Handmade Tree Decoration

The idea when decorating your Christmas tree is to be selective. A tree that has a clear decorative theme and colour scheme looks very attractive and effective, whilst a tree that has many decorations of different colours plonked on its branches can look overwhelmingly overdressed. Things to think about before choosing a decorative theme for your Christmas tree include whether you want to go with traditional or contemporary, and colours you would like to use – this may or may not be dictated by current trends or the décor in your home. Once you have thought about this, choosing your tree decorations should become a whole lot easier.

For a special touch to your Christmas tree, why not consider making your own tree decorations? Children and grandchildren can join in on the fun, and almost anything can be used to make tree decorations: eggshells; egg boxes; card; paper; glitter; paint; cotton wool – let your imagination run away with you as you make unique decorations for your tree. If you need inspiration, there are many online craft sites providing great ideas for tree decorations – why not check them out? Handmade tree decorations are not only unique and eco-friendly; they also provide a sense of sentimentality, especially if made by little ones.

If you like the idea of eco-friendly tree decorations but do not have the time or inclination to make your own, there are retailers who sell such decorations. For example, Nigel’s eco store is an online store that sells Christmas tree decorations made from recycled circuit boards and CD’s. Not only do these look funky and unique, they are saving the environment – don’t forget your low energy Christmas lights!

1.Value for money. The initial outlay for a good quality artificial Christmas wreath may be more expensive than buying fresh, but a lot will be saved in the long-term, as the artificial variety will be able to be used year after year.

2. Longevity. Good quality holiday wreaths will last for many years, saving both the environment and the money in your pocket.

3. Maintenance. Fresh wreaths eventually shed their needles and die, whilst the artificial Christmas wreath has none of these problems. Whilst the real wreath needs misting to keep fresh, all the artificial version requires is a quick dust each year before it is put on display! As artificial wreaths can be quite fragile, use a feather duster or a soft damp cloth for stubborn areas.

4. Safety. Fresh wreaths may become a fire hazard when they dry out, especially if placed near lighting or an open flame. The artificial Christmas wreath is made from fire-retardant materials, meaning less worry for you.

5. Variety. Artificial Christmas wreaths are available in many styles, from the traditional to the contemporary, and in all manner of sizes. Manufacturers keep up with trends, meaning that each year brings new colours, materials, textures and designs, combining fashion and functionality. Whatever your budget, taste or décor, there is something for everyone.

Artificial Christmas wreaths can look amazingly authentic, and the advantage of these is that they can be used year after year. Artificial wreaths are available in many colours and often feature Christmas characters, decorative berries, pine cones and other festive items. Some come with lights that emit a cosy glow in the evening, creating a warm and welcoming effect at your door. Xmas wreaths may also be hung on walls or in windows to create a different look.

Common evergreens used in the Xmas wreath include the Bay laurel (often known as laurel wreaths), pine, holly and yew. The yew symbolises immortality and cedar is sometimes used, symbolising strength and healing. The Greek god Apollo was often linked with wreaths and he was the god of life and health – indeed, the circular shape of the wreath may be seen to represent immortailty and eternity.

Wreath with Gold Fruit Decoration

The traditonal Christmas wreath is typically made from evergreen tree twigs, pine cones and red ribbon. Some people hang wreaths for their purely decorative function, but Christian families and churches hang advent wreaths from the door in preparation for Christmas. You can also buy an artificial christmas wreath, which can be used for many years, although we prefer real christmas wreaths.

The hanging of the advent wreath became a German Christmas tradition at the beginning of the 20th cenutry and soon spread to other parts of the world. The wreath features four candles and during the first week of advent, the first candle is lit. A further candle is lit each week until all four candles are lit by the week before Christmas. This accumulation of light marks the anticipation of the birth of Christ (seen as the ‘light of the world’ by the Christian faith) and is said to symbolise his never-ending love, and the circular wreath, having no beginning and no end, represents God’s eternity.

Wreaths remain popular throughout the Christmas season, and today there is a wide selection to choose from, from the traditional to the ultra- contemporary. No-one can deny the beauty of a fresh Christmas wreath, with its lovely array of colour and scent. These look lovely hanging on the door, and really evoke the spirit of Christmas.

Example of a Balsam Christmas Wreath

If you want a fresh Christmas wreath but want to hang on to your money, why not try making your own? All you need is a circular metal frame and oasis, (available from your local florist) and a selection of suitable plants. These can often be found in your garden, but if not, florists usually stock a good selection of festive plants over the Christmas period. Use 2 or 3 types of holly or ivy, berries, evergreen leaves, even roses or chrysanthemums. Bear in mind that flowers may not last as long as other materials on the wreath, but if you have taken them from your garden, you can simply replace when required.

The beauty of making your own Christmas wreath is that you can design it with your own decorative tastes in mind and you can be sure that there will not be another one like it!

Christmas garlands are very similar too Christmas wreaths. The main difference is that the christmas garland can be molded to the shape you require and Christmas wreaths are circular, both are superb christmas decorations.

Christmas Garland with Decorations

Xmas garlands may be hung anywhere, but are usually hung across the mantlepiece or around an inanimate object, such as the Christmas tree. The metallic garland hung around the Christmas tree is known as tinsel – originally made from shredded silver, tinsel is now made from plastic and is also hung from walls and ceilings. The name tinsel is taken from the old French word estincele, meaning ‘sparkle’.

The type of fresh Christmas garland hung across the fireplace is often made from pine boughs, favoured for their rich green colour and pleasant smell. Artificial Christmas garlands are very popular, as they can be used year after year, and modern advances mean that they can look very authentic.

Christmas garlands are available in the traditional colours of green, gold, silver and red and also the more modern shades such as black and white. They are also available in many styles -garlands with lights are very popular and give the room a cosy glow. Despite the scope of choice around today, people still like the traditional Christmas wreath, with those featuring red velvet bows being particularly in demand.