earthy christmas ornaments

Earthy & Natural Christmas Ornaments

By James Garcia
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Embrace the spirit of nature this holiday season with earthy Christmas ornaments that bring a touch of the outdoors into your home. As you deck your halls, consider incorporating natural elements that not only look stunning but also connect you to the essence of the season. Here, we explore the art of creating and curating earthy Christmas ornaments, from DIY projects to unique finds.

Earthy ornaments are as diverse as the natural world itself, encompassing everything from evergreen branches to rustic wood slices and delicate seedpods. They offer a refreshing alternative to traditional glass baubles, infusing your Christmas tree and home deco with a sense of organic warmth and charm.

Understanding Earthy Christmas Ornaments

At their core, earthy Christmas ornaments celebrate the beauty of natural materials. They reflect the textures, colors, and forms found in the great outdoors, creating a harmonious blend with neutral color palettes and rustic schemes. Whether you're working with Flea Market Christmas decor or aiming for a more refined, Scandinavian-inspired look, these understated ornaments can seamlessly integrate with various design aesthetics.

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a christmas ornament hanging from the top of a pine tree with beads on it
a christmas ornament hanging from the top of a pine tree with beads on it
CG Hunter 4" Beaded Cream Glass Ornament in Crème at Nordstrom, Size Small
CG Hunter 4" Beaded Cream Glass Ornament in Crème at Nordstrom, Size Small
Black Oak Deer Ornament
Black Oak Deer Ornament

When selecting or creating earthy ornaments, prioritize elements that feel authentic and grounding. Natural materials like wood, stone, metal, and plant life often resonate the most, though you can also incorporate handmade items crafted from natural fibers, such as wool or cotton.

Harvesting Natural Materials

To begin your earthy decor journey, look no further than your backyard or local parks for inspiration. Before you set out, ensure you're well-versed in local regulations regarding the collection of natural materials. Generally, it's best practice to gather fallen branches, pinecones, and other plant matter instead of cutting live plants or trees.

Ceramic Ornament Acorn
Ceramic Ornament Acorn
Pottery Barn Oversized Mercury Beaded Ornaments (3) Ob Read
Pottery Barn Oversized Mercury Beaded Ornaments (3) Ob Read
some ornaments are hanging on a table with pictures and twine around the tree branches
some ornaments are hanging on a table with pictures and twine around the tree branches

Invoke the spirit of foraging with a basket and sharp eyes, collecting an assortment of materials that catch your eye. Stick to reliable sources to avoid damaging ecosystems or introducing invasive species into your home. Your findings may include:

  • Evergreen branches and pinecones
  • Dried flower heads and seedpods
  • Smooth stones and pebbles
  • Rustic wood slices and small branches
  • Dried fruits and berries

Crafting Your Own Earthy Ornaments

Once you've amassed an array of natural materials, it's time to channel your inner artisan. Transform your finds into unique, earthy ornaments with these DIY ideas:

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1. **Pinecone and Seedpod Ornaments**: Enhance your findings with a coat of paint or varnish to bring out their natural beauty. Drill a small hole at the top, string them with twine, and add a dab of hot glue for extra security.

Depop Unisex Collectible
Depop Unisex Collectible
Modern Rustic Pattern Christmas Ornaments, Neutral Matte Finish, Boho Chic, Farmhouse Style, Ball Bauble, Neutral Matte Christmas Decor - Etsy
Modern Rustic Pattern Christmas Ornaments, Neutral Matte Finish, Boho Chic, Farmhouse Style, Ball Bauble, Neutral Matte Christmas Decor - Etsy
Rustic Elegance Ornament Collection
Rustic Elegance Ornament Collection
8.5" Sage Glittered Shatterproof Pinecone Ornament
8.5" Sage Glittered Shatterproof Pinecone Ornament
The Olive Bottlebrush Star Ornament
The Olive Bottlebrush Star Ornament
Talavera Ornaments/Hanging Decor Set of 4 | Lead Free
Talavera Ornaments/Hanging Decor Set of 4 | Lead Free

2. **Wooden Slice Ornaments**: Using a scroll saw or band saw, cut wood slices into circles, then sand and seal them. Paint or stain to your liking, and hang using picture hanging wire or a loop of twine.

3. **Branch and Berry Ornaments**: Snip small branches into varying lengths, and insert them into a Styrofoam ball. Arrange berries, seeds, or dried foliage around the base of each branch, securing them with hot glue if needed.

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Curated Earthy Ornaments for Your Christmas Collection

Not everyone has the time or inclination to create their own earthy ornaments. Fortunately, countless artisans and craftspeople offer beautifully crafted items at various price points. Seek out these earthy treasures in local artisan markets, independent boutiques, or online retailers.

6.5" Velvet Pinecone Ornament Set of 3
6.5" Velvet Pinecone Ornament Set of 3
Textured Large Matte Plum Glass Ball Ornaments, Set Of 4
Textured Large Matte Plum Glass Ball Ornaments, Set Of 4
Frosted Pinecone Ornament Set of 6 - large / brown
Frosted Pinecone Ornament Set of 6 - large / brown
Wood Finial Ornament (Set of 6)
Wood Finial Ornament (Set of 6)
Glass Christmas Ornament Tree
Glass Christmas Ornament Tree
two sun and moon ornaments hanging from a christmas tree
two sun and moon ornaments hanging from a christmas tree
Woodland Glass Christmas Ornaments Collection | Balsam Hill
Woodland Glass Christmas Ornaments Collection | Balsam Hill
Handmade Holiday | Mcm Custom Dehydrated Orange Slice Ornaments | Set Of 12 Citrus Christmas Decor | Color: Brown/Gold | Size: Os
Handmade Holiday | Mcm Custom Dehydrated Orange Slice Ornaments | Set Of 12 Citrus Christmas Decor | Color: Brown/Gold | Size: Os
three orange slices with cinnamon sticks and holly on them are hanging from twine strings
three orange slices with cinnamon sticks and holly on them are hanging from twine strings
some ornaments are laying on top of a table with pine branches and lights in the background
some ornaments are laying on top of a table with pine branches and lights in the background
6" Woodland Critters Christmas Ornaments - Ivory and Brown - Set of 4
6" Woodland Critters Christmas Ornaments - Ivory and Brown - Set of 4

When shopping for curated earthy ornaments, consider items that complement your natural material finds and harmonize with your overall decor scheme. Examples include:

Rustic Wooden Ornaments

Search for intricately carved, painted, or distressed wooden ornaments that evoke the charm of rustic country living. From hand-whittled acorn shapes to skillfully turned initial ornaments, these woody delights add a touch of warmth to your tree and mantel arrangements.

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Metal and Stone Ornaments

Bring out your inner geologist with natural stone and metal ornaments. These durable, timeless pieces often take the form of little pebbles,rasi, or intricately crafted designs inspired by natural forms. To incorporate stone and metal ornaments into your tree, consider using them as spacers between clusters of other decorations or hanging them from the outermost branches for subtle sparkle.

As you embrace the earthy aesthetic this holiday season, remember that the best ornaments are those that stir emotion and tell a story. Whether they're handpicked from the forest or carefully crafted in your workshop, these natural adornments will make your home feel cozy, intimate, and truly one-of-a-kind. So, go ahead — bring the beauty of the outdoors inside, and let your earthy Christmas ornaments shine bright this year.

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