DIY CHRISTMAS Calligraphy SCROLL

Christmas calligraphy scrolls are the perfect balance between rustic farmhouse and elegant artistry. Recreate the look with just a simple marker—no paint required!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• Plain Kraft jumbo roll

• Scissors

• Paper clips or tape

• Newspaper

• Scrap paper and pencil

• Fine point permanent marker

• Twine

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

1. Cut the paper to your desired length, keeping enough extra length at the top and bottom to create rolls.

2. Roll the top and bottom into evensized tubes and secure each tube with a paper clip or tape at the back to create the scroll look.

3. Lay the paper on top of a few newspapers to protect the surface underneath from marker stains.

4. On a scrap piece of paper, practice writing out your chosen words with brush lettering. This can be a Christmas phrase like “Merry and Bright” or lyrics from your favorite Christmas song or hymn. For a full tutorial on brush lettering, go to AmericanFarmhouseStyle.com/diy/

learn-brush-lettering/.

5. Once you’re happy with your practice pieces, move to the brown paper with your permanent marker. Remember to make the downstrokes thicker (you can fill them in later), and keep your loops large and your letters equidistant from one other.

6. Pull twine through the scroll’s top tube, and tie the ends together to create a bow at the top of the triangle.

7. Trim the ends of the twine; then hang

up your masterpiece.

Astra decorates her large trees to complement their surroundings. The tree in the kitchen area sees a lot of holiday action, so it gets the full glam treatment with glittery, golden ribbons. The living room and office spaces have simpler, cozier vibes, so Astra makes their trees more traditional with burlap and red ribbons. But it’s the tree in her bedroom that’s the most special of all. “It’s my favorite tree because it has all the little tchotchkes and keepsakes that my kids have made over the years.”

On Christmas day, Astra’s family will gather for a time of love, laughter and plenty of DIY Christmas cheer.

"I've always been crafty— I love making my own things.”

(top) Erin’s Craft Days on Etsy provides Astra with stencils for many of her wall signs. Whether you prefer tracing or freehand, calligraphy adds a customized touch to any décor piece. (opposite) Astra’s calligraphy scroll makes the perfect backdrop for her tablescape.

(top) No one appreciates the wonder of Christmas like children. Let them celebrate with their own specially decorated room—it’ll make their Christmas!

(opposite) The vintage filing cabinet provides the perfect opportunity for Astra’s “Merry Christmas” banner. Alongside the burlap ribbon, the vintage nostalgia really pops.