Colourful embroidery is one of the ways I unwind. If you would like to make your own Steiner inspired elf, you can find fantastic supplies at www.winterwoodtoys.com.au

They stock a range of hand dyed felts and the wooden dolls you need.

If you are unfamiliar with embroidery techniques, I use a combination of straight stitch, chain and vine stitch, blanket stitch and French knots. If you need a break down each of these techniques, “A-Z of Embroidery Stitches” (ISBN 0 9577 15898 6) has great step-by-step instructions.