By Barbara ScottStaff Writer
Debbie Sutherland’s kitchen is currently full of holiday spirit. There are wreaths for all seasons on her wall and her table is covered with wonderful items she uses to create her craft. It isn’t just wreaths you’ll see if you stop her Colby Siding Road home in Woodland, during Saturday’s 4th Annual Scents of Color, Christmas Open House, there promises to be any number of home decorating items available. Sutherland creates a variety of different home décor wreaths, “I used to hand wire all the boughs for my fresh Christmas wreaths but now I buy the wreaths from a wholesaler and then do the decorations. I will take orders for the wreaths and swags and decorate them with what my customers prefer,” said Sutherland.
“I started with this craft back in the 1980s, said Sutherland, “I took an adult-ed class that was offered in floral arrangement and I worked part-time at Phil’s Florist for a period of time, gaining more experience.”
Her craftsmanship isn’t just designated toward wreaths either, Sutherland is always on the outlook for unusual containers that she transforms into wonderful, unique fresh or dried flower arrangements.
“This year, the open house is a bit earlier than in years past,” noted Sutherland,” but I think it’s a good time, it’s a chance for people to enjoy a Saturday getting ideas for Christmas gifts, it gets everyone who stops by in the holiday spirit.”
Others will also be displaying their artistic talents during the open house. “This year this is really a collaboration of a number of people,” commented Sutherland, “two of my sisters will be here, my sister-in-law, as well as items by some other crafting friends.”
Besides the wreaths and arrangements there will be hand-painted wood crafts, canvas artwork ,primitive country items, candles, ornaments and antique glassware all perfect for gifts or — as a gift to oneself. Also available will be a chance to cross even more names off that holiday list by viewing items of a more personal selection such as cosmetics and perfumes.
“I enjoy this, it’s relaxing but also hectic,” laughed Sutherland, “I’m always trying to come up with different arrangements or decorations for the wreaths not only for the holiday displays, but for the items that I make for those items that may be used all year long.”
The Scents of Color Christmas Open House will be held from 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. Sat. Nov. 24 at 374 Colby Siding Road in Woodland. Orders for fresh Christmas centerpieces will be taken during the open house and will be ready between Dec. 10-15.
