Jo-Ann Christmas 2013
Christmas Around the World
Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores has traveled the globe to find fresh ideas for Christmas decorating and entertaining. Longtime traditions from countries far and near provide inspiration for our merry collection of crafts and decor. Journey with us and discover how easy it is to have a simply creative Christmas!
image
caption
project instructions
Paper Lanterns Garland
For over 2,000 years, the Chinese have decorated their homes with lanterns to announce special events and occasions. Carry on this charming tradition with a garland of delicate paper lanterns specially crafted as a tribute to the yuletide season.
Skill Level 2: Some experience necessary
Approximate Crafting Time: Varies
Bavarian Nutcracker Wreath
From humble beginnings in Germany to worldwide fame today, the nutcracker is a beloved symbol of the holidays. Hand-painted miniature nutcrackers glisten with glitter on a wreath that's completely covered in nuts. Definitely tradition with a twist!
Skill Level 2:
Experience necessary
Approximate Crafting
Time: Weekend project
St. Lucia Centerpiece Wreath
On December 13 in Sweden and Norway, people honor St. Lucia's Day with a faithful procession led by a girl wearing a crown of candles. Recreate this special celebration at home by decorating your table with an elegant wreath of flowers and candles.
Skill Level 2: Some experience necessary
Approximate Crafting Time: 1-2 hours
Sparkling Seashell Ornaments
Christmas is a summer holiday in Australia, simply because this island nation is in the southern hemisphere. Deck your halls the way they do down under! Be inspired by the beach and trim the tree with an array of gorgeous glittery seashells.
Skill Level 1: No experience necessary
Approximate Crafting
Time: 1-2 hours plus drying time
Christmas Tree Advent Calendar
Originating in Germany, advent calendars are an entertaining way for kids to count down the days until Christmas. This festive wood tree version has handcrafted paper ornaments. Kids will love the daily activity suggestions tucked inside each one!
Skill Level 1:
No experience necessary
Approximate Crafting
Time: Weekend project
Rosemaling Design Tray
Rosemaling is a type of folk art from rural Norway featuring stylized flower and scrollwork designs. These Old World motifs lend charm to holiday crafts, such as this hand-painted tray. Chalkboard paint on the interior bottom makes for merry message-writing!
Skill Level 3: Experience necessary
Approximate Crafting
Time: 3-5 hours plus drying time
Festive Poinsettia Piñata
On Christmas Day in Mexico, children commonly take turns hitting a star-shaped piñata to release the avalanche of toys and treats hidden inside. Your little ones and maybe even grown-ups will enjoy trying to break open this poinsettia-covered version.
Skill Level 1: No
experience necessary
Approximate Crafting Time: Weekend project
Poinsettia Christmas Card
The poinsettia is a native Mexican plant. It was first used as Christmas decoration by Franciscan missionaries back in the sixteenth century. Send a message of good tidings to someone special with a handcrafted card featuring this lovely holiday flower.
Skill Level 1: No experience necessary
Approximate Crafting Time: 1-2 hours
Scandinavian Tree Skirt
Artists from Scandinavia are famous for beautiful embroidery. Simple stitching and folk art patterns influence their style. A felt tree skirt showcasing these colorful Nordic designs offers a fresh look for your tree. It's simple to make since it requires minimal sewing!
Skill Level 2: Some
experience necessary
Approximate Crafting Time: 3-5
hours
Fabric-Wrapped Gifts & Treats
Wrapped presents of food and baked goods are common gifts in the West African nation of Liberia. Embrace this tradition and give savory snacks and sweet treats to family and friends in packages that are cleverly covered in fabric.
Skill Level 1: No
experience necessary
Approximate Crafting Time: 1-2 hours
Hand-Painted Holiday Luminaries
It's an Irish tradition to place lit candles in windows on Christmas Eve. Let this quaint holiday custom add warmth and joy to your home! Glass containers with hand-painted designs and flameless candles look welcoming in windows or on a table.
Skill Level 1: No
experience necessary
Approximate Crafting Time: 1-2 hours
Matryoshka Doll Aprons
The iconic Russian nesting dolls, known as Matryoshka, are loved for their colorful and charismatic designs. Find inspiration from these folksy figurines and sew a pair of mother-daughter aprons to wear while holiday baking and entertaining.
Skill Level 3:
Experience necessary
Approximate Crafting
Time: 6+ hours