Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Using Nature to Decorate for the Holidays

Tips for Tuesday

Sure, the tinsel, glass ornaments and lights are part of the holiday tradition. They are what make the tree pretty, or the tables shine. But have you thought about going back to nature with your decorating? Why not use real branches and evergreens to decorate your home? Or berries and popcorn?

Then, when the holidays are over, you can compost your decorations, rather than storing them in plastic tubs or tossing them in the landfill.

Here are some natural decorating ideas:

• Cut birch or other logs into various lengths, then drill holes large enough for a tea light candle. Cut a long length and drill with several holes and place it on your dining room table or in the fireplace.
• Pine cones and evergreen boughs make a great potpourri.
• Insert cloves into an orange, let the orange dry out, and you'll have a wonderfully smelling ornament or decoration.
• String popcorn and raw cranberries on thread and use as garland. Stale popcorn works better than fresh (and you won't be as tempted to eat it!)
• Cut lengths of evergreen branches from a variety of evergreens and place in a vase as you would a floral arrangement.
• Make your own evergreen garland by tying branches together. Or use a circular form and interweave the boughs to make a wreath. Decorate with berries and dried flowers or fruits.
• Citrus and pomegranates in a bowl make colorful centerpieces.

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