As I mentioned yesterday, I truly adore Christmas decorating. However, I prefer all my decorations to coordinate and am not a fan of tinsel these days. Yet, I have an inexplicable love for holly, so I decided to create some holly garlands to decorate my home. I appreciate that they will last well and can be reused year after year.
These garlands were simple to assemble, but I think the effect is pretty and unique! Here’s how I made them: Start with red felt, green felt, and wide double fold bias tape in green. I love using felt because it doesn’t fray, so no hemming is needed! Cut leaves from the green felt (obviously, hehehe). I kept the top of the leaves straight to maximize sewing space and ensure they are secure. Cut many small circles from the red felt for the berries. Lay out the bias tape and place a couple of leaves inside, then add a few berries on top. Pin them in place. Repeat this at regular intervals along the bias tape, varying the configuration of leaves and berries to maintain a casual, quirky look and avoid a mass-produced appearance. Sew along the top! If you don’t have a sewing machine, craft glue works too—first glue the leaves inside the bias tape, then glue the berries on top. I absolutely love these garlands! I made two and plan to make more since I have many places to hang them. I experimented with configurations and finally strung them across the longest wall in my living room. I almost wish I could leave them up year-round! See more posts in the 12 Days of Christmas series.