Christmas Day is a time to create joyful memories with loved ones. It’s a day filled with laughter, connection, and traditions, but it can also be a wonderful opportunity to make something special together. This year, why not try a simple yet meaningful craft that everyone can enjoy? DIY holiday keepsake ornaments are not only fun to make but also an inclusive activity that allows everyone to get creative, no matter their age or ability.
Let’s dive into how you can set up this craft, adapt it for accessibility, and make it a cherished part of your Christmas traditions.
Why Keepsake Ornaments?
Keepsake ornaments hold sentimental value and are a great way to remember the special moments you’ve shared. Every ornament tells a story—whether it’s a child’s handprint, a swirl of their favorite colors, or a little message that warms your heart. These ornaments can be revisited year after year, adding a personal touch to your holiday décor.
What makes this craft even better is that it’s adaptable, which means everyone can participate, whether they love painting, decorating, or simply putting their unique spin on things.
What You’ll Need
Gather these materials to get started:
- Clear plastic or shatterproof ornaments (available at most craft stores or online)
- Acrylic paints in a variety of colors
- Paintbrushes or paint pens
- Fun fillers like pom-poms, glitter, sequins, or small beads
- Ribbons or twine for hanging
- Glue (non-toxic and quick-drying is best)
- Stencils or stickers for designs
- Adaptive tools like easy-grip brushes or scoops
- Paper towels or a washable mat for easy cleanup
Getting Set Up
Before you start, create a comfortable and welcoming space where everyone feels at ease. Set up a table or workspace with enough room for everyone to spread out their materials. If you have guests who use wheelchairs or other mobility aids, make sure the table height works for them. Place all the supplies in trays or containers to keep things organized and easy to access.
Lighting is important, too. Use bright but soft lighting to make the space inviting without being overwhelming. For those who are sensitive to noise, keep background sounds to a minimum—maybe a soft instrumental holiday playlist if it feels right. The goal is to create a relaxed environment where creativity can shine.
How to Make Your Ornaments
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your ornaments:
1. Design Your Ornament
Start by deciding how you want your ornament to look. Some people might love painting their ornaments with festive designs, while others might prefer filling theirs with colorful pom-poms, glitter, or beads. Show a few examples for inspiration, but encourage everyone to make their design unique.
2. Painting the Outside
If painting is your choice, grab your brushes or paint pens and let the creativity flow! Add stripes, polka dots, stars, or even simple handprints for a personal touch. Stencils are great for those who prefer structured designs or need a little extra guidance.
Adaptations: Use foam brushes with large handles for easy gripping. Paint pens or markers can provide better control for those who find brushes tricky to manage. For individuals who struggle with fine motor skills, sponge stamps can make painting more accessible.
3. Filling the Inside
For those who prefer a mess-free option, fill the clear ornament with materials like sequins, beads, or colorful pom-poms. Use a funnel or small scoop to make filling easier, and let participants mix and match materials to their heart’s content.
Adaptations: Provide pre-measured cups of fillers for easier handling. Use tools like long-handled scoops or lightweight funnels for participants with limited dexterity.
4. Assembling and Decorating
Once your ornament is painted or filled, secure the top with the ornament cap. Add a ribbon or twine loop for hanging—this step can be done ahead of time if needed. For the final touch, encourage participants to write their name, a date, or a short message on the ornament using paint pens or stickers.
Adaptations: Pre-tie ribbons for those who may find knots difficult, or use clip-on hooks as an alternative. Large-print or tactile stickers are a great option for participants with visual impairments.
Making It Inclusive and Fun
This craft is all about ensuring that everyone can participate and feel proud of what they create. Here are a few extra tips for inclusion:
- For Sensory Sensitivities: Offer gloves or aprons for those who prefer less direct contact with materials like paint or glue. Use unscented supplies for a more neutral experience.
- For Mobility Challenges: Arrange the workspace to allow easy movement and make sure materials are within reach. Use adaptive tools like grips or clamps to make tasks easier.
- For Non-Speaking Participants: Provide visual aids, communication boards, or AAC devices so everyone can express their choices.
- For Younger Participants: Pair them with an adult or buddy to assist with trickier steps while letting them make decisions about their design.
Making the Most of the Experience
Crafting together isn’t just about the ornaments—it’s about the time you spend with loved ones. To make the activity even more memorable, create an atmosphere filled with holiday cheer. Set the tone with festive decorations, serve some hot cocoa, and encourage everyone to share a favorite Christmas memory as they craft.
After the ornaments are complete, admire everyone’s work by hanging them on the tree or displaying them on a decorative stand. If you want to take it a step further, consider wrapping the ornaments for participants to take home as a keepsake of the day.
A Tradition to Treasure
What makes this craft so special is how flexible it is. Over time, you can adapt it to include new materials, designs, or themes. It’s also a great way to bring people together, even if they’re not in the same place. Virtual crafting sessions or mailed ornament kits can help include loved ones from afar.
The ornaments you create today become part of your family’s story, and revisiting them each year adds a new layer of meaning. They’re not just decorations—they’re reminders of the joy, laughter, and love shared during the holiday season.
Sharing the Joy
If this activity brings you joy, consider sharing it with others. Host an inclusive crafting session at your local community center, church, or school. Share photos of your ornaments and the adaptations you used to inspire others to try accessible crafting. Small acts like these spread the message that inclusion matters and that everyone deserves to feel the magic of the season.
A Christmas Filled with Connection
Crafting keepsake ornaments on Christmas Day is more than just a fun activity—it’s a way to bring people together and create something meaningful. Whether your ornament is painted with festive designs or filled with glitter and pom-poms, the most important thing is the connection you build while making it.
As you hang your finished ornaments on the tree, take a moment to celebrate the creativity, laughter, and love that went into them. These ornaments aren’t just decorations; they’re a symbol of the joy and inclusion that make the holidays truly special.
Wishing you a Christmas full of warmth, creativity, and connection. May your day be bright, your ornaments be beautiful, and your heart be full. Merry Christmas! 🎄
Until next Monday, stay connected and keep advocating!