Last year I created a whole series of quick, joyful Advent projects — tiny bursts of creativity designed to brighten up winter days. December can be frantic, but these little makes reminded me that creativity doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. Sometimes ten minutes with scraps of fabric, paper, or yarn can be exactly the pause we need.
This year, I’m choosing a slower December. I’m reflecting more, planning more gently, and finding comfort in simple, handmade details. So it felt like the perfect moment to revisit some of last year’s favourite projects — the ones that people enjoyed most and that brought so much colour into my studio.
If you’re in the mood for a mindful, cosy festive make (or need a last-minute decoration!), here are a few from my Advent archive.
✨ 1. Woolly Tinsel
A soft, whimsical twist on traditional tinsel — quick to make and a gorgeous way to bring texture into your decorations. Perfect for wrapping around bannisters, shelves, or even your tree.
✨ 2. Mini Wreath
These tiny wreaths are one of my most versatile festive makes. Use them as napkin rings, tree decorations, or little gifts tied onto presents.
✨ 3. Origami Paper Star
Perfect for fans of simple paper crafts. These stars look beautiful on trees or as a cluster hanging in a window. They’re wonderfully meditative to fold.
✨ 4. Pom Pom Garland
A cheerful, super-fast garland you can make while watching a Christmas film. Bright, joyful, and a great way to use leftover yarn.
✨ 5. Tin Can Lantern
Still one of my favourite winter projects — simple, rustic, and atmospheric. These lanterns look beautiful with a tealight inside and make magical outdoor decorations.
✨ 6. Air-Dry Clay Tree Lantern
If you want a mindful crafting moment, this one is perfect. Air-dry clay is wonderfully tactile, and the finished lanterns feel charming and soulful, glowing softly in the dark evenings.
🧵 Why These Projects Still Matter
These small makes capture everything I love about the festive season: colour, creativity, and moments of calm in between the noise. They don’t require specialist equipment, and each one can be completed in under half an hour — ideal for busy weeks or when you want to feel grounded again.
Revisiting these Advent ideas has reminded me how much joy is found in the small things: a folded star, a loop of yarn, a handmade gift tag. Creativity doesn’t need to be complicated. Sometimes the simplest projects are the ones that feel most soothing.
🎥 Want more handmade Christmas ideas?
You can find all these tutorials — and plenty more — on my YouTube channel.
👉 Subscribe here:
https://www.youtube.com/@enagreen7189
I’ll be sharing new videos again in the New Year, including textiles, jewellery, studio updates, and lots of colourful makes.
Ena Green Designs 