"The secret behind the best collections in the world is that they all stem from a passion. You don't just wake up one morning and decide to start collecting, say, cookie jars, especially if you have no personal, spiritual, or artistic connection to this object."

From The Fine Art of Family comes an interesting article about starting a collection. Although collecting is often is an unconscious decision (when starting), some folks do think about it ahead of time.

Run these questions through your mind the next time you find a treasure that makes you want to have more!

• Five Questions to Ask When Starting a Collection

Last week I wrote about the Thomas Glenn ornament collection and how they were picked for the "O" List in Oprah magazine. Well, I have to tell you I got the one I ordered yesterday and was floored. It's absolutely amazing, the glitter is spectacular, the design is very modern and pictures just do not do it justice. If you have a chance, check out the Thomas Glenn collection in person, you'll be very pleasantly surprised.

Welcome to another edition of Make it Merry, where talented crafters share their holiday how-to's.

Advent Candy Tree
Everyone loves counting down to the holidays...add candy to the mix and you've got a fun Advent calendar from Sherri Osborn for the whole family to enjoy.

Pumpkin Cross Stitch Pattern
Use a variegated floss to make a swirling pumpkin that would look great near the Thanksgiving table. Connie G. Barwick has the free pattern.

Knit Wreath Ornament
Scrap knitting makes for fun quick projects that are perfect for any skill level. Sarah E. White has the instructions for this cute wreath.

Miniature Glitter Houses
Snowy villages look great upon every mantle and tabletop. Lesley Shepherd has a free printable so you can make your own tiny houses.

Paper Bead Star Ornament
If you're looking for something a little different to do with your paper beads then take a look at this paper bead star. This project is simple to adapt in a wide variety of ways.

Rustic Pillar Candles
'Tis the season for running out to buy candles. David Fisher will show you how to make these festive pillar candles with the perfect finish.

Pear Diamonds Painted Card
This card has an intricate finish, but it is so easy to make. Tina Jones shows us how to create this colorful card from start to finish.

Christmas Apron Pattern
Just because you've got to bake cookies for the whole family doesn't mean you can't look fabulous! Phyllis Dobbs has created this adorable holiday apron, and she's got the free pattern just for you.

Flower Petal Ornament Cover
Sometimes those plain ornaments just need a little dressing up. Tammy Powley will show you how to use seed beads to create this unique ornament drapery.

Paint a Christmas Tree
Instead of paying a premium for a colored tree, Barbara Crews will show us how to paint your tree red to match the latest holiday trends.

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.

A Disney themed tree is a popular choice, who doesn't like Disney. Ideas might be a specific Disney character, such as all Mickey Mouse or as a friend is doing this year - all Little Mermaid tree. This spectacular tree contains Disney, Warner Bros, Wizard of Oz, Star Wars, Dr. Seuss and Muffy ornaments. The upside-down nature of the tree allows the hundreds of ornaments to hang a little freer and be much more visible.

• Margaret's Upside-Down Disney Tree

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