* A few Christmas Crafts*

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Assembled in minutes out of common home supplies — star cookie cutters, silver paper clips, and red twist ties — this charming creation is a cinch to craft.

On a flat surface, arrange cutters into a circular shape as shown; clip together where stars touch. Carefully flip wreath over and secure the same spots with additional paper clips. Tightly twist ties around these sections as shown. Evergreen sprig optional.          

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Create noteworthy ornaments that show off favorite songs.

Copy sheet music; then gather scissors, white glue, ribbon, cording from a trim or crafts store, and a corrugated cardboard box (break it down and peel apart the layers to reveal ridged sheets). Cut out stars (see template below) from cardboard and music; tie bows of cording; layer stars and bows as shown; glue. Once dry, glue a ribbon loop to the top back of each ornament to hang.

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Skip traditional popcorn and cranberry garlands this year, and take a cue from the Sugar Plum Fairy: Colorful candy strands are a magical way to dress your mantel or tree. To create these sugary swags, all you need is a sizable stash of wrapped treats and an ordinary office stapler. Simply staple the ends of the wrappers together in a regular pattern. (For dramatic dips, make sure the garlands are at least double the length of the surface from which you will drape them.) Use candy of one color for a monochromatic look -- or, for a more playful statement, mix and match a variety of shades. Once you've strung the pieces together, pin or tape the ends and sections to the mantel. Finally, be sure to place a few dishes of chocolate and candy nearby, so guests won't be tempted to snack on your delectable decor.

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You can whip up these mini men in minutes. Roll pieces of marzipan into balls and dip them into confectioners' sugar; connect with toothpicks. Use marzipan dyed red to shape the hat and scarf and dyed orange for the nose. Finishing touches: brown toothpick arms and tiny chocolate chips for the eyes, mouth, and buttons.      

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From: Good Housekeeping