Branch out of traditional tree trimming mode with some mega paper ornaments that amp up the party spirit.
HERE’S HOW
Buy a selection of paper balls and bells at your local party shop. String lights as usual. Attach the paper decorations to your tree and finish off with a crepe paper garland.
Deck the halls with boughs of holly, but why not try trimming a wreath with dozens of festive ribbons instead.
HERE’S HOW Hang a plain wreath on the door. Using scraps of ribbon in different colors and widths, tie a bunch of bows and randomly glue-gun them close together on the wreath.
This year put your green (and red and pink) thumb to the simple task of cultivating a multicolored topiary forest that you’ll never have to water.
HERE’S HOW
Cut tissue paper into 2-inch squares and gently crumple. Starting at the top of a Styrofoam topiary form, attach each piece with Styrofoam glue. Working around the form, affix the pieces close together, mixing up the colors
as you go. Place your topiaries in ceramic flowerpots. Use a circle of cardstock, crimped at the edge, as a lid.
Some evergreen clippings and a few choice ornaments—it’s a quick and simple centerpiece that makes any meal jolly, even takeout.
HERE’S HOW
If you’re trimming low-hanging branches from the bottom of your tree, save them and arrange around a pretty bowl. Alternatively, ask for evergreen extras wherever Christmas trees are sold. Add in some sprigs of holly and a few ornaments.
There’s no rule saying ornaments can decorate only trees, so think outside the fir and hang a few glass
and homemade orbs in a window for extra sparkle.
HERE’S HOW
Attach lengths of nylon filament to the window frame with a pushpin, and suspend the ornaments. To make the glittery d.i.y. snowballs, cover a styrofoam sphere with styrofoam glue and shredded mylar and let dry before hanging.
Country & Victorian Times 