DIY christmas ornaments to make with your family

Hands gather around a table, simple materials spread out, and a quiet ritual begins: folding, threading, gluing and laughing together as you make keepsakes for the tree. These moments become ornaments in themselves, small objects that carry a story each year you unpack them.

What this post offers

This guide to diy christmas ornaments to make with your family: Traditional paper and folded ornaments, woven straw and heart shapes, textile and knitted or crochet pieces, painted wooden and glass baubles, nature based and sustainable options, and easy kid friendly crafts that work for mixed ages.

Family benefits of ornament making

Emotional: Shared projects create memories and personal keepsakes that mark family moments and milestones. Practical: Many ideas use inexpensive, reusable materials you already have at home, and finished ornaments make thoughtful handmade gifts. Creative: Projects can be adapted to different ages and skill levels, so a toddler can decorate simple shapes while an older child or adult works on painted wood slices or knitted mini stockings. For a playful touch, consider coordinating your crafting session with matching Christmas pajamas or a fun ugly Christmas sweater to get everyone in the same mood: ugly Christmas sweater.

Quick materials overview

• Paper and card, scissors, glue, string or twine
• Yarn, cotton thread, crochet and knitting needles
• Fabric scraps, old sweaters, felt
• Natural finds: pine cones, twigs, leaves, dried orange slices
• Lightweight wood slices, plain baubles, foam clay, acrylic paint, metallic leaf
• Basic tools: hot glue or craft glue, needle, paintbrushes, hole punch

Safety and preparation notes

Supervision is essential for hot glue and any small parts that could be a choking hazard for young children. Pre prepare fiddly steps like cutting shapes or punching holes for toddlers, so they can join in the fun sooner. If you want to prioritise greener choices, use organic or recycled textiles when possible; you can find ideas for a sustainable Christmas sweater to wear during crafting time here: sustainable Christmas sweater.

Later sections will walk through simple projects and step summaries, from paper woven hearts to pine cone decorations, with age suggestions and timing so you can plan a relaxed family afternoon.

Finishing touches that keep ornaments looking fresh

When the last brushstroke is dry and the glue has set, small choices make a big difference to how your diy christmas ornaments age. Think about the feel of the finished piece. A loop of soft twine or a slim cord should slide easily over a branch and not fray the surface. For paper and fabric pieces, reinforce hanging holes with a tiny patch of leftover felt or a metal eyelet so the loop does not tear. Tip: test knots on a spare scrap so you know the loop will hold when the tree takes a little weight.

Sealing matters when you want ornaments to last. Water based varnish protects painted wood and air dry clay without yellowing. Fabric stiffener brings shape to felt and sweater scraps while keeping the texture soft to the touch. Allow ample drying time on a protected surface so the scent of the finish fades and the ornament keeps its original perfume of pine and spice.

Sustainability, reuse and gentle glimmer

Some of the most beloved ornaments are made from things that already have a life. Old sweaters can be cut into shapes and padded to become soft baubles. Leftover yarn becomes tassels and woven loops. Nature provides textured beauty with pine cones and dried orange slices that still carry the scent of the season when stored correctly. When you need sparkle, choose metallic leaf, mica flakes or very fine sand for a subtle sheen rather than loose glitter that sheds over the carpet and couch.

For low chemical options, beeswax polish and natural oils can add warmth to wooden discs and make painted motifs glow. If you aim to match your evening of crafting to a comfortable outfit, a pair of matching Christmas pajamas reinforces the feeling of communal warmth while you work and will keep everyone cozy as the oven hums and carols play.

Storage and year to year care

How you pack ornaments away shapes the joy of opening the box next year. Sort by material so soft pieces do not get crushed by rigid ones. Wrap fragile items in acid free tissue or in clean cotton scraps from old garments. Store in airtight boxes with silica gel packets to keep moisture at bay and preserve the crisp scent of dried orange slices. Label boxes by theme or tree area for quicker decorating next season.

Organising a relaxed family crafting session

Set up simple stations so the table hums rather than buzzes. A cutting area, a painting table and a finishing corner for loops and varnish keep tasks flowing. Pre cut fiddly pieces and scoop small beads into shallow dishes to avoid spills. Play a familiar playlist to stir memories. The sound of bells and crackling vinyl or a soft modern carol creates a gentle rhythm for hands to follow while the house fills with the smell of baking and evergreen.

Frequently asked questions

Which materials wear best over time?

Solid wood, well sealed clay, and tightly sewn fabric ornaments usually last longest. Reinforce holes and seams and choose water based varnishes to protect paints and wood without adding heavy chemical odours.

How can I preserve natural materials like pine cones or orange slices?

Dry thoroughly at low heat or air dry over several days. Lightly seal with clear matte varnish to lock in colour and scent. Store fully dry to prevent mould and keep them in an airy box until the next season.

What are good alternatives to glitter for a subtle sparkle?

Try metallic leaf, mica powder, or a fine dusting of very fine sand mixed with glue. These options give a controlled shimmer without shedding particles around the home.

How do I adapt projects for different skill levels?

Break activities into simple steps such as cutting, painting and finishing. Assign slower tasks like stitching to those who enjoy detail and quicker decorative jobs like painting or tying loops to others. Preparing small pieces in advance helps everyone join in.

Can I make ornaments from old sweaters without sewing skills?

Yes. Use fabric glue or fusible web to join edges, stuff cut shapes and seal seams with glue. The result will feel soft and warm and pair beautifully with a favourite Christmas sweater or matching Christmas pajamas while you craft.