When you love the Christmas as much as I do, it’s never too early to begin planning and preparing! Try accomplishing a few items each month and you’ll find you’re more organized than ever before.

Try updating your address lists now, perhaps even figuring out how to print labels for Christmas cards. Take an inventory of wrapping papers and ribbons, then fill in any missing items. Go over your Christmas gift lists and come up with ideas for each gift recipient. Are you a crafter? Now is the time to begin making those special items that will find their way onto your Christmas tree, like unique nosegays you can make now and use later.

If your overall seasonal decorations could use a boost, browse our article on Christmas Color Schemes and Christmas Decorating by Design, where you’ll find lots of fun ideas to update the holiday decorations in your home this year. Merry Christmas (just a little early, of course!)

Stencil design has grown up! Though fans of country style can still find stencils with ducks, geese, and garden flowers, stencils are also now being designed to reflect more upscale looks with damask designs, architectural motifs, and delicate scrolls.

Stenciling can be a really easy and creative project. You can select the exact design, color, and placement of the motif you want to stencil, make adjustments as you go along, and then stand back when you’re finished and take all the credit!

Here are some of our favorite easy stencil projects to add touches of style to your home.