On the morning of the second of January I woke up with an inspired determination to realise the idea of a homemade ceiling lamp using the papier-mâché technique. It took two and a half weeks for the intended light fixture to take shape from small pieces of old newspaper, glue and paint. I am happy to explain how to make one by hand.
While looking for ideas for a New Year's Eve celebration in a small circle of friends at our place, I came across a game that works brilliantly for sparking lively conversations. It also serves as a glimpse into personally significant events of the year - which we must now call the past year. The game also helps develop the storyteller in you.
Bunting garlands like these make me think of fairs or festivals in cobblestoned or maple-lined old-town squares, where on weekends there is bustle and trade, live music plays, the air smells of cinnamon, lollipops and freshly baked bread. The traders' pop-up stalls are bathed in sunshine. People in such an atmosphere become especially talkative, smiley and friendly, as if all the everyday worries had somehow quietly slipped away.
Today, on the last day of the year, I baked gingerbread in rabbit and apple shapes. But the result was so many rabbits (they are known to multiply rather well :) ) that a bright idea came to me: make a gingerbread garland - a decoration for the kitchen window. As a result, the sweetly spiced gingerbread scent that has now filled the whole apartment will linger with us a little longer.
Every year, and this year is no exception, I make handmade gifts for friends and colleagues. This year they will be gifts in jars. The idea came to me to create themed jars that would serve both as gift packaging and later as storage containers around the home. I will share the recipes for seven gift jars, though there are many more ideas.
Nowadays there are plenty of options to buy or order photo canvases with your favourite photograph. In fact you can make such a photo canvas at home yourself, by manually transferring your chosen photograph onto fabric. Below: how to do it, and some of my finished pieces.
A couple of ideas for making Easter greeting cards by hand, using medium-weight cardstock in various colours, cotton thread and colourful wooden buttons as your base. One evening of activity and cheerfully spring-like cards are ready!
If you are tired of the dull grey-brown cushions that have been languishing on your sofa for years, I will tell and show you how to turn them into two cheerful, vibrant and cosy little cushions.
Homemade fairy-light garlands like this are useful for creating a Christmas atmosphere, as well as for decorating a room and providing a gentle glow during twilight hours.
Christmas and gift-giving time is approaching, so just as in previous years I am seeking out and bringing to life ideas for handmade festive decorations, tree ornaments and personalised little gifts. This time I will explain how to decorate a candle simply.