Cornstarch Dough Ornaments Recipe For Easy Holiday Crafts

Crafting your own cornstarch dough ornaments is a delightful and satisfying way to add a personal touch to your holiday decorations or gifts. This versatile and easy-to-make dough allows you to create charming shapes that can be painted, decorated, and cherished for years to come.

Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner looking for a fun, family-friendly project, this recipe offers a perfect blend of simplicity and creativity. Plus, cornstarch dough dries hard without the need for baking, making it a hassle-free option for all ages.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to make the perfect cornstarch dough, tips for shaping and drying your ornaments, and creative ideas to customize your designs. Ready to bring some handmade magic to your festive season?

Let’s dive into the wonderful world of cornstarch dough ornaments!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cornstarch dough recipe is beloved for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare with just a few pantry staples—no special ingredients required.

The dough is smooth and pliable, making it ideal for intricate designs or simple shapes alike.

Another reason this recipe stands out is its quick drying time. Unlike traditional clay that requires baking, cornstarch dough air-dries in about 24 hours, saving you time and energy.

It’s also non-toxic and safe for kids, so it’s a fantastic family craft activity.

Finally, the finished ornaments are lightweight yet sturdy, perfect for hanging on trees, gifting, or even framing as keepsakes. You’ll love how customizable and fun this recipe is, whether you paint them with vibrant colors or leave them natural for a rustic look.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornstarch
• 2 cups baking soda
• 1 1/4 cups water
• Food coloring (optional) – for tinted dough
• Ribbon or twine – for hanging ornaments

Equipment

• Medium saucepan for cooking the dough
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters of various shapes
• Baking sheet or tray lined with parchment paper
• Drinking straw or skewer to make holes for hanging
• Paintbrushes and acrylic paint for decorating
• Clear varnish or sealant (optional) to protect finished ornaments

Instructions

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix together the 1 cup cornstarch and 2 cups baking soda until evenly blended.
2. Add water: Gradually stir in the 1 1/4 cups water, making sure there are no lumps. If you want colored dough, add a few drops of food coloring at this stage.
3. Cook the mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously with a wooden spoon. The mixture will begin to thicken.
4. Stir until dough forms: Keep stirring until the mixture pulls away from the sides and forms a thick, playdough-like consistency. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove and cool: Turn off the heat and transfer the dough onto a clean surface or a sheet of parchment paper. Allow it to cool enough to handle safely.
6. Knead the dough: Once cool, knead the dough gently until smooth to ensure it’s pliable and free of lumps.
7. Roll out the dough: Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. If it sticks, lightly dust the surface with cornstarch.
8. Cut shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired ornament shapes. Remember to use a straw or skewer to poke a hole near the top for hanging later.
9. Dry the ornaments: Lay the cut shapes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them air dry at room temperature for 24-48 hours, flipping halfway through to ensure even drying.
10. Decorate: Once fully dry and hard, paint your ornaments with acrylic paints. Add details, patterns, or glitter as you like.
11. Seal and finish: After the paint dries, optionally seal your ornaments with a clear varnish or sealant to protect them from moisture and wear.
12. Add hanging ribbons: Thread ribbon or twine through the holes and tie a knot to create loops for hanging on your tree or gifts.

Tips & Variations

“If you want a smoother finish, sand the edges lightly with fine-grit sandpaper once the ornaments are fully dry.”

Here are some tips to elevate your cornstarch dough ornament experience:

• Add essential oils like cinnamon or peppermint to the dough for a subtle festive scent.
• Use natural dyes (like beet juice or spinach extract) to color your dough for an eco-friendly option.
• Incorporate glitter directly into the dough for a sparkly effect that won’t rub off easily.
• Try stamping patterns or pressing leaves and lace into the dough before drying for elegant textures.
• Make miniature ornaments to use as gift tags or place settings for holiday dinners.

Nutrition Facts

Note: These ornaments are not meant for consumption. Nutrition facts are only approximate based on ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

Cornstarch dough ornaments make wonderful additions to your holiday décor or year-round celebrations. Here are some ideas on how to use and present them:

• Hang on Christmas trees, wreaths, or garlands for a handmade festive touch.
• Attach to gift packages as charming, reusable gift tags that recipients can keep.
• Create personalized ornaments with names or dates to commemorate special occasions.
• Use as decorative accents on seasonal table settings or mantelpieces.
• Bundle several together with ribbon to create unique holiday mobiles or wall hangings.

If you enjoyed this craft recipe, you might also love exploring creative food ideas like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, or treat yourself after crafting with some delicious Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

For something refreshing, check out A Cold Vegetable Soup Recipe to Refresh Your Summer Meals.

Conclusion

Making cornstarch dough ornaments is a joyful and creative way to engage in hands-on crafting, especially during the holiday season. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create beautiful, personalized keepsakes that add warmth and personality to your home or gifts.

This recipe is not only accessible for all skill levels but also opens the door to endless customization possibilities.

Whether you choose to paint, glitter, or stamp your ornaments, the satisfaction of creating something unique and heartfelt is unmatched. Plus, this project encourages spending quality time with family and friends, making memories while crafting.

So gather your supplies, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the magic of homemade ornaments that will be treasured for years.

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