It's Beginning to Look a lot like Christmas
A Christmas Crafting Tradition: Temari Balls and Handmade Joy
Christmas has always been a time of magic for me. There’s something about the way the house transforms when it’s filled with twinkling lights, festive greenery, and that unmistakable holiday cheer. Every year, I dive into the season headfirst, eager to decorate every corner of the house, adding my own personal touch to each space. And, of course, what would Christmas be without a little crafting?
One of my favorite things about this time of year is making my own decorations. There’s something incredibly satisfying about pulling out the craft supplies, putting on some Christmas music, and creating unique pieces that will brighten up our home. From homemade ornaments to festive garlands, I’ve tried my hand at just about everything over the years. But this year, I’ve returned to an embroidery favorite of mine—Temari balls.
For those who might not be familiar, Temari balls are a traditional Japanese art form that involves intricate hand embroidery on a round base, creating beautiful geometric patterns. They’ve always held a special place in my heart, and this year, I’ve decided to make a selection of them for our Christmas decorations. What’s great about Temari balls is how versatile they are. I’ve created some in traditional Christmas colours—think rich reds, deep greens, and sparkling golds. But I’ve also had a lot of fun experimenting with non-traditional hues—soft pastels, icy blues, and even some metallics for a modern twist.
The process of making Temari balls is wonderfully meditative. There’s a rhythm to wrapping the threads and stitching the patterns, and it allows me to slow down and really enjoy the act of creating. Plus, there’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing a finished ball, knowing that each stitch was carefully placed by hand.
As I hang these Temari balls on the tree or tuck them into little nooks around the house, I feel a deep sense of connection to both the tradition of this ancient craft and the joy of a handmade Christmas. It’s a reminder that the holidays aren’t just about the final product—the perfectly decorated house or the perfectly wrapped gifts—but about the process of making and sharing something with love.
This Christmas, my home will be filled with these beautiful handmade decorations, each one a little piece of festive joy. Whether they’re in classic reds and greens or unexpected pastels, they’re a reminder that Christmas is about creativity, warmth, and celebrating the magic of the season in whatever way feels most authentic.
I hope your holiday season is just as full of handmade magic!
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