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DIY Wood Slice Ornaments: How to Make and Decorate Your Own Rustic Holiday Décor

Wood slice ornaments are the perfect way to add a rustic, personal touch to your holiday decorations. These versatile crafts can be customized for any occasion, making them great for Christmas trees, gifts, or even year-round décor. In this guide, you'll learn how to make wood slice ornaments step-by-step and discover creative ideas for decorating them.


wood slice ornaments an easy DIY for christmas

Why Wood Slice Ornaments Are Perfect for DIY Projects

Wood slice ornaments combine simplicity and charm. Their natural texture adds a cozy, rustic vibe to your décor, and they’re easy to customize for any theme or style. Plus, they’re budget-friendly, environmentally conscious, and great for crafters of all skill levels.


What You’ll Need to Get Started

Before diving into the steps, gather these materials:

  • Wood slices: Pre-cut slices or DIY from dried branches.

  • Drill: For creating holes for hanging.

  • Twine, ribbon, or string: To hang your finished ornaments.

  • Paints: Acrylic or chalk paint for vibrant or matte finishes.

  • Markers or pens: For adding details and lettering.

  • Stencils: To achieve precise shapes and patterns.

  • Wood burner (optional): For engraved or pyrography designs.

  • Mod Podge or sealant: To protect your designs.



Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Wood Slice Ornaments

Step 1: Prepare Your Wood Slices

  • If cutting your own, use dried branches and slice them into discs about ¼ inch thick.

  • Sand the surfaces until smooth to ensure a clean canvas for decorating.

  • Drill a small hole near the edge of each slice for the string. This will make it easy to hang your finished ornament.


Step 2: Choose a Decoration Method

Wood slices are incredibly versatile! Here are a few popular techniques:

  1. Painting: Cover the surface with acrylic paint for bright, colorful designs. Chalk paint works well for rustic or farmhouse-style ornaments.

  2. Drawing or Lettering: Use permanent markers, calligraphy pens, or paint pens to add quotes, names, or intricate details. Stencils can help you achieve clean lines.

  3. Wood Burning: A wood-burning tool allows you to engrave designs like snowflakes, trees, or personal messages. This technique adds a classic, rustic feel.

  4. Decoupage: Apply photos, decorative paper, or pressed flowers using Mod Podge. Seal with an additional layer of Mod Podge to protect your design.

  5. Glitter and Embellishments: Add sparkle with glitter, rhinestones, or gold leaf for an elegant holiday look.


Step 3: Decorate Your Wood Slices

This is the fun part—let your creativity shine! Here are some ideas for what to put on your ornaments:

  • Holiday Themes: Snowflakes, Christmas trees, Santa hats, or candy canes.

  • Personalized Designs: Names, initials, or special dates to commemorate events.

  • Rustic Nature Art: Forest scenes, animals, or botanical patterns.

  • Abstract Designs: Geometric shapes, watercolor effects, or mandalas.

  • Family Photos: Turn your ornaments into keepsakes by adding small pictures.

Pro Tip: Mix and match techniques! For example, paint a base layer, then use a stencil for lettering or add a glittery border.


Step 4: Seal the Design

To protect your hard work, seal your finished ornament with a clear coat. Brush on Mod Podge or use a spray sealant. This step ensures your ornament lasts for years and prevents colors from fading.


Step 5: Add String for Hanging

Thread twine, ribbon, or string through the drilled hole and tie it into a loop. For a rustic look, use natural jute twine. For a festive touch, opt for colorful ribbon.



Creative Uses for Wood Slice Ornaments

  1. Christmas Tree Décor: Hang them on your tree for a rustic, personalized touch.

  2. Gift Tags: Use smaller slices as decorative tags for wrapped presents.

  3. Year-Round Décor: Create designs for other holidays or everyday use, like floral patterns for spring.

  4. Party Favors: Customize them for weddings, birthdays, or baby showers.

  5. Photo Ornaments: Add pictures of loved ones for sentimental keepsakes.


Tips for Success

  • Sanding Is Key: Smooth surfaces ensure your paint or marker glides on easily.

  • Test Designs First: Practice on a scrap piece of wood to perfect your technique.

  • Mix Mediums: Combine painting, lettering, and embellishments for unique, multidimensional designs.


Final Thoughts

Wood slice ornaments are a simple yet charming DIY project that allows you to create unique, heartfelt décor. Whether you’re making them as gifts, for your Christmas tree, or just as a fun crafting activity, these ornaments are sure to delight. With so many creative possibilities, you’ll want to make an entire set!

So grab your materials and start crafting your own rustic wood slice ornaments today. Share your creations on social media and inspire others to get crafty this holiday season!



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