Four Easy Winter Crafts for The Weekend

Hello, friends!

The winter holiday's are the perfect time to get crafty and turn scrap materials from other projects you attempted throughout the year into delightful Christmas decorations.

Not only will you save money and reduce waste, but you'll also add a personal touch to your holiday decor.

In this post, we'll explore four fun and eco-friendly Christmas craft ideas: Wallpaper Christmas Ornaments, Toilet Paper Roll Star Ornaments, Dried Fruit Decorations, and Reusable Christmas Crackers.

So, grab your materials, a cup of hot cocoa, and let's get started on these jolly projects!

Project #1: Scrap/Wallpaper Christmas Ornaments

 If you're like me - you bought a lot of wallpaper over the past few years. Let's turn those scraps into charming Christmas ornaments!

Materials Needed:

• 9 scrap pieces of wallpaper, cut into 1/2" by 10" strips.
• 2 Beads per ornament
• Scissors
• Glue
• Ribbon or twine
• Hole punch or embroidery needle

Directions:

1. Cut the wallpaper into nine even strips measuring - 10" long by 1/2" wide.
2. Punch a hole at the top, middle and bottom of the each paper strip. 
3. Thread a bead on to the 10" piece of wire and twist to secure.
4. Add paper strips on to the wire through the center hole. Thread each end of the bottom strip onto the wire. Move clockwise until all ends are on the wire.

Who knew that wallpaper could bring so much joy? These ornaments will surely be the talk of the tree.

Project #2: Toilet Paper Roll Starburst Ornaments

Don't toss those empty toilet paper rolls - transform them into celestial star ornaments!

Materials Needed:

• Empty toilet paper rolls or cardboard tubes
• Scissors
• Glue
• Ribbon or twine

Directions:

1. Flatten the toilet paper rolls and form around center tube into starburst shapes.
2. Shape each strip into a pointy star or bend a tube around it to create additional structure, securing the ends with glue.
3. Paint the tubes or leave them natural.
4. Once dry, attach a ribbon or twine for hanging.
5. Hang them on your tree or adorn your mantel with these celestial wonders.

These ornaments are a shining example of recycling brilliance. ✨

Project #3: Dried Fruit Decorations

Put leftover fruit to good use with these fragrant and festive decorations!

Materials Needed:

• Slices of citrus fruits (e.g., oranges, lemons, or limes)
• Knife
• Parchment Paper
• Baking Sheets
• Cooling Racks
• Cinnamon sticks
• Twine or ribbon
• Hot glue gun
• Embroidery Needle

Directions:

1. Preheat Your Oven:

   • Set your oven to its lowest temperature setting, usually between 170°F to 200°F (77°C to 93°C). The low temperature helps in dehydrating the fruit without burning it.

1. Slice the Citrus Fruits:

   • Using a sharp knife, slice the citrus fruits into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick. Uniform slices are important for even drying. Remove any seeds you can easily see and compost.

2. Prepare the Baking Sheets:

   • Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This step is optional but helps prevent the fruit from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

3. Arrange the Slices:

   • Lay the citrus slices in a single layer on the baking sheets. Make sure the slices are not touching each other to ensure even air circulation and drying.

4. Bake the Citrus Fruits:

   • Place the baking sheets in the oven. Let the citrus slices dry for about 2 to 3 hours. Flip them every 30 minutes to ensure they dry evenly. The edges will start to look dried and the centers slightly translucent.

5. Check for Doneness:

   • The fruit is done when it feels dry to the touch but still pliable. Be careful not to over-dry, as the slices can become brittle.

6. Cool the Slices:

   • Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the citrus slices cool completely. If you have cooling racks, you can transfer the slices to them to cool faster.

7. String the Slices:

   • Once cooled, use a needle and twine to string the citrus slices. You can make a pattern by alternating different types of citrus or adding other decorations like cinnamon sticks or bay leaves. Use glue gun if necessary.

8. Hang Your Garland:

   • Once your garland is complete, create a loop at the top for hanging. Hang these aromatic creations on your tree or use them to embellish your holiday wreaths. It will also look beautiful on mantels, windows, or as part of a table centerpiece.

Tips:

- Drying times will vary. Keep an eye of your fruit towards the end of baking.

- After the holidays, the dried citrus can be composted

These decorations will not only add a touch of nostalgia to your tree but also fill your home with the delightful scent of citrus and cinnamon.

Project #4: Reusable Christmas Crackers

Give a sustainable twist to the traditional Christmas cracker and reduce waste at the holiday table.

*Note: These crackers do not contain the snapping stick as I do not like loud noises. I've been surprised at how many people fake liking fireworks. You can buy snaps at all the craft stores and online if you prefer them. 

Materials Needed:

• Empty toilet paper rolls or paper towel rolls
• Wallpaper or scrap fabric
• Tissue Paper
• Ribbon
• Scissors
• Small gifts or trinkets
• Jokes or messages (optional)
• Tape

Directions:

1. Cut and resize one of the rolls so that one roll sits snuggly halfway inside the other.
2. Place small gifts, jokes, or messages inside some tissue paper and roll lengthwise. Slide through the tube twisting the ends and securing with tape.
3. Tie ribbon around the twisted ends to create the cracker shape.
4. Set these eco-friendly crackers on your holiday table, and let the fun begin!

These crackers are not only good for the environment but also for your holiday spirit. 

Did you see anything you would like to try? I would love to see what you made - share with me on IG @Element_of_ah.