Jackson Free Press

We know, we know. It's not even Thanksgiving, yet. But it's never too early to start making decorations for your Christmas tree.

Cardboard and Yarn Ornaments

What You Need

Blank cardboard

Yarn

Scissors

Directions

1. Cut a symmetrical shape like an octagon, circle or diamond from your cardboard.
2. Cut 1/2- to 1-inch slits with scissors, equidistant all around the shape.
3. Tie a knot at the end of your yarn and slide it into one of the slits through the back.
4. Work your yarn around the shape in whatever design you choose, passing through each slit.
5. Cut your yarn, and tie a loop for hanging.

Paper Ornaments

What You Need

Colorful or patterned card stock

Glue or double-sided tape

String or yarn

Directions

1. Trace four to six of your desired shapes on the card stock.
2. Carefully cut out the shapes and fold them down the center vertically.
3. Glue all but one of the shapes together.
4. Before completing the shape, fold a length of yarn and place it in the middle of the ornament. Glue it in place and then seal the last side.

You can add bead or bells to your string, if desired.

Bottle Cap Snowmen

What You Need

Metal bottle caps

Hot glue gun and glue sticks
 Ribbons or yarn

Paint in colors white, red, orange and black

Buttons, beads or bells

Directions

1. Paint your bottle caps white. This will take a few coats with normal art paint, but spray paint may be faster.
2. Glue three bottle caps to a length of ribbon and add a little glue in between each cap to add stability. Fold the top end of the ribbon back down and glue in place to form a loop.
3. Use a small paintbrush or toothpick to paint eyes, a carrot nose, mouth and buttons.
4. Tie a ribbon or yarn around the "neck" of your snowman for a scarf and add accents such as buttons or glitter.