The holiday season is too often associated with cleverly purchased gifts and mass produced decorations bought from some big box store. This year, why not shake it up a bit and start a new tradition: a DIY holiday tradition, that is.  From the young to the young at heart, DeSerres offers something for everyone.  Whether it’s crafting tree ornaments with a loved one or experiencing a self-indulgent creative retreat, this huge store can help you out. DeSerres comes equipped with a bounty of kid-friendly supplies, ranging from piles of paper to paints in every shade of the spectrum. With aisles of inspiration ahead of you, what are you waiting for?

PLUS: If you’re looking to put all your new creative ideas to use, head over to the Raw Sugar Café (692 Somerset St. W.) this Saturday, Nov. 20 where the Ottawa craft gurus behind Les Ateliers will be holding a holiday card-making workshop.  For just $10 you can cut, glue, and design to your heart’s content. Refined skill: optional.  Enthusiasm: mandatory.  For more information, visit the Facebook event.

The Look: colourful and imaginative

Perfect for: the creative crafter or the DIY diva

USP: the online DeSerres gallery, where artists of all ages can share their work with the world

St. Laurent Shopping Centre, 1200 St. Laurent Blvd.; www.deserres.ca