Christmas is the perfect time to get crafty and make your own ornaments! It’s not only fun but also a great way to add a personal touch to your holiday decorations. You don’t need fancy supplies to create something beautiful—just use everyday items like corks, pinecones, shells, or even old buttons. Let’s turn these simple things into festive ornaments that will make your tree sparkle with creativity.
What You’ll Need
Here’s a list of items you can use to make your ornaments:
- Corks
- Pinecones
- Seashells
- Old buttons
- Scraps of ribbon or twine
- Acrylic paint
- Hot glue gun or craft glue
- Small beads, glitter, or stickers for decoration
- Hooks or loops for hanging
You don’t have to use all of these things—just gather whatever you have on hand. Now, let’s get started!
Ornament Idea #1: Cork Snowmen
Transform leftover corks from wine bottles into cute little snowmen! Start by painting the cork white and letting it dry. Then, use black paint or a marker to add dots for the eyes, mouth, and buttons. A tiny piece of orange paper or a painted toothpick can be glued on as the nose. Tie a ribbon or scrap of fabric around the cork for a scarf, and glue a loop of string to the top so you can hang it on your tree.
Ornament Idea #2: Pinecone Christmas Trees
Pinecones are a gift from nature and make perfect mini Christmas trees. Paint the tips of the pinecone green or white to mimic snow. Glue on tiny beads or sequins as ornaments, and add a small star (cut from paper or foam) to the top. Attach a piece of twine to the base so you can hang it up. These look so pretty and rustic on any tree!
Ornament Idea #3: Seashell Angels
If you’ve got seashells from a summer trip, turn them into angel ornaments. Use a large shell for the body and a smaller one for the wings. Glue the smaller shell to the back of the larger one. Add a bead or button at the top for the angel’s head, and draw on a tiny face if you’d like. Finish by gluing on a loop of twine for hanging. These angel ornaments are unique and bring a touch of the beach to your tree!
Ornament Idea #4: Button Wreaths
Old buttons can be turned into adorable mini wreaths. String green and red buttons onto a piece of wire or sturdy string, alternating colors as you go. Once you’ve made a full circle, twist the ends of the wire together and tie a bow at the top. Add a loop of ribbon for hanging, and your button wreath is ready to go!
Tips for Crafting Your Ornaments
- Always be careful with hot glue, especially when working with kids.
- Mix and match decorations to make your ornaments unique.
- Don’t worry about perfection—homemade ornaments are meant to be fun and full of character!
Making ornaments from everyday items is a wonderful way to spend time with family and create lasting memories. Plus, these crafts are eco-friendly and budget-friendly! So grab your supplies, get creative, and make your Christmas tree one-of-a-kind this year. Happy crafting!
