Gift Ideas - Ornaments
by Cameron
In my house, and I’m sure in many of yours, ornaments become repositories of family history. Each one holding a distinct memory - the clay bell bought on a trip to New Mexico or the Sugar Plum Fairy who sacrificed a leg to the great cat attack of ‘08. This is just one of the reasons it’s so satisfying to give handmade ornaments - you become part of your friend’s and family’s holiday stories.
The other, less romatic reasons that I enjoy making ornaments? They’re speedy little makes and they finally give me a way to use the felt that I’ve been admiring for weeks and weeks. We have three different types of felt: a wool/rayon blend on the bolt, 12”x18” sheets of wool/rayon blend, and dreamy 100% wool felt. (Just the wool/rayon on the bolt and a small selection of the wool felt is pictured below.) In between the three types, we carry a huge, beautiful array of colors. Organizing and restocking the felt is one of my favorite tasks - so many colors! So many possibilities!
I tend to like funky ornaments that you could keep up all year round. I’ve been eyeing Grainline Studio’s free narwahl pattern since she released it a couple of years ago. She’s since come out with an owl pattern, too.
I used two sheets of wool/rayon blend felt in shades of grey and black embroidery thread for the eyes. I took some liberties with my narwhal’s colors and omitted the sequins simply because I didn’t have any on hand. Even though I printed the pattern page slightly smaller than I should have, it was still a quick, satisfying make and a charming ornament. I’m planning some more colorful narwahls in wool felt next!
For people that prefer more seasonally appropriate ornaments, we have you covered! We have several books with some great ideas for ornaments and other holiday decorations.
Countdown Calendars has patterns for advent calendars that span the year in addition to their Christmas-themed offerings. My favorite is the “Sophisticated Christmas” below. It would be a great way to use up those small scraps you love too much to throw away.
Stitched Whimsy, by Heidi Boyd, has lots of great ideas for seasonal, as well as less seasonal, ornaments. I especially like the gnome and matroshka doll toys.
Scandinavian Stiches, by Kajsa Wikman, features sweet embroidery and toy patterns with a Nordic flair - perfect for the winter season!
Handmade Home, by Amanda Blake Soule, has lots of great ideas for repurposing materials to make useful and decorative items for the home. I think her fiber garland would be beautiful on a tree or displayed bunting style in a room.
We have a few more ideas on the blog.
Heart-felt Holidays, by Amy
Solstice Ornaments, by April
We’d love to hear about your holiday crafting plans. Come by the store, drop us a note, or leave a comment telling us what festive projects you’re working on!