Each year we send “Ornament Grams” from our son to grandparents and close family. They’re a sweet way to involve him in gift giving and to build a collection of handmade ornaments that mark the years. Popsicle stick ornaments are inexpensive, simple, and always popular—this year we made festive popsicle stick Christmas window ornaments.
I like to include a photo in the ornament; childhood photo ornaments are often the most treasured on our tree. These window ornaments work for a wide range of ages and you can assign tasks to match your child’s ability. Below you’ll find everything you need and step-by-step instructions to make them with kids.
Getting the Kids Involved
Including kids in the crafting and gift-making process is meaningful and fun. Here are suggestions for involvement by age:
- Toddlers: let them paint the sticks.
- Preschoolers: paint and add glitter.
- Elementary-age: paint, add white trim and glitter, and attach small decorations.
- Older kids: they can assemble and finish the entire ornament, using regular glue if you want to avoid hot glue.
Supplies You’ll Need
- Popsicle sticks (5 per ornament)
- Jumbo popsicle sticks (1 per ornament)
- Hot glue gun (adults only)
- Paint and brushes (your choice of colors, plus white)
- White iridescent glitter (a mix of fine and chunky is nice)
- Iridescent faux snow
- Mod Podge or similar craft glue
- 4×6 photos or photos mounted on solid color cardstock
- Mini craft wreaths, small Santa hats, ribbon or other small decorations
- Twine for hanging
- Felt (optional, for a neat backing)
Step-by-Step Popsicle Stick Ornament Instructions
- Arrange three regular popsicle sticks vertically and attach them evenly to a jumbo popsicle stick with hot glue.
- Flip the assembly over and glue two popsicle sticks horizontally across the vertical sticks to create the window frame.
3. Let the kids paint the window frame in their chosen colors. Allow paint to dry completely.
4. Paint the top crossbar and the window sill white so the glitter and faux snow will stand out. Let dry.
5. Brush Mod Podge over the white paint and have kids sprinkle glitter and faux snow on top. Shake off excess. If you like, add Mod Podge and glitter to other parts of the window for extra sparkle. Allow everything to dry.
6. Optionally add a small Santa hat or other embellishment to the photo.
7. Attach the photo to the back of the window with hot glue. If the photo isn’t a 4×6, trim and mount it to cardstock first so it fits neatly inside the window opening.
8. Glue mini wreaths, ribbon, or other decorations to the front of the window as desired.
9. Cut a length of twine, form a hanging loop, and glue the knot to the back of the photo or the felt backing.
10. Cover the back of the photo with a piece of felt for a clean finish (optional but recommended).
Send An “Ornament Gram”
Make an annual tradition of gifting an ornament made with your children to grandparents and family. Be sure to write the year and the child’s name on the back before you send it—those little details make ornaments even more special to keep.
We pack ours in reusable drawstring muslin bags that the kids can decorate, which makes the presentation extra personal.
More Ornament Crafts to Try
- DIY Popsicle Stick Gingerbread House Ornaments
- DIY Rudolph Ornaments
- DIY Circus Animal Cookie Ornaments
Enjoy making these heartfelt ornaments with your family—they create lasting memories and thoughtful gifts for those you love.