Christmas trees full of memories
BY LYNDA PAPESCH
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Home and Garden
Beads, baubles and family heirlooms take pride of place on the branches of a special Christmas tree.
Several Marlborough homes boasted special homemade Christmas trees this festive season, thanks to local resident Lorna Whitehead.
The special 3D heirloom Christmas trees were created by a group of Marlborough women over a six-week period of special craft classes held by Ms Whitehead.
She first came across the heirloom trees while visiting her sister in Auckland.
"My impression of what it would look like from my sister's description was far different to the reality. I decided I definitely wanted to make one so I attended a workshop."
The course opened up a journey of memories; something Ms Whitehead has since passed on to her own group of women in Blenheim.
Making the trees involves several stages and a veritable treasure trove of family treasures, mementos, baubles and beads.
The family treasures are what help to make it so special: from great-grandmother's broken watch casing to key-ring bling given by children, school and sports badges, photos of loved ones and even scraps of lace.
"We use lots of decorations and costume jewellery to achieve the 3D effect," Ms Whitehead said.
So far, she's held two classes and they've proved popular, so Ms Whitehead plans to hold more next year on demand.
Every tree is different, from the background velvet colour to the final framing; no two are the same.
They're all a reflection of the individuals who make them.
Anyone interested in a course can phone Lorna Whitehead on 03 577 8709 or email lorna.w@xtra.co.nz
- The Marlborough Express
