For many, the holiday season kicks off right after Halloween, but for Lucie Garceau, the spirit of Christmas is a year-round affair. A dedicated member of the Center-Mauricie artisans’ group, this Shawinigan resident crafts festive decorations throughout the year, already preparing pieces for Christmas 2025. At the Shawinigan public market, where she showcased her creations over three weekends in november, Lucie’s imaginative works include nutcracker soldiers made from clay pots and transformed bowling pins into whimsical penguins and gnomes. With eight years of crafting experience, she has focused solely on Christmas decorations for the past four years, finding joy in her creative process while her husband works late hours. Lucie draws inspiration from everyday objects and platforms like Pinterest, frequently enough receiving materials from friends and family. Despite the absence of a Christmas fair this year, she participated in smaller events at senior residences, quickly selling nearly half of her inventory, much too her relief as space at home was becoming limited.
Q&A with Lucie Garceau: The year-Round Christmas Crafter
Time.news editor: Lucie, it’s fascinating to hear that the holiday spirit inspires you year-round. Can you tell us what ignited this passion for crafting Christmas decorations?
Lucie Garceau: My love for crafting festive decorations started quite organically. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands,and about four years ago,I decided to focus solely on Christmas-themed projects. I wanted to create something magical that could bring joy to others, especially during the holiday season.
Editor: It seems you have a unique approach to your crafting. You mentioned that you draw inspiration from everyday objects.Can you give us some examples of what that looks like?
Lucie: Absolutely! I often use items that might otherwise go to waste, like clay pots for creating nutcracker soldiers or bowling pins that I transform into whimsical penguins and gnomes. Platforms like Pinterest are also a great source of inspiration, where I can see how others are putting a twist on conventional decorations.
Editor: That’s innovative! It’s remarkable that you’ve already started preparing pieces for Christmas 2025.How do you manage to balance crafting with your family life, especially since your husband works late hours?
Lucie: Crafting truly becomes a labor of love when you enjoy what you do. While my husband is at work, I have the time and space to dive into my projects, which I find incredibly fulfilling. It also helps to have support from friends and family who supply me with materials,enabling me to create without too much financial strain.
Editor: Sell at the Shawinigan public market sounds like a wonderful opportunity. Can you tell us about your experience there?
Lucie: It was fantastic! I showcased my work over three weekends in November, and despite not having a Christmas fair this year, those smaller events made all the difference. I was able to sell nearly half of my inventory right away! It was such a relief, as my crafting space at home was getting a bit cramped.
Editor: With the rise of DIY cultures and holiday crafting, how do you see the industry evolving, particularly in local artisan communities?
Lucie: I think there’s a growing appreciation for handmade goods, especially in local markets. As people become more aware of sustainability and supporting small businesses, I expect to see more artisans emerging. it’s essential for us to continue creating and promoting our work, as it fosters a sense of community and brings people together.
Editor: That’s insightful! Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring crafters who want to start creating their own holiday decorations?
Lucie: Start small! Collect materials from around your home, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Look for inspiration, but allow your creativity to flow without too many constraints. And remember,the joy of crafting is in the process,so enjoy every moment!
Editor: Thank you,Lucie! Your journey as a year-round Christmas crafter is truly inspiring,and I believe many will be motivated to start their own crafting adventures after hearing your story.