Handmade Paper Mache Ornaments Craft

The first Christmas ornaments I ever purchased were paper mache balls.  After 20 years of service, they are finally being retired, but they’re also being replaced by a homemade version. 

Whilst I found them tricky at first, being a crafting newbie and all, once I figured out the trick to mastering a smooth finish, I was on a roll and now have a full set of holiday ornament balls waiting for our Christmas tree to arrive.

You, too, can create homemade ornaments in this same fashion with a bit of patience, a few basic crafting supplies, our tutorial and a cup of cocoa to make it a cozy celebration out of it, too!

Supplies:

1 premade cardboard ornament ball 

Quick drying craft glue

Scrap booking paper

Sparkle Mod Podge

Paper blade or Scissors

Sponge applicator 

Directions:

Step 1: Cut the crafting paper into various shapes that are no larger than the ball itself. 

Step 2: Once the shapes are cut, score the sides of the shape so that it has a fringed effect.  This will allow the shape to fit smoothly on the surface of the ball without folding or rising up.

Step 3: Apply glue to the back of your paper and move around the ball gluing your shapes – holding down larger pieces as needed while they dry. Then allow the completed shape to dry for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Once the glue is dry, apply a thin layer of Sparkle Mod Podge with a sponge applicator across the paper covered ball, and then allow that to dry for 1-2 hours. 

Step 5: Once the first coat of Sparkle Mod Podge is dry, use your quick drying glue to seal any areas of the surface that need it to ensure that you have a smooth ball surface. 

Step 6: To compete the ball, apply a second coat of Sparkle Mod Podge to the ball and then allow to try for 1-2 hours before hanging on your tree.