DIY Life

Before you know it, Christmas/ Hanukkah/ Kwanzaa/ Solstice will be here. Actually, if some of the department store windows are to be believed, Christmas got here about 3 weeks ago.

In any case, what better way to take a step back from the holiday shopping madness than to make some festive holiday ornaments at home with your loved ones. Here are 10 great ideas to get you started.

1. Amy Butler fabric ornament and tree topper featured in Blueprint. If you get the chance, check out the latest issue of Blueprint - there's a picture tour of Amy Butler's House.

2. Button Wreath Ornament from marthastewart.com. I really like this one because after the holiday you can simply re-purpose the buttons.

3. Ribbon pine cone ornament from WhipUp. More traditional but very clever.

4. Polymer clay ornament from craftster. Classy.

5. Mitten ornament from the Feathered Nest. Made with felt, ribbon and glitter - infinite possibilities for customization.

6. Pink ball ornaments, also from craftster. Super girly with satin cord and beads.

7. Embroidered felt ornament from Sunshine Creations (Via Craft). Use cookie cutters as templates for cute ornaments.

8. Fun clay menorah from the DIY Network. I love that the candles are stuck into people's mouths.











9. Papier mache Kwanzaa bowl from Holiday Arts and Crafts. So much cooler that the papier mache I made as a kid.

10. Kwanzaa kinara (candle holder) from Better Homes and Gardens. The same techniques could be used to make a menorah.

Happy holiday decorating!