Hi there, Friends! If you're like me and have a tendency to hoard vintage linens even when they're not in the best of condition, then today's project is for you! No linens, no worries-- I'll how you how to create the same DIY garland and tree skirt with supplies from your local thrift store with absolutely no sewing required! Grab your trusty scissors and let's get started...
Recently I shared the pretty handmade doily garland I found from a local holiday craft sale. I also mentioned that the simplicity of it paired with lovely preserved greenery inspired many of my Christmas decorations this year. After getting the doily garland home and cutting it to make two garlands, I fell in love with it. Since I didn't have any doilies comparable in size in my collection, the following day I went back to the church sale and also looked at Vintage Market Days, and soon realized why it was that I didn't already possess some--they are not easy to find!
Determined to recreate the rustic and romantic doily and greenery pairing, I remembered the vintage linens sweet Audrey had given to me. Though there weren't any small doilies, there was a large piece of vintage lace fabric. It may have originally been a tablecloth, but the edges were frayed and there were some scattered stains BUT there was also a consistent medallion pattern. With a few careful snips of the fabric, I realized I could create vintage lace garland that was quite similar to the doily garland, which made my upcycling, linen-loving heart quite happy :)
Busted--yep, I often craft in my PJs! Doesn't everyone need some llama pajamas? Whether you had just the right piece of lace on hand, or found a tablecloth that had seen better days from the thrift store, the pattern will probably be different than mine. Choose fabric that displays an obvious pattern. With my lace, I was able to create garland by clipping the tiny stitches around the medallions, yet leaving the middle sections connected. There were also small diamond shaped pieces that needed to be cut away from the medallions, pictured below, on the left.
I saved those and hung them on the tree, too!
I really love the intricate detail of the lace medallions. If you prefer to shop online rather than making your own, there are several strands available here.
Here's a view of the full Christmas tree with the lace garland and my vintage ornaments. Remember my huge thrift store frame? Here, you can see the handmade doily garland from the craft sale hanging inside it.
For the tree skirt, I chose a small table topper, also from the linens I received from Audrey. It has a few tiny holes, but the lace trim is stunning.
I purposely chose to cut a small hole in the center, similar to tablecloths made for patio umbrellas, rather than the usual open edges seen on most tree skirts. That way it altered the vintage linen the least, and since I almost always use centerpieces, it could still be used on a table. To cut the hole, fold the tablecloth in half and cut a half circle.
Next, paint the edges of the hole with Decou-page, to prevent fraying.
Here's a view of the finished tree skirt. Just remember to place it over your tree stand before adding your tree.
Remember to the Cozy at Christmas Blog Tour begins tomorrow and I'll be sharing on Wednesday-- I hope you'll drop by!
That is so beautiful! I am in love with the doily garland and table cloth you used for the tree skirt is perfect!
ReplyDeleteI love the doily garland. Your use of the tablecloth for the tree skirt is such a great idea and so pretty!
ReplyDeleteYou are so clever Cecilia. Why didn't I think of that? The tree skirt is my favorite. I use a vintage white cotton petticoat for my tree skirt and just my favorite ever. Glad you are enjoying the old, loved linens that you picked from my stash. I knew you would put them to good use. Hugs, Audrey Z.
ReplyDeleteGreat use of vintage lace linens. The tree skirt is gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteReally pretty and a great way to use a piece of lace.
ReplyDeleteYou just keep giving us one great project after another! This is another one I may have all the "ingredients" for! Meanwhile, I have not baked one Christmas cookie to freeze because I have been crafting and decorating too much!
ReplyDeleteReally cute Cecilia! I love doilies and old linens!
ReplyDeletehugs,
Jann
Unique idea to use lace and doilies!
ReplyDeleteLOVE this!! I adore your use of the doilies!! Great idea!!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for taking the time to stop by and to leave such a kind comment!!
Hugs,
Deb
I always look for linens at the sales, but I'm never lucky. They have plenty of them at the antique stores around here, but cha-ching. Too pricey. I'll keep looking because I love your sweet ideas.
ReplyDeleteLove the lace garland! Your tree is beautiful!
ReplyDelete:) Cecilia
Your tree is beautiful! The tablecloth idea is great; I would have slit it up the side and made a lot more work for myself! Everyone; keep looking for doilies, they are out there--and cutting out motifs from damaged dresser scarves, too! If yours don't need to be vintage, imports are usually priced right! I buy small doilies for dollhouse tablecloths!
ReplyDeleteCecilia
ReplyDeleteWe have similar taste my friend! I love repurposing and you have done a beautiful job on your tree! Merry Christmas!
Debby
Debbygoesshabby.blogspot.com
Such a great idea: I love the lace garland! Thanks for sharing at Sew It Cook It Craft It!
ReplyDelete