The holiday season is the perfect time for crafting, especially when it comes to making easy and festive decorations with your little ones. If you’re looking for the easiest Christmas craft to do with your kids, look no further than glitter pinecone ornaments! This simple and budget-friendly craft is a fantastic way to add a touch of sparkle to your holiday decor while spending quality time with your family.
Why Glitter Pinecone Ornaments Are the Perfect Holiday Craft
One of the best things about making glitter pinecone ornaments is that it’s a craft suited for all ages. Toddlers, preschoolers, and even older children can participate, making this a great family bonding activity. Plus, it requires only a few supplies that you may already have at home or can easily find at a craft store.
Another reason this is the easiest Christmas craft to do with your kids is that it allows for creativity and customization. You can use different colors of glitter, experiment with metallic or iridescent finishes, and even add small decorative elements like ribbons or mini pom-poms.
Supplies Needed
To get started on your glitter pinecone ornaments, you will need:
- Pinecones (gathered from outside or store-bought)
- Mod Podge (or any craft glue)
- Glitter (fine, chunky, or a mix of both)
- Aluminum pie tins or disposable plates
- Fishing line or dental floss (for hanging)
- Scissors
- Small paintbrush (optional)
- Newspaper or a disposable table cover (to contain the glitter mess!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pinecones
If you’ve collected pinecones from outside, make sure they are clean and dry. Shake off any dirt, rinse them with water, and let them dry completely before starting. For an extra step, you can bake them at a low temperature (200°F) for about 30 minutes to eliminate any bugs hiding inside.
2. Set Up Your Workstation
Cover your table with newspaper or a disposable tablecloth to catch any glitter fallout. Pour Mod Podge or craft glue into one of the aluminum pie tins or onto a disposable plate.
3. Coat the Pinecones with Glue
Dip each pinecone into the Mod Podge, rolling it around gently to ensure the tips are well covered. If preferred, use a small paintbrush to apply the glue more precisely. Be sure not to oversaturate, as too much glue can clump up the glitter.
4. Add the Glitter Magic
Hold the pinecone over another aluminum pie tin or disposable plate and sprinkle glitter generously over the glued areas. Rotate the pinecone to cover all sides evenly. Shake off any excess glitter back into the plate so you can reuse it.
5. Let Them Dry
Place the glittered pinecones on a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper and let them dry completely. This may take a few hours, depending on the amount of glue used.
6. Attach a Hanging String
Once the pinecones are dry, tie a piece of dental floss or fishing line around the top stem of each pinecone. Make a loop for easy hanging on your Christmas tree or garland.
Decorating Ideas for Glitter Pinecone Ornaments
Now that you have your beautiful glitter pinecone ornaments, here are a few creative ways to use them:
- Christmas Tree Decorations: Hang them on your tree for a rustic yet festive look.
- Table Centerpieces: Place them in a decorative bowl or scatter them across your holiday table.
- Garlands: String them together to create a nature-inspired garland for your mantel or staircase.
- Gift Toppers: Attach a pinecone ornament to wrapped gifts for an extra-special touch.
- Lantern Fillers: Combine them with ornaments inside a decorative lantern for a warm holiday glow..
How to Store Glitter Pinecone Ornaments
To keep your pinecone ornaments looking fresh year after year, store them in a single layer inside gallon-sized plastic bags or an airtight container. They are surprisingly durable and can be reused for many holiday seasons. I’ve personally used the same glittered pinecones for over a decade!
Final Thoughts
Making glitter pinecone ornaments is truly the easiest Christmas craft to do with your kids. Not only is it simple and mess-friendly, but it also allows children to express their creativity while helping decorate for the holidays. Plus, you’ll cherish the memories of crafting together for years to come.
So grab some pinecones, gather your glitter, and enjoy a magical crafting session with your little ones this holiday season!
Happy holidays and happy crafting!
