I saw the idea to cut out leaves for writing things you’re thankful for in this month’s issue of Real Simple (my favorite magazine). I thought it was a great idea, and filed it away for things-to-do-when-the-kids-are-literate. Then last week when our house church was meeting and we didn’t have a plan, I got my craft on and decided to incorporate that idea into a Thanksgiving Tree. It turned out great, so I need to share.
(Sidenote: Does anyone else just love The Giving Tree
Leaves
Choose colored sheets of card stock (I used reds and browns, but yellows, oranges and greens would work great). Fold them in half, and using decorative scissors, cut them in an oblong shape. Unfold, and punch a small hole at one end.
Tree
1. Fill a bud vase with seed beads at least a couple inches deep.
3. Take some heavy-gauge crafting wire (floral or beading – I used about 20 gauge) and bend slightly for the main branches. I used three main branches, but you could add more if you have a large family gathering.
4. Take some lighter-gauge crafting wire (I used 24 gauge) and cut 5-6 pieces for each main branch (so if you have three main branches, 15-18 pieces) varying in length from 3-5″ each.
5. Tightly wrap the lighter gauge branches around the main branch, starting halfway up. Add 5-6 wrapped pieces to each main branch, overlapping the wrapping slightly to make the smaller branches more stable.
6. Using a pair of Round Nose Pliers
7. Have guests write what they’re thankful for on leaves and attach to tree.
8. Use the tree as a centerpiece of mantle decoration to remind you of your blessings.
Article by Kelli. She's the primary caretaker of this here site. Hope you're enjoying your visit. 