Wreath Inspiration

For the past three years I've made holiday wreaths to adorn our fireplace.  Each wreath a bit different from the previous one, but not any less beautiful.  This year, I'd like to put together something a little less traditional.  Here are a few that are currently inspiring me.  Take a look and stay tuned to see how mine turns out.

Images:  1./2./3./4.

Sugar Stick Holiday Wrap

The holiday wrapping marathon has begun and this year there's something a little sweeter about it:  sugar sticks.  Yes, I'm adding sugar sticks to our packages this year.  The secret is out for any of you who are receiving gifts from us.  The rest of the embellishment is quite simple. It is comprised of twine, an oversized cedar sprig and a fern frond.   I especially like when the greens hang over the packages as if they were concealing their contents.  Take a look:Do you have a special motif for this year's holiday gift wrapping?   Do share if you do.  Together we can start our very own pinterest board!

Botanical Inspiration: A Homemade Wreath

Utilizing cedar branches, eucalyptus pods, protea, lichen covered branches and some foraged materials I created a wreath that fits perfectly over our large fireplace.  Love how the unruly cedar branches soften the brickwork and how the pink protea (Australian sugarbushes) complement the color of the walls and our treasured womb chair.

 To see how we decorated the mantel last year,  click here.

Don't forget to send me images of YOUR holiday decor.  I've received a few already and would love to see lots more.

Thanks, JG, for lending a hand in making our holiday wreath this year!

Holiday: Around The House

Yesterday I began placing cedar branches and pepper berries throughout the house to give even the  most unexpected places a seasonal touch.  Take a look:

Can't wait to blog about our homemade wreath and the family Christmas tree.  Stay tuned for that.

I would love to see how you've decorated your home for the holidays.  Send your pics to debra@cocoonhome.com, I may just decide to hold a contest for my crafty readers...

FLOCKED: A Holiday Decorating Obsession

flocked wreath

  A recent purchase of a flocked wreath has my mind spinning, or shall I say obsessed, with decorating ideas.  Flocking as been around for decades but seems to be making a comeback in wallpapers, holiday decor, and sculptures.  I think our upcoming Punch Bowl Party might be a perfect place to showcase these fuzzy holiday pieces.  Take a look at my flocked finds:

 Flocking is the process of depositing many small fiber particles (called flock) onto a surface. It can also refer to the texture produced by the process, or to any material used primarily for its flocked surface. Flocking of an article can be performed for the purpose of increasing its value in terms of the tactile sensation, aesthetics, color and appearance. It can also be performed for functional reasons including insulation, slip-or-grip friction, and low reflectivity.

So, what do you think about flocking?  Does it trigger any memories of flocked Christmases past?  I do remember my nana hanging flocked poodle ornaments on her Christmas tree (wish I could get my hands on those).

Happy Decorating!