Call John The Handyman For Professional & Reliable Handyman Services In Or Around Toronto!

Category Archives: Uncategorized

Decorating your staircase for Christmas

Decorating your staircase for Christmas is a great way to add some holiday cheer to your home. Here are some ideas:

  1. Wrap garland around the handrail: Drape some greenery like pine or cedar garland around the handrail of your staircase. You can also add lights, ornaments, or bows for some extra holiday sparkle.
  2. Hang stockings on the stairs: Hang some stockings on the stairs leading up to the second floor of your home. You can either use traditional red and white stockings or mix and match different colors and patterns for a more eclectic look.
  3. Add some holiday accents: Place small holiday accents like pinecones, ornaments, or miniature trees on the steps of your staircase. This is a great way to add some holiday cheer without taking up too much space.
  4. Hang a wreath: Hang a festive wreath on the wall above your staircase for a classic Christmas look. You can also add some ribbon or ornaments to make it more festive.
  5. Create a winter wonderland: If you live in a snowy area, consider creating a winter wonderland theme on your staircase. You can add snowflakes, icicles, and white decorations to create a snowy scene.

Hosting a Christmas cocktail party

Here are some ideas for hosting a Christmas cocktail party:

  1. Choose a theme: Decide on a theme for your party, such as a holiday color scheme or a winter wonderland theme.
  2. Send invitations: Send out invitations well in advance, so your guests can plan accordingly. You can send paper invitations or create an online invitation.
  3. Plan the menu: Plan a menu that includes festive cocktails and appetizers. Consider serving a signature cocktail that fits your theme.
  4. Decorate your space: Decorate your home with holiday decor such as a Christmas tree, garland, and string lights. Use festive table settings and linens to create an elegant atmosphere.
  5. Set up a bar area: Set up a bar area with a selection of spirits, mixers, and garnishes. Consider hiring a bartender or asking a friend to help with the drinks.
  6. Serve appetizers: Serve a variety of appetizers such as cheese and charcuterie boards, holiday-themed dips, and bite-sized desserts.
  7. Play holiday music: Create a festive playlist of holiday music to set the mood.
  8. Have a gift exchange: Consider having a gift exchange, such as a secret Santa or white elephant gift exchange.
  9. Provide transportation: Encourage guests to use ride-sharing services or arrange for a designated driver to ensure everyone gets home safely.

Remember to enjoy yourself and have fun!

Making homemade Christmas wreaths for your doors

Making homemade Christmas wreaths for your doors is a fun and festive way to decorate your home for the holiday season. Here are some steps you can follow to make your own wreath:

Materials:

  • Wreath base (such as a foam or wire wreath form)
  • Floral wire or hot glue gun
  • Greenery (such as pine branches, cedar, holly, or eucalyptus)
  • Decorative elements (such as pine cones, berries, or ornaments)
  • Ribbon or bow for hanging

Instructions:

  1. Begin by selecting a wreath base. Foam or wire wreath forms can be found at craft stores, or you can make your own using a wire coat hanger.
  2. Next, gather greenery for your wreath. Pine branches, cedar, holly, and eucalyptus are all great options. Cut the branches into smaller pieces.
  3. Attach the greenery to the wreath base using floral wire or a hot glue gun. Start at the bottom of the wreath and work your way up, layering the branches on top of each other and securing them in place.
  4. Once you have added enough greenery to cover the entire wreath, add any decorative elements you like. Pine cones, berries, and ornaments are all great options. Use floral wire or hot glue to attach them to the wreath.
  5. Add a ribbon or bow to the top of the wreath for hanging. You can also use the wire from the wreath form to create a loop for hanging.
  6. Hang your wreath on your front door, over your mantle, or anywhere else you want to add a festive touch to your home.

With a little creativity, you can make a beautiful and unique Christmas wreath that will add a special touch to your holiday decor.

Creating a Christmas tablescape for your dining table

A Christmas tablescape is a beautiful way to set the tone for your holiday meal. Here are some tips for creating a festive and elegant Christmas tablescape:

  1. Choose a color scheme: Decide on a color scheme for your tablescape, whether it's traditional red and green or a more modern metallic theme. You can coordinate your table linens, plates, and decorations to match.
  2. Layer your table settings: Start with a tablecloth or table runner, and then layer on your placemats, plates, and napkins. Add special touches like chargers or gold or silver utensils to make your table look extra special.
  3. Use natural elements: Incorporate natural elements like pine branches, holly, or berries into your tablescape. You can place them in a centerpiece or scatter them around your table.
  4. Add some sparkle: Add some glitter or metallic accents to your tablescape with ornaments, candleholders, or even some gold or silver spray-painted pine cones.
  5. Create a stunning centerpiece: Your centerpiece should be the focal point of your tablescape. Consider using a beautiful floral arrangement, a grouping of candles, or a collection of Christmas ornaments arranged on a tray.
  6. Personalize your place cards: Personalize your place cards with guests' names to add a special touch to each place setting. You can make them yourself with cardstock, or purchase pre-made ones.
  7. Finish with some ambiance: Add some ambiance to your table with candlelight. Use candlesticks or votives in glass holders to create a warm and cozy atmosphere.

With these tips, you can create a beautiful Christmas tablescape that will impress your guests and set the perfect tone for your holiday meal.

Making your own Christmas tree stand

Sure, here are some steps to make your own Christmas tree stand:

Materials:

  • A large, sturdy bucket (metal or plastic)
  • Gravel or rocks
  • A small Christmas tree
  • Water

Instructions:

  1. Find a large, sturdy bucket. You can find one at your local hardware store or home improvement store. Look for one that is deep enough to hold your Christmas tree and sturdy enough to support its weight.
  2. Fill the bucket about halfway with gravel or rocks. This will help to stabilize the tree and prevent it from tipping over.
  3. Place the Christmas tree in the bucket and fill the rest of the bucket with water. Make sure that the tree is standing straight and that the water level reaches the base of the tree.
  4. Once the tree is in place, you can decorate it as you like.

Tips:

  • Be sure to choose a bucket that is large enough to hold your tree and sturdy enough to support its weight.
  • The weight of the tree and water will make the bucket heavy, so make sure you have someone to help you move it if necessary.
  • Keep an eye on the water level and add more water as needed to keep the tree hydrated throughout the holiday season.

Creative ways to use pine cones in your holiday decor

Pine cones are a versatile and inexpensive natural element that can be used in a variety of ways in your holiday decor. Here are some creative ideas for using pine cones:

  1. Pine Cone Wreath: Glue pine cones in a circular pattern around a wreath form for a rustic and natural holiday decoration.
  2. Pine Cone Centerpiece: Fill a shallow bowl with pine cones, then add small ornaments, berries or other festive decorations.
  3. Pine Cone Garland: String pine cones on twine or ribbon to create a simple, rustic garland for your mantle or tree.
  4. Pine Cone Place Card Holders: Use pine cones to hold place cards for your holiday dinner party. Simply glue a card to a small piece of ribbon or paper and attach it to the pine cone.
  5. Pine Cone Ornaments: Use craft glue to attach a loop of ribbon to the top of a pine cone and hang it on your tree.
  6. Pine Cone Fire Starters: Dip the tips of pine cones in melted wax and let them dry. These can be used as fire starters for your fireplace or outdoor fire pit.
  7. Pine Cone Snowman: Paint three pine cones white and stack them on top of each other to make a cute snowman decoration.
  8. Pine Cone Trees: Attach pine cones to a foam cone with hot glue to create a unique and natural Christmas tree decoration.
  9. Pine Cone Bird Feeder: Spread peanut butter or suet on a pine cone, then roll it in birdseed. Hang it outside for a festive bird feeder.
  10. Pine Cone Candle Holder: Glue pine cones to the outside of a candle holder for a rustic and festive decoration.

These are just a few ideas for using pine cones in your holiday decor. Get creative and see what other ways you can use this natural element to add a festive touch to your home.

DIY Christmas ornament alternatives

Here are some DIY Christmas ornament alternatives:

  1. Pom-Pom Ornaments: Use colorful yarn to create pom-poms and attach a ribbon to hang them on the tree.
  2. Felt Ornaments: Cut felt into various shapes, such as stars or hearts, and decorate them with sequins, beads, or embroidery floss.
  3. Cinnamon Stick Ornaments: Glue cinnamon sticks together to form a star or wreath shape and tie a ribbon around it to hang on the tree.
  4. Paper Ornaments: Fold colorful paper into origami shapes, such as cranes or stars, and hang them on the tree.
  5. Cork Ornaments: Cut wine corks into slices and paint them with festive designs or patterns.
  6. Cookie Cutter Ornaments: Use holiday-themed cookie cutters to cut out shapes from salt dough or clay and bake them in the oven.
  7. Pinecone Ornaments: Collect pinecones and paint them with white or silver paint to create a winter wonderland effect.
  8. Scrabble Tile Ornaments: Glue Scrabble tiles together to spell out holiday words, such as "joy" or "peace," and attach a ribbon to hang on the tree.
  9. Mason Jar Lid Ornaments: Use mason jar lids to create mini wreaths by wrapping them in twine or ribbon and adding small embellishments like bells or greenery.
  10. Upcycled Ornaments: Repurpose old jewelry, keys, or other trinkets to create unique and personalized ornaments.

Hosting a Christmas craft party

Hosting a Christmas craft party can be a fun and festive way to get together with friends and family and create some holiday decor or gifts. Here are some tips for hosting a successful Christmas craft party:

  1. Choose a craft: Decide on a craft or two that you want to do at the party. You can choose from a variety of Christmas-themed crafts such as making ornaments, wreaths, stockings, gift tags, or even gingerbread houses.
  2. Set a date and time: Decide on a date and time that works for everyone you want to invite. Keep in mind that weekends are usually the most convenient for people, especially during the busy holiday season.
  3. Send out invitations: Send out invitations with the details of the party, including the craft you'll be making, the date and time, and any supplies that guests need to bring.
  4. Gather supplies: Make sure you have all the supplies you need for the craft, including any materials that guests need to bring. You can also set up a crafting station with scissors, glue, and other tools.
  5. Provide snacks and drinks: Set up a snack and drink station for your guests to enjoy while they craft. You can serve Christmas cookies, hot cocoa, or other festive treats.
  6. Set up a festive atmosphere: Create a festive atmosphere by playing Christmas music, hanging up decorations, and lighting candles.
  7. Have fun: Remember to have fun and enjoy the company of your friends and family while you craft. You can also take photos of everyone's creations to remember the fun time you had.

Making homemade Christmas tree garland

Here is a simple method to make homemade Christmas tree garland:

Materials:

  • Twine, ribbon or string
  • Scissors
  • Tape
  • Glue gun
  • Decorations such as beads, mini ornaments, bells, pom-poms, etc.

Steps:

  1. Cut a length of twine, ribbon, or string to the desired length of your garland.
  2. Secure one end of the string to the tree using tape.
  3. Begin to decorate the string by tying or gluing on decorations such as beads, mini ornaments, bells, pom-poms, etc. Make sure to space them out evenly.
  4. Continue decorating the string until you reach the other end.
  5. Secure the other end of the string to the tree using tape.

Tip: You can also make a garland out of natural materials such as dried fruit, cinnamon sticks, and pinecones. To make this kind of garland, simply thread the materials onto the string or twine, alternating with decorative items.

Creating a DIY Christmas tree topper

There are many creative ways to make a DIY Christmas tree topper. Here are a few ideas:

  1. Starburst Tree Topper: You can make a starburst tree topper using metallic pipe cleaners. Cut 12 pieces of pipe cleaner to the same length, then twist them together in the center to form a starburst. Attach a wire to the back to secure it to the tree.
  2. Ribbon Tree Topper: Create a bow with ribbon and attach it to the top of the tree. You can use a single color or mix and match different patterns and colors for a more eclectic look.
  3. Angel Tree Topper: Make an angel tree topper using paper or fabric. Cut out the shape of an angel, add a skirt, wings, and a halo. Attach a wire to the back of the angel to secure it to the tree.
  4. Snowflake Tree Topper: You can make a snowflake tree topper using a wire hanger and white pipe cleaners. Bend the wire hanger into a star shape, then wrap white pipe cleaners around each point of the star.
  5. Pom Pom Tree Topper: Create a fun and playful tree topper by making pom poms out of yarn. You can use one or multiple colors to create a colorful and cozy look.
  6. Paper Tree Topper: Cut out a star or other festive shape from paper or cardstock, then decorate it with glitter, paint, or other embellishments. Attach a wire to the back to secure it to the tree.

These are just a few ideas for DIY Christmas tree toppers. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and have fun with it!