the ReFab Diaries

If you save all those paper grocery bags (you know, the ones you have to use because you left all your reusable bags in the car ... because it was raining and your kids were screaming?) ... use them to wrap gifts!  Alisa Burke is beyond talented and I love her eye.




Pin It

One day we will have 24 seasonally-appropriate books to wrap up.  For now, I wrapped what we've got and lots of little bits and pieces that would be stocking stuffers any other year!  The hope is that Ms Ro (16 months) will understand present opening by Christmas day ... and will have figured out that her super cute "thank you" should be uttered post gift opening!  I still have to find and wrap up another 6 goodies.  Sheesh!

Last year I had a lot more time than money so I made most of my Christmas gifts ... it was exhausting but the response was gratifying.  This year, I have very little time ... and keep seeing amazing DIY gift ideas like the one above! Use the cover of a hardback book to make a cable organizer.



Or to make an iPad cover! If you're willing and able to skip the stores and use your hands this holiday, check out this great DIY gift Design Sponge round up!

I started collecting orange tree ornaments a long long time ago ... so my tree is colorful!  In a world that is shades of grey, black, brown and white, I like color.  But if I had to try monochrome holiday decorating, I'd use felt and any other fabric that's warm ...





Make these lovely decorations yourself care of The Purl Bee.  And here's a link to last year's felt garland.

It's vintage. And velvet. And involves turning unusual pieces of old fabric into an unexpected holiday wreath.



It's irresistibly kitsch ... go make it.