What to do with a sparse tree? Or a wonky angel? Shop window-dressers on 11 ways to make your home look amazing at Christmas

There’s a lot of pressure to make a splash, but you can create beautiful festive decor on a budget – just ask the people who do it all year round

It has been Christmas in the retail world for weeks but most of us are only now getting the decorations out at home. How can you reuse and recycle what you already have to create the perfect festive feel? Shop window-dressers – or visual merchandisers, as they are also known – share their tips for capturing the magic of the most wonderful time of the year.

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* This article was originally published here

DIY Christmas Bauble Mannequin Head Decoration

If you’re looking for a show-stopping holiday centerpiece, this mannequin head Christmas decoration is a fabulous way to add glam, sparkle, and a little humor to your décor. It’s part vintage kitsch, part modern glam, and entirely unforgettable. Think of it as a conversation starter that can sit on your entryway table, dining buffet, or even as a quirky Christmas party decoration.

This project is easy to customize with your favorite colors—go traditional red and green, elegant gold and silver, or soft pastels for a whimsical look.

Supplies You’ll Need:

• 1 mannequin head (styrofoam or plastic works fine)

• Assorted Christmas baubles (variety of sizes—small, medium, large)

• Hot glue gun + glue sticks

• Tinsel garland (silver, gold, or matching your color scheme)

• Glitter stars, snowflakes, or other small embellishments

• Faux greenery picks (optional, to tuck between baubles)

• Jewelry accents (beads, faux pearls, old costume earrings/necklaces)

• Spray paint or craft paint (optional, if you want to paint the head base)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Head

If you’re using a plain mannequin head, give it a quick wipe down. Optional: paint the face white for a stylized retro look, or leave it skin-tone for a more natural base.

2. Plan the “Hairstyle”

Before gluing, lay out your ornaments on the table. Start with the biggest baubles, then fill in with smaller ones. You want the shape to mimic hair volume—fuller on top, tapering down around the ears and back.

3. Start Gluing

Using your hot glue gun, begin attaching the largest baubles around the crown and top of the head. Hold each one in place until the glue sets. Continue around the sides and back, keeping the ornaments tight together.

4. Fill the Gaps

Add medium and small baubles to fill in spaces. Don’t worry if a little head shows through—you’ll cover those with tinsel or greenery.

5. Add Sparkle and Tinsel

Once the baubles are secure, tuck strands of tinsel garland between them. Glue on glitter stars or snowflake cut-outs for extra shine. Faux pine sprigs also look great tucked in for a festive texture.

6. Dress It Up

Give your mannequin some holiday glam by adding costume jewelry. A beaded necklace, sparkly earrings, or even a strand of pearls instantly takes her from plain mannequin to Christmas diva.

7. Display

Place your finished bauble head on a mirrored base or cake stand for extra drama. She’ll sparkle under the lights and quickly become everyone’s favorite holiday guest.

Tips & Variations

• Use shatterproof ornaments if you want it to last from year to year.

• Spray paint older or mismatched baubles to fit your color theme.

• Add fairy lights by weaving a battery-operated string through the ornaments.

• For a vintage look, stick to pastel pinks, mint green, and gold.

• For a glam look, go all metallic with silver, gold, and bronze.

This DIY mannequin Christmas decoration is playful, chic, and over-the-top in the best way. Every time I walk past mine, I can’t help but smile—because Christmas should always feel a little magical and a lot of fun.

 

* This article was originally published here

Fine dining in your front room: from tea bags to ceramics, top restaurant essentials to transform meals at home

Never mind the food, what about the vibe? Restaurateurs share tips and tricks that will bring a touch of restaurant magic to your table

Restaurants are temples of aspiration. From sound, scent and ceramics to hand soap and elegant wine glasses, I’ve often wanted to recreate elements of my favourite restaurants at home. I’m unlikely to sous-vide celeriac or triple cook my chips, but I can elevate my plate of pasta with a drizzle of amazing olive oil, or invest in a cutlery set that gives even a midweek dinner a sense of occasion. As much as the cooking, it’s the little details that are, as celebrated chef Skye Gyngell puts it, “what you take away and what make you feel wonderful”.

I spoke to restaurateurs across the UK about the little touches that make their restaurants distinctive – and easy ways to bring their magic into our homes.

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* This article was originally published here

Two Australian homes win top places in international 2025 Dezeen awards

A Dracula-inspired bathroom in Sydney and an outside-inside home in Melbourne claim interior design and architecture prizes

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Point Piper in Sydney’s eastern suburbs is home to one of the best bathrooms in the world, according to the annual Dezeen awards, a global design accolade.

Its dark, moody and luxurious interiors were partly inspired by Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

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* This article was originally published here

Oversized Pink Christmas Bauble DIY (Made from a Plastic Punch Bowl)

If you’ve been scrolling through Pinterest lately, you’ve probably seen those dreamy oversized ornaments popping up in pastel candy-shop colours. They’re festive, a little whimsical, and the perfect mix of vintage charm and modern holiday cheer. The only downside? Buying them can cost a small fortune.

But here’s the secret — you can make your own giant pink Christmas baubles for next to nothing, using a plastic punch bowl from the dollar store. Yes, really! With a few coats of spray paint, a handful of ribbon, and some creative flair, you can transform an everyday punch bowl into a stunning centrepiece that looks like it came straight from a high-end holiday boutique.

I first made a version of this project years ago for Halloween pumpkins, but when I saw how pretty pastel colours looked with layered ribbons and vintage-style embellishments, I knew I had to give it a Christmas makeover. These baubles are perfect for:

• Decorating a fireplace mantle 
• Creating a festive display in your entryway 
• Grouping under the tree for a whimsical look 
• Using as an oversized table centrepiece for Christmas lunch 

The best part? This project is completely customisable. You can choose classic Christmas reds and greens, go all out in gold and silver, or (my personal favourite) lean into soft candy colours like pink, mint, and aqua for a retro sweet-shop feel.

Supplies You’ll Need

• Plastic punch bowl – Any size works, but the larger the better for that dramatic bauble look. Dollar store bowls are perfect. 
• Spray paint in pastel pink (or your chosen bauble colour) 
• Optional: Pastel blue or mint paint for accent baubles 
• Strong glue – E6000 or a hot glue gun with strong-hold glue sticks 
• Decorative ribbons – pink, candy stripe, metallic gold, pastel green 
• Wire-edged ribbon – essential for creating big bows that hold their shape 
• Ornament “cap” – a short piece of wooden dowel, chunky wooden knob, or thrifted ornament topper 
• Extra embellishments – faux greenery, mini baubles, candy picks, glitter sprays 
• Scissors 
• Painter’s tape (if you want to add painted patterns or stripes) 

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Punch Bowl

Start by giving your punch bowl a quick wash with warm, soapy water to remove any oils or fingerprints. Dry it completely — paint won’t stick well to a dusty or greasy surface.
If your punch bowl has a high shine, you can lightly sand it with fine-grit sandpaper for better paint adhesion (optional but helpful).

2. Paint the Bauble

Take your punch bowl outside or to a well-ventilated area.

• Apply light, even coats of pastel pink spray paint, allowing each coat to dry before adding the next. 
• For a more vintage look, add a light mist of pearl or gold spray over the top once dry. 
• If you want patterns (stars, stripes, or snowflakes), use painter’s tape to mask areas before painting. Remove the tape while the paint is still slightly tacky to avoid peeling. 

Tip: Bowls with a cut-glass pattern or textured surface will catch the paint beautifully and create a frosted glass effect.

3. Create the Ornament Top

This step gives your bauble that classic Christmas ornament look.

• Cut your wooden dowel to about 3–4 inches long or use a chunky wooden knob. 
• Paint it cream, gold, or metallic silver. 
• Glue it securely to the bottom (now the “top”) of the punch bowl. 
• Let it dry fully before moving on. 

4. Make the Bow

Oversized bows are the real showstopper here.

• Cut a generous length of wide, wire-edged ribbon for your base layer. 
• Layer complementary ribbons on top — for example, candy-striped ribbon, pink sparkle ribbon, and pastel green metallic. 
• Pinch the centre and secure with floral wire or a zip tie. 
• Fluff and arrange until your bow looks full and balanced. 

5. Attach the Bow & Embellishments

Glue or wire the bow to your ornament cap.
Tuck in extra details like:

• Glittered branches or faux greenery 
• Small candy cane picks 
• Mini baubles in matching colours 
• Curled metallic ribbon strands for a playful touch 

6. Display Your Baubles

Arrange your baubles in a group of three for maximum impact — mix sizes and colours for variety.
Place them on your mantle, under the Christmas tree, or on a sideboard.
If you want them outdoors, spray with a clear weatherproof sealant.

 

• Use a smaller plastic bowl to make “mini” versions for table centrepieces. 
• Paint in metallic gold and pair with deep burgundy ribbon for a rich, traditional look. 
• Use frosted glass spray for a snowy effect. 

This project is one of those “why didn’t I think of that?” crafts — it’s simple, affordable, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you go sweet and pastel or classic and elegant, you’ll end up with oversized Christmas baubles that look like you spent a fortune, but only cost a few dollars.

 

* This article was originally published here

Rustic Hot Cocoa Christmas Kitchen Plaque Tutorial

Nothing says “cozy Christmas kitchen” quite like the smell of hot cocoa—and now, you can capture that warmth in a rustic holiday plaque that’s as charming as it is easy to make. This project uses cardstock, patterned scrapbook paper, and a few farmhouse-style details to create steaming cups of cocoa you can hang in your kitchen or gift to a cocoa-loving friend.

Supplies

• Brown cardstock (for the cup lids) 
• Patterned scrapbook paper in plaid prints (for the cup bodies) 
• Corrugated cardboard or textured brown paper (for the cup sleeves) 
• Red and cream cardstock (for the heart embellishments) 
• Small piece of rustic wood or wooden plaque 
• Brown ink pad or brown acrylic paint for dry brushing 
• Jute twine (for steam swirls and hanger) 
• Craft glue or hot glue gun 
• Scissors 
• Pencil 
• Wire (optional, if you want your steam to hold a stiffer curl) 

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare Your Base
If you’re using raw wood, give it a rustic finish by lightly dry brushing white paint across the surface. Don’t cover it completely—you want the wood grain to peek through.

Step 2 – Cut the Cup Pieces
From brown cardstock, cut out two cup lids.
From plaid scrapbook paper, cut two tapered rectangles for the cup bodies.
From corrugated cardboard or textured brown paper, cut rectangles for the cup sleeves.

Step 3 – Make the Hearts
Cut small cream hearts from cardstock. Cut slightly larger red hearts, then glue the cream hearts in the center for a layered effect.

Step 4 – Add Rustic Aging
Using a dry brush technique, lightly stroke brown ink or diluted brown paint along the edges of all your paper pieces. This gives them a worn, farmhouse feel.

Step 5 – Assemble the Cups
Glue the plaid cup body to the plaque. Add the lid on top, then glue the corrugated sleeve to the center. Attach the layered heart to the middle of the sleeve.

Step 6 – Create the Steam
Cut three pieces of jute twine for each cup. If you want them curly, wrap the twine around a pencil, spray lightly with water, and let dry—or use thin wire inside the twine for a permanent curl. Glue the steam pieces just above the lid.

Step 7 – Add the Hanger
Cut a length of jute twine and glue or staple it to the back of your plaque to hang.

Step 8 – Final Touches
Lightly dry brush the whole piece with brown ink or paint for that “been in the kitchen forever” look.

Display Tip: Hang it above your coffee bar or next to your stove during the holiday season for instant cozy vibes.

* This article was originally published here

* This article was originally published here

Rustic Hot Cocoa Christmas Kitchen Plaque Tutorial

Nothing says “cozy Christmas kitchen” quite like the smell of hot cocoa—and now, you can capture that warmth in a rustic holiday plaque that’s as charming as it is easy to make. This project uses cardstock, patterned scrapbook paper, and a few farmhouse-style details to create steaming cups of cocoa you can hang in your kitchen or gift to a cocoa-loving friend.

Supplies

• Brown cardstock (for the cup lids) 
• Patterned scrapbook paper in plaid prints (for the cup bodies) 
• Corrugated cardboard or textured brown paper (for the cup sleeves) 
• Red and cream cardstock (for the heart embellishments) 
• Small piece of rustic wood or wooden plaque 
• Brown ink pad or brown acrylic paint for dry brushing 
• Jute twine (for steam swirls and hanger) 
• Craft glue or hot glue gun 
• Scissors 
• Pencil 
• Wire (optional, if you want your steam to hold a stiffer curl) 

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare Your Base
If you’re using raw wood, give it a rustic finish by lightly dry brushing white paint across the surface. Don’t cover it completely—you want the wood grain to peek through.

Step 2 – Cut the Cup Pieces
From brown cardstock, cut out two cup lids.
From plaid scrapbook paper, cut two tapered rectangles for the cup bodies.
From corrugated cardboard or textured brown paper, cut rectangles for the cup sleeves.

Step 3 – Make the Hearts
Cut small cream hearts from cardstock. Cut slightly larger red hearts, then glue the cream hearts in the center for a layered effect.

Step 4 – Add Rustic Aging
Using a dry brush technique, lightly stroke brown ink or diluted brown paint along the edges of all your paper pieces. This gives them a worn, farmhouse feel.

Step 5 – Assemble the Cups
Glue the plaid cup body to the plaque. Add the lid on top, then glue the corrugated sleeve to the center. Attach the layered heart to the middle of the sleeve.

Step 6 – Create the Steam
Cut three pieces of jute twine for each cup. If you want them curly, wrap the twine around a pencil, spray lightly with water, and let dry—or use thin wire inside the twine for a permanent curl. Glue the steam pieces just above the lid.

Step 7 – Add the Hanger
Cut a length of jute twine and glue or staple it to the back of your plaque to hang.

Step 8 – Final Touches
Lightly dry brush the whole piece with brown ink or paint for that “been in the kitchen forever” look.

Display Tip: Hang it above your coffee bar or next to your stove during the holiday season for instant cozy vibes.

* This article was originally published here

Readers reply: Do good fences really make good neighbours?

The long-running series in which readers answer other readers’ questions. This week, the knotty issue of home boundaries, and what the saying was intended to mean

They say “good fences make good neighbours”, presumably meaning that the stronger the boundary between you and people you need to deal with, the more robust the relationship. Is this really true? Jamila, via email

Send new questions to nq@theguardian.com.

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* This article was originally published here

Vintage Christmas Circle Printables – Perfect for Gift Tags, Ornaments, and Handmade Garlands

There’s something about vintage Christmas art that just tugs at the heart, isn’t there? The soft colours, the gentle brush strokes, the cosy little scenes… they remind me of the old tins my grandmother kept her sewing supplies in. These printable Christmas circles bring that same nostalgic charm into your holiday crafting—and they’re completely free to download and use.

I’ve made two full sets: one with story-book winter scenes (little cottages, snowy paths, the sweetest robin), and another featuring classic Christmas icons like bells, skates, wreaths, and a sleigh packed with gifts. They all print beautifully on plain white card, so you can turn them into all sorts of festive bits and pieces without needing fancy supplies.

Ideas for Using These Vintage Christmas Circles

1. Christmas Tree Ornaments
   Print on a heavier cardstock, cut them out, and punch a small hole at the top. Add twine, ribbon, lace, or even a tiny scrap of velvet ribbon you’ve tucked away from last year’s gifts. They look gorgeous tucked into the branches, especially if your tree leans toward a traditional or rustic style.
2. Charming Gift Tags
   The circles are just the right size to turn any wrapped gift into a little moment of magic. Write your To/From on the back, attach with jute string or baker’s twine, and let the artwork do the rest. I’ve already tested them on kraft paper wrapping, and oh my goodness—they pop beautifully.
3. Vintage Christmas Garlands
   If you’re like me and adore a bit of old-fashioned holiday charm, print a few sheets and turn them into a garland. Simply string them together with ribbon, twine, or skinny lace. Hang it across your mantel, over a window, or drape it across your shelves for an instant cosy Christmas feel.

A Few Embellishing Ideas

I never leave well enough alone during Christmas crafting season, so here are some little extras to try:

• Lightly brush the outer edge with glitter (antique gold looks incredible)
  • Glue a lace edging around each circle
  • Add a backing layer—use red cardstock or kraft paper for a more layered, old-world look
  • Distress the edges with an ink pad to really lean into that vintage feel
  • Pop them onto mini wooden discs for ornaments with a little more weight and texture

They also look lovely clipped onto twine with tiny pegs—think farmhouse Christmas, but gentler and a bit more nostalgic.

Printing Tips

• Print on A4 or Letter-size white cardstock
  • Set your printer to high-quality or photo mode
  • If you want sturdier ornaments, glue the cutouts onto thin cardboard or a cereal box
  • Laminate if you want them to last year after year

* This article was originally published here

* This article was originally published here

Vintage Christmas Circle Printables – Perfect for Gift Tags, Ornaments, and Handmade Garlands

There’s something about vintage Christmas art that just tugs at the heart, isn’t there? The soft colours, the gentle brush strokes, the cosy little scenes… they remind me of the old tins my grandmother kept her sewing supplies in. These printable Christmas circles bring that same nostalgic charm into your holiday crafting—and they’re completely free to download and use.

I’ve made two full sets: one with story-book winter scenes (little cottages, snowy paths, the sweetest robin), and another featuring classic Christmas icons like bells, skates, wreaths, and a sleigh packed with gifts. They all print beautifully on plain white card, so you can turn them into all sorts of festive bits and pieces without needing fancy supplies.

Ideas for Using These Vintage Christmas Circles

1. Christmas Tree Ornaments
   Print on a heavier cardstock, cut them out, and punch a small hole at the top. Add twine, ribbon, lace, or even a tiny scrap of velvet ribbon you’ve tucked away from last year’s gifts. They look gorgeous tucked into the branches, especially if your tree leans toward a traditional or rustic style.
2. Charming Gift Tags
   The circles are just the right size to turn any wrapped gift into a little moment of magic. Write your To/From on the back, attach with jute string or baker’s twine, and let the artwork do the rest. I’ve already tested them on kraft paper wrapping, and oh my goodness—they pop beautifully.
3. Vintage Christmas Garlands
   If you’re like me and adore a bit of old-fashioned holiday charm, print a few sheets and turn them into a garland. Simply string them together with ribbon, twine, or skinny lace. Hang it across your mantel, over a window, or drape it across your shelves for an instant cosy Christmas feel.

A Few Embellishing Ideas

I never leave well enough alone during Christmas crafting season, so here are some little extras to try:

• Lightly brush the outer edge with glitter (antique gold looks incredible)
  • Glue a lace edging around each circle
  • Add a backing layer—use red cardstock or kraft paper for a more layered, old-world look
  • Distress the edges with an ink pad to really lean into that vintage feel
  • Pop them onto mini wooden discs for ornaments with a little more weight and texture

They also look lovely clipped onto twine with tiny pegs—think farmhouse Christmas, but gentler and a bit more nostalgic.

Printing Tips

• Print on A4 or Letter-size white cardstock
  • Set your printer to high-quality or photo mode
  • If you want sturdier ornaments, glue the cutouts onto thin cardboard or a cereal box
  • Laminate if you want them to last year after year

* This article was originally published here

Create a Stunning Multi-Triangle Wood Shelf – This DIY Project Will Elevate Your Home Decor

If you’re looking to add a unique and modern touch to your home, this DIY Multi-Triangle Wood Shelf is the perfect project to try! It’s the ideal way to bring a bit of geometric flair and functionality into any room. Whether you’re styling your living room, bedroom, or home office, this sleek and creative shelf design will not only give you extra storage but will also serve as a statement piece in your space.

What’s great about this project is how easy it is to customize! You can make it as big or small as you want, and the clean, angular design will effortlessly complement any decor style. Plus, with simple materials and step-by-step instructions, you’ll have this show-stopping shelf up in no time.

Ready to add some modern charm to your walls? href=”https://www.aliceandlois.com/diy-multi-triangle-wood-shelf/” target=”_new” rel=”noopener” data-start=”886″ data-end=”982″>Check out the full tutorial here! and start building your new favorite decor piece today!

DIY Picture Frame Shelf

How to make a faux clay Arch-shaped shelf

DIY Display Shelf

* This article was originally published here

The best grocery stores, according to customers

Find out how your favorite grocery store stacks up on prices, quality and service.

* This article was originally published here

* This article was originally published here

The best grocery stores, according to customers

Find out how your favorite grocery store stacks up on prices, quality and service.

* This article was originally published here

DIY Decoupaged Robin Charger Plate – A Festive Christmas Craft

Every holiday season I like to bring out one or two new handmade décor pieces for the house. It’s not about spending a fortune on decorations but rather adding a personal, heartwarming touch. This year’s favorite? A decoupaged robin charger plate made from Dollar Tree finds. Whether you hang it as wall art, use it as a festive dinner charger, or place it in the center of your Christmas tablescape, this project adds that perfect cozy charm to your holiday setting.

Why Robins for Christmas Décor?

Robins (and cardinals, depending on where you live) are often linked with winter and Christmas. Their bright red feathers stand out beautifully against snowy backdrops and symbolize warmth, cheer, and even loved ones watching over us. Pairing the robin motif with poinsettias and holly brings in all the nostalgia and color of a traditional Christmas.

Materials You’ll Need

You only need a few basics for this project, and most can be found at the dollar store or craft stash you already have:

• 1 Red charger plate (plastic ones from Dollar Tree work perfectly) 
• 1 Christmas napkin with a robin/cardinal design 
• Mod Podge (matte or gloss) 
• Foam brush or soft bristle brush 
• Scissors 
• Plastic wrap/cling film (to smooth wrinkles without tearing) 
• Clear acrylic sealer spray (optional for durability if you’ll use it at the table) 

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1 – Prep Your Plate

Wipe down the charger plate with a damp cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. This ensures your napkin adheres smoothly.

Step 2 – Separate Napkin Layers

Napkins are usually 2–3 ply. Carefully peel away the white backing layers until you’re left with just the printed robin layer. This thinner layer blends beautifully when decoupaged.

Step 3 – Create Torn Edges

Instead of cutting, gently tear around the robin and poinsettia design. Torn edges help the napkin blend more naturally into the plate, giving that charming “soft edge” effect instead of harsh cut lines.

Step 4 – Apply Mod Podge

Brush a thin coat of Mod Podge onto the center of the charger where the design will sit. Work quickly but evenly.

Step 5 – Place the Napkin

Lay the napkin down gently, starting at one edge and smoothing as you go. Place cling wrap on top, then use your fingers to gently press out wrinkles and bubbles without ripping the delicate napkin.

Step 6 – Seal the Design

Brush another coat of Mod Podge over the top of the napkin, working from the center outwards. Allow to dry completely, then apply a second coat for protection.

Step 7 – Optional Protective Seal

If you’ll be using your charger plate at the dinner table, spray with a clear acrylic sealer to protect it from spills and stains. (Remember, these are decorative only—don’t serve food directly on them.)

* This article was originally published here

No-Sew Primitive Drop Cloth Gingerbread Men – Easy Rustic Christmas Craft

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about primitive Christmas decorations. The soft, timeworn fabrics, the slightly imperfect shapes, and that cozy handmade charm that looks like it came straight out of Grandma’s attic. This DIY project takes the classic primitive gingerbread man and makes it even easier—no sewing required!

If you can wield a glue gun, you can whip up these cuties in an afternoon. They’re perfect for hanging on your tree, tucking into wreaths, or giving as heartfelt handmade gifts.

Why You’ll Love This No-Sew Version

• Faster than sewing – you can make a whole batch in under an hour

• Perfect for beginners or kids with supervision

• Still keeps that rustic, primitive charm

• Great way to use up fabric scraps or drop cloth leftovers

Supplies You’ll Need

• Pre-washed drop cloth or plain cotton fabric (coffee-stained or tea-dyed for a primitive look)

• Gingerbread man template (hand-drawn or printed – around 6–7 inches tall works well)

• Fabric scissors or pinking shears for a rustic edge

• Hot glue gun & glue sticks

• Polyester fiberfill or cotton stuffing

• Brown acrylic paint or fabric paint

• Small paintbrush or sponge

• Embellishments: mini buttons, ribbon scraps, twine, or lace

• White paint pen or puff paint for “icing” details

• Sandpaper (optional, for distressing edges)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prep Your Fabric

Wash and dry your drop cloth to soften it up. For an extra-primitive look, stain the fabric with strong coffee or tea and let it dry naturally. Iron if needed.

Step 2 – Cut Out Your Gingerbread Shape

Trace your template onto the drop cloth twice for each gingerbread man (front and back). Cut out both pieces using regular scissors or pinking shears for a jagged edge.

Step 3 – Glue the Edges

Place your two fabric pieces together, wrong sides facing in. Run a thin bead of hot glue around the edge, leaving a 1–2 inch opening at the bottom for stuffing. Press the edges together firmly as you go.

Tip: Work in small sections so the glue doesn’t dry before you press the fabric together.

Step 4 – Stuff Your Gingerbread

Use a pencil or chopstick to gently push the stuffing into the arms, legs, and head first, then fill the body. You want them plump but still soft.

Step 5 – Seal Him Up

Glue the opening closed and press until set.

Step 6 – Add the Primitive Look

Lightly dry-brush brown paint over the fabric for that baked, rustic tone. Let it dry. If you want an even more aged look, lightly sand the edges once the paint is dry.

Step 7 – Decorate

Glue on tiny buttons, tie a bow from twine or lace, and add white paint pen “icing” details along the arms, legs, and head.

Display Ideas

• Hang with twine on your Christmas tree

• Add to a holiday wreath

• Tie onto wrapped gifts as a keepsake tag

• Cluster in a wooden bowl with greenery for a table centerpiece

Crafty Tip: Make a batch of these gingerbread men in different sizes and shades of drop cloth to create a whole primitive cookie family.

This no-sew method keeps all the rustic character but makes the project quick, easy, and beginner-friendly. You’ll have your own tray of “cookies” ready to display before the kettle’s boiled for your second cup of tea.

 

 

* This article was originally published here

* This article was originally published here