The easiest DIY Christmas ornaments use materials you may already have: salt dough, dried oranges, cinnamon sticks, felt, paper, wood slices, pinecones, pipe cleaners and yarn. The 10 projects below list the materials and steps for each, and several are suitable for crafting with kids. Each project includes clear steps so you can start crafting right away.

Basic Supplies to Have on Hand

Before you begin any of these projects, gather these common supplies. Having them ready makes the process smoother.

  • Hot glue gun and glue sticks
  • Craft glue (white school glue works for many projects)
  • Scissors
  • Twine, jute, or ribbon for hanging loops
  • Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat
  • Acrylic craft paint and small brushes
  • Clear sealant or matte varnish (for preservation)
  • Small cookie cutters in Christmas shapes (stars, trees, circles)

10 Easy DIY Christmas Ornament Projects

1. Salt Dough Ornaments

Materials: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup salt, 1 cup water, cookie cutters, straw or toothpick, baking sheet, acrylic paint or markers, clear sealant.

Steps:

  1. Mix flour and salt, then gradually add water until a dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.
  2. Roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
  3. Cut shapes with cookie cutters. Use a straw to poke a hole near the top for hanging.
  4. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at a low temperature (around 200–250°F) until completely hard and dry. This usually takes a few hours, longer for thick pieces; check every 30 to 60 minutes so they do not brown.
  5. Let cool, then paint or decorate with markers. Seal with a clear varnish to protect from moisture.
  6. Thread twine through the hole and tie a loop.

2. Dried Orange Slice Ornaments

Materials: Oranges (navel or blood oranges work well), sharp knife, baking sheet, parchment paper, twine or ribbon, cinnamon stick (optional).

Steps:

  1. Preheat oven to 200°F. Slice oranges into ¼-inch thick rounds. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Place slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 3 to 4 hours, turning them every hour, until they are completely dry and stiff but not browned. Thin, evenly cut slices dry fastest.
  3. Let cool completely. Use a needle or toothpick to make a small hole near the peel edge.
  4. Thread twine through the hole and tie a knot. For a Scandinavian Christmas decor look, pair them with white or natural elements.
  5. Optional: glue a small piece of cinnamon stick to the center for extra fragrance.

3. Cinnamon Stick Stars

Materials: 5 cinnamon sticks per star, hot glue gun, twine, small beads or dried berries (optional).

Steps:

  1. Arrange 5 cinnamon sticks into a star shape, overlapping the ends slightly.
  2. Apply hot glue at each overlap point. Hold in place for a few seconds until secure.
  3. Glue a loop of twine to the back of one point for hanging.
  4. Optional: glue a small bead or dried berry at the center for color.
  5. These look wonderful on a rustic tree or paired with natural decorations on a Christmas centerpiece.

4. Felt Ornaments

Materials: craft felt sheets in assorted colors, embroidery floss or thread, sewing needle, stuffing (fiberfill or cotton balls), scissors, fabric glue (optional), small buttons or sequins.

Steps:

  1. Draw or print simple shapes (trees, stars, animals, circles) onto paper. Cut out as templates.
  2. Trace two identical pieces per ornament onto felt. Cut them out.
  3. Decorate one piece with embroidery, buttons, or sequins using fabric glue or needle and thread.
  4. Place the two felt pieces together. Sew around the edge using a running stitch or blanket stitch, leaving a 1-inch opening.
  5. Stuff lightly with fiberfill, then sew the opening closed.
  6. Sew or glue a ribbon loop to the top.

5. Slotted 3D Paper Stars

Materials: Cardstock or heavy patterned paper, a star template (draw one or print a simple five-pointed star), pencil, scissors, craft glue, needle and thread or a hole punch and string.

Steps:

  1. Trace the star twice on cardstock and cut out both pieces.
  2. On the first star, cut a straight slit from the tip of the top point down to the center.
  3. On the second star, cut a slit from the center straight down to the notch between the two bottom points (directly below the top point).
  4. Slide the two stars together along the slits so they cross at right angles. A dab of glue along the joint keeps them in place.
  5. Thread a loop of thread through the top point with a needle, or punch a small hole, for hanging.
  6. Make them in plain white or kraft paper for a Scandinavian look, or in colors that match your tree.

6. Clear Fillable Ornaments

Materials: clear fillable ornaments (plastic or glass, usually sold as two-piece balls), various fillings (sprinkles, tiny artificial snow, small sprigs of greenery, miniature photos, confetti, sand, or small toys), ribbon, hot glue or craft glue.

Steps:

  1. Separate the ornament halves. Remove the metal cap if applicable.
  2. Fill the bottom half with your chosen material. Do not overfill—leave room for the top to close.
  3. Snap the two halves together or slide the filling into a clear ornament that opens from the top.
  4. Replace the metal cap. Tie a ribbon around the cap for hanging.
  5. For a personal touch, insert a small rolled-up photo or handwritten note.

7. Wood Slice Ornaments

Materials: craft wood slices (about 2–3 inches in diameter), sandpaper, acrylic paint or fine-tip markers, hot glue, twine, small drill or nail and hammer.

Steps:

  1. Lightly sand the wood slices to smooth any rough edges. Wipe away dust.
  2. Paint a design on one side: a simple Christmas tree, snowflake, star, or the year. Markers work well for lettering.
  3. Let paint dry completely.
  4. Drill a small hole near the top edge, or use a hammer and nail to create a pilot hole.
  5. Thread twine through the hole and tie a knot.
  6. Seal with a clear varnish if you want a glossy finish.

8. Pinecone Ornaments

Materials: Small pinecones (clean and dry), acrylic paint (optional), hot glue, small beads, glitter (optional), twine, ribbon.

Steps:

  1. To dry pinecones and get rid of insects, many crafters bake them on a foil-lined sheet at a low temperature (about 200°F) for 30 to 60 minutes. Stay nearby, since sap can scorch, and let them cool completely.
  2. Optional: paint the tips of the scales with white paint for a snow-tipped look, or brush on a thin layer of glue and sprinkle with glitter.
  3. Hot glue a loop of twine or ribbon to the base of the pinecone (the flat end).
  4. For more color, glue small beads or faux berries between the scales.
  5. These work well on their own or attached to other natural elements like dried orange slices.

9. Beaded Snowflakes

Materials: Pipe cleaners (white, silver, or blue), pony beads (assorted colors, larger beads make it easier for kids), scissors, small piece of cardboard or foam board.

Steps:

  1. Cut one pipe cleaner into three equal pieces (about 4 inches each).
  2. Twist the three pieces together at their centers to form a six-pointed star shape.
  3. Thread beads onto each arm of the star. Leave about ½ inch at the end of each arm un-beaded.
  4. Fold the un-beaded tip of each arm back to hold beads in place.
  5. Optional: add a loop of thread or thin wire to one arm for hanging.
  6. Kids can create patterns by alternating colors of beads.

10. Yarn-Wrapped Ornaments

Materials: Plain plastic or foam ball ornaments (any size), yarn in one or more colors, hot glue or craft glue, scissors, ribbon for hanging.

Steps:

  1. Remove the metal cap from the ornament (if used) or insert a hanging loop through the foam ball.
  2. Apply a small dab of glue at the top. Press the end of the yarn into the glue to secure it.
  3. Begin wrapping the yarn tightly around the ornament, working your way down. Keep the lines close together so no surface shows through.
  4. When you reach the bottom, apply another dab of glue and cut the yarn. Tuck the end under the last few wraps.
  5. If using multiple colors, simply tie on a new color when you want to switch.
  6. Let glue dry thoroughly. Re-attach the metal cap or tie a ribbon loop around the top.

Safety Notes for DIY Ornaments

  • Oven drying (salt dough and orange slices): Never leave the oven unattended while drying these items. Keep the temperature low to avoid scorching. Allow items to cool completely before handling.
  • Hot glue: Hot glue guns can cause burns. Supervise children closely or use low-temperature glue guns labeled for kids. Work on a heat-safe surface and keep a bowl of cold water nearby for accidental contact.
  • Small parts: Ornaments made with small beads, buttons, or other tiny components are not suitable for very young children who may put them in their mouths. For family projects, let older kids handle the detailed work and give younger ones larger materials like yarn or felt shapes.
  • Sharp tools: Knives, needles, and scissors should only be used by adults or under direct supervision. Pre-cut materials for younger children whenever possible.

Making Your Ornaments Last

Handmade ornaments can last for years with proper care. Here are tips for preserving them through multiple holiday seasons.

  • Seal natural materials: Apply a clear acrylic sealant to salt dough, wood, and dried oranges. This protects against moisture and dust. Spray a matte or glossy finish depending on your preference.
  • Store carefully: Wrap fragile ornaments in acid-free tissue paper and store them in a sturdy box with compartments or individual padded sleeves. Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Avoid extreme temperatures: Do not store ornaments in attics or basements that may experience large temperature swings or dampness.
  • Repair as needed: Hot glue and craft glue can be reapplied to fix loose pieces. For felt items, stitch any tears with matching thread.
  • Label the year: Write the year on the back of ornaments with a fine-tip permanent marker. This adds sentimental value and helps you remember when each was made.

When you are ready to arrange your creations, browse our guide on how to decorate a Christmas tree with a balanced look. Many of these ornaments also make charming accents on a wreath or table.

FAQ

How long do salt dough ornaments last?

With proper sealing and storage, salt dough ornaments can last for many years. They are sensitive to moisture, so keeping them away from humidity and direct water is essential. A clear sealant applied after painting helps prevent cracking or softening over time.

Can these ornaments be made with toddlers?

Yes, several projects are great for toddlers with supervision. Yarn-wrapping and coloring pre-made wood slices or paper stars work well for little hands. Keep beads, buttons and other small parts away from toddlers, since they are a choking hazard, and do the hot-glue steps yourself.

What if I don’t have a hot glue gun?

Many of these projects can use craft glue or white school glue instead of hot glue. Felt, paper, and yarn can be joined with fabric or craft glue, though you may need to hold pieces in place longer for a strong bond. Pinecones and cinnamon sticks may require a heavier adhesive like tacky glue.

How do I keep dried orange slices from molding?

Make sure the slices are completely dry and stiff before you hang or store them. Store them in an airtight container with a silica gel packet if you live in a humid climate. Sealing with a clear spray varnish also helps protect against moisture.

These 10 easy projects show that beautiful, personal ornaments don’t require expensive supplies or advanced crafting skills. Whether you are making them for your own tree, as gifts, or for a family crafting afternoon, each ornament carries a handmade charm that store-bought decorations can’t match. Gather your materials, pick a project, and enjoy the process of creating something unique for the holiday season.