8 ways to love your home for December
Photo by Sian Richards
8 ways to love your home for December
Give a handmade blanket
’Tis the season to cozy up in a chunky knit by the fireplace! Whether youmake one yourself or would rather leave the crafting to an expert, giving a handmade throw is sure to elicit joy. Skilled artisan Tarja Yuill turned her hobby into a career after the birth of her children. Knitting is in Yuill’s blood — a talent passed down by her grandmother, a master crocheter from Finland. Knit on gigantic needles, her custom blankets use over 12 pounds of unprocessed, wool and are individually made to meet the owner’s specifications. So get out your knitting needles or head to your favourite store and give a labour of love this holiday season.
Blanket, Connection Knits. Chair, Style Garage.
Create a festive banner
Get everything you need to make your own holiday bunting. This handy kit comes with 18 blank canvas-paper pennants, nine feet of jute twine and alphabet and image stencils. Hang it from a mantel or doorway to add a little extra cheer.
Christmas Banner Simply Created Kit, $7, Stampin' Up.
Hang high-capacity stockings
If you can't beat the goodies, eat the goodies! Welcome double the treats with these adorable two-legged Christmas stockings. Modeled on Santa's red pants, these decorative garments come in three sizes, include a paw-printed pet version, and they can be monogrammed with your family members' names.
Knit Long John Stocking, $30, PersonalCreations.com.
Make it a modern Hanukkah
Celebrate the festival of lights with a touch of contemporary flair. These playful takes on classic holiday decorations are sure to add a little pizzazz to your party.
Menorah, $160, Laura Cowan. Garland, $29, Modern Tribe. Dreidel, $28, Jonathan Adler.
Get more:
Five modern Hanukkah decorations
Stack firewood in style
There’s nothing more welcoming than a roaring fire on a cold winter’s night. Keep dry logs at the ready and neatly stacked with this cylindrical firewood holder.
Chuck Wood Storage, $119, CB2.
Wrap it your way
Give your next gift the personal touch with handmade gift wrap — all you need is a few simple supplies. Start with plain kraft paper or bags, then decorate with festive stamps and ribbon. Creative add-ons (like cedar sprigs or pine cones) provide the perfect finishing touch.
Red Herringbone Ribbon, $25/23 metres; Stamp, $25; Tags, $6/20, Penny Paper Co.
Serve everything with style
A simple item can make a great statement. Distribute drinks and appetizers on a glitzy serving tray that complements your glittery seasonal decor. This piece comes in copper or glass, and it can be monogrammed for a personalized touch.
Copper Mirror Tray, from $89, West Elm.
Throw a bash in a flash
The holiday season is enough of an excuse to invite guests over for a drink. Be prepared to assemble and blend all sorts of cocktail requests with this set of mixologist implements. It embodies the sophistication factor with its shiny gold detailing and its beautiful marble base. Cheers!
Deco Barware Collection, $79, West Elm.
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