Christmas time is family time. One of the best ways to get together and get in the holiday spirit is to create some handmade holiday decorations. Not only are they less costly, they're perceived as more meaningful as well.
So how do you decide what handmade decorations will enhance your home's holiday decor?

* Choose craft items that complement your home's overall theme. For example, if you love clean, contemporary modern lines, make items that mimic that look. Crafts that incorporate reflective surfaces and metallic looks will fit well with contemporary themes. Softer fabrics and materials will mesh with a country theme.

* Make crafts that will endure and be durable for seasons to come. Opt for items that will be easy to care for and that will appeal to your sense of the holidays not just this year, but next year and the year after that as well.

* Give yourself plenty of time and space in which to create. Also, dedicate a specific area of your home to your crafting and keep all your projects in one place - this way you'll have everything you need at your fingertips.

* Get kids involved. When you create crafts with your children, you're not just making decorations, you're making memories that will stay with them throughout their lives. Plus, making crafts together will make each item feel that much more meaningful when you use it to decorate your home.   WH