Calling all amateur gardeners! Your opportunity to shine has arrived in the form of chaos gardening, a carefree and versatile way to develop your green thumb. The new approach to landscaping has been gaining traction on TikTok, and the trend is sprouting up again this spring. 

Read on to learn more about this fresh approach to gardening, including the benefits and how to get started.

Related: How to Plan the Best Layout for a Vegetable Garden

What Is Chaos Gardening?

In its simplest terms, chaos gardening is a casual way of creating a beautiful garden without the restrictions of traditional gardening methods. The concept involves tossing a handful of assorted seeds onto the soil and waiting for the magic to happen. This unique process allows flowers, plants and vegetables to grow wherever they land, creating random patterns and patches to be admired by all.  

The Benefits of Chaos Gardening 

There are many benefits to chaos gardening. The most obvious is that it’s easy to start and maintain, but there are a few other highlights worth exploring. 

Save Time (and Money!) 

One of the top benefits of chaos gardening is higher efficiency. It saves you time building up your plant beds, while avoiding detailed preparation, planting and all of the maintenance that comes with it. You’ll also enjoy saving money on seeds, soil and food for your garden by leaning on less costly flower and veggie options. You can select those that require very little of you, such as herbs, carrots, cucumbers, lettuce, marigolds, black-eyed Susans and assorted wildflowers. 

Related: 5 Reasons to Start Lasagna Gardening Now

Low Maintenance  

Perhaps the most appealing benefit is the promise of low-maintenance gardening. The word chaos may not immediately spark feelings of calm, but the idea hinges on the “set it and forget it” mindset. You won’t need to plot sections, rows or bunches; nor do you have to cater to lighting, soil and water specifications. Instead, select like-minded seeds, toss them, water them and return to them for regular watering as required. 

Encourages Biodiversity 

While it depends on the seeds you plant, chaotic gardening can promote biodiversity in your garden space. That’s especially true if you focus on native plants, which can quickly adapt to the environment. In addition, chaos gardening offers wildlife food and shelter, providing extra protection and nourishment for the winter months.

A Fun Conversation-Starter

The wildness of chaos gardening can also be a great talking point for guests, neighbours and admirers. The eccentric array of colours, patterns and the all-over vibe draws on-lookers’ positive attention and curiosity, allowing you to flex your skills and pass along the trend to others who might find it enjoyable. 

Related: The Easiest Vegetables to Grow in Each Canadian Province

How to Create a Chaos Garden

As we mentioned, chaos gardening is relatively simple without the rigid rules. However, some research will be required to ensure you’re selecting the ideal seeds for your outdoor project. Here are a few other considerations to get started.

Choose a Location 

If you don’t already have a space carved out for your garden, look to areas in your front or back yard that offer the best sunlight. Doing so will afford more options for vegetables, flowers and herbs that thrive in the light. Of course, some shady areas are acceptable to cover, but try your best to strike a balance so all seeds have a chance to flourish as needed.

Related: 5 Reasons to Start Lasagna Gardening Now

Select the Proper Seeds 

Not all seeds are created equally, so do your homework to confirm which plants and vegetables will play nicely together in your garden. A good start is to select plants known for their self-seeding ability, such as echinacea, poppies, cosmos, fleabane, verbena, nigella, coriander and more. 

Next, consider native wildflowers that can attract pollinators and much-needed insects — like bees and butterflies — to help them prosper in your garden. Companion planting is also an option, which promotes growing vegetables and flowers together that offer mutual benefits to each other’s growth, add shelter and deter pests.

Lean Into the Chaos

Remember: variety is the spice — or, in this case, the garden of life. There is little need to focus your attention on the size, volume and spread of the plants, flowers, and veggies you select. The real fun in chaos gardening is the variety and unexpected results of your attempts to build a beautiful space. Just get planting, water accordingly and see what magic begins to bloom in the weeks after. 

As the chaos gardening trend continues to grow, so will your inspiration and ability to transform your outdoor living space into an area that welcomes a variety of colours, textures and patterns. Toss the traditional rules aside, let go of your inhibitions, and allow the soil, sun and water to do the work for you.

Related: 10 Most Invasive Plants in Canada to Remove From Your Garden

If you’re looking for a low maintenance solution for your garden this year, now is the time to jump on the lasagna garden bandwagon.

And no, the name doesn’t suggest that you will be growing all the ingredients to make the perfect pasta dinner. Lasagna gardening — also known as sheet composting — is an organic gardening method in which you prepare a raised bed of nutrient-dense soil from composed organic matter.

Read on to learn the benefits of employing this gardening method this fall. 

1. It Doesn’t Require Much Prep

A lasagna garden is even less fuss than the dinner recipe. You can get yours started with just an afternoon of labour. First, scout out a good spot. You want the plot to be in an area that gets good sunlight — at least six to eight hours a day, depending on what you’ll be growing — and is at least smelling distance away from your deck or windows (don’t forget, with great composting comes not-so-great smells!). Once you have the area plotted, define your boundaries with rocks or timber and then get layering.

2. It’s Less Labour-Intensive and Doesn’t Require Weeding

Perhaps the most appealing feature of a lasagna garden is the fact that it doesn’t require hours of exhausting digging. This raised garden method requires some prep work to get started, but it’s not nearly as taxing as other traditional gardening methods. No tilling or turning the soil is required here, just removing rocks or debris from your gardening plot. 

It’s not necessary to weed or turn over the soil since the layers of compost will smother down anything at the surface. At most, stomp down weeds rather than pulling them.

Related: 10 Most Invasive Plants in Canada to Remove From Your Garden

3. It Makes Use of Kitchen Scraps and Organic Waste

If you have a yard, you probably already have all the materials that you need for your lasagna gardening journey. The garden starts with a layer of newspaper or cardboard and then alternates between brown and green compost layers. The brown layers should be made of yard waste like shredded leaves, pine needles, and shredded newspaper, while the green layers use kitchen waste from your organic bin and grass and leave clippings. Not only do you not need to buy anything to create this compost plot, but it’s putting your scraps to work. 

4. It’s Low-Cost

While growing produce yourself is incredibly satisfying, it’s not always cost-effective during the first year or two as you invest in the materials you need for a thriving garden. The beauty of lasagna gardening is that it makes use of materials you already have. That means there’s less need to buy fertilizer and plant foods to help the growth of your garden. The nutrients are already right there, in your freshly composted soil. And if you were interested in composting already, it’s a way to get started without investing in materials — like a compost bin. 

Read More: Here’s How to Plan the Best Layout for a Vegetable Garden

5. It Needs Less Watering

Lasagna gardening is pretty much a set it and forget it task. Set it up in the fall, an ideal time because the rain and snow through the colder months will keep it good and moist, which helps the composting process. And in a few months, by spring, you should be set to plant. It won’t require much maintenance or water throughout that time. To decompose the organic matter, you’ll want a moist — but not overly wet so as to create rot — plot. 

Are you ready to start your own garden yourself and make use of that organic matter you already have? Get started with your lasagna garden today. If you already have your soil prepped and are ready to plant, why not check out some of the best fall vegetables to plant before winter hits?

As the cold weather moves in, the temperature isn’t the only thing that’s dropping.

According to the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), national home sales dropped 1.9 per cent between August and September, making it three straight months that home sales were down in Canada. Meanwhile, the number of properties being listed continues to rise.

Looking ahead, the association predicts average home prices will continue to dip for the rest of the year and into 2024.

The translation? Buyers may have an advantage heading into the winter season.

Related: This Is How Long It Takes to Buy a House in Canada: Study

“Recently, the real estate market has transitioned to a buyers’ market, providing homebuyers with more leverage and negotiating opportunities when it comes to purchasing real estate,” says Lindsay Lemierzewicz, a realtor with iPro Realty.

“This shift in market dynamics, combined with the approaching winter season, will certainly give buyers the advantage during the colder months ahead.”

Related: This is What $1 Million Gets You in Major Cities Across Canada

Thinking of purchasing a home this winter? Here are five advantages you may find:

Motivated Sellers

Traditionally, the real estate market is busiest in the spring, and many sellers have waited until the nicer Canadian months to list their properties. That doesn’t mean sellers are always more motivated if they list during the winter season, however. There are many reasons why a seller may choose to list their home. It could be for personal reasons, a lifestyle change or because of future needs.

Related: 10 Incredibly Cheap Homes for Sale in the East Coast

However, in 2023, inventory trends indicate sellers may be more motivated since there are more listings than buyers. Sellers who understand that current competition, along with the hassle of keeping a home clean for showings during snowy winter months, are likelier to wait to list if they can. That means those who do forge ahead this winter may want to unload their properties quickly.

Less Competition

Just as current trends tell us homeowners may be more motivated to sell in the months ahead, they also indicate that fewer buyers are looking for their next home right now. That means that this winter, you’re less likely to enter a blistery bidding war with other buyers.

Related: These Are the Best Canadian Cities to Raise Kids in 2023

As a result, sellers are likelier to accept reasonable offers sooner, signing on that dotted line rather than waiting to see if another offer comes through if they wait it out.

Faster Closings

Since the winter real estate market is typically slower than it is during other seasons, professionals associated with real estate purchases are also likelier to be slower than usual. That means realtors, mortgage brokers, lenders and lawyers may be able to help you find your dream home and complete a closing even faster than they would throughout the rest of the year.

You Can See the Home in Winter Action

If you’re buying a home in the winter, it’s true that you won’t be able to see and appreciate the full landscaping of a home. However, you can see how that home works in the cold weather. Winter is a good time to see how well a home is insulated, whether there is ice or snow buildup to factor in, how drafty the windows or doors are and how well heat distributes throughout the property.

Related: Buying an Older Home? Watch Out for These Red Flags

If you’re looking at buying a home with maintenance fees, the winter is also an excellent time to see how well the associated services, like snow removal, work.

Hiring Movers May Be Easier

Not many people want to move their belongings during the cold Canadian months, but there is another advantage to buying a home in the winter: moving companies are also slower during this time of year. That means it may be easier to secure services than it would be in the spring. Often, more staff are available and companies may offer discounted rates or be more willing to negotiate to drum up your business.

You Might Also Like: The Average House Prices Across 10 Canadian Cities Right Now

For more housing news and to see what’s trending, check out our Real Estate section.

Quirks are what make a house unique. In a world of cookie-cutter developments a little weird is good, but there are limits. For brothers, Mark and Michael, they found that limit in the home their parents purchased. Between funhouse mirrors, dated sunken tubs, and an indoor greenhouse smack dab in the middle of it all, it was more than the two could manage on their own. That’s where Scott McGillivray and Debra Salmoni came in. Together, they were ready to take on their biggest project yet. From the backyard pool to the indoor greenhouse, no leaf would be left unturned at this organic Oasis.

Watch all new episodes of Scott’s Vacation House Rules, Mondays at 10 p.m. ET/PT on Home Network. Stream Live or On-Demand with STACKTV. Try it free today!

Before: A Bland Bathroom

Brothers Mark and Michael, were given the task of managing their parents’ new rental property. With the hopes of using it as supplemental income until they were ready to retire there, it had a long way to go.

Related: Scott and Debra Bring Colourful Design to a Beachside Abode

After: A Beautiful Spa

Located in stunning Niagara Falls, this organic oasis is the biggest project the team has tackled yet, with the biggest bathroom. After removing the eyesore that was the tiled sunken tub, they got to work giving the space a spa-like feel. Complete with a eucalyptus diffuser, a wood-paneled feature wall, and an oversized soaker tub, the space feels both opulent and zen. 

Related: Scott Brings his Vacation House Rules to a Breezy Beach House

Unique Indoor Greenhouse

A greenhouse right in the middle of a house is a unique attraction, but it takes more than just that. Interest is nothing without execution and the greenhouse being rusty was not going to cut it. Because of this, Scott and the team overhauled the space completely. By redoing the trim and paneling in black, the plants take center stage while giving the space a sleek and modern feel. Coupled with AstroTurf on the floor, the space seamlessly blurs the lines between nature and home. Now guests and plants alike can breathe a breath of fresh air. 

Related: Scott McGillivray Breathes Life into a Kawartha Coastal Cabin

Luxury Island

With the property being so large and opulent, it was expected that it would be used for entertaining. Because of this, it was important that the kitchen was not only capable of hosting, but also feeding large groups. The team pulled out all the stops, installing a full-sized beverage fridge, dual ovens, and a long waterfall island. By removing the unnecessary wall that separated the kitchen and dining room, the space functioned much better. It became as comfortable as it was practical. 

Related: Scott and Debra Make a Mid-Century Modern Getaway Young Again

Bright and Spacious Lounge

One of the few spaces that didn’t need much change was the living room. With a simple but spacious layout, a charming fireplace, and full view of the greenhouse it had all the potential it needed. Rather than let it rest on its laurels, Debra wanted to make the space as special as the rest of the house. By adding relaxing and elegant furniture, coupled with textured paneling on the walls, she did just that. Now guests can delight in the plant life while enjoying the comfort of home.

Tune in every Monday at 10 p.m. ET/PT for new episodes of Scott’s Vacation House Rules, on Home Network. Stream Live or On-Demand with STACKTV. Try it free today!

Related: Scott and Debra Make a Luxe Lounge at Paradise Point

The cocktail garden is one of the hottest new trends among mixologists and gardeners alike, and it’s easy to see why! Planting a cocktail garden simply means planting veggies, fruit and herbs you’d use to make your favourite cocktails and mocktails. This practical, easy approach to gardening is a great way to make sure you have lovely, fresh ingredients on hand for all of your mixology adventures.

Related: This Beyonce-Inspired “Pure/Honey” Cocktail is the Perfect Renaissance Sip

How to Create a Cocktail Garden

When it comes to creating a cocktail garden (or any garden, for that matter), the best approach is a kind of reverse engineering. Think about what kinds of drinks you enjoy, and then plant the fruits, veggies and herbs featured in those sips. Love herbaceous, bitter bevvies? Mint, rosemary and thyme are your best friends. Big fan of sweet, refreshing drinks? Berries and melons are a must.

The bottom line is, if you’re growing a garden with the express purpose of using it to make delicious drinks, plant the things you find delicious!

That said, another important factor is space. Cocktail gardens can be any size, but whether you have a vast backyard or a cozy balcony will determine what you can plant – it would be pretty hard to grow watermelons in a pot on a windowsill.

Cocktail Garden Plant Ideas

Rosemary

Rosemary is a great addition to a variety of cocktails and mocktails. Keep it simple by adding a sprig of this fragrant herb to a classic gin and tonic, or go all in with a more complex cocktail like a rosemary gimlet.

Basil

Basil isn’t just for sauces and salads – it also makes for a refreshing addition to cocktails! For a creative twist on a classic, substitute basil for the mint in your favourite mojito recipe. When it comes to keeping your basil in good shape, prune the leaves regularly to encourage new growth.

Thyme

Thyme may not be the first herb you think of when it comes to cocktails, but a thyme Aperol spritz is a fresh twist on an old fave. There are many varieties of thyme, and your best bet is to smell them and choose the one that appeals to you most.

Related: This Is Why Your Herbs Keep Dying (And 5 Tips to Bring Them Back!)

Mint

You and a cocktail garden are mint to be! Having plenty of mint on hand means you can always whip up a classic mojito, or bring the taste of summer into fall and winter with a tasty cranberry mojito. Mint is notorious for spreading like a weed, so try planting it in a container so it doesn’t take over your garden.

Jalapeños

Jalapeños are another versatile cocktail garden option. Spice up Taco Tuesdays with a jalapeño margarita, customizing the spice level by removing some or all of the seeds. If you also grow watermelons, you’ll have all the fixings for a spicy watermelon margarita.

Berries

For fresh and fruity cocktails, raspberries and strawberries are a great staple to have on hand. Raspberries are one of the many berries that grow wild across Canada, and along with strawberries, will come back year after year. Try a delicious strawberry daiquiri, or add a raspberry twist to your favourite cocktails by making a raspberry simple syrup.

Ginger

Finally, give growing ginger a try, and then use it to make your own gingerale or ginger beer – perfect for Moscow mules or ginger beer peach floats.

As we eagerly await the arrival of summer, there’s no better way to enjoy these warmer evenings than with an outdoor movie night with your loved ones. Whether you have a backyard, terrace, or small balcony, you can easily transform it into a cozy outdoor theatre with little effort.

So break out the blankets, pillows and popcorn and set up your own starlit cinema by following these simple steps.

Materials Required: 

• Projector 
• Projector screen (a soft hanging screen is shown here, but one with a stand works too)  
• Extension cord (if required) 
• Hooks 
• Double-sided stickies 
• Comfortable seating (such as loungers and chairs)
• Lounging cushions 
• Outdoor rug 
• Cozy blankets 
• Snacks and beverages 
• Added bonus: string lights for extra ambiance

Step 1: Find a Premium Location

Determine the best spot to set up your theatre. If you’re using a soft projector screen that requires hanging, then a flat surface (such as a fence that is free of debris) would be ideal. If you’re using a free-standing projector screen, make sure the ground is level.  

Step 2: Set Up Your Screen

Since I chose to secure my soft screen onto my fence, I gathered a few hooks and heavy-duty double-sided stickies to get the job done. Make sure the fence isn’t wet or covered in dirt. The hooks don’t stay on great on wet wood (you wouldn’t want your movie to be interrupted halfway through!). I recommend securing the top midpoint of the screen first, then fastening on the two top corners, before finally securing the bottom portion. 

Step 3: Arrange Your Seating Area 

Place comfortable seating in cozy theatre style. I used a couple of loungers, but those can easily be swapped out for foldable chairs, chaise loungers or even floor seating. 

Step 4: Set Up the Projector 

Find a small table with an optimal height to rest the projector on. Be sure to have access to an electrical outlet, and if need be, have an extension cord handy. Follow the manual to set up the projector to ensure optimal, movie-worthy results. 

Step 5: Create Extra Comfort 

Maximize the cozy factor for you and your movie-night guests with extra decor elements like an outdoor rug, comfy blankets and fluffy cushions. 

Step 6: Serve Treats and Beverages 

It’s not a movie night without snacks! Treat guests or family members to popcorn, their favourite candies and chilled beverages.

Step 7: Press Play, Sit Back and Enjoy! 

And there you have it: a low-effort way to maximize your outdoor time this summer with a fun movie night right in your own backyard.

When you think of French-inspired design, Ontario isn’t exactly the first place the comes to mind. That is, until the mother-son duo of The HighAcre came onto the scene. Opening its gorgeous French doors in early 2023, this boutique hotel has taken social media by storm with its stunning decor and lavish amenities. Inspired by the timeless beauty of Parisian homes, The HighAcre offers a one-of-a-kind wellness retreat for locals and travellers alike.

During my stay, I met with the owner, Brett, who walked me through the rustic interiors and shared the history of this ‘home away from home.’ For many guests who stay at The HighAcre, ‘home’ is how they would describe this luxurious haven. It has all the attributes of a cozy abode — and then some. What makes this place truly special, however, is the love, passion and vigor infused into every inch of this hidden gem. If we’ve peaked your curiosity thus far, stay a while and let us take you on an invigorating getaway you’ll never forget.

Related: Shoppe Clover: Meet the Creatives Behind This Gorgeous Vintage Furniture Shop

What Makes The HighAcre Unique?

When you visit a hotel, generally they are always the same — cookie cutter layouts consisting of a bed, bathroom and a desk. The HighAcre takes this basic concept and elevates it to new heights. Each room is outfitted with the most stunning and eclectic decor pieces that match the overall vibe of the estate. Brett describes staying at The HighAcre as “transformative” — an experience unlike anything in Canada. A tall order, and one that it definitely delivers on.

Apart from the stunning interiors, the hallmark of this estate has to be the private ensuite spa. Not only does each spa have it’s own uniquely designed bathing area, it also has a dedicated hammam steam shower and infrared sauna. As it stands, this is the only hotel in Canada that offers this type of luxury experience. Brett came up with the idea from his days working as a ballet dancer for the National Ballet of Canada. “Health and wellness are so important for me, and as a dancer you have to be in peak physical, mental and emotional form at all times,” says Brett. “I want our guests to feel relaxed and reenergized during their stay — I felt this was the perfect way to accomplish that.”

Related: 10 Best Bathroom Renovation Trends in 2023

Your Stay at The HighAcre

I don’t typically suggest staying in your hotel the entire time you’re travelling, but in this case, I’ll make an exception. From the ensuite spa to the Riviera-style pool, yoga studio and lush gardens — is there any reason to leave? During my stay, I spent the most time in the spa soaking up some much needed R&R. The day felt slow, but I wasn’t in a rush for it to be over. The night was perfect, with the crackling sounds of the fireplace and plush bed linens. My morning was no different — birds chirping by the gardens as I baked up fresh croissants and coffee.

In the never ending hustle culture we experience here in Canada, it’s worth investing in yourself — your peace and serenity. From the moment you step into The HighAcre until the time you check out, every second is pure bliss.

The question remains: would I return to this extravagant estate? Yes, yes I would. If that’s not convincing enough for you, book your stay and find out what it feels like to dive deep into indulgence.

Related: Prioritizing Self-Care and Sustainability With Mala the Brand Founder, Melody Lim

A lawn that stays green all year long while barely having to water it? Talk about luck! According to the National Association of Realtors, the clover lawn has been Google’s most searched home improvement trend of 2023 so far. And we believe it: clover lawns are a clever and sustainable alternative to grass lawns that have been all over our social media pages. 

What are Clover Lawns? 

Clover lawns cover your yard with clovers or shamrocks. You can either exclusively cover your lawn with all clovers or combine clovers and traditional turf grass. In fact, your yard may already be growing some clovers right now. Instead of treating them like weeds, here’s why you should consider keeping them. 

The Benefits of Clover Lawns

There are a lot of pros to opting for clovers over grass. Having a green and lush lawn all the time is just one of them! These are the benefits of having the “Luck of the Irish,” as your lawn of choice: 

It’s Low Maintenance

Clover lawns require no mowing, so you’ll have a great-looking lawn with less hassle. White clovers can grow around two to eight inches tall and require little or no mowing to keep them looking tidy. 

Clover Lawns Can Withstand Canadian Climate

Clover lawns work in any region of the country, coast to coast. They’re heat resistant and can thrive during sweltering summer months — including drought. Additionally, they can also survive Canada’s extreme winters. 

It’s More Sustainable

Having a clover lawn means less watering, which is much better for the environment. Since clovers can grow in poor soil, they can survive without as much water as typical grass. Clovers also help promote biodiversity and encourage pollinators like bees to pollinate your stunning garden. 

Additionally, clovers can also spread fast in areas that don’t receive that much sunlight, so they’re perfect in shady areas where the grass is harder to keep alive. One con: they don’t handle foot traffic as well as regular grass. However, they’re affordable compared to Bermuda or Perennial, plus they’re pet-friendly, too. 

Of course, you’ll more likely to find four-leaf clovers with this new trendy lawn. And who couldn’t use some more luck and good energy in their lives?

Photo courtesy of Getty Images. 

The perfect holiday wreath adds such a lovely, cozy touch to your outdoor decor. Premade wreaths can be lovely, but if you’re looking to flex your DIY muscles, nothing beats the smell of real pine and fir evergreen branches on your front door. Here’s how to make and customize your very own Christmas wreath!

Materials:

• Wreath base of your choice (grapevine wreath base pictured)
• Bundles of fresh greenery (at least two types recommended)
• Wire, approximately 22 gauge
• Pinecones, bells, or wreath accessories of choice
• Wired ribbon
• Hot glue
• Sharp scissors or gardening shears
• Pen/pencil and scrap paper

Step One: Sketch Wreath Shape

Before you start putting your wreath together, I highly recommend making a rough sketch of what sort of shape you’re going for. Do you want a full, uniform wreath for a traditional look, or do you prefer asymmetrical, whimsical shapes? Which way will the branches point? How full will it be? Check out other wreaths to get a feel for your preferences before putting pen to paper.

Step Two: Choose a Base

There are several different wreath bases to choose from, and the one you choose will impact the overall look you achieve.  A foam wreath base will let you stick greenery stems right into the foam for an ultra-dense look, whereas a wire wreath base can give a minimalist or boho vibe. I chose a grapevine base with woven branches to give it a classic winter-in-the-woods look.

Step Three: Prep Your Greens and Wire

Next, choose the winter greenery you’ll incorporate into your wreath and cut it into smaller pieces, roughly five to seven inches long, depending on the size of your wreath base and your preferences. You’ll also want to snip pieces of wire from the reel and cut it into smaller segments. Pieces roughly two to three inches in length should be fine, but it will depend on your wreath base and greens.

Step Four: Secure Branches to the Wreath Base

Next, secure your branches of greenery to the wreath base using the pieces of wire. Do your best to twist the wire out of the way, hiding it behind the greenery. Be intentional in the direction you place each branch facing, as that will impact the overall look. To achieve a fuller, more professional-looking wreath, layer the branches over one another, almost like laying shingles on a roof. Using two or more different types of greenery will add texture and interest to your arrangement – I used Fraser fir and sapphire cypress bundles, both of which were available at my local hardware stores.

Step Five: Accessorize!

A plain wreath is pretty and classic, but you can really customize a wreath and make it your own by adding little accessories. These might be birch twigs collected on a hike with the kids, craft store pinecones (pictured), gold or silver bells, or even mini Christmas ornaments!

Step Six: Make and Attach a Bow (Optional)

For a finishing touch, make and attach a bow. Choose a wired ribbon in a colour, texture, and size that complements your overall decor for a cohesive look.

Images courtesy of Amanda Roberts

Unexpected bad weather can cancel out even the best-planned afternoons. Stay prepared with this indoor-friendly DIY. Painting clay pots is a low-pressure DIY that can be done alone or with family and friends (it’s all-age appropriate, too). Replicate our design or try something new — your design options are endless!

Materials Required:

• Clean cloth
• Terracotta pot
• Acrylic paints in colours of your choice
• Multiple small to medium paint brushes
• Paint mixing tools
• Paint pen

Instructions:

Step One: With a clean cloth, wipe the surface of the terracotta pot. Paint won’t adhere to a dirty pot.

Step Two: Pick your paints and create your palette. We used a combination of green, black, white and yellow.

Step Three: Paint fluid shapes onto the pot. This is easier than it looks! Use a small angled brush to help get crisper lines. Be careful not to paint outside of the lines, but if you do, no problem: The design is abstract so mistakes are just happy accidents!

Step Four: Once dry, use a thick black paint pen to draw leafy shapes. You can also use permanent marker.

Step Five: Let the painted planter sit overnight outside, by a window or in a well-ventilated room. This will allow the paint and marker vapours to dissipate. Be careful not to place it in too much sun, or the paint can fade. Once the fumes have dissipate, add a cute plant and place it wherever you like it!

Photos and video courtesy of The Craft Aisle.