Ornaments from nature
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By Andrew Holsinger | University of Illinois Extension
As the vibrant colors and fragrances of flowers have faded from the outdoor landscape, the journey towards winter compels us to seek solace and beauty indoors. Embracing nature by incorporating its elements into our holiday décor is a delightful way to infuse warmth and creativity into the winter season. One enchanting avenue to achieve this is by crafting ornaments from natural items, tapping into the untapped potential that the outdoor landscape still holds.
It’s a great time to venture outdoors to explore what natural treasures to bring inside. Twigs, acorn caps, seed pods, and pinecones, among other natural finds, linger patiently, awaiting transformation into charming decorations. These simple yet abundant materials offer a canvas of boundless creativity.
Pinecones, for instance, are versatile elements that can be collected and stored for prolonged use. Their innate beauty can be harnessed in its natural state or altered through techniques such as bleaching, imparting a fascinating effect. Whether adorned individually or grouped to enhance swags or garlands, pinecones exude an understated elegance.
Some natural items have a better quality the earlier they are found. Others gain a natural patina to add to their charm. Floral dyes can be used to enhance dried flowers which can be added as decoration.
Twigs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, lending themselves to a myriad of forms and fashions. The creative spectrum spans from two-dimensional arrangements to three-dimensional sculptures. Crafting miniature Christmas trees, assembling snowflakes, or decorative stars are just a glimpse into the vast array of possibilities.
Gather small twigs and prune them as needed with a pair of small pruners. Binding the twigs together using a hot glue gun or incorporating string adds both stability and accents to your creations.
Tree cookies, created from cross-sections of branches, become versatile platforms for various decorations. Incorporate your own touch of personalization and decorative flair by choosing from a variety of techniques to decorate tree cookies, coloring, painting, woodburning, etc.
However, beyond the aesthetic rewards, crafting these natural ornaments can also be a wonderful opportunity for bonding with family or friends. Spending quality time together, engaging in the process of transforming raw elements into festive treasures, becomes a shared experience that magnifies the joy of the season. Whether young or old, each friend or family member can contribute their unique touch, fostering a sense of togetherness and creativity.
