Creating DIY state ornaments is a delightful way to add a personal touch to your holiday decor while celebrating the unique charm of your home state. These ornaments are perfect for showcasing your state pride, commemorating a special trip, or giving as thoughtful, handcrafted gifts. Whether you’re using wood, clay, fabric, or other materials, the process of designing and crafting state-shaped ornaments can be a fun and creative activity for the whole family. With endless possibilities for customization, from painting state flags and landmarks to adding glitter and personal messages, DIY state ornaments allow you to bring a piece of your favorite places into your holiday celebrations.
I love collecting ornaments, especially ones that tell a story. I usually try to buy or make an ornament that is representational of where I live at the time. I have a beach ornament from when I lived in California. I have a Pike’s Peak one from when I lived in Colorado, and I have an Ohio State Buckeye ornament from Ohio. Well, since it has only been a little over a year since I moved to Washington, I thought it appropriate that I make an I Love Washington ornament. Here’s how I did it…
DIY State Ornament
Things you need:
- Paper Clay
- An outline print out of the State of your choice
- BIC Mark-It™ Permanent Markers
- Rolling Pin
- X-acto Knife
- Ribbon
Step 1: Size and print out the outline of your State. You will use this shortly for tracing.
Step 2: Roll out a piece of paper clay to about 1/4″ thick.
Step 3: Lay your printed State outline/template onto your paper clay and cut out the state shape with an X-acto knife. Let it dry for 1-3 days, or you can lessen the dry time by baking at 150 degrees for a little over an hour.
Step 4: Grab your BIC Mark-It™ Permanent markers and embellish your ornament. I wanted to go with the “very simple and clean” look, so I just made a little heart in the corner with my favorite color #Sapphire. I love the color and how the metallic marker goes with the sparkly the ribbon 
If you’re looking for more great ideas on how to get creative this holiday season, you can get the booklet of merry marking and a coupon to start arcing!
Well, I’d also like to challenge some of my family members to get creative this holiday season. Mom, Holly, and Grandma Nancy, I would love to see the creations that you make for the Merry Month of Marking. Don’t forget to tag your pictures with #BICMerryMarking so I will be able to see them.
Happy Marking!
FAQs
Q: How Can I Personalize My State Ornament?
A: Paint or Draw: Add state flags, landmarks, or symbols.
Add Text: Write the state name or a special message.
Embellishments: Use glitter, ribbons, and stickers for extra flair.
Q: What Types of Paint or Markers Work Best for Decorating?
A: Acrylic Paint: Works well on wood and clay.
Fabric Markers or Paint: Ideal for felt or fabric ornaments.
Permanent Markers: Great for detailed work on any surface.
Q: How Do I Create a State Shape for My Ornament?
A: Templates or Cookie Cutters: Use state-shaped templates or cookie cutters to trace and cut out the shape.
Freehand Drawing: Draw the state outline freehand if you’re comfortable with drawing.
Print and Cut: Print out a map of the state, cut it out, and use it as a stencil.
Q: How Do I Add a Hanging Element to My Ornament?
A: To add a hanging element to your ornament, use a small screw-in hook or eyelet at the top. Alternatively, you can glue a loop of string, ribbon, or twine to the back of the ornament. Ensure the adhesive is strong and let it dry completely before hanging your ornament.
