Holiday Rushing – Hit Pause

Remember I mentioned that when it comes to holiday bustle, I want to take it down a notch this year?

Well, it’s going fairly well so far . . .

In fact, I can honestly say I’m hitting the old “pause button” much more often than in the past.

Sure, I still have moments when I feel nervous that Christmas is almost here . . . but suddenly it seems easier to rationalize that I’m in this for the joy – not the stress.

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And nothing helps me take a deep relaxing breath quicker than making something! It truly is amazing how an hour of creativity can fortify me for several hours of gift shopping at the mall.

I found a couple of quick and easy ornaments to complete.

Here’s my take on Whiskers and Wool’s “Ringing in Christmas” ornament series.

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And even in the final hours before Dec. 25th, there’s time for this quickie! Simply make a long crocheted chain, gather it into into loops, and add a bow!

Cute as can be to tie to a box of candy or bottle of spirits for an easy, yet very thoughtful, gift! 🙂

Whether you are crafting little “somethings” or just pausing for a cocoa-break, I hope you’re making it a point to stop and smell those evergreens!

‘Til next time,

Hugs,
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Ornaments to Make: ‘Santa’s Slipper’

The days are flying by but there’s still time to make a few Christmas ornaments – especially if they’re quick and easy!

Here’s a little slipper that looks really cute on the tree, and you can even make a pink or a blue version that would be adorable for Baby’s 1st Christmas!

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If sewing isn’t your thing – never fear! You can use glue, instead. Make a few and use them to decorate your packages, or present one with a plate of homemade cookies. Your lucky recipient will have a wonderful handmade keepsake, and will think of you every year as it’s placed on the tree!

~ Instructions ~

Sew or Glue – it’s up to you! Both methods are given below.

Materials Needed:
1 square red felt
1 square white felt
scrap of green felt
Red sequins for “berries”
fishing line or embroidery floss for hanger
tacky glue

DIRECTIONS:

NOTE: Read through all directions before beginning.

1. Trace all patterns and cut out as directed on the pattern pieces. You’ll find full-size patterns by clicking on the “santas-slipper-pattern” link at the bottom of this post.

2. Place a line of glue around outer edges of one slipper sole – except for the area between #1 and #2 shown on the pattern piece – and then place the second slipper sole on top of the first; allow the glue to dry. If you prefer to sew: Use a whip stitch to sew the two sole pieces together – except for the area between #1 and #2 (shown on the pattern piece).

3. After the glue has dried or you have finished sewing the soles together, stuff lightly and glue or sew the opening closed.

4. Place a thin line of glue on the sole of the slipper between #3 and #4 and glue the slipper top to the sole — matching edges carefully. The top will have a rounded effect as if to fit a foot. If you prefer to sew: Use a backstitch in contrasting thread to attach the top of the slipper to the sole, matching edges carefully to create a rounded slipper top.

6. Glue holly leaves & “berries” as shown.

7. Attach a hanging loop of fishing line (or embroidery thread) to the heel end of the slipper.

For full-size pattern pieces, click the link below:

santas-slipper-pattern