The holidays are my favorite time to get creative. There’s just something so special about pulling out the box of ornaments each year—each one telling its own little story. I love that moment when you unwrap one and instantly remember where it came from or who gave it to you. That’s what inspired me to start making custom ornaments—tiny keepsakes that hold big memories.
A Tradition Full of Memories
Growing up, Santa always brought us a new ornament every year—something that represented what we were into at the time. Maybe it was a favorite movie, a sport we played, or a new hobby we’d just discovered. Over time, those ornaments turned into a collection that told the story of our childhood.
When we each moved out, we had our own box of ornaments ready for our first tree. Social media ready, perfectly decorated trees might look beautiful, but they don’t tell a story. The best trees are the ones filled with memories—each ornament bringing a smile or a sweet reminder of moments past.
Why I Love Making Custom Ornaments
One of my favorite things about creating custom ornaments is knowing that each one means something to someone. It might represent a hobby, a special milestone, a favorite pet, or a loved one who’s no longer with us. Every ornament has a story behind it, and that’s what makes it so special.
Each year, when it’s time to decorate the tree, those stories come back to life. That’s the magic of handmade keepsakes—they don’t just hang on a tree, they hold memories.
A Few Special Ones
The Year That Stink, Stank, Stunk (2020)
Oh, 2020… we’ll never forget that one! I made a Snoopy ornament that year for a teacher who adores Snoopy. I even had JP sign and date a little note, turned it into a cut file, and added it to the back. It’s one of those pieces that makes you laugh and reminisce all at once.
Sports & Team Spirit
For the sports lovers, it’s always fun to create ornaments with team logos, player numbers, or school colors. They’re such a sweet way to remember those seasons on the field or court—and they make great gifts for proud parents and grandparents too!
In Memory Of…
Some of the most meaningful ornaments I’ve made are the ones in memory of loved ones. When families send me a signature or a note, I turn it into a cut file so their handwriting can be part of the ornament. There’s something so comforting about seeing a familiar name written in their own handwriting each year.
And of course, we can’t forget our pets. They hold such a big place in our hearts, and it’s always an honor to make ornaments that help families remember them during the holidays.
Hobbies, Milestones, and More
Whether it’s a favorite hobby, a new job, a graduation, or even a big move—there’s always something worth celebrating. I’ll admit, I don’t always remember to take photos of every ornament (especially when it’s a surprise gift!), but I’ve shared a few of my past favorites in these posts:
The Best Kind of Gift
Ornaments make such thoughtful gifts. They’re personal, unique, and full of heart. Every time they’re pulled out of the box and hung on the tree, they bring that moment—and that person—back again.
As always, I hope these ideas inspire your own creativity this season. And if DIY isn’t your thing, don’t worry—message me to design your own custom ornament! I’d love to help create something special that tells your story.
Favorite DIY Ornament items
- Wood slice ornaments
- Clear plastic ornaments
- Clear flat disc ornaments
- Hanging twine
- Oracal 651 vinyl
- Glitter
- Polycrylic
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Welcoming Sentiments 
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