How to Turn Embroidery Into Ornaments: Easy DIY Guide

Embroidery ornaments are a fun way to transform your stitching into charming decorations for your home or thoughtful gifts. 

You can make them in any style, from classic to modern, and use them for your Christmas tree, walls, or even keychains. 

These easy projects only need fabric, thread, a hoop, and your favorite pattern. 

Learn how to finish your embroidery into neat ornaments and get tips for making each one special. Enjoy showing off your handmade creations all year round.

Quick Insights ⚡:

• Embroidery ornaments are handmade decorative pieces featuring stitched designs.
• You can use hoops, fabric scraps, or felt as a base.
• Perfect for holidays, gifts, or home decoration.
• Customize with names, dates, or special motifs.

What Are Embroidery Ornaments?

Embroidery ornaments are small decorative items created by stitching designs onto fabric. They come in many forms, are easy to personalize, and make thoughtful yet straightforward gifts or holiday decorations. These ornaments often use classic techniques and can feature festive themes.

Why Make Embroidery Ornaments?

Embroidery ornaments allow you to add a personal touch to your holiday decorations. You can use initials, dates, or favorite colors to make each one special for your home or friends.

Even small pieces of embroidery can become keepsakes. Hang them on your Christmas tree, display them around the house, or keep them as a sweet memory.

Turning your finished stitches into ornaments gives your work a new purpose. It’s a fun way to showcase your needlework all year round.

Embroidered ornaments make great gifts for Christmas and other special occasions. They feel extra meaningful because they are handmade with care.

Popular Embroidery Ornament Styles

There are several common styles of embroidery ornaments that you might try. Here are three popular choices:

• Hoop Ornaments: Small embroidery hoops frame the stitched design and make it easy to hang on a tree.
• Fabric Cutout Ornaments: These are shapes cut out from embroidered fabric, often finished with edges sewn or glued, then hung with a ribbon.
• 3D Stuffed Ornaments: These are sewn together and then filled with soft stuffing, giving a plump look. They can be shaped like stars, balls, or animals.

Many embroidered Christmas ornaments use these styles. Choosing a style depends on the design you want and how you plan to display your ornament.

Types of Embroidery Techniques Used

Various embroidery techniques work well for ornaments. You can use basic stitches or more advanced ones depending on your skill level.

• Hand embroidery often uses simple stitches such as backstitch, satin stitch, and French knots.
• Machine embroidery allows you to create detailed designs quickly, especially for larger batches.
• Some people use appliqué, sewing shapes of fabric onto a base before adding stitches.

These methods can be used in combination or independently. For Christmas embroidery ornaments, consider adding beads, sequins, or metallic threads to make your design sparkle. The technique you choose will depend on your time, supplies, and personal taste.

Materials Needed for DIY Embroidery Ornaments

To make your own embroidery ornaments, you need some basic sewing tools and a few extras to decorate and finish your project. Picking the right materials helps make your ornaments look neat and last longer.

Essential Embroidery Supplies

Supply Checklist:

• 3-4 inch embroidery hoop
• Fabric (linen, cotton, or felt)
• Embroidery floss
• Needles
• Small scissors
• Water-soluble marking pen (optional)

Additional Embellishments

After you finish the main stitching, you can use extra materials to decorate and back your ornament. A ribbon is excellent for making a loop to hang your ornament on the tree or a hook. You can also add beads or sequins for a touch of sparkle on the design.

Lace can be sewn around the edges to give your ornament a delicate look. For backing, cut a circle from felt or cardboard using the size of your hoop as a guide.

Felt is soft and can be sewn or glued in place. Cardboard adds firmness and can be glued to the back for extra support.

Popular Embellishments:

• Ribbon (for hanging)
• Beads or sequins
• Lace trim
• Backing felt
• Thin cardboard for backing

You can mix and match these extras to fit your style. Gather all your supplies before you start, and you'll be ready to create charming decorations.

🪡Also Read: 15+ Essential Embroidery Tools for Beginners & Experts

How to Turn Your Embroidery Into an Ornament: Step-by-Step

Transforming your embroidery into an ornament is straightforward with the right steps. You will need to prepare your embroidered piece, choose your ornament shape, assemble the pieces together, add decoration, and finish up with a way to hang your ornament.

Step 1 – Prepare Your Embroidery Piece

Start by trimming your embroidered fabric, leaving about 1 inch of space around your design. This extra fabric will make assembly much easier. Use sharp fabric scissors for a clean, smooth edge.

Next, press your embroidery with an iron to remove creases or wrinkles. Place a pressing cloth over the embroidery to protect your stitches. Use a low to medium heat setting and proceed slowly to avoid scorching the fabric.

To keep your ornament sturdy, add stabilizer to the back of your embroidery. Lightweight interfacing or iron-on stabilizer works well. Cut a piece slightly bigger than your design and iron it to the back, following the stabilizer instructions.

Step 2 – Select and Prep the Ornament Shape

Decide what shape you want your ornament to be. Popular choices include circles, ovals, and hearts. You can use an embroidery hoop, a small wooden frame, or cut out a sturdy card template.

If you want a softer ornament, cut out a piece of batting or felt in the desired shape. This will be placed behind your embroidery to make the ornament plush. Trim all pieces to the same size so they line up neatly.

Make sure your backing fabric or felt is wrinkle-free and clean. If you are using a hoop, ensure it is the correct size for your embroidery. Place all the materials in a small workspace to keep everything organized.

Step 3 – Assemble the Ornament

Lay your embroidery flat and center it on top of your chosen frame, hoop, or template. If you are using a hoop, fit the fabric in place and tighten it. 

For other shapes, you can secure the embroidery with a small amount of washable glue or double-sided tape on the back, making sure it is centered.

Fold or trim the excess fabric so it fits smoothly behind the ornament base. Use a needle and thread to sew the edges to the backing fabric or glue them neatly for a finish without visible stitches.

If you added batting or felt, sandwich it between the embroidery and the backing. Check that the layers are even and the edges are not bulky.

Step 4 – Finish and Decorate

Cut a piece of coordinating fabric or felt to cover the back, hiding any raw edges and giving your ornament a polished look. Glue or sew the backing in place, hiding all unfinished seams.

Add decorations as you like. Simple ideas include sewing or gluing on ribbon trim around the edge, beading the border, or attaching small charms. Use craft glue for items that are hard to sew in place.

Carefully inspect the front and back to remove any stray threads or glue spots before proceeding to the next step.

Step 5 – Add a Hanging Loop or Attachment

Cut a piece of ribbon, twine, or strong thread to use as your ornament loop. The length depends on how low you want the ornament to hang, but 4 to 6 inches works for most ornaments.

Fold the loop in half and attach the ends securely to the top of your ornament. You can sew it between the backing and the embroidery for a hidden attachment or glue it flat onto the back if you prefer.

For different hanging ideas, try using a metal hook, jump ring, or even a mini clothespin. Ensure the attachment is secure before hanging your finished embroidered ornament.

🪡Also Read: How to Use an Embroidery Hoop: Beginner's Guide

Creative Ideas for Embroidery Ornaments

Embroidery ornaments can brighten up holidays, hold special memories, and show off your creativity. You can use classic themes, add names or dates, or mix in different materials for a one-of-a-kind look.

Holiday-Themed Ornaments (Christmas, Easter, Halloween)

Holiday ornaments are some of the most popular embroidery projects. For Christmas, you might stitch snowflakes, reindeer, trees, ornaments, or Santa faces on felt or fabric. 

Simple designs, such as stars, bells, or holiday words, look great and don’t take too long.

Easter ornaments often include colorful eggs, bunnies, and spring flowers. Use pastels or bright threads for a cheerful look. 

You can hang these on branches or use them in an Easter basket.

Halloween embroidery ornaments could feature pumpkins, bats, ghosts, or black cats. Try using glow-in-the-dark thread for a fun twist. 

These work well for decorating around your house or adding to treat bags.

Tips for holiday-themed ornaments:

• Pick bold, easy-to-see colors
• Use felt circles or small hoops as your base
• Add ribbon or string for hanging
• Keep to simple stitches like backstitch or satin stitch

Personalized Name & Date Keepsakes

Personalized ornaments are a great way to commemorate special events, such as a baby's first holiday or a cherished family gathering. 

You can stitch names, special dates, or even short messages. These make thoughtful gifts for friends and family.

Pick clear, easy-to-read fonts. You can write the name and year, or add a small picture to go with the text. Some people use special occasions, such as weddings or graduations, to inspire their designs.

You might want to:

• Use a fabric marker to write out your words before stitching
• Choose thread colors that match the person’s favorite colors
• Use contrasting colors so the letters stand out
• Add a small border or decorative elements (like hearts or stars)

Mixed-Media Ornaments (Adding beads, sequins, or paint)

You can make embroidery ornaments more interesting by adding extra materials. Beads and sequins add sparkle and texture. You can sew them on with your stitches or use them to fill in shapes. Paint works well for backgrounds or tiny details.

Some fun ways to mix materials:

• Sew small glass beads into snowflakes or stars
• Attach sequins onto flowers or tree ornaments for extra shine
• Use fabric paint to add dots or lines, then let it dry before you stitch more
• Try layering felt, ribbon, or lace along with your embroidery

When mixing media, keep your design simple to avoid a crowded appearance. Test new ideas on scrap fabric before you work on your main piece. This helps you see what works best.

🪡Also Read: Unique Embroidery Gift Ideas To Make and Share

Tips for Perfect Embroidery Ornaments

High-quality embroidery ornaments start with the right materials and last longest when properly finished and cared for. 

Paying attention to details, such as fabric choice and edge finishing, can help your ornaments look better and last year after year.

Choosing the Right Fabric & Thread

Pick a fabric that is strong and will not stretch out of shape. Felt and cotton are popular because they are both sturdy and easy to sew. Felt, in particular, does not fray and is simple for beginners to use.

Choose a thread that matches or complements your fabric. Cotton embroidery floss is a top pick for most projects, but metallic or rayon threads can add a shine for special occasions. Stick to quality brands for fewer snags and knots.

Try to keep your color choices simple. Using two or three main colors can help your design look cohesive and not too cluttered. 

A color wheel can help you see which shades work well together.

Making Ornaments Durable & Long-Lasting

To keep your ornaments in good shape, always seal the edges. For felt, you can use a blanket stitch around the edge. Cotton ornaments often benefit from a turned edge or a zigzag stitch to stop them from fraying.

Use interfacing or an extra layer of fabric if your ornament feels too floppy. This adds firmness without making the ornament bulky.

Store finished ornaments in a dry, superb location, away from direct sunlight. Place them in small boxes or fabric pouches to protect them from dust. 

Never squash them under heavy objects or hang them where they are frequently bumped.

Remember to use a gentle hand when handling and cleaning. Spot clean with a damp cloth if needed, but avoid soaking embroidered ornaments in water.

Final Thoughts

Embroidery ornaments allow you to express your creativity in simple, meaningful ways. You can use them to decorate for holidays, celebrate seasons, or add a handmade touch to any space.

Small embroidery projects are easy to start and finish. Even if you're a beginner, felt, fabric, and simple stitches can produce impressive results. Mistakes are normal and part of learning.

Here are some quick tips to keep in mind:

• Choose sturdy materials for best results.
• Practice basic stitches before starting detailed patterns.
• Keep your threads organized.

Handmade ornaments also make thoughtful gifts. Giving a personalized piece shows care and effort. You can make them in any color or style for year-round decorations.

Consider keeping a small notebook to write down pattern ideas, thread colors, or gifts you've made. Staying organized helps you track progress and spark new concepts.

Take your time and enjoy each step of the process. Embroidery ornaments do not need to be perfect to be meaningful.

❓Frequently Asked Questions

There are many ways to make and display embroidery ornaments. Choices like fabric, hanging methods, and project ideas can affect your results.

What are the most popular ornaments?

Common embroidery ornaments include Christmas shapes like snowflakes, stars, and trees. Hoops with floral or animal designs are also popular. Many people enjoy personalizing ornaments with names or dates.

What is the best fabric for embroidery ornaments?

Cotton and linen are easy to work with and hold up well for small projects. Felt is also a favorite, especially if you want a solid background. Strong, tightly woven fabric helps your stitches stay even.

What’s the easiest way to hang embroidery ornaments?

Metal hooks, ribbon loops, or simple thread can be used to hang ornaments. If you make your ornament in an embroidery hoop, tie a ribbon around the top screw for a quick hanger.

Can I use existing embroidery projects as ornaments?

Yes, you can cut and frame small sections of finished embroidery to create ornaments. Secure the edges with glue or sew them onto a backing for a cleaner look.

Are embroidery ornaments suitable for beginners?

You can make simple embroidered ornaments with basic stitches and materials. Patterns for beginners often use just a few colors and simple shapes. Starting small helps you practice before trying more advanced designs.