Ho! Ho! Ho! Christmas is here and there’s nothing quite like whipping up a batch of eggnog, playing some light Bublé tunes and adorning your home with festive decorations and cheer. However, last year’s broken ornaments may have left you in need of a glam factor. Fear not, My Kolkata is here to save the day! To elevate your home with a festive spirit, you must try these art and craft suggestions that not only serve as excellent last-minute solutions, but also won’t break the bank, courtesy Instagram!
Star pearls for doors
While Sheldon from The Big Bang Theory cracks string theory, we know how to turn it into a star of pearls. Dive into the whimsical world of @artozo__ on Instagram, where she crafts adorable dangling stars using just beads, beading string and glue. Watch as she strings beads into a circle, creating the first set of corners, and then works her magic to form the rest. A finishing touch with beads on each star tip, and voila! This decorative piece is the perfect addition to doors or entrances because, let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want their head in the stars?
Make your own Santa
Guess who’s in town? Santa! And, you can make him yourself! Get creative with Anand Kumar Singh, aka @anand_art_and_craft_studio, on Instagram. Watch his reel as he crafts jolly old Santa Claus using nothing but waste plastic bottles, newspaper, cardboard and a sprinkle of magic! Starting with the clever fusion of small and big bottles, glued to perfection, he builds the base body of Santa. So, what about the arms, legs, and that rosy-cheeked face? You can craft them with cardboard, rolled paper and a dash of coloured magic. Following this step-by-step video isn’t just fun, it leaves you with your very own cute Mr Claus too.
A tree is a must
Cutting down trees for Christmas isn’t a tradition in this city. Instead, opt for a tree from New Market and be spoilt for choice. Still not happy, and want something at home and handmade? Dila Albayrak has the perfect solution – make your own tree at home. She starts by flipping over a bowl, attaching eight sticks to form the base. Next, she wraps a green, pine-like streamer around the structure, giving it that classic Christmas tree appearance. Now, it’s time to let your creativity shine as you decorate the tree to summon the festive vibes.
Christmas table setting
Planning to host a feast for your near and dear ones? Well, the table setting needs to be as stellar as the food. Not sure where to begin? Let Jessica May guide you. She starts by draping her table with a crisp white cloth, then adds another one running lengthwise down the centre. To infuse some colour, she introduces a vase adorned with floating candles, greenery and tiny stars. Every chair is graced with neatly placed plates, utensils and napkins rolled into charming napkin rings. This setting, paired with the delectable food on offer, is sure to create a truly memorable dining experience.
Xmas ice cubes
Sip it and don’t skip it. Olivia or @liv.yah on Instagram adds a festive twist to her cocktails that is easy to make and makes your drinks look good. She starts by taking an ice tray and then adding cherries, rosemary and a bit of (what looks like) salt. She then tops the ice tray up with water and sets it in the freezer to cool. And that’s it! Add a couple of these ice cubes to a white spirit or a cocktail of your choice and watch beauty unfold in your glass, one sip at a time.
(@liv.yah)
