Remember the countless hours devoted to making holiday ornaments when we were kids? I vividly recall inedible gingerbread people, glitter-dipped pinecones, and painted macaroni garlands—not to mention scores of unrecognizeable baubles that mom and dad proudly displayed (perhaps even against their better aesthetic judgement). While most of my elementary attempts at crafting have long since found their way to the big Christmas tree in the sky, I still have a soft spot for handmade decorations this time of year.
These days, my taste has veered away from glitter-flecked and tinsel-bedecked. I'm much more inclined towards spare and simple accents in a palette of white and gold, with a distinct Scandinavian modern sensibility. You're also likely to find dashes of cheerful red thrown in, plus a mix of surface finishes like ceramic, wood, and nubby knits for warm texture.
Most of the handmade holiday pop-up shops don't start until after Thanksgiving, but Etsy already overflows with festive options, including some that let you get your hands dirty. I'm sore tempted to buy this DIY felt mushroom download and make enough to populate the entire house. Or how cute is this needlepoint ornament kit? Of course if all else fails, a garland is just a box of macaroni away!
Shopping Guide: 1. White Felt Garland 2. Modern Icicle Ornament 3. Black and White Modern Ornament 4. Christmas Embroidery 5. Vintage Gold-Rimmed Bowls 6. Porcelain and Gold Christmas Tree 7. Paloma's Nest Modern Advent Calender 8. Recycled Cardboard Christmas Tree 9. Felted Gnome and Mushroom Kit