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I love the holidays. They provide the perfect opportunity (or excuse) to let your creative side have free reign. Sometimes though, the task can seem overwhelming. A good way to simplify the whole process is to decorate with a theme. A cowboy Christmas Tree provides the perfect focal point to your room, and allows you to continue the western theme throughout your home.
For your Cowboy Tree you will need the following items:
Several strings of clear twinkle lights.
1-2 packages of raffia.
Assorted red and green glass ornaments-several sizes and shapes.
1 Straw cowboy hat (the more well-worn, the better.)
12-15 red bandannas.
1 Package of small rubber bands.
1 Large saddle blanket.
Note: If you can't locate a saddle blanket, burlap fabric wound loosely around the base of the tree is another great look.
Let's get started. The first thing to consider is the placement of your tree. That done, remember to leave enough space to maneuver around, and then it can be repositioned exactly when you are finished.
Start with the lights. I like to use the small, clear twinkle lights. Beginning with the top of the tree, weave several strings of connecting twinkle lights. Be sure to tuck the lights deep into the tree branches for a more professional look.
Now, lay a bandanna out on a flat surface. Pinch it exactly in the middle between your thumb and forefinger. Holding it aloft, wrap the thumb and forefinger of the opposite hand around the napkin to form a circle, and pull the bandanna through the circle. Grasping the bandanna in the middle, wrap a rubber band around the mid-section forming a point on one end, and a full blossom look on the other. (This is just like pulling a napkin through a napkin ring.) Repeat with the other bandannas. Once you have finished, tuck the pointed end deep into the branches, leaving the fluffy, blossom end to peep out. Continue placing them randomly among the tree branches, stepping back from time to time to get a good perspective.
Next, open the raffia and cut several 12 to 14 inch lengths.(Use 4 to 5 strips of raffia per cut). Make a small bow from each cut, and attatch to your Christmas ornaments at the top of the ornaments, through the wire loop. Now put your wire hangers on and scatter the ornaments round the tree. Use the larger ornaments at the bottom, and work up to your small ornaments. Continue to step back now and then to check your progress. Adjust the decorations as necessary.
To top off your Cowboy Tree, take the straw hat and cock it to one side on the very topmost branch. Be careful not to tip the tree over, use a stepladder if necessary.
Return the tree to its final position. (Get help with this, it can be very tricky!) This is a great look, and is sure to draw lots of compliments!
Merry Christmas ya'll!
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