2008 has been the year of the credit crunch and this even affects our Christmas tree! This year more and more of us are making our own Christmas ornaments or updating previous years’ decorative items. Actually, it’s not a bad thing..
More and more of us are turning away from consumerism preferring individual, bespoke, one-off items. This, combined with our ecological conciseness and the credit crunch, has created the latest trend – the desire for DIY Christmas decoration.Â
Making your own Christmas decoration can be really good fun, especially if you have kids. You can make cheap, yet very attractive, ornaments using left-over materials, textiles, paper etc. So, for example, don’t throw away old jumpers, velvet and lace- like clothing or anything that’s thick, glossy or sparkling. These are ideal for wrap baubles and presents or you can cut out shapes in the form of a star, angel, heart, stocking etc that can be hung on your tree or in the window. Ditto with thick curtains and cushion covers – if you don’t want or need them anymore just recycle them yourself! More DIY Christmas Ornaments tips>>
Theme
 This year’s trend is disco colours – neon yellow, green, orange, turquoise, blue, hot pink, crimson red. (very 80’s). Last year’s opulence and neo-baroque style is still in – so use mini chandeliers, crystals, mirrors etc. Create dramatic effects by unusual arrangements of baubles or hang oversized baubles from the ceiling. Decorative ornaments, such as colourful reindeer or angels can be put on the dining table or mantelpiece. See trendy Christmas decoration>>Â
On the other hand, the natural theme is also very popular this year. Collect leaves, berries, twigs and acorns, decorate or combine them with nuts and spiced fruits (such as oranges and cinnamon) and you can create many wonderful and unique ornaments and displays. It’s especially trendy this year to make edible ornaments. Any cookies can be used – just add a bit of seasonal cinnamon to the mixture and cut Christmassy motifs such as bells, trees, stars, angels or snowmen. You can decorate them with icing or sweets (don’t forget make holes in the cookies before baking). You can also of course give these cookies as presents to friends and family members. So by making your own edible ornaments you can save lots of money too!Â
Finally, don’t forget to think about trying to decrease your waste and consumption of energy during the festivities. You can read further tips in our articles Green Christmas and Eco Christmas.
Happy Christmas Decorating in 2008! Further Christmas decoration ideas, themes and other articles>>
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