Every year, when December rolls around, I find myself dreaming of the perfect holiday ornaments that showcase our favorite family memories. You know that feeling when you look at an old photo and it instantly brings back laughter and warmth? Why not capture those moments in something beautiful we can hang on our tree? Last year, my kids and I got a bit crafty, using a few scattered pictures from our summer vacation. Watching their faces light up as they decorated was the highlight of my season! I mean, who wouldn’t want to see little Timmy’s goofy grin staring back from the branches year after year? It makes me wonder, what precious memories do we want to keep close during the holidays? Let’s make these ornaments not just decorations, but heartwarming reminders of the love that fills our home.
Items You’ll Need
- Glossy Photo Paper
- Printer
- Scissors
- Glue or Mod Podge
- Ornament Blanks
- Decorative Ribbon or String
- Paint or Markers
- Glitter
- Clear Sealant Spray
- Photograph Editing Software
- Crafting Mat
- Stencils or Templates
- Baking Sheet (for drying)
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
First things first, I gather all my supplies on the crafting table: glossy photo paper, my trusty printer, scissors, glue (or Mod Podge), ornament blanks, decorative ribbon, paint, markers, glitter, clear sealant spray, my photograph editing software, a crafting mat, stencils, and a baking sheet.
Step 2: Select and Edit Family Photos
I open my photograph editing software and choose the best family photos from our recent gatherings. I resize them to fit my ornament blanks and add some fun holiday-themed borders or text.
Step 3: Print the Photos
With my images all set, I load the glossy photo paper into the printer and hit print. The smell of fresh ink fills the air as the printer works its magic, and I can't wait to see the results.
Step 4: Cut Out the Photos
Once the prints are dry, I carefully cut out each photo, leaving a little edge if necessary for the ornament blank. I try to make the cuts as neat as possible.
Step 5: Prepare the Ornament Blanks
Next, I take the ornament blanks and ensure they are clean and ready for decoration. If they're plain, I decide if I want to paint or add a base layer first.
Step 6: Glue the Photos to the Blanks
Now it's time to glue! I apply a thin layer of glue (or Mod Podge) to the back of each photo and press it firmly onto each ornament blank. I make sure there are no air bubbles!
Step 7: Add Decorative Touches
With the photos attached, I dig into my stash of paints and markers to add little festive designs around the edges. I might use stencils to create fun shapes like stars or snowflakes.
Step 8: Sprinkle on the Glitter
Glitter makes everything better! I grab some glitter and sprinkle it over my wet paint to give the ornaments an extra sparkle—what is a holiday ornament without some bling?
Step 9: Seal and Protect
Once everything is dried, I take my clear sealant spray and give each ornament a light coating to protect my designs. It’s a little smelly, so I make sure I do this in a well-ventilated area.
Step 10: Add Ribbon or String
While the sealant dries, I cut lengths of decorative ribbon or string to attach to the top of each ornament. I tie it in a pretty bow and trim any excess.
Step 11: Display or Gift the Ornaments
Finally, the ornaments are ready! I hang some on the tree and wrap others up for gifts. I can’t wait to see the smiles on everyone’s faces when they receive them!