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Thanksgiving and Christmas

A favorite collection is small, but so interesting. Postcards decorate our home and are used in different crafts. They are a look back to a way of life that appreciated beautiful artwork, whimsical drawings and survived without instant communication.

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Barbara's Collectibles Blog

Making Oprah's "O" List -- The Hot Pink Cammo Ornament

Thursday November 12, 2009
Is there anything that guarantees to be an instant success more than being mentioned by Oprah or in her O Magazine? Probably not. That's the situation Thomas Glenn finds himself in this year as his company has made The "O" list and the Hot Pink Cammo ornament is featured in the December issue of Oprah magazine. But it's really not an instant success, as the Thomas Glenn Collection has been a favorite among collectors for several years and now non-collectors will be on board!
Read more . . .

(c)Celebrate 365

Make it Merry

Thursday November 12, 2009
Welcome to another edition of Make it Merry, where talented crafters share their holiday how-to's. This week we've got some friendly characters and festive Thanksgiving crafts to create.

Create a Pumpkin Candle
What better to put in the middle of the feast. David Fisher will show you how to make this easy and impressive pumpkin tealight holder.

Make a Sesame Street Wreath
For 40 years, Sesame Street has been part of our lives and has encouraged us to accept all holiday traditions. Barbara Crews will show you how to create this wreath dedicated to some of our favorite Muppets.

Draw a Penguin Pilgrim
For Thanksgiving crafts like place mats and name cards, you'll need some festive art. How about a lesson from Helen South on drawing this cutie penguin.

Embroider a Gift Bag
Save cash for presents when you reuse gift bags or buy those inexpensive plain bags. Phyllis Dobbs will show you how to dress them up for the re-gifting process with a touch of delightful embroidery.

Stitch a Swedish Ornament
If you've got an ornament exchange to attend this year, a traditional Swedish ornament will really stand out in the crowd. Cheryl Fall will show you how to hand stitch this original piece.

Wax Resist Holiday Cards
Add a contemporary look to your holiday while saving some cash on Christmas Cards. This wax resist technique from Marion Boddy-Evans is just what you need.

Pumpkin Foam Sticker Earrings
For a quick Fall look in a pinch, try these pumpkin sticker earrings from Tammy Powley. She'll show you how to make them in five easy steps.

Paper Globe Ornament
This dimensional ornament has an intricate look, but is actually simple in design. Kate Pullen will show you how to cut and stamp this delightful addition to your decor.

Knit a Stocking Ornament
A mini stocking is a creative way to give a gift card, or hide a little treat on the tree. Sarah E. White shows us how to knit this cute little sock.

Christmas Tree Bunting
Decking the Halls has never been so fun, and this one is perfect for helpful kids to take part in. Use up those scraps of fabric with this decorative craft from the Sadie and Lance blog.

Make a Mini Hippo
Stuffed animals add a bit of fun and tenderness to any slew of presents. Stuff a stocking with a smile when you sew this little hippo from Lesley Shepherd.

Snowman Candy Jar
Top off your candy jar with a snowman face as sweet as the treats inside. Sherri Osborn will show you how to paint and assemble this wintry decoration that is appropriate to show off all season long.

Joy Ornament Crosstitch
Stitch a little bit of joy for someone this Christmas. Connie G. Barwick has the free pattern for this jolly cross stitch project.

Want to Join Make it Merry to show off your holiday crafts? We will showcase your crafts and recipes of all holiday traditions. Learn more.

Mystery Antique of the Week

Wednesday November 11, 2009

This piece is a real mystery for everyone. From the forums:
"The brass roller attached has a steel core. There is a rod through the centre with wooden handles on it at both ends. What is it for? Who would use it?"

Post your guess in the comment section below.

Last week's Mystery Antique.

Happy Anniversary to Sesame Street

Tuesday November 10, 2009
The 40th anniversary of Sesame Street was the inspiration for this wreath that cost less than $7.00 to make. Why was it so cheap? I raided an old toy box and found some plastic Christmas ornaments in the holiday closet that haven't been used for years.

Making wreaths from your found treasures or old collectibles that might be broken or perhaps not worth very much is a way to enjoy your hobby all through the holidays.

See larger images and more holiday wreaths made from collectibles:

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