Construction Techniques for Big Ornaments: Diy Big Christmas Ornaments
Diy big christmas ornaments – Creating large Christmas ornaments presents unique challenges compared to smaller ones. The chosen construction method significantly impacts the final product’s appearance, durability, and the overall effort involved. This section explores three distinct approaches to building large spherical ornaments, followed by a detailed guide for creating a non-spherical design.
Making DIY big Christmas ornaments can be a fun and rewarding project. These oversized decorations add a unique touch to your holiday décor, and they also make wonderful gifts. For more inspiration on thoughtful handmade presents, consider checking out this guide on diy christmas gifts for grandma ; you might find ideas that could inspire your ornament designs.
Ultimately, the possibilities for creating impressive, large-scale DIY Christmas ornaments are endless.
Spherical Ornament Construction: Papier-Mâché
Papier-mâché offers a versatile and relatively inexpensive method for creating large, lightweight spherical ornaments. This technique is ideal for intricate designs and allows for significant creative freedom.
- Material Requirements: Newspaper strips, flour paste or wallpaper paste, a balloon (as a form), acrylic paint, sealant, embellishments (glitter, ribbon, etc.).
- Complexity: Moderate. Requires patience for multiple layers of papier-mâché and drying time.
- Durability: Moderate. The finished ornament is relatively fragile and requires careful handling. A good sealant is crucial for increasing durability.
Spherical Ornament Construction: Styrofoam Ball Base
Utilizing a large styrofoam ball as a base provides a quick and easy starting point for creating large ornaments. This method is best for simpler designs or when a solid, lightweight foundation is desired.
- Material Requirements: Large styrofoam ball, fabric, glue, embellishments (sequins, beads, etc.).
- Complexity: Low. Relatively straightforward assembly, depending on the chosen embellishments.
- Durability: High. Styrofoam provides a robust core, resulting in a more durable ornament than papier-mâché.
Spherical Ornament Construction: Wire Frame and Fabric, Diy big christmas ornaments
This method allows for creating very large and uniquely shaped ornaments. A wire frame provides structural integrity, while fabric allows for creative surface designs.
- Material Requirements: Floral wire or chicken wire, pliers, fabric (felt, burlap, etc.), glue, embellishments.
- Complexity: High. Requires skill in shaping the wire frame and covering it neatly with fabric.
- Durability: High. The wire frame provides excellent structural support, resulting in a strong and long-lasting ornament.
Large Non-Spherical Ornament Construction: Cardboard Snowflake
This guide details the creation of a large, six-pointed snowflake ornament using cardboard. This method is simple, cost-effective, and allows for customization.
- Cut six identical long strips of cardboard. The length will determine the size of your snowflake. Aim for strips approximately 12-18 inches long and 2-3 inches wide.
- Create the basic snowflake shape. Arrange the six strips in a star pattern, overlapping the ends to form a hexagon. Secure the intersections with strong glue or staples.
- Add decorative elements. Once the basic structure is dry, cut out smaller shapes from the cardboard (circles, triangles, etc.) and glue them onto the snowflake to add detail and visual interest. Consider adding glitter, paint, or other embellishments.
- Reinforce the structure (optional). For added strength, consider adding additional glue or reinforcing the back with another layer of cardboard.
- Attach a hanger. Drill a small hole at the top of the snowflake and attach a ribbon or string for hanging.
Decorating Large Christmas Ornaments
Decorating large Christmas ornaments offers a fantastic opportunity to showcase creativity and add a unique touch to your holiday décor. The increased surface area allows for more elaborate designs and the use of diverse materials. This section will explore several techniques, providing the necessary information for successful execution.
Painting Large Ornaments
Painting is a versatile technique allowing for a wide range of styles, from simple solid colors to intricate designs. Acrylic paints are ideal due to their quick drying time and vibrant colors. For larger ornaments, consider using a spray paint for a more even coat, especially for solid colors. You will need acrylic paints (in your chosen colors), brushes of various sizes (for detail work and larger areas), a palette or container for mixing paints, masking tape (for clean lines and designs), and a sealant to protect your artwork.
Remember to work in a well-ventilated area when using spray paint.
Decoupage on Large Ornaments
Decoupage involves adhering decorative paper, fabric, or other materials to a surface, sealing it with varnish for a smooth, polished finish. This technique allows for beautiful and intricate designs, especially when using patterned papers or fabric scraps. You will need Mod Podge (or a similar decoupage medium), decorative paper or fabric, scissors, brushes, a sealant (such as varnish or Mod Podge), and your large ornament.
Carefully apply the decoupage medium to both the ornament surface and the paper/fabric before adhering it, ensuring to smooth out any air bubbles.
Adding Glitter to Large Ornaments
Glitter adds sparkle and glamour to any ornament. For a large ornament, consider using a glitter glue or a mix of glue and glitter for better adhesion. You’ll need glitter (in your chosen colors and sizes), glue (school glue, Mod Podge, or glitter glue), a brush or sponge for application, and a sealant to prevent shedding. Apply the glue to sections of the ornament, then sprinkle the glitter generously.
Allow it to dry completely before applying a sealant.
Fabric Application on Large Ornaments
Fabric application offers a unique textural element to large ornaments. You can use various fabrics, from felt to burlap, to create a unique design. You will need fabric scraps (in your chosen colors and textures), fabric glue or hot glue gun, scissors, and possibly a sewing machine (depending on your design). You can wrap the fabric around the ornament, create fabric flowers or bows, or stitch intricate designs onto the surface.
Using Stencils for Large Ornaments
Stencils provide a way to create crisp, clean designs easily. This is especially helpful for intricate patterns or lettering. You will need stencils (in your chosen design), acrylic paints or spray paint, sponges or brushes for application, and masking tape (to secure the stencil). Carefully position the stencil and apply the paint using light, even strokes. Remove the stencil carefully once the paint is dry.
Step-by-Step Guide: Painting a Large Ornament with a Winter Wonderland Scene
1. Prepare your ornament
Clean and prime the surface with a suitable primer.
2. Sketch your design
Lightly sketch your winter wonderland scene onto the ornament using a pencil. This will act as a guide.
3. Paint the background
Use a base color (e.g., light blue for the sky) and apply it evenly. Allow it to dry completely.
4. Paint the details
Use various shades of white, gray, and blue to paint snowdrifts, trees, and other details.
5. Add highlights
Use white paint to add highlights to your scene, creating depth and dimension.
6. Seal your artwork
Once everything is completely dry, apply a sealant to protect your paint job.
Remember to allow each layer of paint to dry completely before applying the next to prevent smudging and ensure a professional finish.
FAQs
What kind of adhesive is best for large ornaments?
Strong adhesives like hot glue, epoxy, or construction adhesive are suitable depending on the materials used. Always test a small area first.
How do I prevent my large ornaments from breaking?
Use sturdy materials, reinforce weak points with additional support, and handle them gently. Avoid placing them in areas prone to accidental knocks.
Can I use recycled materials to make large ornaments?
Absolutely! Cardboard, plastic bottles, and even old fabrics can be repurposed into unique and eco-friendly ornaments.
Where can I find inspiration for unique designs?
Browse Pinterest, online craft blogs, and holiday magazines for design ideas. Consider your personal style and the overall theme of your holiday décor.