Christmas tasks on Airtasker

Here’s a list of tasks you can get done this Christmas season, so you can stress less and truly enjoy the holidays.

Christmas tasks on Airtasker

Every year, we see more and more people posting tasks on Airtasker to help with gift delivery, food shopping, and even Santa requests. If you’re looking for ideas, we’ve put together a list of Christmas tasks you can get done on the platform.

Scroll through to see how Taskers can help you stress less this Christmas, so you can truly enjoy the holiday season!

1. Christmas parties

Take your Christmas parties to the next level with the help of a few Airtaskers. From bar staff and party photographers to elf ushers and makeup artists, get creative and let a Tasker take care of the rest.

Christmas parties

2. Christmas tree delivery

Not all of us have a car, let alone one big enough to fit a Christmas tree, but a Tasker can pick one up for you and even make sure it’s standing up straight in your home. Simply put up a task for Christmas tree delivery, and connect with local Taskers who can get it done.

3. Dressing up as Santa

You cannot have a holly jolly Christmas without the big man himself. Whether you’re looking for a Santa to attend a special occasion or for a Christmas morning surprise, post a task to see if he can pop by.

Christmas lights installation

4. Christmas lights installation

Untangling thousands of teeny tiny Christmas lights could easily take all weekend, so why not outsource it? A Tasker can take care of everything, from untangling your Christmas lights to hanging them up.

If you need inspiration, check out these fantastic ways to hang up fairy lights which can be a great option any time of the year! You can also hire an electrician to fix electrical issues in your home before you set up the Christmas lights.

5. Holiday shopping

Skip the long lines and store hopping. A personal holiday shopper can make sure you get gifts for everyone on your list. Let your Tasker know what you need and how much your budget is. They’ll then help you find the best-value gifts, be it from retail stores, online stores, or thrift stores.

6. Surprise present assembly

Thinking about buying a trampoline, cubby house, or play swing set as a Christmas present for your kids? Well, don’t be the parent stuck with assembling it all Christmas and Boxing day. A Tasker can assemble a trampoline while the kids sleep on Christmas Eve, so they (and you) get a real treat this year.

Pawfessionals at Airtasker

7. Holiday pet sitting

There are plenty of pet-loving Airtaskers who can look after your furry friend while you travel to spend the holidays with family. Whether you need a pet sitter to care for your furry friend or a pet boarding service, Taskers are here to help.

8. Christmas gift wrapping

Let’s face it; gift wrapping isn’t as simple as it looks, especially if you have many gifts to wrap. If wrapping presents is something you’d rather not spend your time on, hire a Tasker to help out.

Christmas gift wrapping
Christmas gift wrapping and decorations

9. Christmas decoration

Whether it’s an office or a shop, take the work out of getting in the Christmas spirit and hire someone to take care of it. A Christmas decorator can plan and set up your Christmas decorations in no time.

10. Baking Christmas goodies

Local bakers can make custom holiday desserts, from Christmas tree cupcakes to the beloved pavlova. You can’t go wrong with homemade desserts to serve at your Christmas party or give out as gifts!

Surprise guests? A Tasker can also run to the bakery and deliver your dessert just in time for your party.

Christmas cookies
Christmas cookies by Valentina Dominguez via Unsplash

11. Writing Christmas cards

Writing Christmas cards for friends and family is a big task, so it makes sense to quickly type all the letters and outsource the handwriting to someone else. We bet they won’t know the difference.

12. Grocery shopping

Grocery delivery Taskers can help you get all the items on your grocery list. Find a nearby Tasker who can take care of your grocery shopping, so you can relax at home with your family or attend to your other holiday errands.

man delivering groceries
Christmas grocery delivery

13. Christmas cleaning

If you’re hosting Christmas this year, you’ll need to clean the house before, during, and after everyone has dropped by. Give yourself a breather by getting an Airtasker to clean your Christmas house. You can also get your chimney cleaned if the fires aren’t burning well.

14. Christmas tree disposal

Once the festivities are over, a Tasker can help you pack up the decorations and take down your Christmas tree. They can even haul your Christmas tree to the curb or drive it to a local treecycling drop-off station.

From Christmas shopping to cleaning up after the holidays, Taskers are here to help you throughout this season. Put up a task for anything you need to be done over the holidays. In no time, you’ll find local Taskers who can get it done.

30 Tips to reduce holiday stress and enjoy Christmas

From Christmas shopping to social gatherings, here are ways you can reduce stress this holiday season.

30 Tips to reduce holiday stress and enjoy Christmas

Christmas is a joyful time with family and friends coming together to celebrate. However, it can also be a stressful time trying to manage social events, coordinating with your family, and let’s not forget working full-time.

To help prevent getting burnt out this holiday season, we have a few practical suggestions you can do now to help you stress less this Christmas.

On managing Christmas expenses

1. Set a budget for everything

Set your budgets for social events, gift purchases, and Christmas feasts now. This way, you can manage your income with the expected costs this December.

2. Prepare emergency funds

Keep a bit of extra money on the side for those surprise expenses you haven’t thought of.

3. Save up for next Christmas

inserting coin in piggy bank

Perhaps too late for this year, but set up a savings account for birthdays and Christmas time after this Christmas. You can add funds to this account every payday. You’ll be able to get a headstart on your savings and have that cushioning for the expensive times of the year.

On Christmas shopping

4. Stock up on non-perishable food

Start buying the non-perishables now. By stocking up on items ahead of time, you’ll lighten the load in the coming weeks and have everything you need. You can hire someone to run to the grocery store for you and deliver your groceries to your doorstep.

5. Make a master gift list

Picking out gifts on the fly while you shop can be overwhelming. A master gift list can automate your shopping decisions. Or, at the very least, this list can be a good starting point when you’re deciding which store to visit. Compile a master gift list for all your nearest and dearest. If you can, build out this list throughout the year as gift ideas come up.

6. Do your Christmas shopping on a weekday

person walking inside mall

It’s obvious but try to do your shopping on weekdays during your lunch break rather than on weekends with everyone in the neighbourhood.

7. Shop late at night or early in the morning

At Christmas time, all the major retailers have longer opening hours so wait till late at night or first thing in the morning to get what you need. Plus, you should get a great car park as well.

8. Shop for Christmas gifts online

Avoid the crowds entirely and stay safe at home. Online shopping is popular nowadays, and you have loads of options for buying Christmas gifts online. You can often find great bargains, and many online stores gift wrap for you as well.

9. Organise a Secret Santa

Organising a Secret Santa can take the pressure off overspending and buying a gift for everyone. There are plenty of Secret Santa apps that can help you organise the gift exchange online.

10. Book a gift delivery service

For a personal touch, you can book a gift delivery service. Our platform can connect you with local Taskers who can head to the store, pick up your gift, and deliver it straight to your loved one. From festive cakes to beautiful wooden toys, you can get any gift you need.

11. Get customised gifts

Make it extra personal with gifts specially made for your loved ones. Taskers on our platform have various skills, such as illustration, graphic design, and baking. Now you can easily get a beautiful hand-drawn portrait or bespoke cupcakes for your family and friends.

12. Make sure you have enough wrapping supplies

Purchase all gifting needs such as wrapping paper and ribbons, and don’t forget the extra sticky tape. For more cost effective options, try discount stores of Officeworks.

13. Buy extra gifts

It’s good to have extra gifts on hand for those people you forget. Extra gifts like chocolates, funky condiments, and hand lotion make great stocking fillers, too! With extra gifts ready at any time, you’ll always have something to give out to your guests.

On preparing Christmas meals

14. Make a meal plan while it’s early

Plan your Christmas menu ahead of time and list down all the ingredients you need. Also, buy as many non-perishables as you can now. You can always outsource these tasks and hire someone else to plan your menu and even prepare the food.

15. Delegate

We love the idea of wanting to do it all. But sometimes, you have to delegate tasks to your party guests, even if it’s just picking up ice and drinks. Just let them know ahead of time. Chances are they wouldn’t mind helping out.

16. Write down the cooking schedule

As Christmas day draws nearer, write a detailed timeline of everything you need to do and at what time. Doing so can ensure you’ve covered all your bases, and you’ll be less frantic come Christmas day. For example, write down what time to put the turkey in the oven and baste the ham.

17. Order food before the holiday rush

croissants on trays

Avoid running to the store at the last minute, only to find empty shelves. By ordering food ahead of time, you get better chances of getting the best quality ham or that coveted pavlova from your local bakery.

On preparing the home

18. Declutter your home

Take time to dispose of things you no longer need or that don’t spark joy. Clutter can often add to feelings of overwhelm and stress. If you’ve been meaning to get rid of an old TV or stack of magazines, now’s the perfect time. Once you’ve freed up some space in your home, it’ll be easier to put up the decorations and go about your daily activities.

19. Book a house cleaner

Even if you’re not hosting the festivities this year, you’ll still be running around a lot, and clutter can pile up in your home. Fortunately, you can hire a house cleaner to come by every once in a while to tidy up your home.

house cleaner cleaning table using rag and diffuser

20. Go for minimal decorations

Festive doesn’t have to mean extravagant. So if you’re on a budget or simply don’t have the time to go all-out, minimal Christmas decorations are the way to go. After all, Christmas parties during these times may not be as big as the ones you’ve had before. Focus on the most used rooms in your home, like the living room and dining room. By scaling back with mindful decorations, you can maximise impact and elegance.

21. Prepare your outdoor area

Outdoor gatherings are a safer way to socialise nowadays. Before the festivities come into full swing, clear out your garden or set up a table on your patio. With a tidy outdoor area, you’ll be ready to host guests at any time and avoid cramming everyone indoors.

22. Polish the silver

If you’re hosting Christmas meals, get your home ready by polishing the silverware, dusting your expensive China, and ironing the tablecloths and napkins.

23. Get your Christmas tree delivered

Picking out a Christmas tree and hauling it to your home can take up an entire day. Instead, book a Christmas tree delivery service to save yourself the time and heavy lifting. Get your Christmas tree delivered to your doorstep, ready for you and your kids to decorate together. Or, if you’re too busy, you can ask a Tasker to handle everything, from Christmas tree pickup to decorations.

24. Decorate room by room

You can decorate as early as you want, so why not get the boxes out now and go room by room, so it’s not a big task? If you have extra funds, you could even consider hiring a local decorator to transform your home into a winter wonderland.

On celebrating during the pandemic

Virtual gatherings may not be as good as face-to-face interactions. But there are many ways to make virtual gatherings more fun. Here are creative ways to celebrate Christmas during the pandemic.

25. Host a virtual party

Gather your friends and family online for a virtual Christmas dinner or holiday movie marathon. Teleparty lets you synchronise Netflix streaming while on a video call or group chat. What’s more, you can unwrap gifts together over Zoom.

26. Cook together via video call

The holiday preparations can be a party in itself! Go ahead and call up your loved ones while you prepare your Christmas dishes. You can chat away while chopping the vegetables and decorating the cake.

27. Spread some holiday cheer

Thinking about other people can be a great way to step away from everyday stress. Drop off meals or send care packages to elders or sick people who may be alone during the holidays. A little act of kindness can go a long way in brightening up everyone’s Christmas.

On self-care

Last but certainly not least don’t forget about yourself! These are your holidays too, so don’t forget to sit back and take some time out for yourself.

28. Say no to invitations if you need to

While it’s tempting to make the most of social gatherings, it’s okay to step back and stay home. You wouldn’t want to stretch yourself too thin with holiday obligations.

29. Unplug from social media

woman holding a cup of coffee and reading a book

Put away your phone and carve out time to catch up on your reading or go for a walk. Slowing down and taking in the holiday atmosphere can do wonders for your mental health.

30. Keep your health in check

Your physical health affects your overall well-being. For this reason, make sure to get plenty of sleep and try to keep up with your workout routine. You can book a quick yoga session over a video call to reduce stress and boost your mood. Also, feel free to savour all the food and drinks this season, but remember—moderation is key.

By applying a tip or two from this list, your holidays can be less stressful. Plan ahead, ask for help when you need it, and take time for yourself.

How to DIY a Christmas wreath

Is it even really Christmas until you've hung a wreath? We don't think so.

How to DIY a Christmas wreath

The beginning of the holiday season is often apparent when wreaths start appearing on front doors. Learning how to make your own DIY wreath is easy, fun and a great way to get into the festive spirit.

We are particularly fond of a greenery wreath, and they are actually much simpler to make than you may think. With a little creativity, some basic materials and a flat working surface, you can enjoy a quintessential holiday craft with the kids or some friends.

Read on for a step-by-step guide to make your own DIY wreath, and have fun spreading a little Christmas joy.

Materials needed for a DIY wreath

  • Pruners or hand shears
  • 22 gauge paddle wire
  • Wire snips
  • A wire wreath frame
  • Some greens and foliage

Things to note before you begin

You’ll be able to forage for supplies and greenery for your DIY wreath around your neighbourhood; just remember:

  1. Ask permission before you clip from someone’s front garden
  2. Use sustainable pruning methods like trimming lower limbs and avoiding saplings or the tops of trees
  3. Stay away from noxious plants or weeds (be extra sure to leave them out of your compost)

Ingredient ideas for your dried flower wreaths DIY

Any of the following can be beautiful inclusions in your DIY wreath:

  • Pine
  • Cedar
  • Juniper
  • Boxwood
  • Eucalyptus and Seeded Eucalyptus
  • Sage
  • Rosemary
  • Rose Hips
  • Red or Yellow Twig Dogwood
  • Moss-covered Branches
  • Blueberry Branches
  • Seed Pods and Cones
  • Pine Cones
diy christmas wreath chandelier
Source: Georgia de Lotz via Unsplash

How to make a DIY wreath: Step-by-step instructions

Once you’ve gathered the supplies above, you’re ready to begin! Follow these four easy steps, and feel free to “colour outside of the lines” where applicable for an original look.

Step 1: Prepping the materials

Cut all of your materials into segments and try to aim for similar sizes so you can create a symmetrical wreath. Clip branches into 4- to 6-inch sizes, or for a wilder, more “natural-looking” wreath, vary the branch sizes from 4 to 8 inches. Sort them into piles by type, then wrap your paddle wire around the wreath frame to secure it.

Step 2: Adding materials to the frame

Add the greenery by starting with a branch of each ingredient to make a small bouquet. Lay these on the wireframe and wrap paddle wire around each bunch. Make sure it is tight as tension holds your wreath together. Over time, the greens and branches will shrink and dry, so making sure the wire is a little extra tight from the beginning is a good idea.

Repeat the creation and attachment of the bouquet, setting them on the frame, slightly overlapping one another. Do this over the whole wreath, but step back and make sure the wreath looks full and balanced every now and then. Sometimes the tiny details make you miss the big picture!

If you notice things getting a little uneven or gaps forming, simply add materials by sliding them tightly under a wire loop to balance your wreath.

When you reach the last bunch, lift the first bouquet and tuck the ends of your final bunch underneath it.

Finish this section by wrapping more wire to make sure everything is secure, then step back and assess the wreath, identifying any areas that may need some small additions to create a full look.

Step 3: Tying off the wreath

The final step is tying off the wreath. To do this, wrap some more wire around the structure roughly two to three times. You don’t want there to be so much wire that it is overly visible, so aim for a good balance between aesthetics and functional security. Clip the wire with wire cutters or pruners, then turn the wreath over and thread the end of the wire through the frame.

Wrap any slack around one piece of the frame and secure the wire by tucking the end in so it won’t scratch anyone or anything. At this point, you should be looking at a completed wreath, but you can “fluff” necessary sections by gently pulling the branches. This is also the time to trim any pieces that are too long or add other bits and pieces to give your wreath a unique look.

Step 4: Some (optional) final touches

Some people love natural-looking wreaths, and if that is you, you are likely already finished at step three. However, if you want a little more beauty than just the greens, you can add pine cones, flowers, a bow, or even some Christmas tree ornaments.

If you do want to add some things that have a little more weight to them, make sure you attach them securely with a piece of paddle wire. Position your ornament on the wreath, then snip a piece of wire and wrap it in the least visible spot around the ornament and through the frame.

If you are attaching pine cones, for example, lay them on the wreath, working the wire through the greenery and tying it off on the backside of the wreath. Tightly twist the wires together, and always make sure you tuck the ends to avoid any scratches on the door.

Repeat the steps and additions until you’ve reached a look you love.

Pro design tip: Group your pine cones together in odd numbers.

 

dried flower wreaths diy
Source: Corina Andrisca via Unsplash

Wreath care for longevity

A fresh wreath will last a lot longer than just the holidays. If your wreath lives indoors, give it a light mist every few days so it doesn’t dry out too quickly.

We should also mention, wreaths don’t just have to be for Christmas! While they are a symbol of the holiday, you can use the same steps above to create wreaths for other special occasions like weddings, or simply just use them to decorate your home with a touch of nature! There are no rules when it comes to the world of wreaths!

Frequently asked questions

What materials do you need to make a Christmas wreath?

For an easy ‘how-to’ DIY Christmas wreath, just gather pruning shears, scissors, wreath frame, 22 or 24 gauge florist wire, evergreen branches and a wire cutter. You can choose whichever decorative materials you like, but commonly, ribbon (for bows), pine cones, fruits and ornaments are used to finish the wreath.

How do you make a wreath with real branches?

Find two branches that have some flexibility to them and overlap each one by about 1/3 of their length. Gently and carefully twist the ends around one another, and use some wire to secure each end into place. Repeat this with the other ends, and adjust them as needed to create the size you need for your wreath.

How do you make a giant grapevine wreath?

Grapevine wreaths are popular as they add a rustic look to your space. They are also quite simple if you follow these steps:

  1. Cut several yards of wild grapevine
  2. Place vines in a large bucket of water to soak them, which will soften the vines
  3. Once they are flexible, start at one end and create a circular coil
  4. Wrap any side branches into the wreath to finalise the look

Have some fun getting into the festive spirit!

Now you see how easy it is to make your own wreath; you can use this as an activity that gets the family into the festive spirit! There are many other varieties you can explore as well, like a DIY burlap wreath with pipe cleaners or one that utilises dried flowers.

If your wreath is part of a grand Christmas decoration overhaul of your home, check out the skilled Taskers who can help with outdoor lighting installation to make your house the brightest on the block! (Take that, neighbours).

We also have some other very helpful blogs that will boost your festive spirit tenfold. Decorating for Christmas? Check out some of our holiday guides to inspire you to get into a festive mood:

Need help? We spotted some Taskers offering holiday decorating services, check them out:

Whichever piece you draw your inspiration from, we hope that it all results in a very happy Christmas (that looks great due to all your efforts). Good tidings to all!

60 best DIY Christmas ideas on the internet

From the tree to the table, these awesome ideas will bring the holiday spirit.

60 best DIY Christmas ideas on the internet

You’ve put up the Christmas tree, right? Posted all your Christmas cards, organised thoughtful gifts for your nearest and dearest, and planned the perfect menu for a light Christmas lunch (which will follow festive brunch with the neighbours before festive dinner at your in-laws)?

Oh, not yet? Don’t worry – nor have we, so we’ve pulled together the best festive hacks and Christmas themed DIY ideas we could find to make silly season celebrations a cinch.

DIY Christmas trees

1. Scandi style Christmas tree

Chic minimal Scandi style Christmas tree DIY
This minimal Christmas tree DIY is subtle but stylish. Image by The Merrythought for West Elm

Sometimes less is more! This chic Scandi style Christmas tree is perfect for adding the holiday spirit to any small space with minimal effort. All you need is a petite tree, a woven basket and a few fairy lights. Caitlin and Manda from The Merrythought put together this minimal Christmas tree DIY for West Elm. Check out the step by step tutorial here.

2. Modern Christmas tree

Colourful modern Christmas tree DIY
A mini forest of modern Christmas trees! Image by A Kailo Chic Life

Christmas needn’t be a traditional affair. Give your festive decorations a modern twist with a forest of mini Christmas trees in your favourite colours. To create this eye-catching DIY project, you’ll need paper mache cones. (You can find these at educational suppliers or craft stores like Spotlight). You’ll also need aerosol paint and metallic pens in copper or gold for painterly splashes to complete the look. Kara explains exactly what’s involved in her blog A Kailo Chic Life.

3. Fairy lights

Fairy light Christmas tree DIY
Luminous lights for a glowing Christmas. Image by A Pair and a Spare

It might be too hot for a fire on Christmas day in the Southern Hemisphere, but you can add an inviting glow to your living room with a luminous fairy light tree. Visit A Pair & A Spare where Geneva gives super easy to follow step-by-step instructions on how to assemble a fairy light Christmas tree on pine wood backing. Can’t fit 3m of plywood in your house? You could also attach 3M hooks directly to your wall in the shape of a tree then thread through a string of fairy lights for instant ambience.

4. Hanging herbs

Bunches of herbs hanging on string in tree shape
Festive and fragrant hanging herb tree. Image by Michael Wiltbank

An aromatic and rustic alternative to a traditional Christmas tree, this novel DIY is perfect for foodies. Bundle up your favourite herbs (make sure to pick varieties such as Rosemary or Sage that will dry well – no one wants droopy Parsley). Then, hang them with twine from a picture rail or wooden dowel. Bonus, this will come in handy if you run out of herbs while preparing Christmas dinner!

5. Cactus Christmas tree

Cactus Christmas tree with pom poms
Move aside pinetree! Image by Sugar & Cloth

Move aside, pinetree! You can transform any indoor plant into a Christmas tree with the addition of some pom poms, tinsel or other festive accoutrements. Sugar & Cloth prickles our fancy by transforming a humble cactus into a Christmas tree alternative with brightly coloured trim and super cute pom pom trim – check out their easy DIY instructions here!  Can we keep our plants decorated all year? Get some inspo on which plant to choose with our tips on the best indoor plants for Aussie homes.

6. Geometric Balsa wood

Balsa wood geometric Christmas tree DIY ornaments
Sleek and chic geometric wooden trees. Image by Fiddle and Spoon

Ensure Christmas is a classy affair with a modern minimalist balsa wood tree via Fiddle and Spoon. Chic and architectural, this DIY project promises a luxurious final product that wouldn’t look out of place in a high-end boutique. These tree-riffic designs also make great table decorations when created in miniature. Customise the colours to match your décor.

7. Party fringing

Fringed Christmas tree DIY pastel and gold
Bring the party with festive fringing. Image by A Bubbly Life

Have a penchant for pastels? Then yule love A Bubbly Life’s fringed Christmas trees in mint green and bubblegum pink. Laurel shows us how easy it is to start with cardboard or paper mache cones. Just cover with fringing created from cut-up tissue paper strips. This DIY also works great with metallic tinsel if you’re looking for something with more glitz and glam.

8. Mini vignette Christmas tree

Tiny Christmas tree vignette DIY
A tiny-space tree. Image by Stone Gable

Apartment dwellers may not have halls to deck with holly, but they needn’t miss out on spreading Christmas cheer! Bring the fun of the silly season to a small space with this idea shared by Stone Gable. Check out the tutorial, complete with a list of all of the household items you could use to put together this fun-sized festive scene here.

DIY Christmas decorations

9. Bauble wreath

bauble wreath in provincial style farmhouse
Go big or go home with this bold bauble wreath! Image by Sweet Pickins

Your front door is sure to become the talk of the neighbourhood if you recreate this fun idea from Sweet Pickins. Steal a few of your kids’ pool noodles, invest in an abundance of baubles (Kmart has a great range), fire up a hot glue gun then get glueing to create this show-stopping wonder. We love the rainbow effect Sweet Pickins has created, but this DIY would also look great in one block colour.

10. Minimalist wreath

minimal Christmas wreath with candle
Clean and elegant Christmas style. Image by These Four Walls

Between presents, decorations and social occasions, most of us tend to go a bit overboard on Christmas. Cut through the clutter and give your back pocket a break with a chic and minimal wreath that can be assembled in minutes, and with very few materials, thanks to this step-by-step guide from These Four Walls.

11. Horizontal wreath

Horizontal wreath above table set for Christmas dinner
Elevate your table setting by elevating the decorations. Image by The White Company

Love a pendant light? How about a pendant wreath? This clever idea by The White Company is a stylish twist on a traditional decoration. For this suspended showstopper, you’ll need a wreath, some rope and a strong ceiling hook (hire a handyman if you can’t hang one yourself). Check out these Christmas table decoration ideas for more inspo. And, bonus, more space on the table for Christmas dinner! No complaints here.

12. Advent calendar

numbered brown envelopes in a basket
An exciting way to count down the days until Christmas. Image by Simplify Create Inspire

An advent calendar can make every morning feel like Christmas morning. Design your advent calendar however you want – be it with brown paper bags or bottle caps. Simplify Create Inspire has loads of ideas worth checking out. Fill up your advent calendar with notes, chocolates, and trinkets for your child or partner. What better way to count down the days until Christmas?

13. Mason jar lid and bauble wreath

bauble wreath in shape of Christmas tree on door
A little rustic, a little sparkly. Image by Funky Junk Interiors

A fresh wreath will generally last around two-three weeks maximum depending on how well you take care of it, and how much Mother Nature decides to crank up the heat during December. For an option that lasts forever and is a fresh take on tradition, this DIY is for you. Check out the full tutorial by Donna at Funky Junk Interiors here.

14. Tinsel wreath

Ho Ho Ho tinsel Christmas wreath
A very merry Christmas wreath. Image by Happy Thought

Your days will be extra merry with a tinsel wreath positioned above your mantlepiece! A cheap and cheerful DIY project, a tinsel wreath can be assembled in under ten minutes (which leaves you extra time to shop for all of those last-minute gifts!). Visit Happy Thought for the full tutorial, plus ideas on customising your creation.

15. Marble baubles

blue marbled Christmas baubles
Beautiful contemporary baubles. Image by Melissa Fenlon

According to DIY enthusiasts Alice and Lois, it only takes five minutes to make these stunning marble baubles! A must-do-DIY for anyone with a penchant for marble, these gorgeous baubles can be done in any colour to suit your festive decor. Visit Alice and Lois for the full DIY, plus plenty of other crafty Christmas ideas!

16. Clothespeg snowflakes

Glitter Christmas DIY ornaments made from clothes pegs
Sparkly snowflake stars. Image by Dream a Little Bigger

You can make Christmas ornaments from just about anything, as Allison from Dream a Little Bigger shows in this DIY project. Steal a few pegs from the washing line, and grab some glitter and glue to transform an everyday household item into a beautiful Christmas tree decoration! These stunning stars would also make great present toppers when attached to a gift with ribbon.

17. Personalised baubles

Easy-to-make personalised baubles. Image from Girl about townhouse

As you may know, we love a good #kmarthack, so we were impressed when we saw these lovely Christmas baubles! Caroline from Girl about townhouse says all you need is a bauble, sharpie, and some pretty ribbon. Spell out the name or initial of your loved one, and there you have it! A beautiful ornament you can also use as a fancy gift tag.

18. Painted pinecones

pink painted pinecones with glitter in vase
Pinecones with a pop of colour. Image by ShabbyFuFu

Hunting for the easiest Christmas DIY ever? Call off the search! Just forage for some pinecones (or twigs, or pampas grass, or palm leaves), pop down to Bunnings and grab some metallic spray paint then spray to your heart’s content! Instant luxe with natural charm and the possibilities are endless. Add them to a vase, arrange in a bowl or scatter over the table as a festive centerpiece. For tips on how to paint pinecones, visit ShabbyFufu.

19. Snowglobe terrarium jars

Snowglobes in jars
Snowglobe terrariums the little ones will love. Image by Jamie Silver

Part snowglobe, part terrarium, this is a great use for all those jars you’ll have leftover from feastive-season nibbles. Jamie Silver shows her process in this simple step-by-step guide.

20. Luminaire centrepieces

Berry and foliage tea light candle holders for Christmas
DIY candle holders that are totally lit. Image by Today’s Creative Life

December days are guaranteed to be lit with these simple yet effective centrepieces. Round up some mason jars, tea lights, greenery and cranberries and voila, your table is ready for Christmas lunch! Kim from Today’s Creative Life explains how to make these 5-minute DIYs here.

21. Ice light candle holders

tea light candles in ice holders with leaves
Fabulously frost candle holders. Image by Bo Bedre

While we’re not sure how long these would actually last on a hot Christmas night in Australia, we think these ice lights are super cool! Check out the tutorial from Bo Bedre here (just FYI it’s in Norwegian so you’ll have to translate!). For a longer lasting version of this fabulously frosty DIY, we recommend making the bases from resin with help from this tutorial.

22. Gold handlettering ornaments

Writing on bauble with gold marker
Stylish gold hand lettered baubles. Image by Ting and Things

There is something so elegant about gold lettering. In addition to making your own tree look fab, these glittering ornaments also make a great gift for friends, family and colleagues. Lorita at Ting and Things shows how easy it is to make these stylish DIY ornaments. Find the full list of supplies and instructions here.

23. Clay Christmas ornaments

clay Christmas ornaments
Simple and elegant. Image by A Pretty Fix

These clay ornaments have that perfect handmade look. Aren’t they pretty? And the best part is they’re easy to make! All you need are some air dry clay, letter stamps, and twine. You can also add watercolours to highlight your family members’ names. Jelica of A Pretty Fix shows five different ways to make air dry clay ornaments.

24. Car ornaments

classic matchbox car Christmas ornaments
Zoom into the festive season with these cool ornaments! Image by Please Note Paper

The motoring enthusiast in your household will get revved up over these wheely cool decorations. Rather than raiding your favourite little person’s prized Matchbox collection, we suggest purchasing some cheap car toys from your local $2 shop to complete this DIY. Visit Please Note Paper for the full list of materials plus a comprehensive how-to.

25. Giant baubles

gold bar cart with giant Christmas baubles
Baubles, bar cart and beverages! Image by A Kailo Chic Life

Supersize your Christmas celebrations with XL baubles! Fabulous stacked up in a pile, or perched atop a Christmas tree, these oversized and over-the-top ornaments are easy to construct with foam balls and a few other materials. Love this idea? Kara from A Kailo Chic Life has you covered with her simple step-by-step guide.

26. Festive pillow

Throw pillows wrapped like Christmas gifts
Turn your regular pillows into holiday pillows. Image by Jalynn Baker via HGTV

A quick DIY is all you need to turn your living room into a festive space. Simply wrap your pillows like a present; Perfect if you have Christmas-coloured ribbons lying around! You can even wrap your pillow with a festive flannel shirt you have on-hand. Here are some Christmas pillow ideas from HGTV.

DIY Christmas gifts

27. Bath salts

A gift to use all year round. Image by Sugar & Cloth

 

Handmade gifts remind your loved ones that you’re thinking about them. This ever-so-creative DIY from Sugar & Cloth combines homemade bath salts with sand art. If you don’t have any large jars laying around at home, you can buy some mini RAJTAN spice jars from Ikea.

28. Peppermint mason jar candles

scented Christmas candles
Smells like candycane! Image by A Pumpkin and a Princess

Is it even Christmas if your house doesn’t smell like lollies, spice, or fruit? A lovely way to ignite Christmas cheer in your household, this DIY project doubles as a handmade present. Crafty blogger A Pumpkin And A Princess says you’ll need soy candle wax, peppermint oil, and your creative juices to complete this project.

29. Embroidered notebooks

embroidered notebooks on printed fabric
A personalised gift is always well received! Image by Mollie Makes

You’ll have sew much fun picking out a design then embroidering it onto a note book, thanks to Mollie Makes! This DIY project can be labour intensive if you’re not an experienced sewer so don’t leave it until the night before Christmas.

30. Marbled tea light cups

pastel marbled tea light holders
Pretty marbled tea light holders. Image by HGTV

If you’re tempted by the marbled baubles above, get some other items in on the action! These plain glass tealight holders are easily transformed into unique pieces with just a bit of nail polish. Great for a bulk gifting. Chelsea explains how here.

31. Gingerbread lip scrub

gingerbread lip scrub in a jar
Get prepped for a kiss under the mistletoe. Image by Runway Chef

Between kissing grandparents and smiling for family photos, your lips need some love at Christmas time! Delicious and a skin care staple, this lip scrub is a fab stocking stuffer that you can make while you’re whipping up a gingerbread house. Alyssa shows us how on the Runway Chef.

32. Cookies in a jar

Cookie ingredients in a jar
Biscuits are always a good idea! Image by Crazy Little Projects

A ready-to-go recipe in a jar is a fabulous gift idea for your favourite time-poor food lover. Simply layer the ingredients and print out instructions so that it’s easy for the giftee to make, bake, and devour. Crazy Little Projects has an easy-to-follow cookie recipe plus printable tags to give your jar a professional touch.

33. Bath bombs

pastel bath bombs in ceramic bath
Maxo relaxo for the holiday season. Image by Inspired by Charm

Tis the season to be jolly and to relax in a bubblebath! Give the gift of pampering and relaxation this Christmas with a homemade bath bomb for anyone who appreciates a good soak. Customise the colour and scent with your favourite essential oils. You’ll find the full tutorial via Inspired by Charm.

34. Hot Chocolate baubles

Hot chocolate and marshmallows in baubles
Hot chocolate in an ornament? Yum! Image by Aycan of Little White Socks

Even on a hot summer’s night there’s nothing quite like a cup of cocoa to get into the Christmas spirit. This delicious DIY from Little White Socks is sure to impress; All you need is some hot cocoa powder, mini marshmallows, crushed candy canes and clear ornaments. Just pour the contents into a mug, add milk, and you’re all set!

35. Embroidered hankies

Handkerchiefs embroidered with kids' drawings
Immortalise your kids’ drawings. Image by diys.com

You can’t go wrong with practical gifts with a personal touch. If you have kids, why not trace their drawings onto handkerchiefs and embroider them? Your spouse is going to love a piece of your kids’ artwork to carry around. Grandma and Grandpa would love them, too! Other than doodles, you can sew on names or witty one-liners onto the hankies. Here’s how to do a standard stem stitch

If you’re not confident with your sewing skills, you can hire a local seamstress to do a bunch of hankies for you.

36. Christmas slippers care package

wine and sweets inside slippers
A Christmas basket with a twist. Image by Savvy Honey

Here’s a twist on your usual Christmas gift basket. Stuff a cosy pair of slippers with care package staples, such as lip balm, lotion, face masks, and chocolate. You’ll be giving your loved one everything they need for some pampering over the holidays. Check out these cute Christmas slippers basket ideas by Savvy Honey.

37. Framed handwritten recipes and letters

framed handwritten recipe
A thoughtful yet easy DIY gift. Image by Bless’er House

Your memorabilia don’t have to stay tucked away in your drawers. Take your most loved recipe or letter and display it in a beautiful frame. Here’s a quick guide on how to preserve ink on your framed handwritten recipes and letters.

38. Patterned coasters

mugs on patterned wood coasters
From wrapping paper to statement piece. Image by Plaid

Mod podge is your best friend when it comes to DIY gifts. Just look at these patterned coasters you can easily make with mod podge. Now all your spare wrapping paper and Christmas paper napkins don’t have to go to waste!

39. Christmas tea tree

Christmas tea trees
For tea lovers. Image by Thirsty for Tea

Tea lovers are going to adore this! Christmas tea trees are a clever way to display tea bags. Simply grab a styrofoam cone and glue gun, and construct your mini tree. Also, you can choose colour palettes and tea flavours fit for the holidays. Top it off with a large bow and star cutout, and you’ll have a gift your loved ones will be proud to display at home.

Festive food for Christmas gatherings

40. Antipasto Christmas tree

Antipasto grazing platter in shape of Christmas tree
Move over grazing table, this is a grazing TOWER. Image by Cafe Delites

A feast for your eyes and your stomach, this delicious DIY is quite possibly the best Christmas catering idea ever! Find a step-by-step tutorial that explains how to recreate this mouth-watering masterpiece at home via the CafeDelites website.

41. Rosemary wreath platter

Rosemary antipasto platter with cheese and olives
Pass this festive plate around! Image by Home is Where the Boat is.

Make the most of that lush rosemary bush in your backyard to create a rosemary wreath as the base for a festive antipasto platter. Trim a generous amount of rosemary, give it a rinse then assemble in a wreath shape on a circular plate. Garnish with olives, cheese, sundried tomatoes and any other finger foods that tickle your fancy. See more photos and HEAPS more festive food ideas at Home is Where the Boat is.

42. Sugar cone Christmas trees

Candy cookie cones
Waffle cones just got even better. Image by Coupon Clipping Cook

An enchanted forest where all the trees are edible? Sign us up! These delicious treats are a fun and delicious kid-friendly DIY. Stock up on your favourite lollies and let your appetite be the guide. The hardest part is not eating all of the ingredients while you work! Nancy from Coupon Clipping Cook shows us how in this recipe.

43. Christmas tree cupcakes

green Christmas tree cupcake DIY
No such thing as too much icing. Image by Manu’s Menu

Little bit of cake, little bit of green food colouring, whole lotta icing – these are just so cute! Manu’s Menu clearly has their cupcake piping technique down to a fine art, but if your baking skills aren’t quite there yet, just go heavy with the decorations. It’s all about the festive spirit, right?

44. Christmas tree meringues

green Christmas tree meringues
The sweetest little forest ever. Image by Bargain Mums

The silly season just got sweeter thanks to these adorable Christmas tree meringues via Bargain Mums. Serve these cute, bite-sized trees as part of dessert, or use them as an edible table decoration or gift!

45. Strawberry Santa brownie bites

Brownie bites with strawberry Santa hats
Christmas cuteness in bite-sized chunks. Image by I Heart Naps

You can give practically any food a Christmas-y makeover with the addition of a strawberry Santa hat, and brownie bites are no exception. Make brownies from scratch, or if you’re time-poor, opt for a brownie mix from the supermarket, cut them into small rounds, then perch a strawberry Santa hat on top, and you have the beginnings of a festive feast. Visit I Heart Nap Time for detailed instructions.

46. Cinnamon hard candy

cinnamon hard candy
A sweet present. Image by The Blond Cook

Spicy, sweet—cinnamon hard candy has all the fun and festive flavours you can ask for. By making your own cinnamon hard candy, you can put in as much or as little cinnamon oil as you want. Here’s a cinnamon hard candy recipe by Amy Brinkley of The Blond Cook.

47. Hot chocolate stirrers

chocolate dipped candy canes
Perfect for your coffee or hot cocoa. Image by Grace & Good Eats

These edible hot chocolate stirrers are genius. Just dip one of these into your hot cocoa or coffee, and you instantly get a holiday drink. To make the stirrers, dip the ends of peppermint sticks in melted chocolate. Then, sprinkle on some crushed candy canes or marshmallows misted with water. Here’s a 15-minute recipe by Grace and Good Eats.

Christmas gift wrapping ideas

48. Eco-friendly gift wrapping

A gift within a gift! Image by My Poppet Living

Furoshiki – the Japanese art of fabric wrapping – is a sophisticated change of pace to presents wrapped in paper. Use fabric in a pretty print or block colour, or purchase some cute teatowels, then wrap away! Get inspired about the possibilities of furoshiki in this tutorial by My Poppet Makes.

49. Calligraphy

Handwritten wrapping paper
Personalised paper for an extra special gift. Image by Boxwood Avenue

You don’t need to be a master calligrapher to create bespoke wrapping paper adorned with your favourite festive phrases (but it would certainly help!). Chloe from Boxwood Avenue says all you need to recreate this chic wrapping DIY is paper, a sharpie, and some silly season slogans. Finish with a striped ribbon and a sprig of your favourite herb.

50. Hand-painted gift wrapping

Pink painted gift wrapping
Add pizazz to your pressies with abstract painting. Image by Lay Baby Lay

Painterly brush strokes never looked so good! We love this DIY idea by Lay Baby Lay who transforms bland black paper into a work of abstract art with white and pink brushstrokes. She continues the artistic flair with an array of ribbons and fun finishing touches including mini trees and golden bells.

51. Star-shaped gift wrapping

star shared Christmas gift wrapping
For a star in your life. Image by A Pair and a Spare

Are you a star on the sewing machine? Then you’ll have no problem re-creating this stunning wrapping idea by A Pair and A Spare. Get going with a star template, then fire up the Singer to stitch together a star-shaped pouch. Fill with confetti or tinsel pieces for extra wow.

52. Animal gift wrapping

presents wrapped and decorated like animals
Almost too cute to unwrap? Image by Lia Griffith

Whether you channel the North Pole with a penguin present, or prefer to keep things closer to home with a gift resembling your favourite four-legged friend, animal gift wrapping is an adorable idea. Handcraft heavyweight Lia Griffith has done the hard work for you and has created animal stencils that you can download from her website and print at home. Thanks Lia!

53. Roller stamp prints

ikea lint roller hack for wrapping paper
Roll and go! Image by Handmade Charlotte

Did somebody say #IkeaHack?! Transform a humble Ikea lint roller into a stamp to decorate wrapping paper with this amazing tutorial by Handmade Charlotte. Once your stamp is assembled, apply paint and get rolling. It’s that easy!

54. Reindeer gift wrapping

Rudolph reindeer Christmas gift wrapping
This wrapping is a-deer-able. Image by Frog Prince Paperie

If Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is the most popular Christmas carol in your household, there’s simply no going past this wrapping idea from Frog Prince Paperie. It doesn’t matter what shape the present; Wrap it up in brown paper, add a red nose and some antlers and voila, Rudolph wrapping complete!

55. Simple gift wrapping

simple Christmas gift wrapping with stars
Simple and stylish gift wrapping. Image by These Four Walls

Brown paper packages tied up with string… if these are a few of your favourite things, you’ll love this simple wrapping idea via These Four Walls. Basic yet beautiful, the wrapping of these presents is elegant without detracting from the wow-factor of the gifts inside.

56. Sweater totes

wine bottles wrapped in sweater fabrics
Looking cosy. Image by That’s What Che Said

Have any stretched out or shrunken sweaters? Cut out the sweater sleeves and slip them onto some wine bottles. Then, add some nice ribbons. These cosy-looking wine bottle gift bags will surely make your friends smile.

Christmas drinks

57. Boozy popsicles

Christmas pudding icy poles
The cherry on top of Christmas dinner. Image by China Squirrel

These not-for-kids Christmas pudding and brandy ice pops will go down a treat after dinner! China Squirrel shows us how to make them on SBS Food.

58. Christmas pudding vodka

spice infused vodka recipe
Liquid Christmas pudding. Image by Jamie Oliver Magazine

Spice up Christmas drinks without overheating with this infused vodka recipe from Jamie Oliver. Perfect for a hot Aussie day with heaps of ice!

59. Cranberry mocktail

red cranberry mocktail
A bright and light beverage. Image by Say Yes

Let’s face it – for lots of us, Christmas involves lots of driving around, so a good mocktail is appreciated by one and all. Get refreshed with this cranberry concoction by Say Yes.

60. Beer Advent calendar

Beers wrapped in Christmas paper
Cheers to that! Image by Chasin’ Mason

What’s better than a surprise present every day? A surprise beer every day! Chasin’ Mason brings the Christmas cheer with this beer advent calendar.

But wait—there’s myrrh!

When should you take your Christmas decorations down?

Tradition states that your Christmas tree and decorations should be taken down on Twelfth Night to avoid bad luck (apparently tree spirits live in the foliage so, yknow, they’re trying to enjoy the holiday season, too).

Whether you believe in the superstition or not, don’t let your brilliant DIY efforts go to waste and salvage your favourite pieces for next year. Box up your baubles, wreaths and trinkets with clear labels, so you can easily retrieve them from storage.

PS. Kmart’s Christmas range includes specialised storage solutions for all your decor, wrapping, and even your Christmas tree if you love being super organised.

Have yourself a merry little Christmas!

Header photos by: A Pair and a Spare / Alice & Lois / China Squirrel / The Merrythought


Need a little helper to deck the halls, or untangle all those Christmas lights? Find someone on Airtasker who can help out with any task you need done this holiday season.

How to save money on Christmas decorations

Make your home look amazing this Christmas without breaking the bank. Here are some money-saving tips, from DIY to smart shopping.

How to save money on Christmas decorations

As Christmas decorations fill department stores and Christmas carols play in every shop, Christmas season is well and truly here.

Right now you’re more money-focused than ever as Christmas day plans are made, present lists created, and party invitations start to arrive. While tis’ the season to be jolly, you can still be cash-savvy at the same time.

One of the easiest ways to save money is to cut back on the expense of Christmas decorations. Whether it’s DIY, smart shopping, or recycling, you can still make your home look amazing and it’s not as hard as you think.

1. Buy Christmas decorations early 

Ever wondered what is the most reduced stock on Boxing Day? Christmas decorations. As with most themed holiday merchandise, decorations are drastically reduced the day after Christmas.

In fact, you’ll now find decoration discounting slowly starts a few days before Christmas day. So with a bit of planning and purchasing in advance, you’ll get some serious bargains for the next year.

myer boxing day sales
Source: news.com.au

2. Compare before you buy 

woman choosing Christmas decorations
Image by Any Lane via Pexels

Being prepared earlier means you won’t need to buy for convenience as the season nears, rather you can source great bargains a number of ways:

  • Look through online stores. You’ll often find the same item online, and can price match between sites to make sure you’re getting the best price for the merchandise.
  • Check discount department stores. Make sure you check out multiple stores when purchasing your decorations. For example, plain baubles are a Christmas staple, but you could be paying triple the price in a high-end department store compared to a discount department store.

Spending less on standard decorations will allow you to splash out on some show stopper decorations. What’s more, you’ll have plenty of money left for buying gifts for your loved ones.

3. Opt for DIY Christmas decorations

Creating hand made christmas ornaments and tags with modeling clay

Let your inner crafter come out this year with do-it-yourself decorations. It’s an easy and creative alternative that will entertain you and the kids. Here’s a list of DIY Christmas ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

How to get started:

  • Create a Pinterest decoration board, and pin images you like. Pinterest is your new best friend for inspiration.
  • Find many helpful DIY tutorials via blogs and YouTube.
  • Involve the whole family and have a crafting night.

The DIY decorations also double as personalised gifts to give to friends and family – saving you even more.

4. Split the decoration costs with friends 

You don’t have to bear the brunt of the decoration expenses if you live with friends. Agree on a budget and split the cost with your housemates. Or better yet, assign specific items to each person. For example, one person buys the ornaments while the other gets the Christmas tree skirt. This way, you’ll know who gets to keep what when you all no longer live together.

5. Reinvent what you already have

Christmas lights on window
Image by Alisa Anton via Unsplash

You’ll be surprised by what you can achieve by just recycling and reinventing the decoration wheel. Using decorations that are a little broken or for a different purpose is a great way to not only save money but also storage space.

All you need is a bit of glitter and some metallic paint, and you can come up with some holiday-themed decorations. Have some bottles or apothecary jars that show potential? Fill these containers with ornaments or string lights. Or create a wreath out of fallen branches from your garden.

6. Borrow or swap decorations with your friends and family 

Gather your unused decorations, and trade them with your family and friends. Chances are they’ll be happy to have “new” decorations without spending on brand-new items. A holiday swap party can make things extra fun. You can even invite your loved ones over and create DIY décor together.

7. Use non-traditional décor

handmade yarn cone Christmas trees in natural colors.

A fancy Christmas tree with all the lavish ornaments isn’t the only way to achieve that festive spirit. If you’re on a tight budget, these unique Christmas tree ideas are great alternatives to traditional Christmas trees. From book trees to ladder trees, there’s something for everyone on this list.

8. Own the minimalist style 

Less is more. With creativity and intention, minimalist decorations can create that elegant and effortless touch. Scale back on decorations and focus on specific areas in your home. You can impress your guests with a stripped-down Christmas tree with simple white lights and golden ornaments.

If you have all the Christmas decorations but could use an expert touch, you can hire a local decorator to put everything together. Beautiful Christmas decorations don’t have to cost you a fortune.

Christmas is certainly not going anywhere; It’s guaranteed to come back the same time next year and make a dent in your bank account. By being creatively practical, you can reduce the cost of decorating for the holiday season and leave you with money to spend on your loved ones instead.

 

Christmas to-do list for this weekend

It’s December and that means one thing ?????? That’s right it’s 25 days until Christmas, which children will be overjoyed about "Christmas to-do list for this weekend"

Christmas to-do list for this weekend

It’s December and that means one thing ?????? That’s right it’s 25 days until Christmas, which children will be overjoyed about but as an adult, December might be an extremely busy time of year. We’d like to help you get as prepared as possible for the silly season, so we’ve put together your Christmas to-do list for this weekend.

If you (or an Airtasker) can knock off these ten things, it could be your favourite Christmas yet!

1. Pick up Christmas tree

It would be hard to Christmasfy your home if you didn’t have a Christmas tree, however, getting a real tree home could be a logistical nightmare if you have a small car, or perhaps don’t have one at all.

via GIPHY

2. Get decorations ready

Now that you have the tree it’s time to pull those decorations out of the storage cupboard and start to put them all around the home. Don’t forget to give them a bit of a clean too.

See how others are getting help with Christmas tasks on Airtasker.

3. Write present list

Overhead view of a group of wrapped Christmas presents. Horizontal format filling the frame.
Source: halrubenstein

One of the best ways to be organised this Christmas, and also keep your financials in check, is to write a list of all the presents that you need to buy. This should include family, friends and Kris Kringle gifts. It’s also wise to pick up a few emergency presents such as wine, champagne and small gift packs. These will be extremely handy for any host gifts, birthdays that pop up or if you’ve accidentally forgotten someone off your list.

4. Kris Kringle gifts

Buy a present for under $15 they say… We don’t think we’re alone in saying that it’s not easy to find a ‘cool’ present under $15 these days. But if there’s one piece of advice here, it’s not to leave it as a last minute item to pick up. Have a look as you start your Christmas shopping this weekend and if you see something, just grab it. You can always use it as a stocking filler if it doesn’t get gifted.

5. Write Christmas cards

Cards aren’t so much of the norm these days but if you’re one who sticks to traditional letter writing for Christmas well wishes you better get your skates on. If you don’t have the time to write them, you could always quickly type all of your letters into a word document and post a writing task on Airtasker to free up some time for you.

6. Plan menus

xmas_2014_1
Source: Rydges

Maybe not a top item on your Christmas to-do but if you’re hosting a Christmas party or perhaps attending one where you need to bring a dish, you should start to plan out what you need. Knowing what you need in advance means you can pick up all your non-perishables now and then all you have to do is pick up the fresh things the day or so before.

7. Order food

This is especially important if you’re the one hosting Christmas this year. If you’re cooking a ham, chicken or preparing seafood you should order these this weekend from your local supplier. That way you’ll get excellent quality and it will all be organised, rather than a last minute run around.

8. Buy wrapping paper

You might not have the presents just yet but you should buy wrapping paper so that as you purchase gifts you’re able to wrap them. This means you won’t face a marathon Christmas present wrapping session on the final nights before Christmas day.

Don’t forget the ribbon!

9. Baking

gingerbread-house-25030_l
Source: Taste

If you like to make Christmas cookies, gingerbread houses or rum balls this is the perfect weekend to do it. By making them well in advance you could gifts them to colleagues, clients and friends and save money on presents.

10. Christmas music

Ok, this might not be essential on the Christmas to-do list but now that it’s a reasonable time to start singing along to Christmas tunes, put a playlist together of your Christmas faves. Think Michael Buble, Rod Stewart and Mariah Carey.

6 Non-Traditional Christmas Tree Ideas

The traditional Christmas tree has all the trimmings with tinsel, baubles and lights. However, more and more we’re seeing all "6 Non-Traditional Christmas Tree Ideas"

6 Non-Traditional Christmas Tree Ideas

The traditional Christmas tree has all the trimmings with tinsel, baubles and lights. However, more and more we’re seeing all different types of decorated trees.

So let’s think outside the box for this year (and the next) with coloured trees, wall inspired trees and much more.

The Coloured Tree

spray-paint-christmas-tree
Source: Pinterest

Don’t be held back by the traditional red-and-green with your Christmas tree decorating – be creative with your colour.

A cheap, plastic Christmas tree can be easily spray-painted using a couple of tins of plastic-friendly spray paint from your local hardware store. Cream or white is a safe, goes-with-almost-every-house option. But for the more adventurous Christmas tree, go for brights – pinks, turquoise blue, even metallic.

The Apartment-friendly Tree

As more and more people live in apartments space, or lack there of, could mean you can’t even fit in a traditional Christmas tree.

You can still keep up the Christmas spirit though; all you need is a free wall.

Then you could use anything; paper, tape, twigs etc to make a Christmas tree on the wall and then put your presents on the floor or table below. Here is some inspiration.

twig-christmas-tree
Source: FreePeople

christmas-tree-wallart-countryside
Source: Countryside Style

chalkboard-christmas-tree
Source: Tree

rosemary-christmas-tree
Source: OhParty

The Easy Tree

Florists and hardware shops have trees in all sizes, even little potted plants that are great because you can keep them an place on your balcony or use for greenery decoration after Christmas.

You could even get twigs and put them in a vase. Just add some fairy lights and a bauble or two.

Crocheted-mushrooms-make-a-minimalist-decoration
Source: Decoist https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/3a/e3/2e/3ae32ec270ac28bb82a1cdff9df0c710.jpg

Place in middle of a table as a concession to the Christmas spirit. If anyone asks, say it’s rustic and minimalistic.

The Creative Tree

Using a poster why not get the kids involved with creating an original Christmas tree that you can stick to a wall.

poster-christmas-tree
Source: Homelife

The Book Tree

If you have an extensive library, instead of letting the books gather dust, you can use them to build-your-own Christmas tree.

Book-Tree
Source: Popsugar

The Ladder Tree

Most households have a ladder for all those odd jobs, so why not recycle it to make a Christmas tree. You can put presents in the middle underneath and use lights to bring the festive style to an otherwise boring ladder.

ladder-tree
Source: Buzzfeed

Easy Gift Wrapping Ideas

Let’s be honest – 90% of the fun of Christmas is presents, and a good portion of that is the "Easy Gift Wrapping Ideas"

Easy Gift Wrapping Ideas

Let’s be honest – 90% of the fun of Christmas is presents, and a good portion of that is the wrapping (or un-wrapping). Regardless of what’s inside, there’s nothing quite as appealing as an attractive tree brimming with beautifully wrapped presents.

For some of us though, it seems we’re born with two left thumbs when it comes to gift-wrapping. From paper ripping to tape sticking everywhere, and let’s not even get started on how to curl ribbon, gift-wrapping is not as easy as it looks. For a quick how-to video watch how to gift wrap presents.

Fortunately, with a bit of imagination you can still make your presents look amazing on the outside too.

Word Search Wrapping

buzzfeedgiftwrap
Source: Buzzfeed

For small gifts, use your home printer to create a word-find; have each gift recipient find their name on their present. For slightly larger gifts, your local Officeworks or Internet café should print in larger sizes.

Finish with a ribbon – just a bow will do, and you have a fun way to start the present demolishing on Christmas morning!

Chalkboard Inspired

goinghometoroost
Source: Goinghometoroost

Just like with your clothes, black is always in-style with gift-wrapping. Keep it fun, with cute hand-written notes written in place of gift cards on the actual wrapping paper. Just buy a large sheet of matte-finish black gift-wrapping, or even large sheets of black paper.

Paint markers can be found at any art/office supply shop; go with white for a faux chalkboard look, or silver or gold for a more elegant look. Draw snowflakes, banners, personalize your message – cute and stylish.

Gift Inside a Gift

This one is great for kids who are not known for their patience in waiting to open their Christmas day loot – and is super easy.

Go to your local two dollar shop or supermarket and buy a small set of crayons or colored pencils. Wrap your gift in plain white paper. Sticky tape crayons to gift, with instructions “Colour Me” on the gift – while the little ones wait, they can create a masterpiece.

Just Add A Photo

Instead of decorating with ribbons or gift cards, simply print a photo of the gift recipient or a picture of the both of you and attach to the wrapped gift.

Use a block colour of paper – any colour you like – and image editing software to add a filter of the same colour to the photo before printing onto photo paper.

Newspaper

Just wrap the gift in newspaper. Simple.

Maybe just add some twine though or ribbon off-cuts – less hobo, more rustic.

Stamp It

Potato-8-Stamp
Source: Brit.co

Wrapping-paper can be expensive however a cheap alternative is to pick up a big roll of brown paper and using some paint – you can create some lovely bespoke designed paper. This is something that you can share with the kids for that extra special touch for the grandparents.

Washi Tape All The Things!

houzzgift
Source: Houzz

For those uninitiated, Washi Tape is basically sticky tape that looks mega-cool with a seemingly endless array of printed designs.

This stuff is perfect for those whose idea of gift wrapping is hastily throwing tissue paper around the object and roping enough sticky tape around that, on opening, somebody gently needs to suggest the use of scissors.

Sure, they might still need scissors, but with Washi Tape it looks so much prettier first!

Home and Office Christmas Party Tips

Ended up with the responsibility of organising the family or office Christmas party? Well we understand how much pressure you’re "Home and Office Christmas Party Tips"

Home and Office Christmas Party Tips

Ended up with the responsibility of organising the family or office Christmas party? Well we understand how much pressure you’re under to pull off the end of year celebrations, which is why we put together some of our favourite Christmas party tips.

Start Early

It’s never too soon to start planning for your Christmas part. Firstly secure your venue, which could be in high demand, and also send out save the dates so everyone puts you in their calendar. Being organised allows you to map out your key dates, ensuring that you don’t get any pesky last minute surprises.


Source: Rocket Events

Budget

Find out the budget for the event before you start planning. If it’s for work, is the company footing the bill? How much can you budget for the family get together? If others are contributing, you’ll need to give plenty of notice and be mindful that people may not have deep pockets.

Don’t forget to keep a little money leftover as a backup for emergencies.

Set the Date

As soon as possible, set the party date and send a save the date. The holiday season is such a busy time full of social celebrations that will quickly fill up calendars. Follow up the save the date with an official invitation with more information and also ask people to RSVP for catering requirements.

Venue

For family and friends you might have it in your home or backyard, however for your work Christmas party it’s key to get out the office.

Depending on your workplace culture the office Christmas party could be a formal long lunch or casual after work drinks. Most places will have packages and set menus, so take the time to shop around and find the right fit for your work.

Theme

Why not get people really excited about your Christmas party with a great theme this year. Regardless of whether it’s winter wonderland, wearing Christmas colours or perhaps a hiring costumes – it’s an instant mood lifter. Once you’ve decided on a theme you can centre your entire function around it, including decorations, music, costumes and the menu. Even think about holding a “best dressed” competition in line with the theme of the day to get everyone talking.

Office-Christmas-Party-Gifts
Source: Family First Business

Menu & Drinks

Your menu will depend on your venue and the type of party you’re hosting, canapés for a cocktail party or a sit down meal. Food doesn’t need to be expensive; you can always make it work with your budget. If it’s a little tight, opt for food buffets or food platters.
For drinks make sure the bar staff are aware of which drinks are on the bar tab.

Entertainment


Source: Sounds Unlimited
Delegate

Instead of relying on friends and family to help your event to run smoothly, let an Airtasker take care of it. This way you get to enjoy the party too.

Have Fun!

This is often a thankless task so don’t forget to enjoy yourself, after all it’s your Christmas holiday too.

Christmas Gifts for Gardeners

Gardeners understand that love, care and devotion are the essential qualities needed to look after a garden all year round. "Christmas Gifts for Gardeners"

Christmas Gifts for Gardeners

Gardeners understand that love, care and devotion are the essential qualities needed to look after a garden all year round. So let’s show the gardener in your life a bit of appreciation with these presents for gardeners.

Here some lists of Christmas Gifts for Gardeners

A. Garden Tools

1. Engraved tools
Make them feel special with these engraved wooden tools for digging, planting and raking.

garden presents tools
Source: Etsy

2. Electric pruning saw
A cordless pruning saw is for the gardener that has everything. It’s easy to use with no second hand necessary , helping to get the gardening task finished faster

garden presents saw
Source: Bunnings

3. Water spray gun
Effectively water the garden whether you just need to lightly mist or give the plants a good drenching with the Hoselink Spray Gun.

garden presents spray gun
Source: Hoselink

B. Planters

1. Planter pots
Add a splash of colour with Pantone pots that will suit any garden and keep it looking fresh whether you put them inside or outside.

garden presents pantone
Source: Terrace

2. Planter screens
This unique Lanna Garden Screen is perfect for indoor or outdoor living providing great privacy screening. If you are livening in an apartment or have limited space, this planter screen allows you to have the garden you always dreamed of.

garden presents panterscreen
Source: Top3

C. Gardener accessories

1. Collapsible watering can
If your buying for a professional gardener, it’s important to have the right tools and this Colapz bucket water can is perfect. Not only can you get a bright funky colour, it also twists down flat meaning it won’t take up precious space in the car.

garden presents watercan
Source: Top3

2. Gumboots
Gummies Gumboots are the perfect footwear for rain, hail or shine. They are waterproof but specially made to be comfortable with it’s inner sole.

garden presents gummies
Source: DIY Gardener

3. Gloves
Don’t get scratches up your arms with these long gloves which are made from soft suede and adjusts at the arm so they don’t slip.

garden presents gloves
Source: Hoselink

D. Pants & seeds

1. Seeds
Give the gift that grows with Sow ‘n Sow seeds, perfect as a stocking filler or secret Santa. With it’s beautiful packaging you can get a variety of flowers and herbs, perfect for any garden lover.

garden presents seeds
Source: Sow ‘n Sow

2. Terrarium kits
These mini gardens in a glass bowl, otherwise known as terrariums, are a trend amongst weekend markets and a great gift for any DIY fan or gardener. Instead of buying a finished one though, you can buy a starter kit on Etsy so that whoever your giving it to can make it to fit their style.

garden presents terrarium kit
Source: Etsy

How To Gift Wrap Presents

This post was inspired by a Jimmy Kimmel Live video (see below) where he learns how to gift wrap presents. "How To Gift Wrap Presents"

How To Gift Wrap Presents

Screen Shot 2014-12-17 at 4.12.52 pm

This post was inspired by a Jimmy Kimmel Live video (see below) where he learns how to gift wrap presents. Now I have to be honest with you, after wrapping my own Christmas presents this morning I kinda want to go home, rip them open and start all over again following these life changing tips. I definitely learnt something (or more like five things) and I thought it was too important not to share.

So let’s dive into the world of ribbon, paper and sticky tape…

Tools

Scissors – you’ll need two types; paper scissors, ribbon/material scissors.
Sticky tape – using either single sided, double sided or both.
Pens/pencils – for writing on the paper or cards.
Ruler – incase you need to measure the paper.
Cutting mat – to make sure you don’t damage the dining table.

Gift wrapping method
Following professional wrapper Alton in the video you can use his ‘wraps’ method to gift wrap perfectly:

W – Width and length
Roll out the wrapping paper on a clean surface (make sure you have plenty of room) and put present on top of the paper.
Make sure you leave enough room either side of the present for the paper to meet the top of the gift and cut paper. You could also use your fingers to measure the space.

Screen Shot 2014-12-17 at 4.25.01 pm

R – Reduce your visible seam
Fold over the edge closest to your body. Then pull the piece across over the present to the edge of the gift, but before you tape it down – make sure you tuck the other side under so the folded edge is on top.

A – Adjust the corners
Turn the present on its side and push the edges down so that it creates flaps on either end. It also stops your present from moving.
Close the flaps of paper and seal with tape.

P- Press your edges
Run your fingers along the edges of your wrapped gift so it looks nice and square.

S- Style and embelish
Using all different ribbons and bows show your creative side. Need a bit of inspiration? Scroll to the bottom of this article some great original ideas.

Want more gift wrapping hacks?

– Use material instead of gift wrapping paper
– Old paper and ribbon scraps can be shredded and used as a protector for breakables
– Odd shape presents could be wrapped in shapes such as a bonbon or santa sack
– Reuse ribbons and straighten by rubbing over a light blub

gift wrapping hack
Source: DIY inspired

Gift wrap inspiration

Here are a couple of ideas to get you started:

1. Pick a theme – whether it’s rustic, winter wonderland, or traditional green and red. Picking a theme can emphaise your Christmas decorations around the home.

gift wrapping inspiration
Source: The Vintage Home

gift wrapping inspiration white
Source: Faith and Home

2. DIY – make your own bespoke wrapping paper with stencilling, stamps and wildlife. The kids will love making it, plus people love the extra effort.

gift wrapping inspiration diy stamp
Source: Kit This

gift wrapping inspiration diy
Source: One Bunting Away

3. Surprise – this might be more suited to the pro-wrappers but regardless, push the boundaries and have some fun with your wrapping.

gift wrapping inspiration christmas
Source: Curious litte kid

gift wrapping inspiration ties
Source: The 26th Avenue

gift wrapping inspiration christmas
Source: Curious litte kid

Still struggling? Get an Airtasker to do all your gift wrapping and you’ll never have sticky tape sticking on your fingers again.

Handyman Christmas Gift Ideas

With plenty of presents to buy at Christmas time, it can be hard to think of gifts people truly need. "Handyman Christmas Gift Ideas"

Handyman Christmas Gift Ideas

With plenty of presents to buy at Christmas time, it can be hard to think of gifts people truly need. If you’ve got a DIY fan or handyman in the family, they will agree that you can never have too many tools or equipment. Regardless if it’s the latest gadget or a replacement, you can’t go wrong with a handyman Christmas gift.

Not sure what to get them? Don’t worry we’ve put together a few gift ideas for the novice, experienced, and pro handymen.

New to DIY
If you need a gift for someone who is just starting and doesn’t have a lot of equipment let alone a toolbox, here are a couple of must-haves.

1. Stanley 20 piece Screwdriver Set
It has every screwdriver you could possibly need with flathead and Phillips tips.

handyman-gifts-screwdriver
Source: Bunnings

2. Spotlight
Don’t underestimate the value of a spotlight, this Ryobi torch comes with a battery platform that can be used on 40 of their other tools, saving you money in the long run.

handyman-gifts-spotlight
Source: Ryobi

3. Experienced DIYer
For someone who spends the occasional weekend fixing doors around the home or building the children a cubby house.

4. Laser Distance Measurer
It’s time to put the tape measure away and step it up with this laser measurer that allows you to measure length and area. Bonus: it’s also pocket size!

handyman-gifts-laser
Source: Bosch

5. Worklight
Working late into the night? These Halogen Work-lights mean you don’t have to worry about shadows or trying to get the torch to sit at a certain angle.

handyman-gifts-light
Source: Bunnings

6. Pro Handyman
Professsional by trade, these presents are for the handymen who already have all of the basics covered.

7. Cordless radio
This Bosch Power Box has everything… and more. More than a normal run-of-the-mill radio, it’s also dust and moisture-resistant, has separate bass/treble controls, a USB port, and even charges your mobile phone.

handyman-gifts-radio
Source: Bosch

8. Heavy Duty Tool Bag
Gone are the days of toolboxes, this Makita LXT Heavy Duty Tool Bag is built for super heavyweight and easy to transport with wheels.

handyman-gifts-bag
Source: Bunnings