Eco-Friendly Christmas Ornaments DIY

Eco-Friendly Christmas Ornaments DIY

As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing more heartwarming than decorating your tree with ornaments crafted by your own hands. Not only does this add a unique, personal touch to your décor, it also helps cut down on waste. By using materials like brown paper bags, orange slices, and natural pine elements you can create beautiful, eco-friendly ornaments that celebrate nature’s gifts. Let’s dive right in!

1. Rustic Paper Star Ornaments (Made from Reused Brown Paper Bags)

Why Reuse Paper Bags?
Many of us accumulate brown paper bags throughout the year, whether from grocery stores or deliveries. Rather than tossing them out, turn them into something festive! Brown paper lends a warm, rustic feel that fits right into a cozy, natural Christmas theme.

What You’ll Need:

• Brown paper bags
• Pencil
• Scissors
• Non-toxic glue or double-sided tape
• Twine or ribbon for hanging
• Optional: Colored pencils, natural dyes, or eco-friendly paint for decoration

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Flatten & Draw: Lay the brown paper bag flat and smooth out any wrinkles. Use a pencil to draw simple shapes like stars, hearts, or even Christmas trees. Stars are a lovely classic!
2. Cut Out the Shapes: Carefully cut out your drawn shapes with scissors. For a more intricate look, create multiple layers (e.g., two or three star cutouts that you can glue together).
3. Add Dimension (Optional): If making layered stars, stack the shapes and use a small dab of non-toxic glue or double-sided tape between layers to add dimension and sturdiness.
4. Decorate: If you like, enhance the ornament with natural dyes, pressed leaves, or simple patterns using colored pencils. Consider subtle, natural-hued designs to keep the look eco-chic.
5. Attach a Hanger: Punch a small hole at the top (if shape allows) and thread a piece of twine or ribbon through it. Tie a knot to secure.
6. Hang & Enjoy: Place your new ornaments on the tree and admire how the warm brown tones complement your holiday greenery.

2. Festive Orange Slice Ornaments

Why Use Orange Slices?
Dried orange slices are a simple, fragrant, and stunning way to bring a pop of color to your tree. As the tree lights shine through their translucent surfaces, these ornaments glow beautifully. Plus, nothing is wasted—use the rest of the orange for juice or baking, and save the peels for zest!

What You’ll Need:

• Fresh oranges
• A sharp knife
• Baking sheet and parchment paper
• Twine or ribbon
• Optional: Cinnamon sticks or star anise for a more fragrant finish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Slice Oranges Evenly: Cut your oranges into thin slices, about 1/4-inch thick. Uniform thickness ensures even drying.
2. Dry the Slices:
   • Preheat your oven to about 200°F (93°C).
   • Lay orange slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
   • Bake for 2-3 hours, turning slices every 30 minutes, until they are completely dry but still maintain their shape and color.
   • Keep an eye on them to prevent browning; you want a gently dried, slightly translucent look.
3. Cool & Thread: Once cooled, gently poke a small hole near the top of each slice (a toothpick or skewer works well) and thread a piece of twine or ribbon through.
4. Add Extra Touches (Optional): Tie on a small cinnamon stick or a piece of star anise with the ribbon for an extra holiday fragrance.
5. Hang & Enjoy: Drape these shimmering, citrusy ornaments on your tree or garland. Their natural beauty and light fragrance will add a delightful sensory experience to your holiday décor.

3. Nature’s Own: Pine Branch and Pine Cone Ornaments

Why Use Pine Branches and Cones?
If you have access to pine trees, fallen branches and cones are abundant natural treasures. They’re perfect for adding a woodland, cozy charm to your Christmas tree—no artificial materials required. Just be sure to collect responsibly, taking only what has naturally fallen to the ground and leaving habitat material for wildlife.

What You’ll Need:

• Small pine branches or twigs
• Pine cones
• Twine or thin wire
• Optional: Small bits of natural burlap, sprigs of rosemary, or dried cranberries for extra décor

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Clean & Prepare Materials: Shake out pine cones and branches to remove any dirt or insects. If they are damp, let them dry completely at room temperature before using.
2. Bundle Small Arrangements: Gather a small cluster of pine needles with a pine cone, or combine a twig with a pine cone and perhaps a sprig of rosemary. Experiment with shapes and proportions until you find a pleasing arrangement.
3. Secure With Twine or Wire: Gently wrap twine or thin wire around your bundle to hold the pieces together. Tie a loop at the top to hang. If you prefer a more decorative finish, add a burlap bow or dried cranberry accents by threading them onto the twine.
4. Keep it Natural: These ornaments look best in their natural hues and textures. The subtle greens, browns, and reds evoke a woodland scene right in your living room.
5. Hang & Enjoy: Place them on the tree for a simple, earthy ornament that smells like a winter forest and brings a bit of the outdoors into your home.

Tips for an Eco-Friendly Christmas Decor

• Mix & Match: Combine your paper stars, dried orange slices, and pine cone bundles for a beautifully varied display of textures and colors.
• Use Natural Light: Allow your ornaments to catch the soft glow of holiday lights. The dried orange slices will shine, and the paper ornaments will cast gentle shadows.
• Compost & Reuse: At the end of the season, many of these ornaments—like the orange slices and pine branches—are compostable. The paper stars can be saved for next year or recycled, and the pine cones can be reused or returned to nature.

By opting for these eco-friendly DIY ornaments, you’re making a statement that the holiday season can be both beautiful and gentle on the planet. Reusing, repurposing, and celebrating natural materials fosters a sense of gratitude and harmony with nature—just the kind of spirit we want to spread during the holidays.

Happy Crafting and Happy Holidays from Wholesome Linen!