Decorating the Christmas tree is one of my favorite parts of the holiday season. There’s something magical about pulling out the ornaments year after year, especially the ones with personal meaning.
Over the years, I’ve started making my own DIY ornaments, and now my tree is full of memories, each ornament tells a story.
If you’re looking to add a personal touch to your holiday décor, I’ve got you covered! Here are 10 easy and fun DIY personalized Christmas ornament ideas that anyone can try, whether you’re a crafting pro or just dipping your toes into the DIY world.
1. Photo Memory Ornaments
One of the most special ways to personalize your Christmas tree is by turning your favorite memories into ornaments.
Every year, I love printing out a few family photos and finding creative ways to turn them into decorations.
You can do this with clear glass or plastic baubles, just pop a small print inside and you’re good to go! Sometimes, I add a little glitter or faux snow to make it extra festive.
These make great gifts too! One year, I gave a set of photo ornaments to my parents, and they loved hanging up moments from our family vacations. It’s a wonderful way to relive those memories each Christmas!
2. Hand-Painted Wooden Ornaments
If you’re looking for a rustic, handcrafted vibe, try making hand-painted wooden ornaments. Wooden slices or cutouts are super easy to find at craft stores, and they’re the perfect blank canvas.
You don’t have to be a professional artist — trust me, my snowflakes are far from perfect, but they still look amazing on the tree.
These give off a homey, rustic vibe, and the best part is, they’ll last for years to come. Plus, they’re great for kids!
I’ve had my little ones paint their own wooden ornaments, and it’s so fun to see their designs evolve as they get older!
3. Glitter Monogram Ornaments
Who doesn’t love a little glitter during the holidays? Monogram ornaments are a simple but stylish way to add a personal touch to your tree.
You can use initials, names, or even holiday words like “Joy” or “Merry.” These are perfect if you want your tree to have a cohesive, elegant look while still feeling personal.
I did these for all the members of my family a few years back. I had so much glitter on me by the end of the project, I looked like a disco ball, but it was worth it!
Each ornament adds a little shimmer to the tree, and guests always ask how I made them!
4. Salt Dough Keepsake Ornaments
Salt dough ornaments are classic, and they’re one of the easiest and cheapest DIY projects you can do. Plus, they’re a great project for the whole family.
I’ve made handprint ornaments with my kids every year, and it’s so sweet to see how tiny their hands were in years past. These ornaments become keepsakes you’ll treasure forever.
Not only do these look adorable on the tree, but they also make wonderful gifts for grandparents or relatives who live far away. The personal touch of a child’s handprint can bring a lot of joy!
5. Embroidered Felt Ornaments
For a softer, homemade feel, embroidered felt ornaments are a perfect choice. These take a little more time, but they’re worth it.
I love curling up with a needle and thread and stitching little designs while watching holiday movies.
These ornaments have a warm, handmade quality that you just can’t get from store-bought decorations. Plus, they make your tree feel a little cozier!
6. Metallic Vinyl Baubles
If you want something a bit more modern and polished, try using metallic vinyl to personalize plain ornaments.
I invested in a vinyl cutting machine a few years ago, and it has been a game-changer for my DIY projects. You can easily cut out custom lettering, names, or designs and apply them to baubles.
I love pairing these with bold, colorful ribbons to create a sleek and chic look on the tree. They really stand out against twinkling lights!
7. Customized Chalkboard Ornaments
Chalkboard ornaments are great because they’re reusable and changeable!
I use these to write different messages each year, and sometimes I even let my kids take over and write fun holiday phrases or draw little doodles.
These ornaments are super versatile and great if you love switching things up each holiday season!
8. Nature-Inspired Ornaments
I’ve always loved bringing elements from nature into my holiday décor.
Pinecones, twigs, and acorns make perfect ornaments, especially when paired with a little glitter or metallic paint. It’s a great way to connect with nature during the winter months.
These ornaments give your tree a cozy, natural feel, and they’re eco-friendly too!
9. Decoupage Map Ornaments
One year, I made ornaments for all the places my family had traveled to. We took small pieces of maps and decoupaged them onto baubles, highlighting the cities that held special memories.
It’s a great way to reflect on all the adventures we’ve had together.
Every year when I hang these, I’m reminded of the fun times we’ve shared in those places, and it makes the tree even more meaningful!
10. DIY Snow Globe Ornaments
Who doesn’t love a good snow globe? You can make your own mini snow globes using clear ornaments.
Fill them with mini Christmas trees, tiny figurines, or even photos, and top them off with some faux snow or glitter.
These are always a hit with kids, and they add a touch of whimsy to any tree!
There’s something truly special about a tree filled with homemade, personalized ornaments. Whether you’re creating photo memory baubles, painting wooden slices, or crafting with felt, each DIY ornament brings a bit of heart and soul into your holiday decorations.
Plus, making these ornaments is a great way to spend quality time with family, and they often become cherished keepsakes for years to come.
So grab your crafting supplies, and let’s make this Christmas tree the most personal one yet!