Ornament Express
To create your own shiny baubles for the tree, just look around the house.
By Sandy Coleman, Globe Staff, 11/9/2003
Armed with spackle, gold paint, and perhaps some uncooked pasta, Charles is ready to prove that there is plenty new under the winter sun. Active in the Methuen Historical Society's restoration efforts, he has plenty of experience adding drama to the Christmas season as one of the creative forces behind the group's annual Festival of Trees. The event, which will be held from November 21 through December 6, draws thousands of visitors. Hundreds of trees decorated by individuals and community groups are raffled off, with proceeds helping fund historic restoration.
Since the festival was launched 10 years ago, Charles, who goes by the one name and is the owner of Charles Beauty Wellness salon in Methuen, has created trees from castoff nuts and bolts and wooden coffee stirrers, as well as more conventional materials. His favorite sources for ornament materials include the kitchen cupboard and the recycling bin. And in his hands, those tired satin-covered styrofoam balls are transformed into gorgeous new jewels for the tree.
The Methuen Festival of Trees kicks off with a premier night on November 21 from 7 to 10 p.m. and continues through December 6 at the Valley Office Park, 13 Branch Street, weekdays from 5 to 9 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Admission is $6. For information, call 978-685-8878 or visit the website www.methuenfestivaloftrees.com.
Sandy Coleman is a member of the Globe staff.
© Copyright 2003 Globe Newspaper Company.
