell out a phrase from your favorite Christmas carol or just keep it simple with a short phrase. Either way, it is an inexpensive way to make a big statement!
Guilded Nutcracker Makeover. One of the easiest ways to repurpose thrift store or dollar store finds to fit your own aesthetic. Not into that much gold? Try white or something to match the rest of your decor.
Place cards always make people feel extra special.
In case your old tree skirt just isn't doing it for you anymore. Get this no-sew, felt tree skirt tutorial here.
A sweet little scene with mostly vintage and thrifted items.
And just in case you're feeling nostalgic, too, here are all of the ways we've decorated for Christmas for the last few years. Things were MUCH more colorful back in '08 and I love seeing how some things have changed while others have stayed the same. That white Christmas tree isn't quite as white but I still love it just as much!
It really is the most special time of year! I hope it's treating you well.
-Rachel
I made a ton of your straw himmelis last year. But this year I found GOLD paper straws at Paper Source (http://www.papersource.com/item/Gold-Paper-Straws/612615076233.html), so I fear there may be more in my future! Love all your ideas ...
Posted by: Becky | 12/11/2015 at 09:15 AM
I love those himmelis!! What a great idea. I'm a big fan of pompoms and flowers on trees :)
And those place names are so stylish!
Hannah x
Http://crafternooncabaretclub.com/blog
Posted by: Hannah @ crafternoon cabaret club | 12/11/2015 at 11:26 AM
Hi Rachel :) Beautiful and inspiring! I have a question about the Crafter's Box...can you please email me?! I'm not on ig or I'd try you there!
[email protected]
Thanks!
Posted by: Cessie | 12/16/2015 at 11:17 AM