HOLIDAY CENTERPIECE
Decide on the length of the tray. If you are creating a centrepiece, ideally it should be long enough to cover the usable space on your table, even as long as 12 feet if you've got the space to do it.
? Choose a board five inches longer and five inches wider than the desired footprint of your tray (for example, one inch x eight inches x the desired length or one inch x 10 inches x the desired length board would be ideal).
? From this board cut two half-inch wide pieces off each long side (these will be the sides of the tray).
? Cut two half-inch pieces from the remaining board (these pieces will form the ends.) The remaining piece of board becomes the bottom of the tray. If you want a wider bottom, start with a wider piece of wood.
? Nail the two end pieces to the bottom piece.
? Trim the two side pieces to length and nail to the bottom and end pieces.
? Cut two-inch x two-inch or one-inch x one-inch pieces (you can use the leftover pieces from the sides) for the legs and nail into place. Sand and paint or stain as desired. Tip: Paint the tray in a neutral shade so that what you put in it becomes the focal point. For the holidays, load the tray up with greens and beautiful ornaments that tie into your festive colour scheme. Change it up as the season changes. Line with pots of spring flowers or fall foliage, or you can even use it to create an edible centrepiece for a buffet table.
CAN IT ORNAMENTAL DISGUISE
This is a beautiful way to camouflage gifts with a silver paint can sporting a bow of ornaments. Purchase empty paint cans, lids and paint can openers. Many hardware stores have them in stock, or you can special order and receive them quickly. Place a bike lock or bell for a new bike, keys to a new car, jewelry, socks, underwear, or tickets to a show in the can. Secure the lid and decorate with a colourful array of plastic ornaments attached with a hot glue and embellished with a ribbon. (Don't forget to attach a paint can opener for easy access to the treasure.)
A TWIST ON TRADITION
Style your stairway with beautifully decorated garland at the base around the spindles instead of the normal railing dressing. The result is stunning and you can actually hold onto the railing while on the stairs. It's both functional and safe.
TABLE CHARMS
Set the mood for the evening with charming table favours crafted from a selection of gorgeous hand-blown glass ornaments. Simply glue a washer to the bottom, gently remove the top, fill with water, and place a beautiful seasonal flower or delicate greens in the opening. Don't use plastic ornaments as the top is usually glued on.
SOURCE: HOME HARDWARE STORES LIMITED
