DECORATING FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Fresh fruits are often used in wreaths and other decorations. Kumquats are one of the all-time favorites. As a matter of fact I've seen stunning wreaths with only kumquats and greens. Cranberries are used for lots of different Christmas decorations. Osage oranges are also commonly seen during the season. Fruited branches of shrubs or trees are very appropriate. Example would be red chokecherry (Aronia), hollies, cotoneaster, and junipers.
It's very easy to make an Advent wreath. Ivy is often chosen for this. Add some cranberries or other fruits for accent. Be sure and provide glass covers for the candles so the flame doesn't come into direct contact with the greens.
Those short on time can buy pre-made wreaths and add the finishing touches. Personalize these by adding fruits. Start with the plain wreath; attach some green apples, some sprigs of baby's breath or other white-flowered everlasting. Finish this with a white and gold bow. Assuming you buy a well-made wreath, this item could last for months if you spray the apples with clear acrylic paint. If you prefer red apples or some other fruit, that's fine. I prefer the green ones because the wreath can then be used for months.
A similar approach can be used for ivy and rosemary topiaries. Ivy topiaries look very nice when some fruits are added. Later remove the Christmas bows and anything else that screams Christmas. Enjoy the topiary throughout the winter.
When choosing holiday decorations, don't forget ones made of fabric. Christmas Quilts & Crafts by Eleanor Burns, published by Quilt-in-a-Day, features over 30 easy holiday projects to brighten the home.
Quick Quilts for the Holidays by Trice Boerens, from C & T Publishing, offers eleven different projects using various techniques. It includes table runners, wall hangings, and quilts for all the holidays from Halloween to the New Year.
Make Room for Christmas Quilts by Nancy J. Martin, published by Martingale, includes 15 projects, such as pomanders, runners, and greenery swags that last year after year.
Cindy Walter's Snippet Sensations Christmas Celebration features seven easy and fun projects like wreaths, snowmen, and Christmas trees. Krause publishes this award-winning author's series.
Krause also recently released Florals For All Seasons-35+ Designs to Decorate Your Home. There are many suitable projects for winter, including a lemon candle centerpiece, and a magnolia-apple wreath that features apples, crab apples, and berries. I prefer
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