Christmas Tip #1: Gothic Calligraphy

Image by Juan Manuel

Despite my terrible handwriting, I take the time to write (at least the names of) Christmas cards in Gothic calligraphy. Here are 5 reasons why you should do the same:

1. Writing in Gothic script preserves history.

Writings in blackletter have been done since the 12th Century AD. 


2. You don't necessarily need to have a calligraphy pen to write in the script.

Though a calligraphy or a fountain pen would be ideal, you still have a similar effect with a fine-liner. 

3. German-speaking areas used blackletter the longest.

Though, it did not originate in Germany, the Gothic script was used for the German language until the 20th Century, this is where the association of the Gothic script with Germany came from. Things associated with German culture (or come from Germany) often relate to the Christmas theme, for example: pfefferkuchen, Christmas carols (many are German in origin), Christmas trees and stollen.

How to make custom home-made T-shirts for Christmas

This year I wanted to give my friends Christmas gifts that fitted under three requirements:

- Homemade
- Personal 
- Useful

Custom T-shirts fit under all three requirements (kind of: the t-shirts are bought). 

This is how to make one: 

You will need - 
 - a T-Shirt

Gem Stone glue

- A pencil

- Paper

Dye + ingredients needed on the packet (normally salt is also also needed)

- A Bin Lid

- Most importantly, creativity

Instructions:

Step 1 - Design
It is ideal that you draw in pencil what you are going to draw in glue

Step 2 - Soak T-Shirt in water
Squeeze out any excess water in T-Shirt

Step 3 - Put wet T-Shirt on a flat bin lid

Step 4 - Drawing
Draw / Write design using a washable glue before T-shirt dries completely.

Step 5 - Drying
Dry T-Shirts in the Sun until the glue is clear or more than 80% is clear.

Step 6 - Dying
Dye T-Shirt according to the instructions on the packet.
You may also want to tie-dye the back of the T-Shirt.

When T-Shirt is desired colour, wash in soapy water until no excess dye comes out.

Step 7 - Dry (again)
Dry T-Shirt after washing.
The T-Shirt above is for one of my friends who loves Japanese culture.

The tie-dye looks great on the back of the T-shirt

Quotes or verses from the Bible look good on T-Shirts.

Step 8 - Wrapping
Give present to your friend or family member and see the smile on their face. :)

Wishing you a Merry Christmas, I hope you like the T-Shirts I designed.
Write your thoughts in the comment section.