Threads 120: Decorating the house for Christmas
Now is the time to start collecting natural materials for decorating the house for Christmas. If you are lucky, like me, you will be able to collect cedar from the hedgerows. It is sometimes available at country markets and stores. There is also the chance of using the lower branches of spruce trees.
The challenge is finding red berries which can be quite tricky. Depending on the year, cotoneaster berries are the easiest to harvest. They are a low growing spreading shrub, originated in China. They are grown in Canada and easily spread by the birds. It is also possible to use red dogwood as a source of red - the bark will be brightest when grown in full sun. And you can also add a ribbon for colour! They can be included in a wreath - consider making a wreath from grapevine - or use for table decorations.
Here is a photo of cotoneaster growing my garden this winter.
If you’re still looking for a gift for a basket maker or basket enthusiast, take a look at my self published books.