Christmas Crafting!

One of my favorite things about Christmas is making gifts for others.

This year, I only did a few of my cross-stitched ornaments.

This was one, partially designed by request of the giftee.

 The top:

 The fabric pieces chosen:

 The other side:

One of my other friends uses blue and silver for Christmas:

 The top and hanging ribbon:

 One side. I even special metallic silver embroidery thread. Fun.

Two of this year's gifts.

 I couldn't post these earlier, as they were surprises - gifts!

One of my friends likes tea. (and ice skating, Russia, Alaska, and her boyfriend) 

A different year, I designed an ice-skating ornament for her.

This year, I focused on tea.

One side:

The other side had a mug, with two 

small hearts on it:

 The side:

This year, I tried my first attempt at "ribbon trees" - except

that I used paper. I really like these. There will be more!

So the big one is better. The little red/green one is a bit rough.

The bow on top - that is not my strength.

We call these learning experiences.

We used the big green/gold toned one at the Jackson house this year.

The little one went into a cupboard - to be "fixed" later.

For some friends and families, this year I made my first paper mache ornaments.

First, I made the paper hearts from scraps of brown paper, flour, and water.

Then I covered them with strips of tissue-origami paper. 

(chosen for the season/giftee)

Then I glued on pictures - either of the giftee and/or our wedding day.

Handmade. Personal. Fun!

I also made one for my sister and brother-in-law in honor

of their 10th wedding anniversary this year.

People seemed to like these.

For our tree, I made paper and glitter hearts.

   What crafts/gifts do YOU make at Christmas time?