There are many approaches to decorating for Christmas. I say, “Do what brings you joy!” and for me, that is a handmade, handcrafted holiday! From decorating to baking, I enjoy the homey, cozy and crafted Christmas. Today, I’m sharing some of my artsy-craftsy ornaments and such. Sometimes I have an idea that seems to pop into my head and other times—like most of these pieces—are ideas I’ve seen shared on social media. I see something that sparks creativity and delight and I gather what I’ve got on hand in my art studio and give it a go. Some of these are things here I’ve made in year’s past and others I made in the last few months. Honestly, I don’t particularly enjoy putting up and decorating my one and only Christmas tree. The part of Christmas decorating that makes my heart giddy is the creative crafting and art making! I also much prefer styling small vignettes about the main living areas with handmade art and crafts and curated and collected pieces rather than the “tree part.” My trees are always what I would call a “cozy family tree.” I know others who enjoy multiple trees with various themes and I think that is lovely for them! Maybe one day I’ll try a themed tree. Who knows—it could happen!
I plan to share more this month along the lines of handmade & home baked. Lately, I’ve made a couple of apple galettes with a sourdough crust that are soooo good! You should give it a try and, of course, you could omit the sourdough aspect but I always try to incorporate it into my baking for the increased health benefit of a fermented dough. I whipped up some cream to top this on individual slices.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a calendar for yourself or a friend, my 2025 calendar is available here.
“Botanicals & Birds” 2025 Calendar
Illustrated by Melanie Dorsey Artworks
8.5 x 5.5 inches printed on quality 110 lb/300g/m2 cardstock in the color “White Dove”
Perfect to display on a desk, bookshelf, or clip and hang!
Click on the pics for recycling ideas once the month has ended.
$24 - for local pickup or shipping within the contiguous U.S.
Art calendars make excellent gifts and help support a local artist, too!
Order here.
Again, I do plan to share more this month. I’ve been a bit lax with regular “happy-mail,” but I do think about you, my dear subscribers, and I appreciate that you care to hear something from me now and again.
I’d love to know what your Christmas décor style is. Leave a comment or reply!
Creatively Yours,
Melanie
I love your talent for creating! Unfortunately, I have none.