The holiday season is filled with traditions shared by families all over the globe, as well as annual festivities that are unique to individual families. But the custom of putting up a festive tree and trimming it with sparkly, shimmery ornaments — many of which might bring certain heartwarming memories to mind — is certainly one that people of various backgrounds enjoy.Ā
The tradition of hanging ornaments on Christmas trees in the US dates back to the 1890s, according to History.com. The first ornaments were imported from Germany when more and more families were hopping on the tree bandwagon, choosing especially large trees that reached from floor to ceiling.
The site notes that, in the early 20th century, Americans were especially fond of using homemade ornaments to decorate their magnificent Christmas trees. Those who came from Germany originally leaned toward sweets, such as apples, nuts, and marzipan cookies. Another favorite: popcorn, which was dyed bright colors and then strung together with berries and nuts.Ā
It's no surprise that once homes had electricity, more families opted to put glimmering string lights on their trees. And let's not forget how much families of the 1950s loved their tinsel and garlands, two items that, while not nearly as popular, are definitely still used today.
While the bells and whistles of decorating have evolved over the years, there's one thing that's remained constant: Little ones absolutely love creating ornaments and making their mark on the family tree. Parents also adore being able to wistfully look back at children's ornaments made over the years. One thing they don'tĀ love: glitter getting everywhere. (And as anyone who has ever worked with it while crafting knows, it gets everywhere!)
Thankfully, there are plenty of DIY ornaments for kids that don't involve the sparkly, messy stuff. Here are 20 cute, easy, and minimally messy ornament tutorials children are sure to love.
Button & Felt Ornaments
These cute button and felt ornaments from Cutesy Crafts have a rustic look and use supplies that won't create a mess!
Button Star Ornament
Fireflies + Mud Pies' button star ornament is a cute option that uses a wooden star, yellow buttons, and glue.
Beaded Snowflake Ornament
Kids love making these easy, budget-friendly beaded snowflakes.
3-D Paper Ornaments
These 3-D paper ornaments are not only simple to make, but they can brighten up any space (not just the tree!).
Clear Snowman Ornament
Cotton balls and clear ornaments from the dollar store are the main components for this cute, simple ornament.
Acrylic Pouring Ornaments
Kids can make these colorful ornaments with supervision and a few simple items from the craft or home improvement store.
Miniature Wreath Made with Felt
Better Homes & Gardens' tutorial makes it simple for kids to create these fun mini felt wreath ornaments.
Fingerprint Ornaments
The Happier Homemaker's tutorial shows how kids' fingerprints in acrylic paint can make for a cool ornament — and warm memories too.
Jingle Bell Christmas Tree Ornament
Check outĀ Buggy and Buddy blog's tutorial on this simple and sweet jingle bell Christmas tree ornament.
DIY Name Ornament
Kids can use alphabet beads and pipe cleaners to make these cute personalized name ornaments from By BMG.
Easy Salt Dough Ornament
Kids can fashion their own ornament designs from this simple salt dough.
Handprint Salt Dough Ornaments
With salt dough and paint, kids can make these handprint ornaments that will be so heartwarming to look back on over the years.
Easy Snowman Ornaments
All kids need are a few basic crafting supplies to make this super cute snowman ornament.
Mini Gumball Machine Ornament
Mini pom-poms are the main attraction of this realistic-looking gumball machine ornament.
One-Minute Paper Stars
With just square paper and scissors, these paper stars make for a quick, easy, and fun ornament craft for kids.
Pasta Ornaments
It's a trick that goes all the way back to preschool days: PBS Kids' tutorial shows how to use penne pasta to make cool ornaments.
Clay Fingerprint Ornaments
These cute clay ornaments from Cutesy Crafts feature kids' fingerprints and names.
Grinch Ornament
This tutorial fromĀ Ruffles & Rain Boots shows how to make a seriously cool Grinch ornament using a wood slice, paint, mini Santa hats, and green feathers.
Cinnamon Applesauce Ornament
From Hip2Save.com, these creative cinnamon applesauce ornaments will not only look but smell amazing!
Polar Bear Ornaments
Using yarn and felt, the kiddos can make these adorable polar bear ornaments from Parents.
