Turn up the holiday magic—and turn down the pressure—with five fast and fab ideas from our DIY guru Michael Penney
"O Mini Tree, O Mini Tree"
Snip a tiny cutting from the back of your Christmas tree (or get baby evergreens from the garden centre), place in a small tumbler or vase, wrap in burlap and tie with twine. Place in the centre of the table. Spray with faux snow for added effect!
Get this look: Pre-made tree, Home Sense. Vintage glasses and plates, michaelpenneystyle.com. Woven chargers, Pier 1.
"It's Beginning to Smell a Lot Like Christmas"
Make your own potpourri by combining pine cones, star anise, whole nutmeg (cut in half) and cinnamon sticks. Sprinkle with cloves. Place in decorative bowls and set on tables or counters—or anywhere else in the house.
Get this look: Similar bowls, Elte. White subway tile, Olympia tile.
"Please Come Home for Christmas"
Cut assorted colours of scrapbooking paper into strips. Staple strips into rings, looping them through one another. Attach garland to the banister with ribbons, greenery and large ornaments.
Get this look: Decorative paper, snowflakes, ribbon, Michaels. Ornaments, trees, Home Sense. Vintage bowls, michaelpenneystyle.com.
"Not a Creature was Stirring"
Hang a wreath in a child's bedroom or a guest room, complete with a name written on decorative paper. Use a long ribbon to attach to wall.
Get this look: Similar bed, Ethan Allen. Polka dot sheets, Home Sense. Wreath and ribbon, Michaels. Vintage blanket, michaelpenneystyle.com.
"Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire"
Dress your mantel with boughs of everygreens, and tuck oranges, lemons and mandarin oranges in among the greens. Toss in a few pine cones for good measure.
Get this look: Similar mirror, Angus & Company. Similar lamp, Restoration Hardware.
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