FABRIC GARLAND

Used to decorate many homes during the festive season, Christmas garlands add a touch of seasonal colour and instantly create a sense of joy. This fabric version can be draped over cupboards and doorways or wound along banisters and mantelpieces – add some bells or fairy lights for extra twinkle. As it is made from fabric, it can be used year after year. Though garlands are easy to assemble, they can take some time to do, depending on how long you want yours to be.

You will need String or twine Scissors Assorted fabric pieces in co-ordinating colours and patterns Silver jingle bells

1 Decide how long you want your garland to be and cut three pieces of string or twine all to this same length. Knot them together at one end.

2 Cut several long, thin pieces of fabric, each about 15cm x 2.5cm. Tie each piece onto the strings, one at a time, and keep going until you have filled up the length. Knot together the other end of the strings to finish.

3 Trim any loose threads from the pieces of fabric – you can make them all a uniform length by trimming the ends if desired. Tie the individual bells onto the garland at evenly spaced intervals using string or twine.