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Christmas is a wonderful time to get crafty and creative, and what better way to showcase your handiwork than proudly hanging it on your Christmas tree? Handmade tree ornaments are a favourite DIY project for many during the festive season, offering a fun activity for children and adults alike. The decorations you make are unique, personal, and can become treasured keepsakes for years to come. Whether you are making them for your own home or as heartfelt gifts, these DIY ornaments add a special touch to your holiday celebrations. Here are some of our favourite Christmas craft ideas that will brighten up your tree and your festive spirit.
You will need: 1 cup plain flour / 1 cup salt / 1 cup water / cookie cutters in festive shapes / glitter / PVA glue / ribbon
Instructions:
Mix the flour, salt, and water in a bowl until a firm dough forms. The mixture should not be sticky, so adjust with extra flour or water as needed. Roll out the dough on a flat surface, then use cookie cutters to create festive shapes like stars, Christmas trees, gingerbread men, and reindeer. Use a pencil or skewer to make a hole at the top of each shape for threading ribbon later. Place the shapes on a baking sheet and cook in a low oven at 90-100 degrees Celsius for 2 hours. After baking, allow the shapes to cool completely.
Now the fun part begins! Paint your shapes with bright colours and festive patterns. Add some sparkle by gluing on sequins, beads, or glitter using PVA glue. Thread a pretty ribbon through the hole, and your charming salt dough ornaments are ready to hang.
You will need: cinnamon sticks / twine or ribbon / small decorative bells
Instructions:
Tie a few cinnamon sticks together with twine or ribbon. Attach a small bell or festive charm to the bundle for an extra touch. These smell amazing and add a cosy vibe to your tree.
You will need: orange slices / cloves / ribbon
Instructions:
Slice your oranges into 2cm thick pieces and arrange them on a baking tray. Dry them out in a cool oven at 90-100 degrees Celsius for about 2 hours or until completely dried. Leave them to cool in the oven to avoid cracks. Once cool, decorate by poking cloves around the orange slices in any pattern you prefer. Thread a ribbon through the top and hang these fragrant, natural ornaments on your Christmas tree. These citrus decorations not only look beautiful but also add a lovely scent to your home.
You will need: dry crunchy leaves / PVA glue or mod podge & paintbrush / glitter / wax paper / ribbon
Instructions:
Arrange your dry leaves on wax paper and brush over them with a layer of PVA glue or mod podge. While the glue is still wet, sprinkle a generous amount of glitter over each leaf. Allow to dry, then carefully flip the leaves and repeat the process on the other side. Once completely dry, tie a ribbon around the stem of each leaf. These sparkling leaves make delicate and eye-catching tree ornaments with a natural, festive feel.
You will need: pine cones / gold or silver spray paint / mask / white paint / paintbrush / glue / ribbon
Instructions for Metallic Pine Cones:
In a well-ventilated outdoor area, lay down newspaper and wear a mask for protection. Spray paint each pine cone in your chosen metallic colour until fully covered. Allow them to dry completely before handling.
Instructions for Snowy Pine Cones:
Using white paint and a small paintbrush, gently brush paint along the edges of the pine cone scales to mimic the look of snow. Be careful to avoid painting inside the cones. Start from the top and work your way down for a natural snowy effect.
To hang, add a dab of superglue or PVA glue to the base of the pine cone and attach a ribbon loop. These pine cones add rustic charm and sparkle to your festive décor.
You will need: white felt / scissors / needle and thread or glue / glitter or sequins
Instructions:
Cut out snowflake shapes from white felt. Decorate with glitter, sequins, or small beads. Attach a thread loop to hang. Felt ornaments are soft, lightweight, and perfect for kids to make.
You will need: coloured paper strips / glue or tape
Instructions:
Create paper chains by looping and linking coloured paper strips. Make long garlands to drape around your tree or hang as individual loops as ornaments. Paper chains are classic, fun, and eco-friendly.
You will need: red and white beads / pipe cleaners
Instructions:
String red and white beads onto pipe cleaners, alternating colours. Shape the pipe cleaner into a candy cane and twist the ends to secure. These bright and festive beaded candy canes are easy and cheerful.
Handmade Christmas tree ornaments are not only fun to make but also environmentally friendly. By repurposing natural materials or using simple supplies, you can reduce waste and create lasting memories with loved ones. Plus, your tree will be uniquely yours, full of character and stories behind each decoration. Whether you choose to make salt dough shapes, glitter leaves, or pine cone ornaments, these crafts bring warmth and personality to your holiday décor.
So gather your supplies, invite family and friends, and enjoy crafting these festive decorations that will brighten your tree and your Christmas celebrations year after year. Happy crafting!
