Black and White Plaid Buffalo Check Christmas Tree | 2015 Michaels Dream Tree Challenge

Black and White Plaid Buffalo Check Christmas Tree ~ 2015 Michaels Dream Tree Challenge #michaelsmakers
Once November arrives, I get pretty excited thinking about the last 8 weeks of the year.
Thanksgiving and Christmas, intimate gatherings and frivolous soirees, thoughtful gifts and selfless giving.

There are so many things to love about this time of year and for me it all begins
by filling our home with the magic of the season.

As a member of the Michaels Makers Blogging Team,
November marks the month of the Dream Tree Challenge.

I am so grateful to have the opportunity to participate in this annual event – not to mention seeing the look of wonder and excitement in my little guys eyes during the process. It’s makes my heart happy.

This year, each Michaels Maker received the Hartford Pine Pre-lit Christmas Tree to transform into their Dream Tree.

Going into the challenges, I really never have a dedicated theme in mind. Instead, the design of tree comes together based on special elements that catch my eye as I wonder the aisles of my local Michaels. This year it began with this black and white buffalo check ribbon.

The tree is a conglomeration of mixed plaids, cozy knits, stained wood, pinecones, feathers, monograms and of course a shimmer of silver and gold.

One of the perks of setting up the tree early is having some extra time to make homemade ornaments.

Other than the mini gold bulbs, all of the ornaments on the tree are quick and easy ‘semi-handmade’ projects my little guy and I crafted with supplies from Michaels.

I’ll be sharing the details and tutorials for all of the ornaments next week.

We nestled the tree into a woven basket, just like last year.

The how-to and tips on how we stabilize the base for added safety can be found here:
Easy Holiday Ornament Ideas

The basket gives the tree a cozy feel and adds a little height to the tree, leaving plenty of room for the gifts below.

I’ll be sharing the tutorial for these extra large handmade orbs next week. They are incredibly easy to make and an inexpensive way to fill in spaces on the tree.

I’ll also be sharing more details on the plaid ornaments – which are handmade as well, using fabric from upcycled shirts.

Galvanized  3D Stars ~ with a diy touch of gold.

We are so excited for the upcoming holiday season and I’m really looking forward to taking the time to enjoy all of the little things that make it so special.

More details on the different the elements of the tree, along with the 10 ‘semi-handmade’ ornament tutorials will be posted soon!

2014 Michaels Dream Tree Challenge

 2013 Michaels Dream Tree Challenge.

This post is brought to you by Michaels . The opinions read here are entirely my own. Are you inspired to start decorating your own tree this year? Be sure to visit Michaels’ blog, The Glue String, to see the other 49 Michaels Makers’ dream holiday trees that were created for this years challenge. If you’re just getting started on your holiday decor, be sure to also check out Michaels’ ornament projects and tutorials. And if your in the market for a new tree, now until November 14, all Christmas trees 6ft or taller ship for free on Michaels.com! – Happy Crafting!