A little language from the Christmas workshop

Hold your holly!

Our elves spend their days thinking about Christmas. It is only natural that a little of it finds its way into the things they say.

Learn a few favourite expressions before your visit. You might find yourself using them at home, too.

What did that elf just say?

Common elf phrases

Tools ready, hearts steady.

Said before beginning an important task.

Hold your holly.

Wait, stop or listen.

A thought has rung its bell.

I have an idea.

There is a knot in the ribbon.

Said before beginning an important task.

That is extremely not-yet-possible.

It looks impossible for now—but elves are not ready to give up.

Brightly made!

Well done.

Soft as mouse-feet.

Be very quiet.

Elves make; mice find a way.

An elven saying about the different ways elves and mice help Christmas along.

Words from the workshop

A plan becomes a making-map

Elves sometimes give familiar things a name that tells you what they do. Here are a few words from their workshop vocabulary.

Making-map

A plan or set of instructions.

Muddlement

A problem or mistake.

Think-spark

An idea.

Giving-box

A present.

Rooftop-door

A chimney.

People-door

An ordinary front door.

Mouse-door

A mouse hole or miniature door.

Wrapping-string

Ribbon.

Bring a little elf language home

Tools ready, hearts steady.

Try saying it before you start making something together. When someone has a good idea, a thought has rung its bell. And when the job is done? Brightly made!

You do not need to learn any elf words to enjoy your visit. There will be plenty of familiar English around them—and the story will help you along.