wmwwm'wt'm
♦
MAKE THE NEW COLOR A PERMANENT PART OF
YOUR HOLIDAYS
by crafting items from quality
materials using tim e-honored techniques. For
example, the stockings and ribbon ornam ents
in this story are m ade from luxurious fabrics
and ribbon. The stocking design incorporates
a jester’s triangle, and the ornam ents feature
pleating and ruffling.
♦
ADD A TOUCH OF DRAMA WITH A SURPRISE
ELEMENT
such as an oversize black iron urn
used as a tree base. Consider using garden
urns, galvanized tubs, or any oversize
container. Line each container with a plastic
bucket or w astebasket to prevent w ater
damage. Protect the floor underneath the
container with heavy plastic trimmed close to
the container’s base. For an artificial tree, fit
the trunk inside the container and secure it
in place w ith sand and rocks. Test the tree to
make sure it w on’t tip.
♦
FRESHEN A TRADITIONAL LOOK WITH OVERSIZE
CUSTOM-DESIGNED GREENERY AND FLORAL
CREATIONS.
For example, two lengths of lush
garland dress the fireplace mantel on
page
41,
creating a grand scale that m atches the
iron pieces on the mantel and in front of the
firebox. Plan for a few large dramatic wreaths
rather than lots of small pieces spread
throughout the house.
OPPOSITI
Welcome dinner guests with sprigs of greens
and berries tied to the backs of their chairs. Each mini
bouquet takes only a few minutes to make.
ABOVE LEFT
Classic stripes decked with braids and
tassels dress a simple white cloth. The green runners
add a needed punch to the tabletop and pair nicely
with the Christmas-red runner sewn in the same style.
LEFT:
Send guests home with a remembrance of your
good taste. These ribbon-wrapped boxes are made
extraspecial with a wreath pencil drawing that was
scanned and printed onto velum.
INSTRUCTIONS BEGIN ON PAGE 50.
Best of Christmas Ideas
49
