Hanging Decorations 1

The Christmas tree is usually the highlight of the home during the festive season. Other focal points are the front door, the fireplace and perhaps a hall. Window frames, open stairways, the mantelpiece and openings between rooms may also be adorned.

Good decoration consists of much more than sticking a few branches of evergreens behind curtain rods or pic­tures. Well-made garlands, sprays and hanging decorations can be suitably designed for each room and its furnish­ings. Fortunately, it is comparatively easy to make them.

The spray, sometimes called a swag, is simpler in con­struction than a wreath and requires less material. It may be used in any place where a wreath would be appro­priate and is particularly attractive for brightening a mantel, a newel post or a narrow space between windows.

A few branches of pine neatly wired together may be the basis for a beautiful spray. Various decorations may be added. One large cone may be sufficient, or several small cones may be bunched to simulate a large one. A red bow completes a spray requiring little time or money, yet it is handsome as many an expensive commer­cial product. (Drawing 8)

When grouping branches for the spray, start with the largest. Then add the lesser branches. The main branch should not be too broad, or the spray will be out of proportion when completed. Stem ends should be cut obliquely, with the cut surface toward the back of the spray. This is a minor detail, but makes considerable difference in the final effect, which should include no glaring white cuts. Some of the greens may be turned upward and wired inconspicuously to cover stems. These are further concealed by the attached cones and the bow. The bow is wired on when all other work is finished.

There is ample opportunity for variety in swags. A few sleigh bells worked into a door spray will jingle a welcome to every visitor. (Drawing 8) If you are fortu­nate enough to own a set of bells, or a long strip of bell harness, arrange it as a base for a spray or garland of evergreens. Berries and cones, of course, may be worked into any such arrangement.

Convincing artificial snowballs and icicles can be made by soaking newspaper and rolling or squeezing it into the desired shape. A string is tied to the ball or icicle which is then coated with a thin mixture of plaster of Paris prepared by adding warm water and stirring rapidly.
The plaster hardens in a few minutes.
 

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