Welcome! If you’re like me and the idea of diving into a craft makes you a bit nervous, then you have come to the right place! For the next two weeks, I hope you’ll join me as we enjoy the fun of the coming holiday season by crafting together with a few projects that are super simple to do!
Together, we can take some everyday items that could literally be found at the hardware store and use them to make a humble, yet cheery holiday table. I wanted these projects to be so simple, you wouldn’t even need a glue gun or sewing machine to get the job done.
Welcome to “A Homemade Holiday”
(for even the un-crafty at heart)!
Pictured above are decorated mason jar cups that were a cinch to throw together and a table runner made from none other than a drop cloth from the hardware store. I snagged both of the main items at Ace Hardware. The Mason Jars were 8.99 for twelve and the drop cloth which is a 4 x 12 cost 13.99. Not too shabby!
Decorated Mason Jar Cups
Once you have your cups, you’re going to want to pick out some holiday fabrics. Chances are, you may have some festive prints and plaids lying around your home, or even in your scrap basket so you may not even need to go out and buy them. I went ahead and picked out a few at JoAnn’s fabric, just so I could see what it would cost (Thanks to a sale on fabric, I spent $3.75). I bought 3 different varieties, a 1/4 yard each (which was MORE than plenty).
For the strips, they worked best cut about 1/2 in. thick and 15 inches long. While at JoAnn’s I also grabbed some cute little paper tags ($2.39 for 50) that I thought would help make the cups serve an extra purpose–place cards! PLUS, guests don’t have to worry about mixing up their glasses (and they won’t lose them, so you won’t be washing dishes all evening. 😉 )
Canvas Table Runner
Let’s talk canvas. I thought about doing this table runner out of burlap, but when I priced it at the fabric store, it was actually rather expensive for the length that I needed. The great thing about using the canvas drop cloth is that if you are handy with the sewing machine, you could actually cut the cloth lengthwise, sew up the raw edges and have TWO table runners (I just folded mine. You know, still can’t load that bobbin on the old sewing machine. Maybe someday…:D)
Now, let’s talk ribbon. You could certainly buy some festive holiday ribbon for this. There are lots out there and so very pretty. BUT, mountain girl that I am, I love the rustic look and there’s just something about ticking stripe that says “country” and there’s something about red ticking stripe that says “Christmas”. So if you’re feeling rustic, grabbing just an 1/8th of a yard would be enough for the two bows at each end. (I ended up getting 1/4 yard and used the scraps to tie the silverware.)
Depending on the length of your table, you may not need to cut the drop cloth at all. My table was on the shorter end, so I did cut the cloth to length, leaving plenty to hang over the edge for tying. Now if you end up trimming your canvas to size like I had to, below are the steps to finish it off as (unlike the bows, etc.) you will want the runner to have a finished edge so it doesn’t fray when you toss it in the wash.Â
1. Cut pre-washed canvas
You’ll want to pre-wash your canvas as they do shrink just a touch. This will ensure that it won’t change shape after you make it.Â
2. & 3. Trip loose strings
Using your scissors, trim away any frayed strings so it’s even and tidy. This will make it easier for when you go to sew (or attach the iron-on adhesive).Â
4. & 5. Finish rough edge
If you are handy with a sewing machine, or have some time to use a needle and thread, you can simply sew the rough edge so that it’s finished.
I was in a bit of a hurry and I confess, I don’t even know how to thread the bobbin on my sewing machine without my mother-in-law’s help (*smile*) so I opted to use some iron-on adhesive which was a cinch (just follow the instructions right on the package.)
6. Iron
If you use iron-on adhesive, you’ll already have your iron out, but either way, this is the time to give it a nice run with a hot iron to get the cloth smooth and looking extra pretty (I just ironed mine straight on the table. I know, I’m such a rebel!)
Above is the finished runner and as you can see, it’s super simple, but has a country charm that’s just right for that rustic holiday look and will hopefully be a cheery and warm welcome to friends and family this holiday season!
And now… for a special surprise! I’ve decided to box up the table runner, 4 of the finished mason jars + the tags and cloth strips to make 8 more cups…and I’m ready to ship it all off to one of you! If you’d like to enter for the holiday table decorations, you can enter below!
I really felt compelled to Cassie and what she was going through. I know the pain she felt but God knows best in our lives as with her’s. Thank you for another great book.
LeAnn,
It’s so touching to hear that the story reached you like that. And for me too, Cassie’s story was one that tugged at my heart. You are so welcome, and thank you for reading it!
Love the idea for the mason jars! 🙂 I may have to do that for Thanksgiving; with 30 people in the house, that will be a perfect way for everyone to keep track of their own glass. (I hate the idea of ugly plastic cups and sharpy pens!)
I’m so glad, Julie! That’s how I feel too… it’s more special than the plastic cups, but also, not as many dishes if they don’t get lost 😉 I’d love to hear how it turns out if you do it!
Great gifts from the heart.
I love those homemade gifts, too, Blanche. 🙂
Love the mason jars really neat. Can’t get the contest rafflecopter to work though.
blessings
joeym11@frontier.com
Thanks! Hmm… it should be working as I know it’s working for others. Maybe try refreshing the page? Sometimes that can help if it gets stuck.
I received a mason jar gift for Christmas once and I loved it!
What a fun memory, Jean. 🙂 I’m glad you are here!
Joanne your table runner and mason jar crafting is very pretty . I love doing all kind of craft . They now have out the colored mason jars or you could paint them .. Just an idea to go with yours . I think this is very sweet if you to do this crafting . I would love to be entered in your contest .
lizd225(at)gmail(dot)com
Blessing
Thank you, Elizabeth. 🙂 Thanks for popping in. And isn’t it fun all the things you can do with Mason jars? I seem to use them for everything these days. I even organized my bathroom and laundry room with them (jars full of cotton balls, clothespins, tea light candles, little hair ties…) I love the uniformed look it gives to those usually cluttered items!
Anything I get extra would for sure go to my sister or brother who have been there always for me.
That is so very sweet, Bonnie.
What a great project, Joanne! Mason jars are always fun to use and I love a table runner! Thank you so much for sharing yet another talent. I look forward to more enjoying more of your crafting ideas!
Britney,
Thanks! You are so sweet and such an encouragement. And thank you for your sweet email! I’m writing you back now!
The site is working again! Yay! You know I love this idea Joanne. It really is the perfect idea for a giveaway. I love knowing one can still find ticking! I just recently found a hand salve my aunt always used but using it this way was not the original use. Do you know what it is?
Thanks for offering these handmade items, no matter who wins, I’ve got a great idea for a couple of gifts.
Many thanks for your kindness ~
Shirley, yes, yay!! Thanks for your patience and being a sounding board earlier. I was glad to know I wasn’t just plain nuts. 😉
Yes, the ticking can be found, though I had to HUNT for it. Finally, the worker there showed me it was in a special spot in the back. Re: the salve, I’m not sure!
I’ll save the salve thing for another time. Thanks again for this contest. Have a lovely afternoon.
I almost forgot to reply to the question. My favorite thing, rather our favorite thing is games. As most families do, we sort of went our own ways after awhile and a couple of us were a bit lost. Things have changed and for the better. When we gather for the holidays, a board game is usually produced. We have always been a game playing family whether it was cards, scrabble or other board games. Although we may not be together for Thanksgiving, Christmas plans are in the making and I’ve come up with some wonderful ideas for games for the kids. I’m so excited, I feel almost like a kid myself. So much to look forward to this year. Again, thank you Joanne!
I have always so loved this idea, wishing I had more money to do more of it. I have made my spiced tea and put it in jars so far this month !
I am so excited waiting for your third book to come in the mail… I hope it doesn’t get lost. I want to have all three when I start reading as I hate getting to the end of one and not having the next !
I think Diana is the same way ! I am so glad you share this idea. What are you making up to put in yours ?
Hugs and Much Love
Linda
I would give my other copy to my co-worker Jeanette Love the craft ideas I am very un-crafty
I’m a cheap, cheap crafter so this one was right up my ally. You know, my frugality goes so far that I save the cute box that the mason jars come in and I use it on top of my refrigerator to hold boxes of cereal and crackers. It’s actually quite cute and tidy! 😉
I do hope the book arrives soon. I am so certain it’s on it’s way but if for any reason, you don’t see it, just let me know!
LOL, I am so use to filling them I didn’t realize you were using them for glasses. Cool ! I saw the ones with the handles at Salvation army and I want to get a bunch of those when I see them and use those year round. sorta off season thought here but have you ever used the mason mugs in summer or ice tea and you rinse them and put them in the freezer for chilled ice tea or sweet tea !
Blessings
Linda
Haha! Aren’t they just so purposeful? I cleaned out our cup cupboard this summer and now it’s nothing but mason jars for drinking. They’re just so nice and handy!
I just love your writings! I would pick Gideon and his growth and having a feeling heart… only the Lord can give him.
I would give the extra as a Christmas gift when we exchange at quilting during our last class until Spring.
I would l-o-v-e to have your craftiness [hmmm… still would love to have your little rugs] even tho’ you say it is easy-peasy. Hoping I win! Kathleen ~ Lane Hill House
lanehillhouse[at]centurylink[dot]net
Aww, that’s so sweet.
And thank you! You always make me smile. 🙂 Glad you are entered!
😀 ~*blessings*~
I would give extra copies of books to my mother in law. Like me, she doesn’t have enough money to support her book habit! And the craft ideas are wonderful!
Books truly do make such a great gift. You are so thoughtful! And thank you!
Hi, Joanne!
Just love these homemade holidays crafts for the “uncrafty”! I love making crafts for decorating, unless they involve needlework. Unlike my sister-in-law (who even made wardrobes for her children, including coats), I am absolutely no good at ANY form of needlework! My aversion to needlework started when I was in Home Economics in school, & had to rip out stitches (& resew) of everything I made. I can relate to the bobbin dislike, also – a pain in the neck!
I would give any extra book to my best friend, who is an avid reader, lost her job Oct. 2012, & has many serious health problems. She was released from the hospital a few days ago, & is awaiting a biopsy diagnosis.
My favorite character is Cassie – stemming from incidents in my own life, many years ago, I can relate to FEELING, or being, forced to live a lifestyle that is less than pleasant, or desired, & detrimental to my physical, mental, & spiritual well-being. But -God is faithful, those incidents gave me spiritual growth, & eventual happiness.
Thanks for the wonderful holiday craft instructions, SO looking forward to the ones that follow.
Hugs!
Bonnie,
Thanks to your sweet comment, I finally put 2 + 2 together and realized I had a question up there from a book giveaway. Regardless, your answer so made me smile. I’m GLAD that your favorite character was Cassie. She certainly has a story to tell and I like to imagine how her own story continues even after the series.
I’m so glad you popped in for this crafting post. I’m like you… not good at needlework, but my mom is! I can pretty much tie fabric (and crochet it as with the rug) but not much beyond that, though I did sew some skirts when I was able to operate my sewing machine! 🙂
Thanks for being here! Warmest wishes to you, your sis in law and your best friend!
My favorite thing would be just visiting and talking. Making homemade crafts is always a topper.
Blessings
Diana
joeym11@frontier.com
Isnt’ that the best? I do love that too, just visiting and catching up with loved ones.
I just love being with my family. I love the canvas and mason jars.
susanmsj@msn.com
That really is a treasure, Susan. 🙂 Glad you stopped in!
These are so cute! Thanks for the chance to win this contest! Happy Thanksgiving! And Merry Christmas!
Why thanks, Tammy! A merry Christmas and a happy Thanksgiving to you as well!! 🙂
absolutely love this ideal for the holidays. thanks for sharing, and if i win, then i can maybe do this for some friends.
Hi Susan! I’m so glad you like them and doubly glad you are entered! They truly are so simple, which I think makes them feel fun in that do-able kind of way! 🙂
Your books are always so uplifting and share many of the challenges we still face. Thank for keeping it real.
Janet- that is so sweet, bless you for that!
We love to remember stories from growing up or pass down ones from loved ones. I want our kids to remember how crazy our family is but also how amazing they are too!
Oh, Leah, that sounds like a great time. I hope your celebrations this year are just full of that! 🙂
Think I’m going to do several of the runners
for gifts. Thank you for supplying ideas for
Christmas happies! Mason jars are so cute,
and to tie a nice little bow on the silverware…
Thanks Joanne.
Wonderful, Melody! And if you’re handing with a sewing machine, one drop cloth can easily make 2 runners, just by cutting it right down the middle.
Ooh, so cute! I love easy homemade decorations that are cute and not too fancy! I will have to try your ideas!
I’m glad to hear it, Jen! I do too. 🙂 I was worried these would be too-simple, but in the end, I think it was best!
WOOOPS! I forgot to put my name!
I’ve shared holidays with friends for many many years since my family members have passed away. Since moving back to KY, I spend Thanksgiving with a friend who runs a bed and breakfast. She has a Thanksgiving meal for those who have no family or students who are stuck here. LOVE the table decor! Even though I won’t have family sitting at my table, I always decorate it!
Mary, you are so sweet! I was just peeking at your email to get your name.I went ahead and deleted the first one for you. 🙂
Glad you are here! That sounds like such a neat way to spend Thanksgiving! What a fun environment that must be with so many people crossing paths. Glad you enjoyed the decor. Thank you! 🙂
I love your craft ideas. I am going to attempt some of them for gifts. I have decided out of necessity and out of the desire to give home made gifts this year. What I treasure the most is just getting to see my family. They mean everything to me and just seeing them is enough as I get older I don’t need other things to make me happy.
Thank you so much I love your books and I appreciate this post
Jackie – that’s so great to hear. I’d love to know how they turn out for you! I love haring how you get that special time with your family, and just how meaningful it is to you. I hope you all have a blessed holiday season!
What beautiful crafty things..I love them, thanks for showing how easy they are to do.
I esp like that red stripe ticking fabric…
Paula O
Good evening, Paula 🙂
Thanks for visiting! I agree, I’m a fan of that ticking. It’s a bit $$ so it makes good little accents.
Oh my word!! This is so easy and beautiful. I’d love to win them. You are so talented. Thanks for sharing your beautiful ideas. I especially love the mason jar idea. Who would have thought so many beautiful ideas would start popping out with something as simple as a mason jar? I pray you and your family have a very blessed Thanksgiving next week and enjoy all the holiday fun!!! I personally am thankful for you and all the joy and smiles you’ve brought to my life lady. God bless.
Kristie
Why thanks, Kristie! Mason jars are such great little things. They’re just so homey, aren’t they? 🙂 Thank you for your sweet, sweet words! Sending a prayer your way as well for a happy and healthy holiday season.
I,love catching up on everything in everyone’s life, sitting around the tree.
Those are great things about the holidays. Oh and the tree! The lights… I wish it came around more than once a year.
I love the table runner..what gorgeous idea!
Thanks, Andraya!!
My favorite thing when family gets together at the holidays is the warm feeling you get when you watch everybody getting along and talking about what’s been going on. Thanks for t he giveaway.
Oh, yes, just sitting back and watching everyone enjoy themselves truly is a treat. Glad you stopped in, Gayle!
Just the warm comfort of being together and seeing smiles on faces. Everyone talking at once. The Love. Joanne, I like the ticking on the chairs.
Such special times, Lisa. It truly is what makes the holidays so wonderful.
I love getting the family together and just catching up on everything! We don’t all get together very often anymore it seems everyone is so busy. I love watching all the nieces and nephews playing together and getting to know each other better too! There are 6 of us kids in my family. When we get everyone together there is quite a crowd. Some of my sisters and my brother have grandkids to add to all the fun. I’m not very crafty but these don’t look too hard!
Hi Joanne. This is a very cute idea. I have two daughters who will want to try it. I never have any Christmas company. I do the going. I remember in CO. while on a trip we stopped at a small cafe. It had the old time checkered table cloths, and they used the pint jars for tea glasses. Used the half pints for juice. And, cloth napkins. It was really. Took me back to my younger days. Loved it. Would love to win your prize.
Maxie mac262(at)me(dot)com
Good afternoon, Maxie
So good to see you here. Oh that cafe sounds just delightful. I love the sound of those cups and table cloth. Sounds like such a cheery place to eat and so neat that it took you down memory lane like that. 🙂
Well, I wrote this and it cancelled on me. So will make this comment shorter. My favorite thing for Christmas is to be with all of my kids, grands, and greats. Just watching them chat, laugh, and play games makes me so happy. Nothing I love more.
Maxie mac262(at)me(dot)com
Maxie, somehow the other comment went through as well. These blogs can be so finicky! 🙂 THANK YOU for stopping in!
There is a great deal of story telling & laughter when we all get together.
Sounds just lovely, Mary. I hope you all have a very special Thanksgiving!
My favorite thing about the holidays is just spending time with family and friends. Everyone are so busy, you’re doing good if you receive a text much less a telephone call. Love your craft work. It’s very pretty. I’m not crafty, that talent went to someone else in the family. Thank you for the chance to win this giveaway and please enter my name.
It really is what makes the holiday so special. I love the gatherings as well. 🙂 Thanks so much… I don’t feel very crafty myself, so these projects were pretty simple. I’m so happy you stopped in!
Wow, how pretty and such simple items to use. My husband’s favorite glass to drink out of is a mason jar-they are so durable he says. (He’s from Iowa but got to the south as fast as he could!). 😉
Thanks for the opportunity to win.
Happy Holidays.
Robbie
Hi Robbie! So lovely to see you here this afternoon. 🙂 Don’t you just love those simple items? I’m a low-fuss decorator so those materials caught my eye right off. Your husband and my husband sound like the would be friends!
Forgot to answer qustion!
I love the smells of pine trees and winter air. Plus the anticipation and joy of having family home for the celebrations.
Robbie
ah, that is such a great smell! We live in the woods, so it’s one that I’m pretty much hooked on. 😉 And oh yes, those special moments of anticipation truly are special.
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