DIY this Christmas

With the last day of term fast approaching, the holidays are definitely on my mind. I can’t wait to go home, spend time with my family, and finally take a well-earned break from my studies. Sustainability over the holiday period is probably not at the forefront of anyone’s mind, but it’s always something worth considering. From little changes like paper bags over plastic-coated wrapping paper or learning new recipes to help reduce the waste from Christmas dinner (if you have any leftovers that is!), there are ways to incorporate sustainability without ruining the festive mood. One way is using the time to pick up a new DIY hobby.

Something I’m asking Santa for this year is crochet hooks, as it’s a hobby I’d love to pick up. The three-week break is the perfect time to sit with some YouTube tutorials and learn something new. Crochet or hand knit are great examples of this – with the brilliant Knit Nottingham (https://knitnottingham.co.uk/) in the city centre, it’s easy to pick up some new needles or hooks at an affordable price, whilst supporting a small local business. They also have sustainable yarns in store, like recycled Aran yarns that are spun from waste fibres.

Or maybe embroidery or jewellery making are activities you’d like to try! The Bead Shop (https://www.mailorder-beads.co.uk/shop/) is a great hidden treasure, packed from floor to ceiling with beads and all the things you’d need to get started, including the right size needles, threads, and guidebooks to help. Not only are the prices amazing, but the choice is fantastic, from teeny tiny seed beads to larger crystals, in every colour of the rainbow.

Shopping local is one easy way to make a more sustainable shopping choice this Christmas. Not only does it benefit the environment by reducing the impact of delivery, but it also supports other creatives during this cost-of-living crisis. The customer service is also great: the friendly staff care deeply about the product they’re selling and can actually help you find the right tools to get your new-found hobby underway.

Maybe DIY isn’t for you – you’ve tried baking Christmas cookies and they’re always a disaster, or you just can’t get your head around knit and purl stitches – it doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate DIY this Christmas. With platforms like Etsy and Depop, it’s easier than ever before to find handmade items and support small independent businesses. You could get a great new jumper, knitted with love from a passionate maker, or a new set of earrings that everyone compliments you on. Or maybe you have a friend who has always wanted to try crochet but just hasn’t got round to it yet, and you could gift them a new hook and ball of yarn. DIY textile techniques are always a great way of being sustainable, and Christmas is the perfect time to celebrate them.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Tegan