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Do you remember the homemade Christmas decor we used to make when we were kids? Decorating the tree with strings of popcorn is no more, and it is a darn shame! Let’s bring back some of these old-time traditions, shall we, beginning with festive cranberry stringing!Â
Are you ready to deck the halls with boughs of – cranberries? Here is what you need to get started:
Supplies:
- Fresh cranberries
- Thread or fishing line
- Large needle
- Scissors
- Thimble (optional)
- Waxed paper or newspaper
1. Prepare your workspace
Begin by laying out the waxed paper or newspaper on your work surface to catch any drips or spills from the cranberries.
2. Cut the thread
Cut a length of thread or fishing line to your desired length. For a garland, you might want several feet. For smaller projects like ornaments or napkin ring holders, a foot or two should suffice.
3. Thread the needle
Thread your needle and tie a knot at one end of the thread. (If you’re using a thin fishing line, you may want to double it for extra strength.)
4. Start stringing!
Begin stringing the cranberries one by one by pushing the needle through the center of each cranberry and sliding it down to the knotted end of the thread.
5. Create your pattern
You can get creative with this, a la stringing the cranberries in a single line or adding patterns with different colored beads or other natural items like popcorn or dried citrus slices for variety!
6. Finish the string
Once you’ve reached the desired length, tie off the end securely. If you’re making a garland, leave enough thread on each end for hanging.
7. Display your creation
Drape your cranberry string as a garland over mantles, around doorways, on Christmas trees, or use them to embellish wreaths. If you’ve made smaller strings, they can even be coiled into napkin rings or used to decorate holiday gifts.
8. Preservation tips
If you want to preserve your cranberry string for longer use, consider spraying it with a clear acrylic sealer. However, remember that fresh cranberry strings are not long-lasting and should be disposed of after the holiday season.
Conclusion
Is anyone else incredibly excited to try this? Me, too! Have fun making memories with your grandbabies – and God bless! As always, let’s talk again soon. 🙂
