🎄 5 Nostalgic Victorian Christmas Crafts You Can Make 🎄 Taken from REAL Historical Tutorials

[@brendaokuda2158]

When I was a young mother we were very poor. A friend gave us a Christmas tree, but I had absolutely nothing to put on it. At the time I was living in Northern California, so I went outside & found the most perfect pinecones, leaves, sticks, etc. that I could. I was also fortunate enough to live in a building that had an English walnut tree & almond tree, so I picked up some of those. I did have to buy a can of gold spray paint, but as I sew I already had golden threat. I spray painted everything, put it on the tree & you know what? Forty years later, I still believe that was the most beautiful Christmas tree I've ever had. 💖💖💖

[@CricketsBay]

That sounds wonderful. Thank you for sharing.

[@SerenaDyer]

That really is a beautiful, heartwarming story. It sounds like you really found a way of creating an intimate environment with nothing but your own imagination and creativity. Thank you so much for taking the time to share this. Have you ever tried to recreate, or expand, on what you achieved forty years ago?

[@jennifergraham3752]

This sounds lovely and magical!

[@dahmerxdoll9975]

I love this story so much. Thank you for sharing. ❤

[@Talkingdaisy-no6nu]

Your tree sounds like it was magical! ✨

[@mmecharlotte]

My mom used to make gilded walnuts, but turned them into tiny boxes with surprises. She would remark "Look! The fairies left gifts!" I was always so happy with the miniature things inside. Some would have tiny pictures of fairies pasted in them with a bit of glitter, a tiny holiday message, or even a little charm. It made the holiday so magical. Another holiday tradition in my family was making folded window stars out of colored glassine paper. It gave the windows a stained glass look when the morning sun hit them.

[@Glim246]

We had those miniature scenes walnuts when I was little too. As a child they seemed "impossible" so your Mom's fairy explanation seems just about right😊

[@frankieamsden7918]

How lovely!

[@bakerbrewz]

Oh my gosh I love this idea! So so cute!

[@lauratruxillo6264]

That’s precious!

[@SerenaDyer]

This is such a heartwarming story to leave. Thank you so, so much for taking the time to share your experiences here. I am sure that other viewers will be just as touched by your comment as I am!

[@danicablue5587]

Growing up our tree had many handmade decorations from my great grandmother. She didn't make gilded walnuts, but she did put the shells back together and paint them to look like animals. I specifically remember little pink pigs.

[@SerenaDyer]

What a wonderful idea that your great-grandmother had! This is such a wonderful story to read and thank you for leaving such a meaningful experience!

[@theoldways1549]

Tip; use a butter knife. Stick the top inbetween the two layers of the flatter side (top) of the walnut. Give it a small turn and the shells will open up exactly at the "rim". Right through the middle..

[@SerenaDyer]

Ooh I’ll try that next time. Thank you!

[@phillipstroll7385]

@@SerenaDyer also, the reason the tradition of gilded walnuts is no longer is Because it is illegal to plant food bearing trees on public land and the government removed all food bearing trees from public and private land. Therefore, No access to nuts for everyone. If d'oeuvre wants food bearing trees they first must buy land then plant the trees, then wait a generation for them to produce.

[@Sine-gl9ly]

​@@phillipstroll7385Where (and when) was it made illegal to plant food-bearing trees on public land?

[@phillipstroll7385]

@@Sine-gl9ly if you truly cared about the answer it seems to me you'd ask Google instead of attempting to challenge me as if I didn't know if that which I speak. Look it up. Think. When is the last time you walked through a forest, public park, city landscape and saw an apple tree, pecan tree, etc? Are these not questions you ask yourself without it being pointed out to you? Tomatoes, potatoes, berries, nut trees, fruit trees, etc all natural to the landscape, yet they aren't there. Ever ask yourself why? Look it up. You have the wealth of the world's information in the palm of your hands. Well, the information the global government hasn't censored that is. Funny how they pretend to delete misinformation and want only truth, but flat earth, aliens, etc still remains lmmfao. Only truth is ever hidden.

[@Sine-gl9ly]

@@phillipstroll7385 You are clearly on a different planet, or at least continent, to me. I walk and cycle through the countryside on a daily basis and can gather sloes, ransoms, blackberries, hips, hazelnuts, chestnuts, mushrooms, crab apples and many other foods as I wander along, merely from stretching my hand out to the hedgerow. Tomatoes, potatoes and pecan trees are most definitely NOT natural to my landscape - yet if one only knows where to look (most people don't), tomatoes can be found in abundance, and so can potatoes. Not pecan trees, though! I have walked or driven along streets in countries outside my own where ripe mangoes _need_ to picked by all and any passer-by as they make a sticky mess when they fall onto the road and are squashed by passing cars. I have lived in a country where the city's orange trees were harvested by municipal employees, and great heaps left at the end of each street to help yourself, and another country where municipality contracted people to travel around the city during palm-blossom time, carrying branches of male flowers of good strains, to fertilise public tree, and on request, private ones. I have lived in a town where the public parks and gardens (including purely-decorative beds) were given over entirely to veggies and soft fruit, with informative placques attached, telling the public how and when to harvest them. These are just a few of the reasons I asked you where and when it is illegal to plant food-bearing trees on public land. It is a concept which is totally alien to me.

[@tfjansson1299]

Walnut ornaments, crackers and orange pomander are common crafts we do for christmas as kids in Sweden.

[@veronicaalmeda8014]

In Denmark we do all these, the most common ones being the crackers and clementines with cloves arrangement. We also keep doing the candles on the tree and crafting ornaments out of paper dolls, the most common craft is the paper hearts and the hanging cones to put nuts or candy inside. All those are very old traditions. I do a few with my kids, I don't do the candles but there are led candle lights for those afraid the tree may burn or have small kids. I love Scandinavian Christmas. It's beautiful, also the way the shops and streets are dressed is very cute too, there are images, dolls and such of trolls and elves everywhere. ❤ Like out of a fairytale!.

[@badinika5058]

I was just going to comment this! And don't forget all of the straw ornaments :)

[@AlexandraNMorgan]

I'm in America and grew up making pomander balls as well

[@DylanJCat]

What are and where do you get cracker snaps? Not an item you can easily get.

[@Witchy-Wonderland]

I’m from America & have never heard/seen these “crackers” before? Can someone explain what the actual ‘crack’ is?

[@CatherineKeehn-l6k]

Our walnut shells had the Christmas story scriptures inside them numbered. Everyone got wanuts off the tree. We opened and read the scriptures in order . Each person stood when it was their numbers turn to be read and read them aloud. We each had three walnuts to read. Fun memories.

[@SerenaDyer]

That sounds like a lovely way of spending time together. Thank you so much for sharing such a meaningful experience!

[@katyb2793]

That's so lovely! Would be a great tradition to start.

[@piratessalyx7871]

That sound like a lovely idea!

[@PeachesandMoss]

That’s such a great idea!

[@gray_mara]

What a wonderful idea!

[@jennifergraham3752]

I love the idea of putting little treats in the crackers. Much better than more plastic junk added to the world. One year as a joke my husband’s cousin collected some of his family’s belongings (watches, jewellery etc.) and put them inside the regular crackers. Apparently it was quite hilarious when people started opening the crackers to find beautiful and valuable items 😂. One person said “wow! I got a watch!” And the watches owner looked over and said “hey that’s my watch” and so on 🤣🤣🤣

[@PompeyChris71]

Thats hilarious. Love it.

[@SerenaDyer]

This is such a fun story! Thank you so much for taking the time to share this!

[@Icewing10]

🤣🤣

[@kitkat8231]

That's pretty hilarious 😂

[@karlagruber9933]

My great-grand father made gilded walnut ornaments. I have one of them. I hang it on my tree every year in a prominent spot. Every time I glimpse it, I am reminded of all the wonderful times that I had with him. Thank you for this video.

[@SerenaDyer]

What a wonderful sentiment to share. Thank you so much for taking the time to leave your comment and I hope the wonderful tradition of your great-grandfather's ornament continues!

[@achaoticfaerie]

clove oranges are so fun! If you completely cover the orange in cloves it preserves the fruit, and they keep pretty much forever! i keep some that I made in my dresser drawers, and my mom still has one that her grandma made. They smell so good!

[@bakerbrewz]

Wow that is really interesting that the cloves preserve the orange fruit that long! Crazy neat! Now I kind of want to experiment and try it for myself!

[@moniqua9123]

I made one some years ago and it is decorating my home all year, they are so beautiful 🥰

[@SuperManning11]

Yes! I have one I made as a child, completely covered with cloves. I”m now 62.

[@Witchy-Wonderland]

Cloves continue to draw out moisture, that’s why 😊

[@Witchy-Wonderland]

@@SuperManning11 Do they still smell? 🤭

[@KycklingsoppaDeluxe]

Hanging orange pomanders in the windows the days before Christmas has been a tradition throughout my childhood.

[@teresahiggs4896]

When my daughter was a child we made a “ nature tree” . We painted leaves gold and silver and placed them on the tree, with natural raffia as tinsel, , and we had gold painted walnuts , acorns, and pine cones on the tree. ( I didn’t think to guild them!) we also had popcorn garlands . We made little wreaths of twigs and some we left natural and some we painted gold and silver. We used white lights that year and I while it soimds like the tree was plain but it fact was just stunning! My daughter was so proud of her hard work! Imthink she was around 8 or 9 years old.

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you so much for such a wonderful, evocative comment. It was so lovely to read about your experiences! It sounds like you really created a fantastic way of working on a craft project with your daughter and it is delightful to hear how your daughter was (rightly) proud of what you achieved together. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@DawnDavidson]

That sounds GORGEOUS! Not plain at all. What a fun time with your daughter. She will treasure those memories forever I am sure. :)

[@sludgebuninsky]

My mom used to talk about popping popcorn to use as a garland on the christmas tree every year. My favorite ornaments are always the ones that are homemade.

[@SerenaDyer]

Popcorn garlands were on my shortlist for this video! Maybe I’ll try them next time.

[@IrishAnnie]

We made popcorn garland at our school when I was little. Our small class decorated a Christmas tree in our school room.

[@CCL83]

Popcorn garland is best for small trees. When I was a teenager I made popcorn garland every year for our tree and it took hours to make enough for our 8ft tall giant tree. I once asked by brother for help. He strung about a foot of popcorn and ate two bowls of popcorn. It took me longer to make the popcorn for him to eat than it would have taken me to string that one foot myself 😂

[@Glim246]

When I was a young adult that didn't cook much I had an empty freezer and I would keep my popcorn strings from year to year. Now I stagger popcorn and cranberries and just make enough to intertwine between the lights and ornaments. It makes for a beautiful classic tree.

[@bakerbrewz]

We totally did that one year when I was a kid too! But the popcorn string went outside and the birds got to enjoy the festivities too

[@RCZeta919]

My mom and I made orange pomanders when I was little! This was a delightful and relaxing video, and I love your plaid gown.

[@marigeobrien]

I grew up making pomander balls with my mom, then with my children, too. But the way we did it was to cover the entire orange with cloves. We'd use a whole package! LOL! What can I say? My mother was Norwegian.

[@StellaMariaGiulia]

The gilded walnuts are so darling, I have done the same to acorns, I can't believe I never thought of walnuts! 🙆 Btw, out of experience, it's much easier to open walnuts in half if you gently and carefully insert a blade where the "hinge" between the two halves is, opposite to the pointier end, for lack of better words 😅 (Walnut shells are traditionally used to bake a kind of biscuits called peaches here in Italy)

[@michellemabelle100]

Thanks for the tip about separating walnut shells!

[@michaelschwaiger8071]

Tried it out - works perfectly!

[@veronicavatter6436]

Walnuts at christmas alwaus make me laugh. My grandad would always shake his gifts before Christmas and guess what he was getting, normally he was annoyingly right too. One year my gran had had it. She bought him a gold ring and hid it in a walnut, then put that in a box. She filled the rest of the box with hundreds of normal walnuts. Took him ages to open and eat them all and then he finally found he had been had!

[@SerenaDyer]

What a wonderful story. Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a heartwarming and fun experience!

[@dorothywillis1]

I would suggest another homemade tree ornament -- cornucopias. They were popular on Victorian Christmas trees. I used to make my modern version of them to sell at the Christmas bazaar at my children's school. I made a form about the size and shape of an ice cream cone out of cardboard. (It's easy to make whatever size you like.) I also made a cardboard pattern for the paper I would make the cornucopia out of. (I wish I could show pictures!) I got some attractive, heavy, Christmas wrapping paper. Using my pattern, I cut out my cornucopias. I shaped them on the cardboard form, and used Scotch tape to hold the cornucopia together. (I could have been more authentic and used glue, but it would have been a hassle and taken longer.) I then made a little "handle" from ribbon (about 1/2" wide) and glued (or stapled) it so the cornucopia would hang on the tree. I took a few small wrapped candies and made them into a little bundle to "fill" the cornucopia, using plastic wrap. (I imagine for a tree in one's own home the candies could just be dropped in.) They didn't take long to make, didn't cost much, and sold like hotcakes! I hope this makes sense!

[@SerenaDyer]

Such a great idea!

[@dorothywillis1]

I forgot to mention that I hung some of these on our own tree and let children that visited "pick" one to take home with them.

[@piratessalyx7871]

I have made those as well

[@susanpilling8849]

I only just found this so sorry the comment is late. I made orange pomanders for friends and dried them in the airing cupboard. Some of them are still going strong 15 years later. Have a very Merry Christmas, and I look forward to more informative and entertaining videos in 2023.

[@farenmareeramos]

As a child I used to make the orange poms and we strung popcorns. The gilded walnuts I’ll add this year! How fantastic!

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you! Good luck with your walnuts!

[@sigutjo]

I made those gilded walnuts many years ago and I'm still very fond of them. To learn that it was also a victorian thing makes it even better. Nice dress by the way.

[@MistyAtSkeeterJones]

I love a return to (or at least a look back at) simpler times -- and the excitement surrounding small treats and embellishments like these. Thanks for creating this! 😊

[@SerenaDyer]

Isn't it fascinating to see what people did in different periods and environments? I am so pleased to read that you find this interesting too. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@elizabethstump4077]

I had spray painted gold some walnuts about 30 years ago when my husband and I were still dating, and glued some ribbon to them to hang on the tree. Had no idea they were authentic Victorian Christmas ornaments. Will have to make some more this year. I do often have a small tower of clove studded oranges (4 in a bowl) I place out on the table for scent and looks.

[@SerenaDyer]

It sounds like you had a very innovative idea of your own by spray painting the walnuts gold! You describe some wonderful ways that you have made your December festive. I really hope you have a great Christmas this year too!

[@berthamiles6507]

Your video was very well made. Your surroundings, dress, hair and accent all added to the wonderful feel of days gone by while you made these victorian beauties. I love the simplicity and grace of using what was available vs the material world we live in today. It was very special. Thank you!

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you so much!

[@user-vm5ud4xw6n]

If you ever brave making sugar plums again, you might try standing up. Your arm won’t tire so much as when you are holding it up and trying to stir. Beautifully done video. My oldest sister is into anything Victorian. I sent her your video to enjoy!

[@dragonflydance9204]

When I was a little girl in the 1960s, my Gran had a kissing bough, never a tree, which were 4 wooden hoops about 2ft in diameter, which her mother had before her. Every year the hoops were recovered with strips of crepè paper wrapped around them and pretty baubles tied in them, with one of those beautiful long baubles, dangling in the middle. She never put lights on them, because back then fairy lights had thick cables and large heavy bulbs, so would have been far too heavy for the bough, but always looked pretty, twinkling in the lamp and fire light. I created a version a few years ago, using florist wooden hoops that are used for weddings etc. I made mine more like a Tudor version, being a history lover. But I used artificial ivy, mistletoe, holly (no glitter, terrible stuff 😉) then added pine cones, nuts, dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks. No fairy lights, but I can fix a chunky battery powered candle in the bottom where all the hoops meet. It really is lovely,even though I say it myself 😄. I don't strip mine down every year like my Gran did, it took so long to do, it stays as it is stored in a big box.

[@SerenaDyer]

I am so grateful that you took the time to share such a personal, intimate story. Thank you so much. It sounds like you have found a way of keeping those traditions of your own alive while adapting them for your own needs too. Hopefully, as a history lover, this video will be another source of information to add ideas to your own wonderful festivities!

[@jaradaniels801]

I want to do that next next year! You reminded me of Nanny McPhee while telling the stories! 😍

[@SerenaDyer]

I will take that as a compliment! XD Thank you so much for your comment and I really hope you do try out one of these ideas. Please let me know how you found it if you give it a go.

[@x1435]

Channeling Mrs. Crocombe I see 🥰 thanks for the wonderful holiday ideas. I might try out the sugar plums and pomander this year!

[@IndieAnnieJones1]

Thank you so very much for this. I've been honored to be chosen to help decorate a 100-year-old estate but in the style of Alice in wonderland and I have to do little Alice's bedroom. So I am seeking out Victorian inspirations and this definitely was more than just inspiration but education. Thank you so much for sharing. Have a very blessed Christmas this year😊

[@Glim246]

That sounds amazing! I'd love to see the end result. Enjoy😊

[@SerenaDyer]

It is so exciting to read your comment, how wonderful! I really hope that the decorations go just perfectly and it would be great to hear about the results of your imagination and efforts. Good luck!

[@kimalonzo3363]

I loved this video. It would be helpful if you could move your camera closer or insert up close shots of what youre doing step by step. Thank you so much!

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you so much for taking the time for some constructive ideas! It is really appreciated and, if I can do more to be engaging, I'll absolutely try it. Thank you again for such insightful thoughts!

[@mudslingerkat]

My Irish Grandmother would have me help her make those oranges.....I LOVED the scent and haven't thought about them in a very long time!! Thank you!!

[@SerenaDyer]

It's such a pungent, invigorating scent, isn't it? I really hope the video brought back some happy memories for you - and thank you for sharing your experiences!

[@patricia8832]

I am excited about all of the ideas. I am looking forward to making the gilded walnuts and orange pomanders with my Grandchildren. And I am really excited to try the Sugar Plums. I want to share them in the Christmas goodie bags that I make every year. I fill the bags with homemade jams, jellies, pickles, and relish - and fresh Honey from my bees. The Sugar Plums will make a wonderful addition !

[@SerenaDyer]

Your goodie bags sounds just wonderful - thank you so much for sharing this! That's such a lovely idea for you to share with others. I would recommend that you try the sugar plums first - as they can be a bit sweet for some people - and I hope you can find a way of putting them into your goodie bags!

[@nurmaybooba]

what a charming video, I shall make sugar plums since I have most of the ingredients at hand.

[@judyluchies2492]

We always had nuts and a old nutcracker, my dad loved them 🙏🏻♥️

[@ronnihatcher295]

I love the little story with wisdom in it. This life really does have so many "shiny" pleasing to the eyes things that are empty and hollow to the soul. Be careful with your eyes because they lead back to your soul. 👏 So cute! I definitely want to remember these ideas.

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you for such a lovely comment. I'm so glad that you found these ideas worth holding onto!

[@mercycunningham2813]

Golden walnuts were a German Christmas staple. So are walnutboats with tiny candles that can be let float in a dish and walnutshells filled with riddles, a small sweet or trinkt, not unlike christmasscrackers but without the boom. There is an easier way to get two intact halfes. You need a old butter knife. Wriggle it carefull between both shells to open them. (The dark brown spott on the nutbutt will work best).

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you so much for such a thoughtful comment. I think I would have really benefitted with your experience while making this video! I hope that other viewers will really benefit from your thoughts and suggestions too!

[@susanmacdonald4288]

That's what I would usually do, with the butter knife.

[@veronicavatter6436]

"nutbutt". Lol, my 12yo in me is dying 😂

[@piratessalyx7871]

Lol....i just left a comment using a sturdy paring knife, thats what I used ages ago, when making ornaments.

[@mercycunningham2813]

@@veronicavatter6436 It even has a crack. The beauty of the German language. If you don't have a word you make something up that includes a description of looks or purpose.

[@TheCommentBandit]

I don’t celebrate Christmas but it was very nice learning about these little crafts

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you! It's lovely to hear that you enjoyed these crafts - they are fun things to try whatever celebration they are part of (or just for fun!).

[@robynmarler1951]

Celebrate it!😡

[@RobinCollins-ll2bs]

As the eldest of all the cousins, I got to tend the crowd of young ones. Thanksgiviing was easy. To tire them out, we would hike up the hills and find oaks with misletoe. The older, more experienced bouys would cllimb the trees and dislodge the mistletoe. The rest of us wouldl colect the prizes in sheets laid on the ground. When we got back home dinner wold be ready and the children quieter. The following few days would have me inserting the twigs of mistletoe into a large styrofoam ball. The top hanger would have a ruff of evergreen and the bottom a huge, complicated bow. This style does not have the clear part in the center, but is a large orb completely of mistletoe. Our dining room had a high ceiling, so it weent well over the entry to dinner. Those forays went on for about six years. We also always made the clove oranges, as I still do. There is always an orange at the tow of the stockings, more joy of citrus for ther holidays.

[@SerenaDyer]

It is so wonderful that you took the time to write down some of your experiences. It sounds like you all had some truly memorable times together and I am so grateful that you shared this!

[@ky3139]

What an absolute gem you are!

[@feingetarntesfischfilet4841]

With pricking the oranges🍊: It really depends on how strong/feeble the stems of the cloves are. I had to prick holes first, and an advantage is that the bigger holes let more of the orange-aroma wafts around.. 😊

[@SerenaDyer]

What a wonderful point that you have raised. That is an excellent idea that I really hope can benefit other viewers who see your comment. Thank you for your fantastic suggestion!

[@James-ge3zm]

I find a standard screwdriver inserted into blunt end then twist, then spray gold paint.

[@SerenaDyer]

That is a really good idea. Thank you so much for taking the time to share it and I hope others find your comment really useful as well!

[@susanegley4149]

The Victorians are my favorite people, for so many reasons! ❤

[@SerenaDyer]

I really hope this video connected with you on a personal level then. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@thedayaftertomorrow5950]

Thank you for this wonderful video! I especially love the mistletoe ball and those gilded walnuts. Can’t wait to try some myself! ❤

[@leconjuringchef]

Such a delightful journey into the world of timeless holiday traditions. This tutorial not only offers a wealth of creative ideas but also evokes a sense of nostalgia, making it a perfect choice for those seeking to infuse their holiday celebrations with a touch of vintage charm. Craftsmanship and Presentation: Serena's attention to detail is truly commendable. From the moment the tutorial begins, viewers are captivated by the exquisite craftsmanship and meticulous presentation. Each step is clearly explained, making it easy for both beginners and experienced crafters to follow along. Serena's warm and inviting demeanor adds a personal touch, making viewers feel as if they are crafting alongside a dear friend. Victorian Elegance: The Victorian era is synonymous with opulence and elegance, and Serena masterfully captures its essence in her tutorial. From the ornate Christmas ornaments to the intricately designed paper crafts, every project exudes a sense of grandeur. Serena's choice of materials and color palettes reflects the Victorian aesthetic, transporting viewers to a bygone era of lavish celebrations. Nostalgic Appeal: Serena's tutorial strikes a chord with me by evoking a sense of nostalgia. The blending of Victorian aesthetics with cultural traditions from around the world reminds us of the cherished memories we hold from our own travels and holiday celebrations. It rekindles the joy of discovering new customs and incorporating them into our own traditions, creating a sense of connection and shared experiences. Conclusion: Serena's Victorian Christmas Craft Tutorial is a remarkable resource for anyone seeking to infuse their holiday celebrations with a blend of vintage charm and global influences. With her impeccable craftsmanship, attention to detail, and warm presentation style, Serena guides viewers through a mesmerising journey that combines the elegance of the Victorian era. 🥂✨🔥🤩😍

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you for such an incredibly thorough, considerate, and thoughtful comment. I wish I had more reviews like yours! Thank you so much for taking the time to write this and I just hope I can continue creating content that encourages such delightful feedback!

[@SibylleLeon]

I *have* to make that mistletoe ball. I live on the edge of a forest - one foraging walk coming up the next time it's not p*ssing rain! ❤

[@kathywright6853]

How do you get the mistletoe when it's so high in the tree,my aunt said shoot it out but I don't know if she meant it 😊

[@dorothygrantham4370]

Charming....charming....CHARMING! Thank you, kindly, for your delightful information!

[@SerenaDyer]

That is such a lovely thing for you to say. Thank you so much!

[@pamcolechadwell1302]

I love Victorian Christmas. I love your home as well. It's just gorgeous. I would love to see you make more ornaments. Thank you

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you for being so kind and leaving such a wonderful comment. It has taken a lot of work but I'm delighted about how everything looks and I really appreciate that it appeals to you. Thank you!

[@pamcolechadwell1302]

You are welcome ❤@@SerenaDyer

[@stormeliz7406]

Loved this video as I make Advent crafts. I'll try these!

[@SerenaDyer]

That's so wonderful to hear. If you do try any of these Victorian crafts out, I would love to hear how it went for you!

[@carolynellis387]

Great ideas to share with youngsters and folks in care homes for Christmas

[@SerenaDyer]

Exactly! I hope that there is a whole range of people who can find value and joy in some of the Victorian crafts in this video. Thank you so much!

[@retropygmy]

This is the most delightful Christmas video I’ve watched thus far. Wonderful, calming, instructive and all around darling!

[@savannahstarcher8248]

My parents have the walnut ornaments said they're antiques...its nice to see that some of these traditions haven't been lost.

[@SerenaDyer]

It's so delightful to hear that your parents have had walnut ornaments for so long. It sounds like they have become intimate heirlooms for your family!

[@jsapcakrrow]

I made an orange Pomander just last Christmas. Years ago my mom would make them & the house would smell so good. Definitely making another one this year.

[@SerenaDyer]

I agree with you: The smell is just wonderful, isn't it? Thank you so much for your comment and good luck with the crafting this year!

[@JovinGhoul23]

I remember when I was little we made paper hats and paper chains for Christmas 😄

[@BergenholtzChannel]

We always put our mistletoe in the center of the ball.

[@curaturable]

❤❤❤Thank you for sharing little bit of history of Christmas delights !!! 🎉🌹😍💖

[@SerenaDyer]

I was so delighted to read your comment. Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a wonderful comment!

[@signemarkuson1940]

Sugar plums look so good

[@SerenaDyer]

They do, don't they? I would note that they are very, very sweet, so your mileage your vary!

[@erikawilson1154]

I make pomanders with my kids every year. You just can't beat the smell. ❤️

[@SerenaDyer]

It's such a lovely aroma, isn't it? Thank you so much for taking the time to comment and share your experience!

[@taiikomochiyuurichin1459]

The most predictable way to demeat walnuts so that they can be used as christmas tree ornaments I find is holding it in the palm of my hand with the "fault" line sticking upwards and strike the line with a weighty solid metal handled butter knife with quick strikes on both sides until it braks open. Striking the bulbous portions of the shell will only smash the shell. If you do not mind the mergence later in the year moths dont bother to demeat the nuts and drill a hole to push in the holder of the ornament on the tree branch. Just store them in several layers of plastic bags so that when you pack them away until the next christmas the moths are not releasd into your house and damage your natural hair furnishings and clothing. I paint them red first so that when the gold paint is used it is easier to see if th entire shel has been guilded. This also helps antique the shells as they are used in subsequent years when the shells rub against things and the gold fades away. you get a finish very much like what happens to guilded picture frames with exposed red.

[@cris1596]

Tip: You can open the walnut without cracking it introducing a round-tip knife in between the wider side of the nut, where the ribbon is placed to hang it, and twist the knife sideways, gently. Set the nut aside for future use, like preparing sugar plums.

[@SerenaDyer]

It is so wonderful of you to take the time to provide an informative comment. I definitely would have benefitted with your advice at the time! Hopefully, other viewers will be able to use your suggestion for a smooth experience. Thank you!

[@jenniferstocker5462]

Thanks wonderful! We always made orange and clove pomanders at Christmastime then my mother would hang them in our closets for the lovely smell and to keep away moths!

[@lifeofsaffran]

We used to make clove oranges at elementary school and hang them in the windows, just 17 years ago, might still be done.

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you so much for taking the time to share this. It sounds like a wonderful activity to share together in the classroom. I hope it brings back some happy memories for you!

[@lindafraser2044]

I've made a lot of ornaments for my tree. This year, for my kids' advent calendar, we did a craft a day. The kids have not only enjoyed crafting with mum (even the really simple ones!) But some of the crafts have made beautiful handmade ornaments for the tree that I'm sure I'll treasure for many years to come. Bonus, not a lot of lollies for the kids, but they are still more than happy! Definitely a win!

[@juliebransfield529]

We made popcorn and cranberry garlands for our tree as children in the old days ❤

[@SerenaDyer]

This sounds just delightful. What a wonderful way to enjoy your festive period!

[@michellemabelle100]

Lovely! I have definitely seen painted or gilded walnut shell ornaments before, but I don't have any. I just might make that one of my Christmas crafts this year!

[@elenasanchez6911]

How can you be this cute?? I love everything about this video. Specially I love the way you talk, is like I'm listening to my childhood English textbooks and I love it. You are so calm and lovely. Ps. I come from Bernadette's video, which I also loved a lot. Thanks for your work

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you, that’s so kind! ☺️

[@angelaegan7511]

Marks and Spencer should take a leaf out of your book. We'll done for this lovely upload.

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you so much!

[@Meldog1851]

We made orange pomanders when I was in elementary school here in the US. We used the pointed end of a pencil compass to pierce the orange rind. It probably made it easier for 6 & 7 year olds to put the cloves in, but I’m anxious to try it this year again!

[@SerenaDyer]

It sounds like your school found a very novel and cost-effective way of getting everyone involved. I'm so glad you had an opportunity to try out the pomanders and I hope this video connected a bit with your childhood!

[@Heather-t1u]

I went through the walnut crack open thing so I could make critter homes for my grandkids. Tiny homes. The nuts tasted great in my brownies.

[@SerenaDyer]

Walnuts in brownies sounds like a delicious idea. I am so grateful that you took the time to share this thought!

[@belwynne1386]

Wonderful! But I do recommend pre-pricking the oranges to avoid sore fingers!

[@SerenaDyer]

You make a very, very good point. Thank you for taking the time to leave that excellent suggestion!

[@joanelizabethhall9455]

Oh my gosh, what a charming video! I watched it while sorting through the Christmas music I'll need next month. (I'm a harpist. Everyone wants harp music at Christmas!)

[@SerenaDyer]

I hope you have found some amazing music to add to your repertoire! Thank you so much for your kind feedback too!

[@c.e.benson3263]

OK....THIS VIDEO MADE MY DAY!❤ Your humor had me laughing. And I loved all these ideas. My mom used to make cloves and oranges when I was a child. In vermont, there is very little to do in winter after chores are done. So my mom would teach my sister and I all sorts of forgotten things like clive balls and collecting greenery and decorating with natural elements. The orange basket scene had me chuckling. I will share this video!! Especially with my mom❤

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you for such a heartwarming comment. It sounds like your mother did so much to get you and your sister involved in creating a beautiful, festive environment together. I really hope your mom enjoys the video and thank you so much for leaving your experiences here!

[@henriettanovember4733]

Lovely video! I am now curious of Christmas crafts from my own part of the world (Sweden) from that same period of time (we had about 4 different kings during those years, just imported from France with the first Bernadotte in 1818)

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you for your thoughtful comment. I really hope you have some fun finding out about the Christmas crafts that took place in Sweden over the same period. It sounds like a truly fascinating study!

[@RalucaAriadna]

Omg, this was sooo satisfying! Cozy and Christmasy and all things nice and good. 😌

[@MorkyMuffin]

I love Christmas, love the victorian era and love crafting. This video is perfect 💖

[@SerenaDyer]

It sounds like this video really ticked a few boxes for you! Thank you so much for your lovely comment and I hope this gets you in the mood for a wonderful festive period too!

[@bakerbrewz]

I love so many of these ideas! They are so homey and I can imagine the scents with the orange crafts. I love your personality and mannerisms in this video, they just make me smile as you go about making these things. Thanks for putting this well informed and crafty video together.

[@SerenaDyer]

You are so kind for leaving such a thoughtful, considerate comment. Thank you so much! You are absolutely right about the orange scent too. If you ever try it, you might find it quite uplifting when you walk into a room with that sweet tinge in the air!

[@smeenasiddiqui7464]

Welcome.. you're right. They do look like Cinderella slippers. Excellent video. Best music 🎵🎵🎵🎵🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶 2023 happy holidays.

[@SerenaDyer]

What a delightful comment that you left! Thank you so much!

[@melissamoonchild9216]

you are a breath of fresh air in the tired world of modernity.

[@JustTrying87]

Thank you. Subscribed

[@SerenaDyer]

This is wonderful to hear. Thank you for taking the time to comment and subscribe. I hope future videos will continue to be engaging for you!

[@emnorfolk5559]

I made most of these as a child with my great grandma, grandma , mum, brownie guides and guides. x

[@elizharber3564]

Well done!

[@Wanda6308]

I am a new subscriber from Michigan USA. This is my favorite era. Thank you for the history and fun projects

[@SerenaDyer]

What a lovely comment, thank you! I hope my videos continue to be engaging for you!

[@annathy]

I love Spode. I have all those same pieces. I use the dinner service every day. I feel right at home in your video😊

[@SerenaDyer]

They are such delightful pieces, don't you think? Thank you so much for a lovely comment and I hope my future videos can keep you feeling at home!

[@BarbaraCowdery]

I love this. It’s getting me ‘into’ the Christmas spirit early!!

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you so much! Hopefully, you have enough time to plan your festive period with a bit more historical inspiration too!

[@BarbaraCowdery]

@@SerenaDyer Hi again, just wanted to let you know that I watched your video again and actually made an Orange Pomander for the first time! I unfortunately didn't have red ribbon, only black. ( I need to buy some Red ribbon). Ive always wanted to make one of those. Now my living room smells like Christmas. I intend to make more of these because I love the beautiful pungent Christmas-ey scent!!!!!! Thanks for your video and Yes Im loving the history of it all as well. Thank you!!!!!!!

[@SerenaDyer]

@@BarbaraCowdery How wonderful! I'm so glad!

[@BarbaraCowdery]

@@SerenaDyer Merely a suggestion, can you do more of these? I know you're probably busy. Anyway, I love all your videos! Thanks again for what you do! I follow you on instagram too!!!

[@Thisisit120]

What a joy to watch you.

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you for such a warm comment!

[@jackiewatkins5611]

Beautiful work and very informative. Enjoyed very much!!!

[@SerenaDyer]

I am so glad that you enjoyed it. Thank you so much for taking the time to comment in such a lovely way!

[@undertasty]

We made those oranges with cloves in the 90s when I was a kid! So nostalgic. Also, my mother made ornaments with whole walnuts, although she left them their original color, just added a wire hoop for hanging and a red bow on top. And 30 years later, we still have them and use them :)

[@JackieBurnsCreations]

Very lovely 🥰. I remember when I was about 8 and in the Girl Scouts we learned how to make pompadours.

[@SerenaDyer]

This sounds like such a lovely thing to learn and a great memory to have. Thank you so much for your comment!

[@pocoyo9820]

I love your videos so much!! Those traditions remined of my childhood, specially the food.

[@LadyAhro]

I grew up regularly making pomanders. It's nostalgic. But probably because it was also really bloody hard on the fingers 😂

[@SerenaDyer]

I completely agree with you. It's hard work but the end result is so wonderful. Thank you so much and I hope this video was a nice link to not only the Victorian past but also a nice reminder of a bit of your past as well!

[@BurcuBabal]

It's a bit of late but watching this gave me peace.

[@Timetraveler1111MN]

Orange 🍊 and clove yummy! 🕯️

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you so much for your comment!

[@fabulousjaxx]

What a lovely video

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you so much. I am so pleased that the video appealed to you!

[@dani.5087]

My favorite walnut-related christmas decoration we have is a little turtle ornament my mom made out of a walnut and some pom poms. (It's wearing a little top hat.) Now I want to make some gilded walnuts as well.

[@SerenaDyer]

That sounds really sweet and I love the addition of the top hat! Was there a reason for the sartorial addition? If you find the time (and enthusiasm) to try out these Victorian gilded walnuts, please let me know how it went!

[@Janucka]

Hi Serena! After a year I look at your video with nostalgia and it's still charming to me how you portrayed a Victorian Christmas. I love it and thank you so much for the inspiration. Jana from the Czech Republic P.S....Merry christmas🎄💕

[@snazzie-designz]

What an absolutely delightful video. Your presentation is wonderful and I love that you included references and anecdotes to accompany each one. I found the Victorian decorations fascinating and I can see now that the gold and coloured plastic baubles we have these days stemmed from gilded walnuts and clove oranges. I also found your "Not the most dignified of crafts" statement hilarious and am still chuckling about it! Also I'm delighted to find out what sugar plums actually are because I have read about them in literature and never knew what they were. I am curious to know what type of glue Victorians would have used for the walnuts (although if it is animal based then I think that description would be sufficient and I wouldn't need to know more).

[@SerenaDyer]

What a wonderful comment to read - thank you! I am so pleased that you enjoyed my presentation (even when things were slightly undignified!) and that you were able to see how sugar plums can look. Yes, the glue that Victorians used would be animal-based, I am afraid - and thank you for a very good question!

[@snazzie-designz]

Thanks so much for your reply. I bought oranges and cloves in the shop yesterday to try the orange ornaments for your video. Yeah I think enough said on the glue so!!! :)@@SerenaDyer

[@kittymervine6115]

you can google how to open the walnuts, but I admit I purchase on ETSY walnut baskets that I fill with little felted animals (very little). I can't cut a walnut and have a little handle on it at the same time, but feel happy to pay a person who makes them at home.

[@SerenaDyer]

Your idea about the little felted animals is so adorable. What a wonderful idea. Thank you so, so much for sharing this!

[@kimberlybenedict]

Ohhhhh my goooooodness! KZbin has sent you my way! LUCKY ME!!!! I absolutely love everything Victorian and you did such a great job! I loved the story at the beginning as well! Such a perfect metaphor for life! HAPPPPPPY THANKSGIVING! ❤️🦃❤️🦃❤️

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you so much for such a wonderfully effusive and warm comment. It was so amazing to read! I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and that you have a great festive period to look forward to too!

[@tigersinlondon2152]

The orange pomanders remind me of the christingles we used to make as children at church around Christmas time! They also were based on an orange stuck with cloves, but with bonus sweets on cocktail sticks stuck into the orange too. I haven't attended church in almost 2 decades so I don't know if children still do this, but it's a lovely tradition! Also if I can ever get a walnut to crack in half with any kind of precision, I definitely want to make those gilded walnuts, they're so cute! Kind of like Ferrero Rocher

[@SerenaDyer]

Ooh yes I remember Christingles! Likewise, I have no idea if they’re still made today.

[@stevecunio3622]

@@SerenaDyer Christingles are still made. There was a Christingle service in our village church before Christmas (I don't attend church, but the event was publicised in the village).

[@kkeegan32]

Not victorian but homemade Christmas: my mother made stencils and sprayed canned snow on the windows. Tinfoil covered paper or plastic cups became silver bells 🔔 hanging with red ribbon. Paper cut snowflakes and garlands of strung popcorn and cranberries on the tree. 🎄

[@sis9622]

How awesome

[@siiiriously3226]

We still had some christmas decor from the ww2times when i was a child, and my grandparents covered the nuts in aluminium foil. We used knives to carefully open the nuts up. (austria)

[@SerenaDyer]

It sounds like your family managed to find a way of capturing this spirit in difficult times! Thank you so much for taking the time to share this story!

[@knitntea1672]

Wonderful video! So relaxing and enjoyable.

[@SerenaDyer]

Thank you for taking the time to leave such lovely, warm feedback. I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

[@Samphire2]

I love this, i am going to have a go at the sugar plums and gilded walnuts!

[@SerenaDyer]

This is so great to hear! I really hope that you give them both a go. There are some insightful comments that might help you a bit more too - and please let me know if you do attempt these!