How I created DIY Christmas tree decorations

THERE’S something about Christmas time that brings out my creativity – and these DIY Christmas tree decorations are one of my favourite festive crafts.

I came up with the idea a few years ago when I was struggling to find (and afford) decorations for my Christmas tree. After making a few ornaments for myself, I continued making these as gifts for family and friends – fine-tuning my design as I went along.

Here are a few simple steps to follow if you’d like to try your hand at this Christmas craft.

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You will need cardboard (an old box works well), a ruler or measuring tape, a pencil, a pair of scissors, fabric, a needle, wool, cushion stuffing or cotton wool, and optional – beads and thread for decoration.

Step 1 – Create a template

For this project, the simpler the shape, the better. Opt for rounded edges rather than sharp corners as these can be tricky to sew closed. My favourite shapes include a simplified Christmas tree, a heart, a Christmas stocking, and a bell. Sketch the shape out on a piece of cardboard and cut it out – this will form a template to ensure you end up with uniform decorations. My templates are about 8cm in length and around 6cm in width, depending on the design.

Step 2 – Cut out the design

Fold your fabric in half, place your template on top of the fabric and trace out the design with a pencil. You may want to pin the fabric together before cutting out the shape. You will end up with two identical shapes to sew together.

Step 3 – Details

If you want to add beadwork – sew this to one side of your decoration. I added a string of beads to my Christmas tree design to look like tinsel.

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Step 4 – Sew it up

Using wool, stitch the two sides together. If your fabric is starting to fray, you may want to singe the edges against a candle flame first. You can ‘wing it’ for a more relaxed look or measure 0.5cm markings to guide you for even, neat stitches. I use a blanket stitch for this step. If you are new to sewing, there are plenty of tutorials on YouTube with advice for the perfect stitch. Leave a little gap to stuff the decoration with cushion stuffing or cotton wool before sewing it all the way shut.

Step 5 – Finishing touches

Add a piece of ribbon or wool at the top of the decoration so you can hang it on the tree, and voila!

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