Crafting Memories: DIY Handprint Ornaments for Cherished Keepsakes

‘Tis the season for creating lasting memories! One delightful and sentimental way to capture the essence of the holidays is by making DIY handprint ornaments. Whether you’re looking for a fun family activity or helping your children make homemade gifts, these personalized ornaments are a heartwarming addition to any tree. Let’s dive into the joy of creating handmade treasures and explore some alternative ideas to make your ornaments extra special.

Materials:

Air-dry clay or salt dough
Rolling pin
Straw or toothpick
Acrylic paints
Paintbrushes
Ribbon or twine
Clear sealant (optional)

How To Create Handprint Ornaments:

Prepare the Dough:
- If using air-dry clay, roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness. If using salt dough, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of salt, and 1 cup of water until a dough forms.
Create Handprints:
- Have your child press their hand firmly into the dough to create a handprint. If you’re making an ornament, use a straw or toothpick to create a hole near the top of the ornament for hanging.
Let it Dry:
- Allow the dough to air-dry completely. This may take a day or two, depending on the thickness of the dough. If using salt dough, you can also bake it (250 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 hours).
Painting:
- Once dry, let your child paint the handprint using acrylic paints. They can get creative with colors and patterns.
Add Details:
- Use additional colors to add details to the ornament, such as the year, your child’s name, or festive designs.
Seal (Optional):
- If you want to preserve the ornament, you can apply a clear sealant. This step is optional but can help protect the paint and keep the ornament looking vibrant.
Attach Ribbon or Twine:
- Once everything is dry and sealed, thread a ribbon or twine through the hole at the top of the ornament for hanging.