Christmas in July in the tatting world 2025

Dear Gentle Reader, 

Patterns belong to Wanda Salmans 

Christmas in July began in 1933 at Keystone Camp in Brevard, North Carolina, thanks to the whimsical spirit of camp co-founder Fannie Holt.

The camp’s celebration included carols, Santa, cotton snow, and creative gifts, making midsummer feel magical.

Christmas in July (as some people call it, Half Christmas) eventually became a beloved summertime escape, especially with Hallmark's snowy movie marathons it became so popular that you not have even thought about who first dreamed up such a cheery, potentially cheesy, midsummer celebration.

Besides on hot days like July it's always welcomed something "cold", like a few flurries to cool self down. The first Christmas in July included carolers, a Christmas tree, Santa Claus, presents, and fake snow made of cotton. As the tradition evolved, campers would use laundry bags as makeshift stockings, which they placed outside their cabins to be filled with candy overnight. Eventually, elves, reindeer, and Mrs. Claus joined the act, along with a camp-wide gift exchange. 

To bring a little Christmas in July spirit in your homes The Online Tatting Class group thought to start off with Wanda's lovely patterns. You can find these on the group's website, link here and YouTube channel link here. Being a member and studeent of this awesome group it's a real priviladge. Every single time we have classes I learn something new. We also have laughter and stories are shared. But mostly and this is VERY IMPORTANT, every single student is learning how to tat in a safe and friendly inviroment, where the teacher encourages her  students to thrive and embrace this wonderful lace creating craft. 

Happy Tatting and 

All the best

Annamaria