How to Make Christmas Card Ornaments

Receiving Christmas cards from friends and family is a favorite part of the holidays, and throwing the pile away at the end of the season just seems wrong. Instead, put the memories to good use with this creative Christmas craft idea.

Upcycle last year's greeting cards into colorful orb ornaments in just three simple steps. You'll need to cut 20 circles out of the cards to make each orb. Use a variety of colors and patterns to add dimension to your finished ornaments. This easy Christmas card craft is perfect for trimming the tree or gifting to friends and family.

How to Make a Christmas Card Ornament

Supplies Needed

• Assorted paper cards
• 2-inch circle paper punch
• Small cutting mat
• Crafts knife
• Hot-glue gun
• Thread

Step-by-Step Directions

With just a few supplies and these instructions, you can create your own recycled Christmas craft using leftover cards. These easy DIY Christmas ornaments also make heartfelt holiday gifts.

Step 1: Prepare Circles

Punch out 20 circles from cards using a 2-inch circle punch. On the back of each circle, draw an even-sided triangle that extends to the edges. On a cutting mat, score with a crafts knife, being careful not to cut through the card. With the pattern side of each circle face up, gently fold the edges up along the scored lines to create tabs. (Each piece should look like a flat triangle with three rounded edges, or tabs, folded upward.)

Step 2: Glue

Hot-glue one tab of a circle to any tab of another circle. Repeat to create a chain of 10 in a straight line. This will be the center band of the sphere. Hot-glue two tabs of each of five circles together to form a circle. Repeat with the remaining five pieces to create a second circle. Pop up the center of the circles to create a dome shape.

Step 3: Add a Hanger

Form a loop with thread for the hanger and knot. Position the knotted end between the band and a dome positioned so the tabs align; hot-glue to secure all the tabs, keeping the thread in the middle. Glue the tabs of the second dome to the band to complete the sphere. Let it dry. Hang the finished ornament on your decorated Christmas tree or gift as a thoughtful holiday keepsake.