Holiday decorating: while I’ve done a good job this year, I still have a lot to learn. That is why I like to visit other peoples’ designs to get some inspiration. And when I say inspiration, I mean cheap and simple inspiration. That’s the kind of inspiration I like.
I live near a forest, and cones are certainly abundant around here. On a walk down the driveway, I can collect handfuls of pine cones. Cones from the pine tree are some of my favorites for crafts. They have a lovely structure and dry out easily.
A cone wreath is a simple holiday delight. Use a wreath background and wrap the background in red, green, or brown. Hot glue cones around the front of the wreath. Add a striking red bow at the bottom. You’ve just made a beautiful, natural wreath for almost nothing!
Wax-dipped cones are a delightful project that I tried as a child. They’re used as fire starters. This project is also very simple. Take a cone. Place festive-colored wax or lovely-smelling beeswax in a pot, and melt it slowly. A double boiler works well for this purpose. Make sure that the depth of the wax is at least half the size of the cone. Gently dip the cone halfway into the pot to place wax on the top. Let the wax dry, the flip the cone and do the other side if you wish. If you have enough wax, use tongs to dip the entire cone. Wrap a batch of these cones and give them to someone with a fireplace as fire starters.
Cones also make lovely bases for seasonal flower arrangements. If you decorate with dried flowers or branches, place some cones into the base of a tall, clear glass container. Place the flowers or branches inside, then continue to fill the container with cones. This makes a striking base for a floral display.
Looking for a central display for a Christmas table? Use cones, branches, and seasonal flowers interspersed with rocks and candles to create a simple, natural look.
Image credit: piknik1977