Countdown To Christmas: Your Preparation Checklist

There are two types of crafters when it comes to Christmas: the ones who start in the height of summer and won’t let a heatwave stop them, and those who leave it until the very last minute and are up day and night perfecting gifts. Either way, we’re here to help you guide you through exactly what you need to complete for your best Christmas yet – you’ll never have to wing it again!

THREE MONTHS TO GO…

Dedicate an hour of your day to writing a list of everyone you need to make for, what you’re going to create and when it needs to be finished by. Your next step is to set yourself a budget of exactly how much you’re willing to spend; try to be realistic and think of thrifty ways to save a few pennies. Once these steps are out of the way, you’ll instantly feel a sense of calm knowing that everything is written down in one place.

TWO MONTHS TO GO…

All of your favourite habby shops will hopefully have the new fabric collections out, so stock up on everything you need! Consider what colours your recipients adore, or tailor to your own décor if making projects for your home. We’re used to seeing an abundance of reds and greens during the festive season, however you’ll also be coming across deep, elegant shades of Midnight Blue all winter long. Nordic-style comes out in full force at Christmas time, too. Who can resist the simple and calming look that it provides during a busy time of year? If you like to stray away from tradition, this is a trend after your heart. From llamas with Santa hats to neon fairy lights, it can certainly add a unique twist to projects. Or, if you’re feeling extra creative, expand your sewing horizons and design your very own decorations! Hand-sewn felt shapes and wreaths made from strips of fabric are easy to master, even better, you’ll save yourself quite a bit of money too.

4 WEEKS TO GO…

It may come as a shock to our non-crafting friends that we haven’t got a whole workshop of elves to help us out, but we have got two very skilled hands that basically do the same job! Everyone is different, however we recommend dedicating a month (or even more if you can) to solely making Christmas gifts and cards. Of course, birthdays or other occasions may pop up in the meantime, but try and spend a few hours at a time on a regular basis tackling your list. There’s no better satisfaction in life than crossing out a line on your to-do list.

3 WEEKS TO GO…

Triple, no, quadruple check that you’ve got the presents for everyone and work out exactly when you’re going to see them. Now is the time to whip together any last-minute gifts that you may have forgotten about. This week would also be the perfect time to ensure that your handmade Christmas cards get sent out.

2 WEEKS TO GO…

Once you’ve got over the initial panic regarding how soon Christmas is, it’s time to start wrapping. People either love or hate this part, but it doesn’t need to be complicated! This year, why not try and present your gifts in a more eco-friendly way? You can sew your own gift bags or cover boxes with fabric – these can double-up as a present, and the recipient can keep bits ‘n’ bobs in it for years to come. Wrap with fabric, too - scraps of leftovers in your stash make for an excellent eco-alternative to paper. Don't forget to make use of your ribbon stash: a jolly gingham print or deep green velvet would instantly polish up brown paper, and can be reused again and again!

1 WEEK TO GO… AND UNWIND!

Give yourself a pat on the back for accomplishing the Great Christmas Crafting Extravaganza of 2023 with flying colours! Switch on your favourite movie, make a mug of hot cocoa and snuggle up on the sofa with the satisfaction that you’re all done for another year!

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