So.  The Christmas bug has hit me.  My husband took me to the craft store on the weekend (actually we went to the hardware store and then he said we should go to Michaels across the parking lot).  I think he is nervous about my lack of crafting.  He knows how happy it makes me and I can't seem to get my self motivated.

It was the perfect medicine.  Just looking at stuff in the aisles got my juices flowing.  And of course the store was all decked out for Christmas.  Normally I don't do Christmas this early but the last months have just flown by so I am ready to savor this one.

This of course got me thinking of all the handmade things I could create for Christmas.  So I thought I would share as I go along this month making goodies for Christmas.  Some might be decorations, some might be cards, some might be gifts.  Basically whatever strikes me!  Want to play along?  I will post directions for everything I make so you can download and print and then make at your leisure. :)

I have always dreamed of having a Christmas tree decorated exclusively with handmade ornaments.  Nothing store bought. 

I have seen kits for these types of paper balls but have never bought one since I figured they had to be easy to make.  Guess what - they are super easy!

I made up a tutorial for you - download here - page 1 & page 2 (you need to download both)

The main thing you will need is a paper punch. I recommend 1" (makes a 2" ball) or 1.5" (makes a 3" ball) but any size will work.

Once you make up your balls you can decorate them.  I sprayed mine with glimmer mist to give it some sparkle.  (You can't see it in the photo but in real life it looks amazing!)

Try edging them in paint or ink. Or some glitter - that would amazing.

Then add some bling in clear or red/green.

In the tutorial there are also instuctions for the smaller ball (red one).

And thought you might want to know what kind of glue I used.  This is my fave white glue - nothing fancy - it just holds!

I used this paper pad from MAMBI.  It is 8x8 and perfect for making paper Christmas crafts.  You get a nice variety with a pad, the small size makes it practical and the price is great when you buy in bulk like this.

Hope you have fun crafting for the upcoming holidays.  Start now before it gets to crazy busy!