Create lasting holiday memories with these easy and affordable Christmas tree salt dough ornaments! This craft is perfect for kids and adults alike, resulting in beautiful keepsakes for your tree or thoughtful handmade gifts.
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them—thank you for supporting Play Days with JJ!
In a hurry? Skip to the Instructions!
Supplies needed
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 cup salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters (Christmas tree shape recommended)
- Stamps for decorating (optional)
- Paint and brushes (optional)
- Fine tip sharpie
- Modge Podge for Sealing
Important Safety Note
Raw flour is not safe to consume, as it may contain harmful bacteria. Be sure to wash your hands and your child’s hands thoroughly after handling the dough. This is especially important if little ones are helping with this craft!
How to make salt dough ornaments
Step 1: Mix Your Dough
- Pour the warm water into a bowl.
- Add the salt and stir until the salt dissolves completely.
- Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms. Knead the dough until smooth.
Step 2: Roll and Cut Shapes
- Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Use your cookie cutters to cut out Christmas tree shapes.
Step 3: Add Details
- Use your finger to make “lights” by pressing them gently into the dough.
- Don’t forget to poke a small hole at the top of each ornament for hanging. A straw works great for this!
Step 4: Bake the Ornaments
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C).
- Place the ornaments on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 2-3 hours or until the ornaments are completely dry and hard.
Step 5: Decorate and Seal
- Once cooled, decorate your ornaments! Use paint for colorful designs, or use stamps with your fingers to fill in the lights.
- Use a thin permanent marker to draw on the light strings. (I drew a small square over each light and then connected them with lines)
- Seal the ornaments with Mod Podge to protect them and give them a finished shine.
These ornaments are so cute and easy to make, and I’ve heard of them lasting over 30 years when they are sealed properly!
We did a palm tree because we live in Florida, plus it’s a gift for my mom who does an all beach themed tree!
Salt Dough Ornaments Quick Instructions
Ingredients:
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 cup salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
Instructions:
- Dissolve the salt in warm water.
- Gradually mix in the flour and knead until smooth.
- Roll out to 1/4 inch thick and cut shapes with cookie cutters.
- Press your finger in multiple spots to make the “lights” and poke a hole at the top for hanging.
- Bake at 200°F (90°C) for 2-3 hours, or until dry.
- Decorate with paint or stamps, and seal with Mod Podge.
Happy Decorating!
