There's a lot of sentimental value attached to Christmas tree ornaments.Those holiday ornaments festooning trees and mantels carry a lot of memories. If they're antiques or one-of-a-kind, or if they were made by a loved one who's no longer living, the stakes in how they're stored get even higher. Here's how to wrap up the season:
• Invest in large plastic boxes if you're storing in a basement or attic that might get wet. Otherwise, sturdy cardboard boxes will do the trick. Line with Bubble Wrap or something similar. You can also buy
Some have cardboard dividers; others have padded compartments. Depending on the size of your stash, this option can get a bit pricey.
• Divide ornaments by color or theme. Wrap individually in tissue and place in box.
• Label each box's contents with a Sharpie pen. The ink can be taken off with nail polish remover if needed.
• For antique ornaments: Before packing, lay in a single layer on a large sheet of white butcher paper and take a snapshot with a wide-angle lens. Then put each in a resealable plastic bag, wrap in tissue and place in tote. Label the box and tape the photograph on top.
• Store and label boxes by tree or by type of ornament.
-- Homes & Gardens staff
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