Tinsel. Twinkling lights. The faint scent of desperation as you realize your DIY Christmas wreath looks more like a roadkill squirrel than a festive centerpiece. Fear not, craftily challenged viewers, because Kirstie Allsopp returns with a new season of Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas, ready to inject some much-needed inspiration (or perhaps just a healthy dose of self-doubt) into your holiday preparations.
This year, the festive HQ has moved to the grand Dumfries House, a slightly more upscale setting than your average craft cupboard. The premise, however, remains blessedly familiar: four hopeful crafters battle it out for the coveted title of Christmas Crafting Champion, while Kirstie offers her signature blend of enthusiastic encouragement and slightly judgmental eyebrow raises.
In this first episode, the focus is on tree decorating, a deceptively simple task that can quickly descend into tinsel-tangled chaos. The contestants’ creations range from the whimsically charming (celestial crochet ornaments) to the slightly unsettling (3D paper mice…on a Christmas tree?). We’ll also witness folklore-inspired clay figures and, in a truly ambitious move, a hand-sewn Christmas dinner. One can only imagine the tiny Brussels sprouts.
Joining Kirstie in the judging hot seat is broadcaster Kirsty Wark, who will lend her discerning eye to the proceedings. Presumably, Wark’s presence will also prevent Kirstie from going full-on glitter bomb on the contestants, although no guarantees there. Beyond the judging duties, the episode features Kirstie & Kirsty engaging in a crafting session, creating Christmas orange pomanders. It’s a festive bonding moment designed to warm even the Grinchiest of hearts.
As if all that wasn’t enough, the Sewing Bee team makes a guest appearance, crafting Christmas stockings for Santa. Because even Santa needs a handcrafted stocking, apparently. And honestly, who are we to argue with St. Nick’s sartorial choices? This is just the first of five episodes, each focused on a different Christmas craft.
Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas premieres Monday, December 9, 2024, at 5:30 PM on Channel 4.
