Cornstarch Dough Ornament Recipe for Easy DIY Crafts

Creating beautiful, personalized ornaments is a joy that brings a special touch to any holiday or celebration. One of the most accessible and fun ways to craft your own decorations is by making cornstarch dough ornaments.

This recipe uses simple household ingredients, requiring no baking and minimal drying time, making it perfect for crafters of all ages. Whether you want to create keepsakes, gifts, or festive decorations, this cornstarch dough is pliable, easy to work with, and can be painted or decorated once dry.

Plus, it’s non-toxic and safe for kids to handle, making it a fantastic family activity during the holiday season or any creative downtime.

In this detailed guide, you’ll discover the essential ingredients, equipment, and step-by-step instructions to make your own cornstarch dough ornaments. Along with handy tips and creative variations, you’ll be fully equipped to bring your ideas to life and enjoy a rewarding crafting experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cornstarch dough ornament recipe stands out for its simplicity and versatility. It requires just a few everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, so there’s no need for complicated shopping trips.

The dough is quick to prepare and easy to mold, making it perfect for crafting with children or beginners.

Unlike traditional salt dough recipes, cornstarch dough dries to a smooth, porcelain-like finish, which makes your ornaments look professional and elegant. You can customize them with paint, glitter, or stamps to suit any theme or occasion.

Additionally, the ornaments are lightweight and durable, so they hang beautifully on trees, wreaths, or as gifts.

Whether you’re looking for a fun craft project, a handmade gift idea, or a way to decorate your home with a personal touch, this recipe delivers excellent results with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornstarch
• 2 cups baking soda
• 1 1/4 cups water
• Optional: food coloring or acrylic paint (for decorating)
• Optional: glitter or sequins (for embellishments)

Equipment

• Non-stick saucepan or pot
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Baking sheet or flat tray lined with parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters or shaping tools
• Straw or skewer (for making holes to hang ornaments)
• Plastic wrap (to cover dough while resting)
• Paintbrushes (for decorating)

Instructions

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, mix together the 1 cup cornstarch and 2 cups baking soda until well blended.
2. Add water and stir: Pour in the 1 1/4 cups water and stir continuously with a wooden spoon or spatula until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
3. Heat the mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent sticking. The mixture will gradually thicken and begin to resemble mashed potatoes; this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Knead the dough: Once thickened, transfer the dough onto a clean surface or silicone mat. Allow it to cool slightly until it’s safe to handle. Knead the dough for about 2 minutes to ensure it’s smooth and pliable. If the dough is sticky, dust your hands and the surface lightly with cornstarch.
5. Roll out the dough: Using a rolling pin, flatten the dough to approximately 1/4 inch thickness. Try to keep it even for uniform ornaments.
6. Cut shapes: Use cookie cutters or your hands to cut out desired shapes. Immediately use a straw or skewer to poke a hole near the top of each ornament for hanging later.
7. Dry the ornaments: Place the cutouts on a lined baking sheet. Allow them to air dry for 24 to 48 hours, turning occasionally to ensure even drying. Alternatively, you can dry them in a low oven (around 200°F/90°C) for 1-2 hours, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
8. Decorate: Once completely dry and hardened, decorate your ornaments with acrylic paint, glitter, or other embellishments. Let your creativity shine!
9. Seal (optional): To protect your designs and give a nice finish, you can seal the ornaments with a clear varnish or craft sealant.
10. Hang and enjoy: Thread ribbon, string, or twine through the holes and hang your beautiful handmade ornaments wherever you like.

Tips & Variations

“To keep your dough soft and workable, always cover it with plastic wrap when not in use. If it starts to dry out, knead in a few drops of water gently.”

• Add color directly: Mix a few drops of food coloring into the water before adding it to the dry ingredients to make colored dough.
• Use essential oils: Add a drop or two of essential oils like cinnamon or peppermint to the dough for a lovely scent.
• Imprint patterns: Use stamps, leaves, or textured fabrics to create interesting surface designs before drying.
• Glitter and shine: Sprinkle glitter on top of wet dough shapes or paint with glue and add sparkles after drying for extra sparkle.
• Make 3D ornaments: Roll small balls or shapes and glue pieces together once dry for more dimension.
• Use cookie cutters: Try themed cutters like stars, hearts, snowflakes, or animals for seasonal or special occasion ornaments.

Nutrition Facts

Since this recipe is a craft dough and not intended for consumption, nutrition facts are not applicable. The ingredients—cornstarch and baking soda—are non-toxic but not edible in large quantities.

Keep ornaments out of reach of small children who might be tempted to taste them.

Serving Suggestions

These cornstarch dough ornaments are perfect for hanging on Christmas trees, holiday wreaths, or as decorative tags on gift packages. They also make charming gifts for friends and family, especially when personalized with names, dates, or messages.

For party favors, use smaller shapes decorated with vibrant colors and names. You can also string several together to create festive garlands or mobiles.

Another fun idea is to let kids paint their own ornaments as a creative activity during a holiday gathering or craft day.

For inspiration on more creative cooking and craft ideas, check out our Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

Conclusion

Making cornstarch dough ornaments is a delightful and accessible craft project that brings a personal touch to your holiday decorations or any special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal equipment, you can create elegant, durable ornaments that are perfect for gifting or decorating your own home.

This recipe’s ease and versatility make it suitable for all ages and skill levels. From customizing colors and patterns to adding scents and sparkles, the possibilities are endless.

Plus, it’s a wonderful way to spend quality time with family and friends while crafting something memorable.

We hope this guide inspires you to get creative with cornstarch dough and enjoy the process of making beautiful, handmade ornaments. Don’t forget to explore other fun and easy recipes on our site to complement your crafting adventures!

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