Last Minute Ideas for a Green Christmas

While Christmas is only a day away, there are still many things that likely need to be put in order. For those of you who have caught the Christmas spirit, you might be thinking of things in terms of Santa's elves, who are still working at wrapping, stuffing stockings, and decorating the North Pole. Have no fear, however, because the Green Connoisseur is here to help you navigate your way through the world of green festivities. Wrapping Paper Wrapping paper is a beautiful way to be festive and to show the receiver that you care enough to go over the top with ribbons and bows. There are great green ways to show you care, however, other than coating a box in Santa and his reindeer. When it comes to wrapping paper, recycling the used wrapping is a first step towards sustainability. Saving this year’s paper and reusing it for next year is an even greener way. Just tell your loved ones to be careful as they unwrap and collect the paper once the gift has emerged. Another great idea is to use colorful newspapers or magazines that were headed for the recycling bin and choosing images and articles that speak towards the gift recipient. While it may not be store bought, a movie review starring a favorite actor wrapped around a special gift would really show that you care. If you have kids, why not let them decorate with crayons or markets using paper grocery bags as the base. Or, to be truly sustainable, try something completely reusable such as a bandanna or old shirts. Decorations Ribbons for gifts or for a wreath, and ornaments for a tree or for around the house, can all have a green twist. For ribbons, think about using the old tape from a video or cassette. They curl just like traditional ribbon using scissors! Or for the special gift, try decorating with broken shoelaces, old buttons, tape measures, or even broken Christmas lights to make a gift look truly original. If you have Christmas tree lights that still work, try stuffing them into an empty wine bottle for a festive centerpiece. Better yet, choose LED Christmas lights that use 80-90% less energy for all of your lighting needs. For tinsel to decorate a tree, think about using aluminum cans and cutting them in a spiral to loop around or across a tree, wreath, or anywhere else around the house. Just be careful with your fingers and be sure to recycle the cans again after the holidays. So, Merry Christmas Eve from the Green Connoisseur for those of you who celebrate the holiday, and remember that no matter the occasion, there is an eco-conscious way to celebrate in luxury! Image Credit: QPSU, Cliquee, Country Living, Ticklymoo, Wit and Whistle, Daily Danny

Recycling Paper & Christmas Crafts

Yesterday, we gave you some great tips on eco-friendly holiday decor and today we'd like to follow up on that with tips on recycling paper and Christmas crafts. These are some really fun things to do with the kids this Christmas, and before long you'll find yourself walking through a luxurious, beautiful winter wonderland! Creating a Christmas Paper Chain You might remember this craft from elementary school, but it's a fun one to share with the kids or use to create some charming holiday decor. The trick is to use paper that would otherwise be destined for the trash - old Christmas cards, stationary, or even paper shopping bags. Using different patterns and colors will create beautiful paper chains that you can hang on the tree, run along the mantel or something else. Making Paper Snowflakes This is a fun craft that I do with my kids - partially because it's the only way we're going to have snow for Christmas and also because it's fun! You can get some very intricate designs to create paper snowflakes that are frame-worthy! Dave's Paper Snowflakes is a great site to get patterns from - they're beautiful and festive. You can use recycled paper plates, wrapping paper and more to create these. Then, brush them with some glue and sprinkle on silver glitter to set them shining! Making Paper Bows for Gifts This is an incredible way to use up old paper that would otherwise be thrown away, and you can also make your gifts look really festive. Simply follow these instructions for cutting, folding and gluing strips of pretty paper for making bows. Paper bows are so pretty, they can also be used for decorations on the Christmas tree, or for centerpiece additions as well! Use your imagination when creating these beautiful bows, and you're sure to find the perfect spot for them. The tips above are perfect crafts to do with the kids. They'll enjoy being part of the Christmas decorating, and you can use up that old beautiful paper that you would normally throw away. Let's work together to make this the greenest Christmas ever! Photo Credits: Greg McElhatton on Flickr, funkyphreshpapierkreations.blogspot.com