21 Handmade Christmas Ornaments You’ll Actually Want on the Tree

Upgrade your tree with these easy and awesome homemade baubles you can make in an afternoon.

By Abigail Matsumoto December 1, 2021

Here are your new favorite homemade Christmas ornaments!

Take your tree trimming to the next level! We’ve made a list of the best DIY Christmas ornaments for kids that are sure to bring on the holiday cheer without the cringe. From stained “glass” to popsicle stick creativity, these craft ideas for kids are the perfect way to deck the halls.

Popsicle Stick Sled

This adorable sled ornament only needs a few supplies (we love that candy cane-style twine!) and is a classic ornament you'll be proud to display for years. Get the how-to from Fireflies and Mudpies.

Wire Star

The hardest part about making this gorgeous ornament is setting up the template. You'll need an electric drill, nails and wood. After that, it'll come together easily. Alyssa and Carla will show you how it's done.

Popsicle Stick Snowflakes

Let it snow! This cute craft from The Best Ideas for Kids is a fun way to spend an afternoon, and if you have a reasonably stocked craft drawer, you may even have the materials on hand. Let the kids go wild with their personalized snowflakes—who says snow can’t be colorful?

Stained Glass Masterpiece

Who needs a stained glass window when your little artists can make their own melted bead ornaments? This idea, courtesy of One Little Project, is positively foolproof and oh-so-pretty. Round up some pony beads and cookie cutters, and you’re halfway there!

Mini Christmas Letter Ornament

It’s an ornament! It’s a keepsake! It’s an adorable idea from Mama. Papa. Bubba. This craft is a cinch to make and a great way to get the kids to practice their writing. Plus, you’ll be able to look back at these letters for years to come!

Crayon Creative

Ready for a craft that’s crazy creative and pretty, too? These ornaments from Clumsy Crafter fit the bill! They use up your broken crayons, are super simple, and only take a few minutes to make.

Trees for Your Tree

Top off your tree with more trees! It’s easy with this craft from One Little Project. The fuss is minimal, and the kids will love getting creative with Popsicle sticks. And the result? Too cute!

Happy Trees

These tree ornaments from Trisha Brink Design are cheerful, colorful, and beyond easy to make! All you need is Popsicle sticks, some glittery bling, and a few other materials to craft up a storm.

Pretty Pinecones

Paging Fun Mums has a great reason to go for a nature walk and collect some pinecones. With a quick coat of paint, some bling, and an artistic kiddo, you'll be able to jazz up your finds up and add them to your own tree at home.

Mason Jar Magic

Here’s the thing about these pretty ornaments from Aunt Peaches: they don’t require any special craftiness skills from you! And who couldn’t use a little more sparkle this holiday season?

Gingerbread People

Want to make your Christmas tree extra adorable? Just whip up a few of these ornaments from Mama. Papa. Bubba. Kids will love stirring up the gingerbread baking soda clay— not to mention the decorating!

Harry Potter Holiday

Treat your young wizards to a truly creative ornament craft! Lemon Lime Adventures shows how to make fun and glittery potion ornaments that channel all your fave magical concoctions. Wicked!

Cute-As-a-Peanut Snowmen

Who wouldn’t go nuts over these peanut snowmen from Evermine Occasions? The best part is that they’re pretty simple to whip up—and perfect for those wishing for a snowy holiday.

Salt Dough Keepsakes

Ah, here’s a classic for you—courtesy of Mommypotamus. If you made salt dough ornaments as a kid, there’s no time like the present to start the tradition with your own little elves.

Take It to the Baymax

On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate this ornament’s awesomeness? Little fans of Big Hero 6 will love this idea from This Fairytale Life. And it’s off-the-charts easy to make, too!

Thoughtful Thumbprints

Want to channel your inner Rudolph? Just take a cue from Little Bit Funky and add some reindeer thumbprint art to your tree! Best of all, these ornaments are super impressive but easy to make!

Birdseed Celebration

If your kids love bird-watching, then you’ve got to check out these ornaments from Saltwater-Kids. They’re perfect for all the feathered friends that visit your backyard—just hang them on a tree near a window and enjoy!

Recycled Poinsettias

Start saving those toilet paper rolls! With this super simple idea from Craft Klatch, you can turn regular ol’ cardboard into sparkly recycled poinsettia ornaments.

Recycled Reindeer

‘Tis the season for a recycling craft! With the help of Fireflies and Mud Pies, you can turn an old jar lid into an oh-so-cute reindeer ornament. It’s a great way to upcycle materials!

DIY Snow Globe Ornament

This super creative and easy-to-personalize ornament will surely be a family favorite. A DIY snow globe ornament! Jennifer Perkins breaks down what you need and how to create yours step-by-step here.