Looking for a way to make your Christmas decorations more meaningful this year? DIYing your own ornaments not only saves money but also emphasizes sustainability. Using recycled materials is a creative way to craft unique ornaments. It’s about turning everyday items into beautiful holiday touches for your tree. Plus, this can be a fun activity for the whole family. Let’s explore 15 DIY Christmas ornaments you can easily make, saving both your budget and the planet.
Button Christmas Trees
Creating button Christmas trees is a delightful project. Gather assorted buttons in various sizes and colors. Stack them starting with the largest at the bottom, then glue them together. A small wooden disc or cardboard can serve as the base. You can even add a star on top made from a sparkly button. This project not only looks adorable but also allows you to use up small buttons from past sewing projects. Display these trees on your mantle or hang them on the tree. Budget tip: Check local thrift stores for jars of buttons at low prices.
Soda Can Stars
Soda can stars are easy to make and wonderfully festive. Start by rinsing out your cans and removing the top. Then, use scissors to cut the aluminum into star shapes. Punch a hole in the top to thread through a string or ribbon. Painting the stars with acrylic paint can add flair. Hang them from your tree or drape them around your home. This project uses materials you likely already have, plus transforms waste into art. Budget tip: Save up different drink cans to mix and match designs!
Paper Tube Ornaments
Using paper tubes is a great eco-friendly craft. Start by cutting your tubes into sections to create ring shapes. Decorate these with paint, markers, or stickers. For added flair, string together several rings to create a cascading ornament. You can also cut shapes from the tubes and paint them separately for more designs. These ornaments can be customized to match your holiday theme, and they are easy for kids to create. Budget tip: Save up paper towel and toilet paper rolls, which are often discarded.
Felt Scrap Ornaments
Felt scraps from old projects can become stunning ornaments. Simply cut the felt into shapes like stars, snowflakes, or stockings. Stitch layers together, or glue them for a quicker approach. You can personalize them with initials or dates using thread or fabric markers. These ornaments can be hung on the tree or given as gifts. This project is budget-friendly since felt scraps can often be found at local craft stores or even in your own sewing box!
Jar Lid Ornaments
Transforming jar lids into ornaments is a fun, nostalgic craft. Start by painting or decorating the lids with holiday-themed designs. Create mini scenes inside by adding faux snow, tiny figures, or natural elements like pinecones or branches. Use ribbon to hang them on your tree. These ornaments are not only beautiful but also unique conversations starters that can easily be customized. Budget tip: Keep your jar lids from food products; they are excellent for crafting.
Holiday Card Ornaments
Give new life to holiday cards by transforming them into ornaments. Cut out festive images or pictures from old cards and glue them onto a sturdy backing. You can enhance them with glitter or paint for extra sparkle. Punch a hole at the top, thread a ribbon through, and hang them on your tree or around your home. This craft is a delightful way to remember past celebrations while decorating for the current season. Budget tip: Gather old greeting cards from family and friends; it’s a thoughtful way to reuse memories.
Nut Shell Ornaments
Nut shell ornaments are a charming way to embrace rustic decor. Start by collecting walnut or pecan shells. Once cleaned and dried, paint the halves in festive colors. You can also add small figurines or dried flowers inside for a whimsical touch. Use twine or ribbon to hang these ornaments from your tree. This project puts-to-use what might otherwise be waste and gives a beautiful, natural look to your decorations. Budget tip: After holiday baking, save your nut shells for crafting!
Upcycled Snow Globes
Create enchanting snow globes using old jars. Find a suitable jar and glue a small figurine to the lid. Fill the jar with water, and add glitter or fake snow. Secure the lid and shake it for a festive sparkling display. These snow globes can carry memories of the holidays or even represent family traditions. This craft is not only fun but also a stunning decorative piece. Budget tip: Choose small toys or items you already own to personalize your snow globes.
Fabric Scraps Ornaments
Ornaments from fabric scraps bring warmth to your decor. Gather pieces of unused fabric in festive patterns. Cut them into circles, hearts, or any desired shape. You can layer and sew them or simply glue them together. Adding a ribbon at the top allows for easy hanging. These textiles can be a great way to incorporate colors from your home. Plus, this project uses materials that might otherwise be wasted. Budget tip: Raid your closet for old clothes that are too worn to wear but still have fabulous fabric.
Pinecone Ornaments
Pinecone ornaments capitalize on nature’s beauty. Gather pinecones from outside and clean them gently. You can paint them with white to resemble snow or sprinkle glitter on them for extra sparkle. Tying a ribbon around the top allows for easy hanging. These ornaments add a rustic charm to your tree and celebrate the outdoors. This project not only recycles natural materials but also connects you to the season. Budget tip: Collect pinecones from your yard or local park, free and easy!
Recycled Tins
Transforming recycled tins into ornaments can yield beautiful results. After cleaning, cut the sides of a clean tin can into festive shapes. Paint the outside with acrylic paint. Punch a hole at the top for hanging. These ornaments will gleam on your tree, emphasizing a chic, upcycled aesthetic. The tin adds a rustic vibe while allowing you to create something rich in personality. Budget tip: Check your pantry for empty food cans that can be repurposed for crafting.
Glittering Glass Ornaments
Glass ornaments made from recycled bottles shine brightly. Cut bottles into halves or creative shapes, and paint them in seasonal colors. Add embellishments like glitter or ribbons. Be careful when working with glass—wear gloves and eye protection during cutting. With a little creativity, these can become stunning focal points on your tree. Budget tip: Use bottles from special occasions or events, giving each ornament personal significance.
Twine-Wrapped Ornaments
Wrapping ornaments in twine gives a charming touch. Mix a basic ornament, such as a plastic or foam ball. Start from the top and wrap the twine tightly around the ornament. Secure with glue as needed. You can also attach small items, like dried flowers or beads, for added detail. These twine decorations present a cozy, rustic vibe that’s perfect for festive settings. Budget tip: Twine is often found at craft stores or can be salvaged from packaging.
Personalized Photo Ornaments
Crafting personalized photo ornaments adds a delightful touch. Choose favorite family photos printed on heavy paper. Cut them into shapes and attach them to a sturdy backing. Use mod podge to secure the picture while adding a protective coat. Tie a string for hanging. These ornaments tell a story and keep memories alive through the seasons. Budget tip: Repurpose old family photos that you no longer display, giving them new life on your tree.
Natural Element Ornaments
With natural elements, crafting ornaments becomes engaging. Use dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, or even acorns. String these items to create beautiful garlands or hang them individually. The scents of cinnamon and citrus will fill your home, making it festive. This craft allows for endless creativity while showcasing nature’s bounty. Budget tip: Use leftover fruits and spices around the house rather than throwing them away.
Candlestick Ornaments
Transform empty candlesticks into quirky ornaments. Clean and paint them different festive colors. Add embellishments like glitter, bells, and ribbons for flair. These candlestick ornaments are sure to capture attention with their unique designs. A little paint and creativity can breathe new life into items often forgotten. Budget tip: Check your local thrift store for discounted candlesticks, allowing you to create high-impact decorations for less.
Rustic Wood Slice Ornaments
Wood slice ornaments evoke a warm, rustic charm. Find small cut logs or slices from a fallen tree. Paint or wood burn holiday designs on the slices. Add a simple twine or ribbon for hanging. These decorations blend beautifully with a natural-themed Christmas tree. They also offer a unique touch compared to traditional ornaments. Budget tip: Ask local lumberyards if they have scrap wood or cutoffs available for crafting.
Making DIY Christmas ornaments with recycled materials is not just fun, but also a memorable way to celebrate the season. Each ornament tells a story and reflects your creativity while being kind to the environment. Grab family members or friends for a crafting session, and create lasting memories together. So, gather your materials, choose your favorite projects from this list, and let your holiday spirit thrive this season! Happy crafting!