DIY Glitter Christmas Ornaments: Easy Polymer Clay Tutorial

Updated at: 23/05/2025

Christmas is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than by crafting unique and personalized ornaments? Forget mass-produced decorations; this year, unleash your inner artist and create dazzling, glitter-filled Christmas ornaments using the magic of polymer clay! This versatile material allows for endless creative possibilities, from delicate snowflakes to charming miniature snowmen, all with a touch of festive sparkle that will transform your Christmas tree. Adding glitter offers an extra layer of festive flair, making these ornaments truly one-of-a-kind treasures.

Forget expensive store-bought decorations and embrace the joy of crafting! This easy-to-follow tutorial will guide you through the simple steps of creating your own stunning polymer clay Christmas ornaments, complete with mesmerizing glitter accents. Ready to get started on your shimmering masterpieces? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process and transform plain clay into breathtaking festive decorations.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Fimo clay (white glitter effect)
  • Pasta machine
  • Coarse sandpaper
  • Squared paper
  • Template
  • Thick blade (Rick rack)
  • Needle tool
  • Heart-shaped cutter (or other shape cutter)
  • Plastic straw
  • Alcohol ink
  • Liquid Fimo
  • Toothpick
  • Acrylic paint (gold or other color)
  • Ribbon
  • Americana Duraclear glaze (or similar)
  • Oven
  • Oven Thermometer
  • Foil pan
Safety Guidelines
  • Polymer clay needs to be baked according to the manufacturer's instructions to harden. Improper baking can result in fragile ornaments.
  • Use a well-ventilated area when baking polymer clay and avoid inhaling fumes. Glitter can also be messy; work in a contained area.
  • Always supervise children when working with polymer clay, especially during the baking process. Avoid touching eyes after handling glitter.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Polymer Clay

    • Roll out Fimo clay and texture it with coarse sandpaper (optional).
    • Cut out shapes using template and clay cutter.
    Cut out shapes using template and clay cutter.Cut out shapes using template and clay cutter.
    Prepare the Polymer Clay

  2. Create Hanging Holes

    • Use needle tool to create holes in the center of cutouts.
    Use needle tool to create holes in the center of cutouts.
    Create Hanging Holes

  3. Prepare and Apply Glitter

    • Prepare plastic straw as a quill pen for applying liquid clay.
    • Mix liquid Fimo with alcohol ink.
    • Apply liquid clay into holes using the straw.
    Apply liquid clay into holes using the straw.Apply liquid clay into holes using the straw.Apply liquid clay into holes using the straw.
    Prepare and Apply Glitter

  4. Bake the Ornaments

    • Bake ornaments according to manufacturer's instructions, using a foil pan to prevent yellowing.
    Bake ornaments according to manufacturer's instructions, using a foil pan to prevent yellowing.
    Bake the Ornaments

  5. Decorate and Finish

    • Paint with acrylic paint after baking.
    • Add optional embellishments (crystals, etc.).
    • Apply glaze and attach ribbon for hanging.
    Apply glaze and attach ribbon for hanging.Apply glaze and attach ribbon for hanging.Apply glaze and attach ribbon for hanging.
    Decorate and Finish

Read more: Hang Your Clay Creations: The No-Hole Hanger Method

Tips

  • Experiment with different clay colors and textures.
  • Make templates for easier shaping.
  • Don't worry about minor imperfections; these are handmade decorations.
  • Use a plastic straw to precisely apply liquid clay.
  • If liquid clay overflows, gently wipe off excess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Unevenly Mixed Glitter

Reason: Insufficient mixing of glitter into the polymer clay can result in an uneven distribution of sparkle across the finished ornament.
Solution: Knead the glitter thoroughly into the clay until it's completely and evenly dispersed.

2. Overbaking or Underbaking

Reason: Incorrect baking time or temperature can lead to ornaments that are either brittle and easily breakable (overbaked) or soft and misshapen (underbaked).
Solution: Follow the clay manufacturer's instructions precisely for baking time and temperature.

FAQs

What kind of polymer clay is best for making ornaments?
Sculpey Premo and Fimo are popular choices because they're durable and hold their shape well after baking. However, any oven-bake polymer clay will work. Just ensure it's completely cured to avoid warping.
How do I prevent the glitter from falling off my ornaments?
To ensure your glitter stays put, apply a generous amount of strong adhesive (like Mod Podge or a similar sealant) before sprinkling the glitter. Once dry, consider sealing the entire ornament with a clear sealant for extra protection.