Easy Pinecone Christmas Ornaments
There's something so special about handmade Christmas decorations, especially the ones made by little hands.
One of my favorite things about farmhouse living is finding ways to make something beautiful out of what we already have. And when Christmas comes around, I love the idea of slowing down, gathering around the table, and making decorations together instead of buying everything new.
These easy pinecone Christmas ornaments are such a sweet little project for kids. They're simple, inexpensive, and have that natural, old-fashioned farmhouse charm I love so much.
The best part? If you have pinecones in your yard and a little leftover ribbon or twine tucked away, you might already have everything you need.
A Little Christmas Magic From Nature
I think some of the prettiest Christmas decorations are the simplest ones.
Evergreen branches, pinecones, dried oranges, warm lights, and beautiful natural textures can make a home feel so cozy without spending much at all.
And there's something extra meaningful about hanging an ornament on the Christmas tree that your child made themselves.
These little pinecone ornaments look beautiful on a traditional Christmas tree, tied onto wrapped presents, or even hanging from a simple evergreen garland.
They're not meant to be perfect. That's what makes them special.
What You'll Need
Most of these items can be found around the house or outdoors, making this a wonderful no-cost Christmas activity when you're using supplies you already own.
How to Make Pinecone Christmas Ornaments
Collect your pinecones.
Head outside with the kids and look for pinecones that have fallen naturally to the ground. Choose ones that are sturdy and not too brittle.
This is a fun little activity on its own. You can even turn it into a nature walk and see what other interesting things you discover along the way.
Clean and dry them.
Brush away loose dirt and debris and check for insects. If needed, rinse briefly, then allow the pinecones to dry thoroughly before crafting. Keep collected pinecones away from food-preparation surfaces.
I like keeping this craft simple and natural, so there's no need for sprays or glitter.
Add your hanging string.
Cut a piece of twine or ribbon about 8–10 inches long. Tie it securely around the upper portion of the pinecone, tuck it between the scales, and knot the ends together to form a hanging loop.
An adult can add a small amount of hot glue to secure it if necessary.
Give them a little farmhouse charm.
You can leave your pinecones completely natural, which I think is beautiful, or add a simple ribbon bow.
For a snowy look, let the kids lightly brush a little white washable paint along the edges of the pinecone scales. Allow it to dry completely.
Hang and enjoy.
Once everything is dry and secure, hang your finished ornaments on the tree or along a garland.
I love the idea of writing the child's name and the year on a small paper tag and tying it to the ornament. It's such a sweet way to remember the season as they grow.
A quick safety note: Adults should handle hot glue and sharp scissors. Supervise young children around small decorations and string, and keep pinecone ornaments away from candles, fireplaces, and other heat sources.
Three Simple Ways to Make Them Your Own
1. Natural Farmhouse Pinecones
Leave the pinecones just as nature made them, adding only a simple jute twine loop. These are perfect for a neutral Christmas tree.
2. Snow-Dusted Pinecones
Lightly brush white paint over the raised edges. You only need a little to create that soft, snowy look.
3. Ribbon-Tied Christmas Pinecones
Add a little bow using cranberry, forest green, chocolate brown, or cream ribbon. These colors look especially beautiful with natural evergreen branches.
Turn It Into a Family Christmas Tradition
One thing I love about simple activities like this is that the craft doesn't have to be the whole afternoon.
Bundle everyone up, go outside to collect pinecones, come home and make some homemade hot chocolate, put on your favorite Christmas music, and sit around the table making ornaments together.
It doesn't have to cost anything or be perfectly planned.
Sometimes the things children remember most aren't the expensive gifts or elaborate outings. They're those little moments when everyone was together, laughing, creating, and enjoying the season.
And years from now, pulling a slightly crooked pinecone ornament out of the Christmas decorations might just become one of your favorite memories.
Decorating Your Farmhouse With Handmade Ornaments
These aren't just for the Christmas tree!
I love how natural decorations can bring warmth into a home without making everything feel cluttered.
Try tying a few ornaments onto an evergreen garland along the mantel, using them as little accents on Christmas presents, or hanging several from a simple branch in a vase for a rustic centerpiece.
They pair beautifully with warm white lights, wooden ornaments, velvet ribbons, and natural greenery.
If you love that cozy, understated farmhouse Christmas look, simple handmade decorations are such a beautiful place to start.
From Our Farmhouse to Yours
Christmas doesn't have to be expensive to be beautiful, and making memories with our children doesn't have to involve elaborate plans.
Sometimes all you need is a handful of pinecones, a little twine, and an afternoon together.
I hope this simple Christmas craft inspires you to slow down, get creative, and enjoy some of those sweet little moments that make the season special.
With love from our farmhouse,
Lindsey