The holidays are all about creativity, connection, and a touch of sparkle—so why not bring all of that to your Christmas tree this year? With just a little time and some leftover paper scraps, you can create stunning, handmade DIY paper Christmas ornaments that are as unique as your holiday style.
From cheerful snowmen to intricate paper ornaments for your Christmas tree, we’ve gathered fun and easy projects that are perfect for every skill level. Plus, if you’re wondering how to make paper Christmas ornaments stand out, we’ll recommend the best types of paper for each craft—think metallics for a festive shimmer or lightweight cardstock for intricate folds.
So gather your scraps, grab your scissors, and let’s turn those bits and pieces into holiday magic!
1. Printable evergreen trees
These adorable little evergreen trees by Oh Happy Day are perfect for filling in any gaps on your Christmas tree. Simply print the downloadable printable, cut, and glue it! They also make delightful festive place cards if you’re hosting a holiday feast.
2. Retro-inspired paper ornaments
These retro-inspired cut paper ornaments by Hey Let’s Make Stuff will add unique shape and texture to your tree decor. They can be made in any color to suit your holiday palette, but we recommend using heavier paper so they are easier to fold.
3. Accordion-fold paper trees
You can use any kind of paper to make these sweet little accordion-fold trees by Hello Wonderful. Light cardstock is the most durable, but scraps of wrapping paper scraps will work in a pinch too!
4. Classic paper baubles
These star and circle paper baubles by Picklebums look impressive but are easy enough for kids to put together. All you have to do is print, fold, and glue. You can use the patterns Picklebums provides, or create your own using a custom color palette (or whatever scraps you have on hand).
5. Paper bauble remix
You can create these unique paper baubles by Curbly using strips of whatever scraps you have. Use the printable pattern for an eye-catching hand-drawn red and white design, or simply use it to create perfectly sized paper strips.
6. Honeycomb paper ornaments
These gorgeous honeycomb ornaments by Oh Yay Studio look intricate and will add irresistible texture to your tree or holiday decor. Light cardstock is more likely to stand the test of time, but you can use any paper you have.
7. Paper fan angels
We are huge fans of these adorable paper fan angels by Dossier, especially if you have scraps of Kraft paper lying around.
8. 3D Paper snowman
These little paper snowmen by Red Ted Art are perfect for winter—not just Christmas! We suggest making yourself a little army of snowmen for your tree, then hanging them elsewhere till spring.
9. Paper wreath
This paper wreath by Two Points Crafts is a great way to use up larger scraps and full sheets in colors you don’t gravitate to.
Watch this video to learn how to make your own.
10. Intricate snowflakes
This paper wreath by Two Points Crafts is a great way to use up larger scraps and full sheets in colors you don’t gravitate to.
Watch this video to learn how to make your own.
11. Folded accordion paper trees
Whether you create a forest of standalone paper trees or string these up in your tree, these folded accordion trees are simple to make in just a few minutes. Create your own with this video.
12. Classic paper baubles
A Piece of Rainbow made these baubles using a printable cutting file, but you can make them just as easily by cutting equal-length strips of paper.
Wrap Up Your Holiday Crafting with DIY Paper Christmas Ornaments
With just a few simple materials and a little creativity, you can fill your home with the charm of handmade decorations. Whether you’re making intricate paper ornaments for your Christmas tree or learning how to make paper Christmas ornaments with your family, these projects are the perfect way to add a personal touch to your holiday season.
