It’s time to deck the halls- Iksplor style! 

The first snowfall, twinkling lights, cozy evenings snuggled up together—seeing the wonder of the season through our children’s eyes feels like experiencing it for the first time. And as moms, we know who’s behind all the magic. It’s US—the moms, dads, and caregivers who pour love into making the holidays special.

But we know that the magic isn’t in the stuff. It’s in the laughter, the traditions, and the simple moments of togetherness that our kids will carry with them forever.

Speaking of togetherness, here’s a way to slow down and create something meaningful as a family: DIY Christmas ornaments- inspired by nature, of course!

We bundled up in merino wool and sent our kids on a mission to gather supplies. Watching them excitedly find sticks, pine needles, and other treasures outside made these crafts even more special. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to get outside, explore, and teach your little ones new skills (knot-tying, anyone?).

These three simple ornaments use materials you likely already have or can find on a walk through your neighborhood, local woods, or backyard. They’re easy, fun, and filled with memories you'll treasure each time you hang them on the tree.

Let’s bring a bit of nature into your holiday décor with these magical, memory-making projects!

Stick Tree Ornament

Materials Needed:

• Sticks
• Yarn or twine (we used green and brown)
• Hot glue gun (optional)

Directions:

1. Find three sticks of the same size or break larger sticks into uniform lengths, anywhere from 2 to 4 inches.
2. Arrange the sticks into a triangular shape, overlapping the ends.
3. Secure the triangle by wrapping each corner with yarn or twine. The result will resemble a triangle–your Christmas tree!
4. Get creative by weaving patterns inside the triangle using yarn. Experiment with different colors to make it unique.
5. Hot glue (or tie) a smaller stick at the bottom of your tree to make the tree stump. 
6. Make a loop of yarn at the top to hang it on the tree. Ta da! 

Ribbon Tree Ornament

Materials Needed:

• One small (ish) stick per person
• Fabric scraps (we used old Christmas-print fabric)
• Cinnamon stick (optional)

Directions:

1. Cut fabric into strips less than an inch wide. Perfection isn’t necessary—this craft has a charming, vintage feel. You’ll need 3 to 8 strips per ornament.
2. Tie the fabric strips around the stick, centering the knots so the excess fabric hangs on both sides. Repeat this until the stick is covered with at least three ties.
3. Trim the fabric into a tree shape, with shorter pieces at the top and longer pieces at the bottom.
4. Tie a loop of string or a fabric scrap at the top of the stick for hanging.

Variation: Swap the stick for a cinnamon stick to add a warm, festive scent to your ornament.

Nature Print Ornament

Materials Needed:

• Leaves, acorns, pine needles, feathers, or other natural treasures
• Polymer clay (or any bakeable clay/DIY clay)

Directions:

1. Take a nature walk or explore your backyard to collect materials for making prints in clay. Pine needles, rosemary, lavender, pebbles, walnuts, and acorns work beautifully.

2.Soften the clay by kneading it, then roll it into balls. Flatten the clay with your hands or a rolling pin to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters or freehand shapes like circles, stars, or Christmas trees.

3. Press your nature items gently into the clay. Peel them off carefully to reveal the prints. Add as many textures and designs as you like.

4. Use a sharp pencil to create a hole at the top for hanging.

5. Bake the clay according to the package instructions (or make your own clay).

6. Once cooled, paint your ornament to add a personal touch.

7. Tie a string through the hole and hang your ornament on the tree.

These DIY ornaments are a wonderful way to embrace creativity, connect with nature, and craft lasting holiday memories. They also make thoughtful, sustainable gifts. Score!

At Iksplor, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. From the very beginning, we've committed to using 100% merino wool, a renewable, sustainable resource that reduces our ecological footprint while offering unmatched softness and comfort. This dedication extends beyond our products, which is why we launched Iksplor More—your go-to destination for buying and selling gently used Iksplor gear. It's an easy way to embrace the outdoors responsibly, save money, and keep up with your little explorers as they grow.

So as you craft your ornaments this season, remember: each thoughtful, creative project contributes to a greener, more sustainable world.

Which ornament will you make first?

Happy Holidays, Iksplorers!