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Are you keen on sprucing things up this Christmas with beautiful handmade ornaments?
It’s your lucky day, since we’ve compiled this list of the best DIY Christmas ornament ideas to make, whether for your own tree or as gifts! From quirky to luxurious, we have an array of ornaments that are sure to please – best of all, you can make them all yourself.
The best thing about these handmade ornaments? They’re bound to be cherished for years to come at every Christmas, especially with your personal homemade touch involved. So, grab your reindeer plushie as we show you how these ideas are truly (orna) meant to be!
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Our Top Handmade Ornament Gift Ideas
Here’s an extensive roundup of the best Christmas ornaments to make for gifts. Plus, if you make these in batches, you can always keep one for the family tree!
1. Wooden Doe Ornament
These wood-sliced doe ornaments are easy to make, budget-friendly, and adorable to hang on any Christmas tree! You can add your own touch by making the facial expressions different on each one, if you please.
Click here for the tutorial from The Inspiration Edit.
2. Felt Penguin Ornament
This handmade felt penguin ornament will be the cutest decoration on your tree! With these step-by-step instructions, you can stitch this little guy together in no time – and for a fraction of the price that he would cost in a store!
Click here for the tutorial from Handmade in the Heartland.
3. Cricut Ornament
’Tis the season to sparkle and shine with this crafty ornament! Gift this easily to some loved ones with the magic of a cricut machine and a ceramic ornament.
Click here for the tutorial from Artsy Fartsy Mama.
4. Copper-Accented Ceramic Ornament
Use cricut foil vinyl and pre-made snowflake art to make these gorgeous copper-accented ceramic ornaments. They make classy gifts for anyone this holiday season, and they’re so nice that they may be hard to believe that they’re DIY!
Click here for the tutorial from Elle Marie Home.
5. Buffalo Plaid Ornaments
These DIY buffalo plaid Christmas ornaments can be personalized in various ways, and are the perfect way to use up leftover fabric or old plaid shirts that you’re about to donate. The plaid is holiday festive and bound to look beautiful on any tree!
Click here for the tutorial from Love Our Real Life.
For another rendition of buffalo checkered ornaments, check out this idea. Click here for the tutorial from Elle Marie Home.
6. Winter Wonderland Ornaments
For those who want to do some Christmas crafting, this winter wonderland ornament makes the perfect gift. All you need is a bit of fake greenery and snow, and the magic comes to life from there!
Click here for the tutorial from Harbour Breeze Home.
7. Mason Jar Lid Ornaments
Give your tree that homemade rustic feel with these cute DIY mason jar lid ornaments. The best part is that they can be customized with any color fabric as well! They’re lightweight, simple ornaments that are absolutely adorable.
Click here for the tutorial from Crayons and Cravings.
8. DIY Graduation Tassel Ornament
For those who graduated recently, this graduation tassel ornament is the perfect way to commemorate the special occasion. Plus, it’s an ideal way to immortalize a tassel that will never be worn again!
Click here for the tutorial from Mission to Save.
9. Felt Gingerbread Men Ornaments
Give the gift of handmade memories with these sweet felt gingerbread men (and women!) ornaments. They’re absolutely adorable, and the article even includes a video tutorial guide to walk you through the steps.
Click here for the tutorial from Sew Simple Home.
10. Rudolph Tea Light Ornament with Blinking Nose
To go the extra mile this Christmas, why not craft this nifty Rudolph tea light ornament with a blinking nose? It only takes a few minutes to make, and the result is darling. His blinking nose will complement the rest of the twinkling lights on one’s tree!
Click here for the tutorial from Pixie Dust Savings.
11. Beauty and the Beast Enchanted Rose Ornament
This is a beautiful DIY gift for the Disney aficionado in your life (especially if they love Beauty and the Beast). It’s a subtle nod to a classic film and a classy gift suitable for anyone!
Click here for the tutorial from Pixie Dust Savings.
12. DIY Embroidery Ornament
Create a unique ornament for your Christmas tree using embroidery stitches! You can even personalize your name on the ornament using this method.
Click here for the tutorial from Vipkalpah.
13. Salt Dough Ornaments
Salt dough ornaments are the sweetest little homemade gift! You can make them for the whole family or classroom with hardly any effort, and there are plenty of fun personalization options. Kids will also have a great time making these.
Click here for the tutorial from Good Life Eats.
Check out another variation of salt dough ornaments (with some glitter flair) here, via Bitz n’ Giggles.
14. Wooden Bead Wreath Ornament
To add some rustic Pottery Barn-esque charm to your Christmas tree, try making this beautiful farmhouse-style wreath ornament from wooden beads. It’s a cost-effective and time-efficient activity that yields a lovely result!
Click here for the tutorial from Hunny I’m Home.
15. Rae Dunn-Style Christmas Ornament
These Rae Dunn-inspired ornaments are simple and chic. They’re perfect to decorate your own tree with, or add a finishing touch to someone’s gift by hanging it on a ribbon.
Click here for the tutorial from Hunny I’m Home.
16. DIY Wood Ornaments
With just a bit of paint, vinyl designs, and wooden slabs, you can create these classy, festive ornaments to gift to your loved ones. These are the types of ornaments you’ll see at Pottery Barn – but lucky for you, these cost about a third of the price!
Click here for the tutorial from Sew Simple Home.
For another variation of a wooden ornament, check out this adorable idea that crafts slabs into Rudolph. Click here for the tutorial from Foster to Adopt.
To make some decoupaged wooden slice ornaments, check out this nifty idea. Click here for the tutorial from Crafts By Amanda.
17. Clay House Christmas Ornament
This DIY clay house ornament is an ideal gift for someone who has just moved into a new home. It’s the perfect way to commemorate a big move or be grateful for one’s current home (where the heart is)!
Click here for the tutorial from A Heart Filled Home.
18. Decoupaged Ornament
The art of decoupaging is rare these days, but still so useful – especially for DIY ornaments. This unique spin on a decoupaged ornament is sure to delight your recipients this season.
Click here for the tutorial from Confessions of an Overworked Mom.
19. Sports-Themed Christmas Ornament
For the sportsman or sportswoman in your life, make them this super simple Christmas ornament. Choose what to fill them with, based on their sporting interests – use your creativity!
Click here for the tutorial from In Our Spare Time.
20. Cotton Reel Map Christmas Ornament
These cotton reel map Christmas ornaments have personal significance and are bound to carry warm memories from past trips. They’re the perfect gifts for avid travelers and those who love creating keepsakes of vacations.
Click here for the tutorial from Pillar Box Blue.
21. Wine Cork Snowflake Ornament
Are you looking to upcycle your leftover wine corks? Why not make this gorgeous wine cork snowflake ornament? It’s simple to make, and the glitter adds magical pixie dust at the end.
Click here for the tutorial from Pink Fortitude.
Check out this other idea on making Christmas tree ornaments from wine corks. Click here for the tutorial from A Worthey Read.
22. Glitter Peppermint Ornament
These glitter peppermint ornaments are a beautiful way to add color and festivity to anyone’s trees. The sparkle is actually on the inside, and with the magic of a Cricut machine, the peppermint swirls are added to the outside.
Click here for the tutorial from Artsy Fartsy Mama.
23. Coastal Christmas Ornament
Hold on to those beach memories over the holidays with these rustic coastal Christmas ornaments, made using driftwood from the beach (yes, really!). You can easily personalize these coastal ornaments and turn trash into sparkling treasure that will be remembered every time it’s hung on the tree.
Click here for the tutorial from Sustain My Craft Habit.
24. Rustic Star Ornament
With touches of birch and distressed buttons, these charming rustic star Christmas ornaments are the perfect decor for any tree. They’re the perfect gifts for those who love adorning their home with simple (yet stunning) decor!
Click here for the tutorial from The Boondocks Blog.
25. Santa’s Magic Key Ornament
For an extra creative ornament idea, make this cute magic key that allows Santa into the house to deliver extra special gifts for the little ones. It’s an out-of-the-box way to add some Christmas cheer to any gift, and also serves as a cute story for the kids!
Click here for the tutorial from Artsy Fartsy Mama.
26. Homemade Burnt Wood Ornament
If you’re looking for a folksy, rustic ornament to add to the tree, this idea is perfect for the holidays. It only utilizes a few materials, and you can personalize it with a name or season’s greeting!
Click here for the tutorial from Spaceships + Laserbeams.
27. Photo Wreath Ornaments
For a personal Christmas ornament, try out this DIY project with your family. It’s a great way to incorporate pipe cleaners into a mini wreath, with a photo of a loved one in center stage.
Click here for the tutorial from In the Playroom.
For another photo wreath idea, check out this idea that also uses LEGOs. Click here for the tutorial from Honey + Lime.
28. Paper Christmas Tree Ornament
What can you make with card stock, tea lights, a hole puncher, and some glitter? These gorgeous paper ornaments!
These are simple ornaments to make in just a few minutes, but they truly dazzle once you turn the tea lights on. While they may be a simple concept, they’re absolutely gorgeous to gaze at!
Click here for the tutorial from The Kitchen Table Classroom.
29. Rustic Christmas Ornament Jars
Looking for an atypical ornament to make this Christmas? Check out this idea for a rustic Christmas jar that you can fill with small holiday figurines. It’s almost like hanging a snowglobe on a tree!
Click here for the tutorial from Swanky Den.
30. Doilie Angel Wings Ornament
Upcycle vintage doilies by turning them into angel wing ornaments! This is a great way to reuse a few materials around the house (including denim loops from an old pair of jeans), as well as pine cones that could be found outside.
Click here for the tutorial from Pillar Box Blue.
31. Silhouette Ornament
Check out two variations on making DIY silhouette ornaments with this article. These ornaments are extra special, since you’re creating personal silhouettes based off of one’s photo – and they look great when hung on a Christmas tree!
Click here for the tutorial from Homemade Lovely.
32. Chalkboard Christmas Ball Ornament
Create these chalkboard ornaments just by using 3-5 materials! It takes less than five minutes to finish one, so you could easily personalize a batch for your friends and family and be all set for the finishing touches to your gift-giving this year.
Click here for the tutorial from Homemade Lovely.
33. Scrabble Tile Ornament
For a nifty gift idea, whip together this adorable “Let it snow” ornament made from Scrabble tiles and fake snow! You can even choose to personalize it with another greeting if you wish, but the idea is truly unique and bound to receive lots of compliments.
Click here for the tutorial from Crafts by Amanda.
34. Burlap Angel Ornament
These burlap angel ornaments add a rustic touch to any Christmas tree and serve as great gifts. Only five materials are required, and the DIY process is fairly straightforward. You can make quite a few in bulk to distribute to all of your loved ones this season!
Click here for the tutorial from The Country Chic Cottage.
For another angel ornament idea, check out this fabric one. Click here for the tutorial from La Creative Mama.
35. Beaded Angel Ornament
For a dazzling DIY project, check out this beautiful beaded angel ornament. Its body is made of a teardrop crystal, and you can personalize the wings by using paper or plastic materials.
Click here for the tutorial from Craft Bits.
36. Gumball Machine Ornament
These retro gumball machine ornaments bring a smile to the face of everyone who sees them. Everyone has fond memories of gumball machines, and these little ornaments mix the whimsy of a snowglobe with the joy of childhood memories.
Click here for the tutorial from Unique Gifter.
36. Cinnamon Stick Birdhouse Tree Ornament
Learn how to turn simple cinnamon sticks into cute Christmas tree ornaments with this DIY project. Plus, they double as a birdhouse tree with the adorable topper!
Click here for the tutorial from Craft Bits.
37. Christmas Bell Ornament
To add some jingle (literally) to your holidays, try your hand at making these cute Christmas bell ornaments that can be personalized with season greetings of your choice. This is a budget DIY project that looks like it was store bought!
Click here for the tutorial from Craft Bits.
38. String Ornament
Beautiful string ornaments don’t need to cost a fortune! You can make one yourself with materials at a very low cost – you just need a balloon, cotton string, mod podge, and ribbon.
Click here for the tutorial from One Crazy Mom.
39. Hot Cocoa Ornament
This Christmas, why not give two gifts in one – an ornament that also includes ingredients that you can EAT? This nifty ornament includes all the ingredients one needs to make a hearty cup of hot cocoa (even with marshmallows and M&M’s!), and it can also be included in a festive gift basket themed with mugs and a blanket to round out the theme.
Click here for the tutorial from One Crazy Mom.
40. Fragant and Festive Pomander Ornament
A pomander is a fragrant and festive decoration you can display at home, or give as a Christmas gift. It’s a creative way to turn an orange into a work of art for any tree!
Click here for the tutorial from Pink Fortitude.
41. Popsicle Stick Personalized Sled Ornament
With a few simple items from your local dollar store, you can make these adorable little sleds! They’re also easy to personalize and decorate, which makes it an ideal gift for anyone.
Click here for the tutorial from Chaotically Yours.
42. Unicorn Spit and Metallic Ornament
These DIY ornaments yield a luxurious look that look even nicer than ones sold in stores! Unicorn spit stain and glaze is a non-toxic gel that can be used on many surfaces, including plastic or glass ornaments at very low cost. These are lavish ornaments you’d imagine to be on a Christmas tree in Vegas!
Click here for the tutorial from Unique Creations by Anita.
For a similar ornament idea, check out this acrylic poured ornament. Click here for the tutorial from Homebody Hall.
43. Snowflake Toilet Paper Roll Ornament
This makes a stunning and cheap upcycle project. Magically turn toilet paper rolls into beautiful snowflake ornaments that will look intricately ornate from afar!
Click here for the tutorial from Colorful Craft Corner.
44. Golden Snitch Ornament
For Potterheads, this DIY golden snitch ornament is a true winner! It’s an adorably creative way to sprinkle a bit of magic onto anyone’s tree, and it’s something that would make Harry and his Quidditch team proud.
Click here for the tutorial from Parties with a Cause.
45. Origami Waterbomb Ornament
Traditional origami waterbombs make fantastic Christmas ornaments for your tree – just string some fishing line through them, and you’ve got beautiful decorations on the cheap! They’re easy to make and you can use gift wrap to make them more festive or personalized.
Click here for the tutorial from Origami Expressions.
46. Mason Jar Ring Map Ornament
These ornaments place significance in one’s hometown or an area where one loves traveling. Not only are these ornaments easy to whip together, but they tell a story about the destination that will last a lifetime whenever you put up the tree!
Click here for the tutorial from Happy Mothering.
47. Blackboard Star Ornament
These ornaments are a fun and beautiful way to make something special for your loved ones. Customize a message on your blackboard star ornament to create a unique and meaningful memory.
Click here for the tutorial from Practical Whimsy Designs.
48. Peppermint Candy Ornaments
Want to make adorable-shaped ornaments out of Christmas cookie cutters? Well, you can!
Check out this inventive idea from Moore or Less Cooking and the Pinterest fairies. Who knew that peppermint candies could be turned into something long-lasting and fun?
Click here for the tutorial from Moore or Less Cooking.
49. Gift Box Ornament
This beautiful gift box ornament is fun and inexpensive to make, with supplies from the dollar store! No one will even know that the box is actually made out of Jenga blocks. Nifty, right?
Click here for the tutorial from Crayons and Cravings.
50. Wedding Invitation Ornament
Since your wedding is only one day of your life, you should preserve the memories for years to come in every way possible. A perfect way to do this is by making this easy DIY wedding invitation ornament for Christmas.
Click here for the tutorial from Jules Buono.
51. DIY Birth Announcement Photo Ornament
Make this easy DIY ornament for new parents using the birth announcement they sent you! It’s such a sweet keepsake that they can hang on the tree every year to commemorate a special memory.
Click here for the tutorial from The Post Partum Party.
For a DIY ornament for baby’s first Christmas, check out this tutorial here from Felt with Love Designs.
52. Mini Tobacco Christmas Ornament
During the holidays, many people spruce up their tobacco baskets with greenery or wreaths. Why not do the same thing, but on a miniature scale? These ornaments are perfect to give to someone who loves rustic or farmhouse decor.
Click here for the tutorial from Elle Marie Home.
DIY ORNAMENTS TO MAKE WITH KIDS
It’s always more memorable to make ornaments with the whole family, so we’ve included some kid-friendly ornament ideas for you to go craft-happy with. Enjoy these cute ornament ideas, all of which are sure to add some dazzle to your tree!
53. Keepsake Thumbprint Ornament
To gift a timeless ornament, this DIY gift is perfect to immortalize your family’s thumbprints. You can also stuff the ornament with cotton or faux snow to make it pop on the tree a bit more.
Click here for the tutorial from The Moody Blonde.
54. Birdseed Ornament
If you’re looking for a cute DIY activity with your kids while making a few gifts in the process, these birdseed ornaments are perfect. Plus, everyone will have the joy of birdwatching when they feed off of them outside!
Click here for the tutorial from Take Them Outside.
55. Wine Cork Snowman Ornament
Wine cork snowman ornaments are an easy Christmas craft project great for adults and children alike. Plus, they’re a great way to reuse old wine corks!
Click here for the tutorial from Crayons and Cravings (@crayonsandcravings on Insta).
56. Galaxy Melted Christmas Ornament
These galaxy melted crayon Christmas ornaments are so easy and can be made in minutes with just a few simple supplies. Plus, you can combine as many colors as you want to get the perfect swirl combo!
Click here for the tutorial from Two Kids and a Coupon (@2kidsandacoupon on Insta).
57. Ribbon Star Ornament
This beautiful ribbon star ornament is easier to make than it looks. It adds some rustic flair to your tree, and it’s an easy DIY project to take up with the kids.
Click here for the tutorial from Cenzerely Yours.
58. Funky Christmas Tree Ornament
These funky Christmas tree ornaments are quirky and perfect for using up scraps of leftover holiday materials. They’re kid-sized as well, and the activity is easy for the whole family to join in on.
Click here for the tutorial from The Inspiration Edit.
59. Wrapping Paper Ornament
Wondering what to do with your scraps of wrapping paper that usually get tossed? Make these super simple DIY ornaments with your kids! You can also use the ribbon cartons, so every little bit is being used.
Click here for the tutorial from Craft and Sparkle, which also includes instructions on a DIY Christmas tree and garland:
60. Rainbow Fish Ornament
For fans of Marcus Pfister’s “The Rainbow Fish” book, these ornaments are perfect for adding some dazzle to a tree. They’re made with flour and food coloring, and they’ll last for years!
Click here for the tutorial from Two Pink Peonies.
61. Felt Unicorn Ornament
Everyone loves a bit of unicorn magic, right? This felt ornament is easy to sew with simple hand stitching and will add some Christmas magic to any tree.
Click here for the tutorial from Sum of Their Stories.
62. Cinnamon Ornaments
You only need TWO ingredients to make these super simple cinnamon ornaments! They’re a great DIY holiday craft or fun Christmas gift for both kids and adults to make and customize.
Click here for the tutorial from Strength and Sunshine.
For another version of old-fashioned cinnamon ornaments, check out this idea. Click here for the tutorial from Spaceships & Laser Beams.
63. Rudolph Ornament
These easy Rudolph ornaments are fun to make and share this holiday season. They assemble easily with basic supplies and are perfect for making with the kids.
Click here for the tutorial from Crafting Reality with Sara.
64. Mini Mickey Bell Ornament
Want to make a dozen Christmas ornaments to give away as gifts for only $3? All you need are two sizes of bells, super glue, and thin ribbon. These are so easy to make and great to add some jingly flair to any tree!
Click here for the tutorial from Crafting Reality with Sara.
65. Gingerbread House Ornament
Kids and adults will love making these adorable gingerbread house ornaments to hang on the tree or give as a special gift! Plus, the sky’s the limit – there’s no right or wrong way to paint these, as long as one’s imagination is used.
Click here for the tutorial from Projects with Kids.
66. Paper Clip Angel Ornament
For a wonderful DIY project that the kids can refine their motor skills with, try making these paper clip angel ornaments. They’re simple, only require a few basic materials, and extremely lightweight to pack up in one’s ornament collection!
Click here for the tutorial from Super Mom Hacks.
We Hope You Enjoyed This List of Christmas Ornament Ideas!
Did this list further inspire you to make some crafty Christmas ornaments for your friends and family? We hope it helped you in your search for Christmas gifts this year! Let us know in the comments if you have further ideas for turning ornaments into creative presents.
