This years Christmas ornament is going to be Santa Claus.

I gathered all of the ingredients early this year, as I always seem to be waiting for something to be delivered. Last year it was the gift bags that I decided to use which didn’t arrive until January, so I have them for this year now.

Every year I add a few more recipients to the list and every year the ornament gets a little more detailed, so I have to start earlier.

Last year I made 90ish Rudolph’s, but didn’t factor in that I would have to make so many legs which also had to be stuffed and stitched on! I started way too late and then decided to make 3 Christmas Character Blankets as well!!! I managed to complete them all, but it was a little hectic.

I made my first Santa using the pattern booklet I bought last year when I made my Rudolph ornaments, but he turned out to be too big for the tree, so I had to think again.

I had a few tries to make a smaller Santa and at last came up with starting from the head down, as I am used to making them that way and find it easier.

I am quite pleased with him as his head, body and legs are all made in one piece, so I only have to make the beard, moustache, hat, belt and arms separately, phew!

Once I am pleased with him, I will make them assembly line style, making all of the components in batches. It will be my Santa Factory.

I have ordered some tiny black buttons to add to his tunic, hopefully they won’t take too long to arrive. No matter how hard I try to be prepared, I always have to order something extra:)

Here I go, wish me luck:)

12 November: Thought I would give a little up-date. I have managed to make all of the components for over 100 Santa’s and have completed the grand total of 16 so far that I am pleased with. I do have a few that didn’t make the grade, but I will play around with them a get them looking o.k. for me to keep.

It is funny how they all look different. Annabel (gd) has already chosen her Santa and has placed a stitch marker on him so I don’t give him to anyone else!!

My little Oscar (gs) who is only 5 has asked me to make one for his teacher. Bless him, he is such a thoughtful little boy.

I still have to sew on the belts and buckles and the label has to be printed. I am waiting for dd Libby to help me with the latter.

All in all I am pleased with my progress and am very happy that all of the components are ready and waiting.

These little chaps are yarn and stuffing eaters. I had to order more apricot and red.

9th December and all done. I think I could make these little chaps in my sleep now.

They have been well received so far and I am pleased to have them all done this early.

I still have three Harry Potter scarves and to finish my Nativity set before Christmas. Luckily the scarves shouldn’t take too long, because I am going to cheat and make them on my knitting machine.

Already know what I am going to make for next years ornament, shhh, it’s a secret. See you in November for the grand reveal:)