You’ve probably noticed those “Christmas in July” sales popping up everywhere, but there’s more to this mid-year celebration than just retail promotions. By starting your holiday crafting now, you’ll gain a significant advantage over the December rush while saving money on supplies. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just beginning to explore DIY ornaments, summer offers the perfect opportunity to experiment with new techniques and create meaningful decorations that will make your winter holidays truly special.
Highlights
Start crafting ornaments early to reduce holiday stress and take advantage of summer sales and “Christmas in July” promotions.
Dollar Tree offers affordable supplies like plastic lanterns, styrofoam trees, and decorative elements for budget-friendly DIY ornaments.
Transform microwave-safe bowls into bell ornaments using spray paint, hot glue, and decorative accents.
Create vintage-style hexagon box ornaments using cardboard panels, metallic accents, and traditional motifs sealed with acrylic varnish.
Layer multiple thin coats of paint and seal with weather-resistant protectant for long-lasting, durable holiday decorations.
Why Start Your Holiday Crafting in July
While Christmas may seem far away during the height of summer, starting your holiday crafting in July offers numerous practical and creative advantages.
You’ll dramatically reduce stress by spreading tasks across several months instead of cramming them into the hectic holiday season. This strategic timing allows you to perfect techniques and explore innovative designs without the pressure of looming deadlines.
You’ll also benefit financially by capitalizing on summer sales and “Christmas in July” promotions, stretching your crafting budget further. Instead of facing a financial crunch in December, you can spread expenses over time while securing better deals on supplies.
The extended timeline gives you freedom to experiment with new materials and techniques, ensuring each ornament becomes a thoughtful, personalized creation. Best of all, you’ll transform crafting into a year-round joy rather than a seasonal rush, building anticipation while mastering skills that make your holiday decorations truly special.
Essential Dollar Tree Supplies for DIY Ornaments
Creating stunning DIY Christmas ornaments doesn’t require expensive materials, as Dollar Tree offers an impressive array of affordable crafting supplies.
You’ll find essential bases like plastic lanterns, styrofoam trees, and cardboard boxes that serve as perfect foundations for your creative projects.
Stock up on decorative elements including sequins, glitter, and vintage-style images to add personality to your pieces.
Don’t overlook the versatility of faux flowers, pinecones, and maple leaf clips for creating nature-inspired designs.
The store’s selection of ribbons, beads, and felt pieces allows you to experiment with different textures and styles.
Transform basic ornament kits using spray paint, adhesives, and crafting tools available in-store.
Mix and match mini ornaments with Christmas tree hangers to develop unique hanging displays.
Consider incorporating plastic stamp blocks for pattern-making and gift bags for paper-based creations.
With these Dollar Tree supplies, you’re equipped to craft personalized holiday decorations that rival expensive alternatives.
Step-by-Step Bowl-to-Bell Ornament Tutorial
When you’re ready to transform simple Dollar Tree bowls into charming bell ornaments, this straightforward tutorial will guide you through each step.
Start by selecting microwave-safe bowls and drilling a small hole in the bottom of each for hanging. In a well-ventilated area, spray paint your bowls in your chosen colors, allowing them to dry completely.
Once dry, arrange your bowls to create the perfect bell shape, then secure them together using a hot glue gun. Thread twine or ribbon through the pre-drilled holes to create a sturdy hanger.
You’ll want to add personal touches like glitter, stickers, or painted patterns to make your ornament unique. For extra durability, consider applying a clear protective coat.
Don’t forget to experiment with different bowl combinations and themed colors. You can create rustic looks with earth tones or festive designs with traditional holiday colors.
Store your finished ornaments carefully to preserve their beauty for years to come.
Crafting Vintage-Style Hexagon Box Ornaments
From simple bowls to elegant boxes, our next project brings vintage charm to your holiday decor.
You’ll transform cardboard or thick paperboard into stunning hexagonal box ornaments that double as gift containers or keepsake storage.
Start by cutting six equal panels for your box structure, reinforcing the edges for durability. Choose your vintage aesthetic through muted color palettes, such as cream fabrics with snowflake patterns or textured kraft paper.
You’ll want to secure each panel with strong adhesives like hot glue or PVA, allowing proper drying time between steps.
Add character with metallic gold accents, vintage-style buttons, and silk thread loops. For authenticity, incorporate traditional Christmas motifs or antique designs.
Don’t forget to seal your creation with acrylic varnish for longevity. If you’re crafting multiple ornaments, consider the fabric-folding technique for lightweight alternatives that maintain that coveted vintage appeal while saving time and materials.
Paint Techniques for Long-Lasting Results
Start your ornament-painting journey by applying multiple thin layers rather than one thick coat, which helps prevent cracking and peeling over time.
You’ll want to let each layer dry completely before adding the next, ensuring proper adhesion and a smooth finish that lasts for years.
Finally, protect your painted ornaments from moisture and handling by finishing with a clear, weather-resistant sealant that shields against typical holiday conditions like temperature changes and condensation.
Paint Layering For Durability
To create durable Christmas ornaments that last for generations, mastering proper paint layering techniques is essential. You’ll want to start with thin, even coats rather than one thick layer, allowing each application to dry completely before adding the next. This technique prevents cracking and peeling while ensuring ideal adhesion.
Select paints that are compatible with your ornament’s surface material, regardless of whether it’s glass, wood, or acrylic. When combining colors, consider using paint extenders to achieve the right consistency, especially for advanced techniques like paint pouring.
Don’t forget to protect each layer with a light sealant before proceeding. For extra durability when working with glass ornaments, try the bottleneck technique of squirting paint directly inside, minimizing surface wear.
Always inspect your final piece for any gaps or imperfections that might compromise longevity.
Sealing Against Holiday Elements
When protecting your handcrafted Christmas ornaments against holiday elements, selecting the right sealant and application method makes all the difference in their longevity.
You’ll want to match your sealant to your ornament’s material: polyurethane works best for wood, while epoxy resin creates stunning results on salt dough and ceramics.
- Apply multiple thin coats using a brush or spray technique, allowing proper drying time between layers for ideal durability.
- Consider using spar urethane for outdoor decorations, as it flexes with temperature changes and resists UV damage.
- Choose non-toxic alternatives like LUXE Waterfx when creating ornaments that children might handle, ensuring both safety and a professional finish.
For best results, seal your ornaments in a well-ventilated area with stable temperature conditions to achieve that perfect, lasting finish.
Creative Design Tips and Color Combinations
You’ll find stunning results by layering metallic finishes like gold leaf and gilding wax over neutral chalk paint bases, creating depth and luxury without overwhelming your ornaments.
When selecting color combinations, pair rich jewel tones with metallic accents for traditional elegance, or opt for soft pastels with pearl finishes for a modern twist on holiday decor.
Consider using high-contrast elements, such as black IOD transfers against white backgrounds or deep burgundy bows against silver-painted surfaces, to make your ornamental designs truly stand out.
Metallic Finish Styling Tips
Ready to elevate your DIY Christmas ornaments with stunning metallic finishes? Transform ordinary glass ornaments into eye-catching metallic masterpieces using innovative techniques that will make your tree shine.
You’ll achieve professional-looking results by layering different metallic paints and incorporating foil transfers for that perfect mirror-like finish.
- Create depth by combining silver, gold, and bronze paints, then enhance the effect with a vinegar solution spray for an authentic mercury glass appearance.
- Apply metallic foil transfers with precision, using Mod Podge as your adhesive, and seal with a clear protective coat to prevent peeling.
- Add dimension to your designs by incorporating textured elements like pressed leaves or geometric patterns, then finish with coordinating metallic ribbons or decorative hooks.
Remember to use your hairdryer between layers for quick drying and ideal results.
Holiday Color Pairing Guide
Discover how the right color combinations can transform your DIY Christmas ornaments from ordinary to extraordinary. Start with classic red and green, then elevate your designs by introducing metallic accents like champagne gold or silver.
For a sophisticated twist, try the emerald elegance palette, combining deep greens with ivory and gold touches.
Want to break from tradition? Mix cobalt blue with cranberry red for an unexpected yet festive look. If you’re aiming for a luxe vibe, pair navy with gold accents or create drama with deep ruby red against midnight black.
For a natural, cozy feel, blend autumn greens with warm browns and brick reds. Don’t forget about monochromatic options: using varying shades of a single color can create depth while maintaining elegance.
Let your ornaments reflect your style by mixing and matching these contemporary palettes.
Safety Guidelines and Best Practices
Creating DIY Christmas ornaments requires careful attention to safety measures that protect both crafters and those who’ll enjoy the decorations. When you’re channeling your creative energy into making festive pieces, prioritize non-toxic materials and secure attachments to prevent any parts from becoming hazards.
Keep your workspace organized and away from heat sources, especially when working with electrical components or potentially flammable materials.
- Always use outdoor-rated lighting for illuminated ornaments and inspect all electrical connections before incorporating them into your designs.
- Store your completed ornaments in cushioned containers with proper labeling, using bubble wrap or soft fabric to prevent damage during the off-season.
- When displaying your creations, verify they’re placed securely and away from active fireplaces, candles, or other heat sources.
Do not forget to wear protective gear when handling materials like spun glass or sharp objects, and keep small components out of reach of children and pets while crafting.
Summary
Start your Christmas crafting journey in July, and you’ll discover a world of creative possibilities. Whether you’re transforming simple bowls into elegant bells or designing intricate hexagon boxes, you’ll save money, reduce stress, and create memories that last. By following proper techniques, exploring color combinations, and using budget-friendly supplies, you’ll craft beautiful ornaments that will make your holiday tree truly spectacular and uniquely yours.