Cotton Ball Christmas Trees &...

 Hi, Hiya, helloooooo!  This weekend brought the peeking in of Christmas crafting in my world.  I awoke on Saturday, and all I could think about was fluffy white Christmas trees.  Then I thought, cotton balls!  Yes yes, that's it...

I can't think of anything more soothing than cotton balls :)

Throw in buttons and glitter, and I don't know about you, but that gets me smiling...

 

The little cardboard house in the photo above is one I made a few years back (2007), and shared my tutorial at the Inspired Room (in case you feel the itch to make one of your own).

You can also use this tutorial and printable downlaod to make tiny houses...

 

The elves and I have had quite the last few days.  You won't believe this, another water fiasco, only this time at the city house.  Let's just say, it was real world majorly rotten.  I won't bore you with details.  It's over, and we are happy as clams now :)

Also, we are so super delighted to have Mister Lovee back from his week away on business in New Orleans.  There is nothing better than having your loves under one roof.

With that, on Saturday, I filled my candy jars with old fashioned candy, and lost myself in happy crafting.

It all began with a cereal box.

 
A cereal box that was on its way to becoming, cotton ball trees.

I cut my box open, and cut the front and back pieces into sloppy squares.

I had two pieces, which meant, two trees were in store.

Then I simply rolled the cardboard in the shape of cones, and used hot glue to seal the last bit. 

I used some left over cardboard, to roll the hot glue piece into, so that I would not burn myself.

Then, easy as that, I had my tree. 

Btw, it was easier to roll the cardboard with the shiny side out, so I went with it... 

 

Then, I turned my cone upside down, and trimmed what would be the bottom, to be relatively even.

 

So, one box, equalled two trees.

 

Then, I simply used hot glue to apple row by row of cotton balls. 

Bottom to top...

Make sure to squeeze tight with both hands, after you apply each row. 

For the top, I shaped a cotton ball like a Hershey's Kiss.

And also, hot glued it on.

Then I squeezed my tree more, so that as the glue cooled, I made sure the cotton balls were firmly attached.

Once I felt that the tree was completed and sturdy, I chose two methods for decor.  (I have bunches of ideas for decorating these, and can't wait to make more).

I chose to make one coated in super sparkly glitter, and the other dotted with vintage buttons. 

For the glittery tree, I simply dunked a paintbrush in craft glue, and quite quickly dobbed it on, so as not to let the cotton balls pull off. 

 

Then I sprinkled it heavily with glitter, and let it dry.

While it was drying, I took my other tree and put a button in the center of every cotton ball.  It looks so charming in person. 

You can use anything really, to decorate your tree.  I am going to work on a super Victorian one next.  I want to hot glue old pieces of broken jewelry to the center of each cotton ball, and incorporate some lace and tiny pearl strands.

Mister Lovee is in love with the glittery one... 

It is so simple and Winter Wonerlandy, isn't it?

Since I am on a cotton ball kick, I think I will make some more cotton ball garlands I shared last year, too... 

 

While I wait like a hawk for UPS to bring some holiday love to share.  I can't wait much longer :),  I am so excited!

 In other real world tid-bits, I went on a cleaning frenzy last week, took all my curtains down, washed everything, dusted, and pulled all my holiday decor goodies out.  I fell down the holiday rabbit hole friends :) 

I am all in love with Thanksgiving making, and Christmas making.  Are you?

It's still warm here, btw :) 

One pecan tree has a few yellow leaves, and yet, my crochet hook is calling for winter wears.

Anyhow...

I have to go to the post, but I will be back soon.

 

Comments

[ravenmoonmagic]

there must be something in the air!! because we have put our Xmas tree up this morning!! I thought it may be far too early but if you can feel it too then Im not as crazy as I thought. I love the trees, Ive just showed munchy and we are off to the art room to whip one up to put in the fairy tea party scene under the tree.

I felt like you this morning, out watering my veges at 6am before anyone was awake.

have a wonderful day! ohh what treats the mailman does bring!

xxx
sheree

[Jill James]

Love the cottages you made - so cozy feeling.....it is snowing (YES, snowing in Utah right now) and I have a stash of cereal boxes, what to do?!

On a little side note, my mom used to whip Ivory Snow (the laundry flakes) with water - using a mixer - then frost the branches sprinkling glitter all over......decorated w/victorian ornaments we made.....so dreamy......Can't wait to see your victorian snowball tree!

[samantha hall]

I can't wait to see your Thanksgiving stuff... I have to do my holidays in order. I miss AZ, it is so cold here in MA.

[Linda Diane]

I love the dreamy cottonball tree, Vanessa! Thank you for sharing it with us! Do keep the Christmas spirit coming.

Sorry for the other yuck plumbing problem. "Cotton-pickin'!" I must utter here. Yes, that is one of my Texan utterances when I am perturbed, and I am perturbed FOR you about your plumbing crises. AND "cotton pickin'" just fit in with the theme of today's post so very nicely. : )

[Kim]

Vanessa:

Such lovely, puffy, white tree loveliness!! It ALMOST makes me look forward to winter...ALMOST! ;) I'm still enjoying the fall. After fall, I look forward to spring again!

I just have to say how much I admire your constant flow of positive ideas and projects.

Oh...congrats on your Somerset deal. I'll be looking for the magazine in my local Barnes & Noble.

Kim
Gerushia's New World

[Amanda @ House Revivals]

I love this tree idea -- thanks for the little tutorial! I've been on my own little Christmas crafting spree (and a wee bit of a cleaning spree, too).

[karenjasper@comcast.net]

i am SO RELIEVED to know i am not the only one already talking about the holidays, and not just talking, squealing too.

this was the best tutorial, vanessa! i KNOW i can do it!

and though i'm overdue, congratulations on all the wonderful recognition and success cottonballing down on you

[Alia]

Yay holiday crafties! I made one of your lovely cotton ball garlands last year, and will definitely have to try the fluffy trees this year!

[the fabled needle (jen)]

i love the cotton ball tree! wow, the buttons make extra cute as ornaments. :)

[Sarah]

These are lovely-all white christmassy and cute. Congratulations and well done on your massive Somerset project-have just been reading about it! Wow what a lot of work! All beautiful. Can't wait to get a copy to see more closely!
xx

[Miss Linda]

The holidays are merging fast. Saturday we had snow, that put everyone in the spirit, but today it is gone and Indian Summer appeared...That means temps near 65 - 70 for the next few days. How typical it is for Michigan. Love this post.

[Sylvia]

A very whimsy tree...love it.

Sylvia

[Lisa]

I always really enjoy your tutorials - Thanks for posting them!

After reading this post, I've definitely decided something - I need to get my hands on some old fashioned candy... ;-)

[Laura]

Your little trees are wonderful! I may have to make some myself! I'm ridiculously excited for the Holidays. I'm already planning on what gifts to buy and all the things I want to bake! I can't wait!

[Lavender Dreams]

You are in the happiness business, aren't you? I always feel like a little girl in a candy shop when I spend time on your blog! Hugs to you! I know you will create more beautiful things for the holidays! Can't wait to see! ♥

[Rebecca]

Oh what wonderful sweetness and cheer ~ Smiles from ear to ear!:-)

[Jennifer Hayslip]

Darling and soo unique and fun! Holidays make creating so much fun! Tons of inspirations swirling in our heads! :) YAY!!! Have a lovely week doll! XO,Jenn

[A Forest Frolic]

Oh me oh my Ms. V...those white puffy trees are delicious!! I've been Christmas crafting up a storm myself, but may have to try the cotton ball tree idea because it's too cute (my girls will love this one too).

I LOVE that Old Fashion candy too, yum...now I want some too, tee hee.

Bummer about another water fiasco, but glad it's over.

Hugs to you and off to do some glittery wonderland crafting ;)

Jamie :)

[Pixie]

OK how is it that your trees look friggin awesome but I KNOW mine would look like my 2nd grade art project. Not that there's anything wrong with 2nd grade art projects! Its just that your trees look classy, gosh darn it! lol

[Jo]

Oh I love these!

There's definitely something in the air! I bought Christmas decorations Friday and watching A Christmas Story while taking down the Halloween decorations last week!

I'm not bypassing Thanksgiving, I'm focusing on being thankful every day this month. I'm also going to enjoy Christmas as much as possible (what with missing all of summer, part of fall and not being myself for halloween) so if that means it comes here a bit early this year, so be it! :-)

[Laura]

hi miss V. thanks so much for sharing this idea, you have made me want to get in and clean up my studio so i can go and actually make stuff instead of using it as storage!
blessings
~*~

[ittybittyandpretty]

oh so very sweet..i have been absent from blog jumping of late and have missed your fanciful treats. thanks miss v for filling me up with a dose of goodness.
xxxxrosey

[Jaime aka artsyfartsyme]

Those trees are just the sweetest! Wonderful how to... thank you!

[Renee]

There is just something Christmasey in the air, cause I've caught it too. I went shopping for things for the grand last week and for her siblings (I know that sounds strange-but they share a daddy-so I'm their "honorary nannie")

I spent the afternoon cutting out cerealy box houses and a church to make into glittery houses. Now I have the perfect thing to go with them with cotton ball trees.

I also dug out some Christmas craft books and have been trying to decide what I want to make.

I still have fall decorations out and won't take them down until after Thanksgiving (I did pack up the Halloween). My tree usually gets put up the day after Thanksgiving.

[Renee]

Opps forgot-glad Mr. Lovee is home from his trip and so sorry you've had more water problems. I hope all your water problems are now over with.

[Nicki]

Cute little pink house and I love white trees! Everyone's making Christmas stuff now, but for some reason I'm one of those people who cannot think of Christmas until Thanksgiving is officially over. Today I hung my pumpkin wreath and Indian corn on the door and put gourds on my mantle, etc. As soon as the turkey's eaten - out comes the Christmas stuff!! ;)

[Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions]

The only thing I've started Christmas-wise is the ideas in my head for what and how I'd like to decorate this year, Vanessa. I've got plans to do a fun red and white, peppermint/kitchen themed countertop tree in my kitchen, new for me this year. I will probably start on Thanksgiving afternoon as everyone in my house works retail and have to deal with Black Friday. That means no traditional Thanksgiving for us when they have to get up early {hubby at 2 a.m.}. Decorating will keep me busy and we will have our own Thanksgiving a week or two later.

[jennifer]

I am sooooo in love with this idea!!!!
Snow scenes are a thrill for me, perhaps because I haven't seen a whole lot of it my Southern lifetime, but this cotton ball craft is FANTASTIC!!! And the sweet and colorful snowball garland is perfect too! Thank you for sharing this with us!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!! :)

[EarthyPaws]

I know that it is past Halloween now, but I just wanted to tell you that I used your "Halloween cupcake toppers" for some of my Halloween rice crispy treats :) Everyone really enjoyed them. So thank you for sharing them with us :) I have a picture on my blog www.earthypawsprints.weebly.com if you are interested in seeing how they turned out :) I didn't have any popsicle sticks, so I used toothpicks, and they worked really well :)

I love these sparkly cotton ball christmas trees as well :D I have a whole bag of cotton balls that I can now put to use! :D

[Misha/DawaiOser]

I love those cotton ball trees especially the glittery one! I can't wait to make something like it...thanks so much for the fun tutorial. You are the best!

As far as the Christmas spirit - eh, I'm a traditionalist and usually TRY to wait until after Thanksgiving to put up my tree, but this year I've been feeling a bit *down*...so maybe the pretty lights will give me a lift? :)

[Miss Lori]

Ohh!! Something fun we can do this weekend! We've been making ATC's this week for swaps, but I'm ready for something different to make and this is it! Thank you for sharing your wonderful ideas with us!

[laura]

Love this...I've been trying to come up with an idea for my studio windows after Thanksgiving. I think you've got me started!

[JO]

How totally darling!! I am in love with that glittery one too... and I have always wanted to make myself a Christmas Village...now I have my chance... thank you for sharing all these wonderful goodies with us... You have truly gotten me into the creative holiday spirit..

LOTS OF HUGS
JO

[Oma Linda]

I absolutely adore these trees. I know what the grands and I will be doing tomorrow on crafting afternoon. They get out of school early on Wednesdays and we make a huge unfeddered mess our one magic day a week. I can hardly wait. Thanks so much for your generous idea sharing. XXOO The Olde Bagg

[Tina]

Dearest Vanessa, I just want to tell you how much I enjoy your blog! I check every day to see if you have a new post full of cuteness, creativity and inspirational thoughts. Thank you so much for sharing yourself and family with us. You truly inspire me to live in the moment and enjoy life to its fullest!
Warmly, Tina

[Fair Rosamund]

What fun little trees! My mom and sister and I are going to have a Snowman Party in a couple of weeks where we are going to make little snowmen out of bottles and clay...we will have to add these to the agenda too :) ~Lauren

[Candice]

/I live in Thailand and it's so hard to find Christmas decorations to buy here! Thank you so much for the crafty idea!! My girls will love helping, it's simple, cheap and cute...and I have just the button of bags to decorate it with. These are going down the center of my holiday table. Keep the crafty ideas coming!! Thanks! C

[Tatieva, artiste]

Love, love, c'est magique !
Toute la poésie des jours d'hiver est là...
Un enchantement pour notre regard, merci !

[sadira]

What sweet and festive trees! I was just thinking how fun it would be to do bigger versions of those little Christmas houses and have a whole village...of course, that might mean I have to dress like an elf and walk around like a giant...these things happen you know.

[Nina]

Hi!
I introduced your cute blog at my blog :)

[deborah]

My beloved Magical Muse, I am hyperventilating! I am filled with JoY so great that it cannot be contained!!! All over your cotton ball trees!! Perfect for DebVille!!! I just found a wee dearie family on ETSY that I purchased...they are from the 50's! Are you seeing vintage wee dearies under those trees, cuz I am! Have I told you lately that I adore you? Well, I do I do I do. Big Love. **blows kisses** Deb

[Theresa]

Late I am, always! LOL I just LOVE these cotton ball trees. I think when I have free time I shall try to make them. I CAN do this!!!! :) Hmmmmm...how about glitter AND buttons - or would that be overkill? heeheehee Sorry to hear you had water problems...again. Glad it's settled. And I'm happy that Mr. Lovey is back from his trip. I don't like when my hubby is away. I can never sleep, and me and the pups get lonely for "daddy." Hope you are well, dearest friend! Cannot wait to learn of the goodies you have in store for us! xoxo Theresa

[april]

i just made mine with my 4 year old daughter and it was a BLAST!!!! tytyty

[somepinkflowers]

C
O
T
T
O
N

ball
trees!

:-)

oh oh oh
YES there is NOTHING better
than
sprinkling glitter
on wet glue!

NOTHING!

{{ well,
unless you have a furry pup
at your feet whilst
your sprinkle the glitter,
maybe
that would make it better }}

PLUS--->
♥LOVE♥ how you started
with a cereal box !!!!!!!

[Teresa in California]

Miss Vanessa
You are soooo clever!
I love the cotton ball trees, and the little houses tutorial is divine! Thank you for sharing these sweet creations!
Have a lovely day! May fairies and elves make magic happen in your realm today.
Miss Teresa

[carolee]

Eeep! Things have been so crazy in my world, it's been three whole posts since I've dropped in - almost more *magic* than I can handle, hehe...

It must indeed be something in the air, because I too have been immersed in Christmas - painting little trinket boxes and today a tea tray, listening to Celtic Christmas CDs and the Medieval Baebes, knitting scarves and pouring over holiday recipes.

Christmas makes me feel good, and after losing one of our fur-kids last week, I need to feel good. But what you said in your previous post is sooooo true - we never really recover from these losses, and I'm not so sure we're even meant to. Love changes us, pure and simple. It hurts like hell to ose a companion, but we keep adopting them because the love they give us makes the eventual pain worth bearing...Anyway, wanted to let you know I understand how you feel. ♥

Wishing you many blessings this season!
~ Carolee

[Gypsy Purple-Chamara]

Always such a journey and pleasure to visit here!!...you are such an inspiration!

[Wende]

I love the Cotton Ball Trees!
I also wanted to say how happy I was when I returned home from work yesterday to find a sweet little package waiting for me. From YOU! I gently opened it as not to harm the contents. As I marveled at all of the wonderful things I came across the most amazing thing. You sent me a canvas of your Skelly Love print. My eyes teared up with happiness. I fell in love with it on your site and now you have given me one of my very own. I will matte it and frame it with love. You are so very generous with your talent and craft. Thank you!
Is it ok for me to photograph all of the wonderful items you sent me and post it on my blog? I want to share your Fanciful Twist with everyone!
Thank you again for such a wonderful parcel!
Until Then,
Wende Scroggins

[Jex]

What a wonderful idea, I MUST try it for this X-mas! =)

[marjorie]

Oh this is SO fun and lovely of you!! Thank bunches for sharing such a sweet project for the Holidays, Dearie!! :)