Holiday Crafts: DIY Sustainable Decorations

This makes approximately 12-14 tags, depending on size.

You’ll need:
Blender
Flat, rectangular strainer with small holes
1 deep dish to hold strainer
2 cups shredded paper (we used
watercolor paper for a sturdy texture)
4 cups warm water
1 packet wildflower seeds
(or any seasonal seeds)
2 kitchen or tea towels
Twine or ribbon
1 small cup
Pencil or pen
Scissors

1. Shred 2 cups of paper and place in a blender.

2. Add 4 cups of warm water and let sit for 1 hour to soften. Blend until the mixture reaches a mushy, oatmeal-like consistency.

3. Add 1 packet of seeds to the blender and pulse a few times to combine, but do not overblend – you want the seeds to remain intact.

4. Set up your deep dish and place the strainer on top. Line the bottom of the strainer with a kitchen towel to help create an even texture. Pour the blended paper mixture onto the towel. Spread the mixture evenly with your hands, or use a rolling pin or glass to smooth it out if desired.

5, Sprinkle the remaining seeds over the top of the spread mixture, then place another towel over it. Press firmly to remove excess water. Once most of the water is absorbed, remove the top towel and let the seed paper dry for 24 hours. If you're working with kids, you can speed up drying with a hair dryer.

6. Once dry, use a small cup to trace circles on the paper, then cut them out. Punch a hole at the top of each circle and thread twine or ribbon through to complete the tag. Tie the tag onto your gift, and don’t forget to let the recipient know they can plant the tag in their garden after use.

Potato Stamp Gift Wrap

This DIY project uses simple russet potatoes to create fun, homemade stamps. Inspired by holiday crafting traditions, this wrap adds a personal touch to gift-giving while incorporating natural materials and creative flair.

You’ll need:
Two large russet potatoes
Paint (color of choice)
Various small metal holiday-themed cookie cutters (trees, stars, etc.)
One roll of brown craft paper
Twine or ribbon for decoration

1. Cut each potato in half horizontally.

2. Press the cookie cutter firmly into the cut side of the potato to create an impression.

3. Use a knife to carefully cut away the surrounding potato, leaving the shape raised to form a stamp.

4. Use a paintbrush to apply a thin layer of paint to the raised part of the stamp, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly.

5. Roll out a sheet of brown craft paper on a flat surface. Press the potato stamp onto the paper, lifting it carefully to reveal the design. Continue stamping to create a pattern. Reapply paint as needed to keep the impressions consistent.

6. Allow the paint to dry completely. Once dry, use the custom-stamped paper to wrap your gifts. Finish with twine or ribbon for a rustic, handmade look.

3. Thread twine or ribbon through the hole.

4. Add wooden beads of different sizes to create decorative garlands or gift accents.

5. Store in an airtight container to preserve freshness or immediately use for gift wrapping or decorations.