15 DIYs for a Vintage Christmas
- You Can Make in an Evening
There's something magical about vintage Christmas decorations – they carry that warm, nostalgic feeling that mass-produced ornaments just can't replicate. Whether you're drawn to the soft glow of tinted glass, the luxe texture of velvet, or the handcrafted charm of embroidered felt, creating your own vintage-inspired decor lets you capture that heirloom quality without the thrift store hunt (or the hefty price tag!).
I've gathered 15 of my favorite vintage Christmas DIY projects for you to step-up your vintage Christmas this year. These projects embrace natural materials, timeless designs, and that cozy, handmade feel that makes Christmas truly special.
Ready to bring some vintage magic to your holiday? Let's dive in!
What I love about this:
”This is such a clever way to upcycle plain glass ornaments into something that looks authentically vintage! The tinted glass technique gives them that gorgeous amber, jewel-toned glow you'd find in antique ornaments, but you can customize the colors to match your own style.”Perfect for: Beginner | 1 hour (+ 30-60 min baking) | Vintage-style tree ornaments
Supplies you'll need
You'll need to get:
- Clear glass ornaments ((any size))
- Mod Podge
- Food coloring (gel works best for rich colors)
Nice to have:
- Metallic wax (to prettify the ornament caps)
Probably already at home:
- Oven
- Muffin tin (for drying)
- Small cup (for mixing)
Estimated Cost: $8-15 (or nearly free if upcycling old ornaments!)
What I love about this:
”Fresh rosemary wreaths bring such a lovely natural element to Christmas decorating and I love how versatile they are: use them as napkin rings, tie them onto wrapped gifts, or cluster several on a garland.”Perfect for: Beginner | 5 minutes per wreath | Natural Christmas Decor
Supplies you'll need
You'll need to get:
- Fresh rosemary (from grocery store or garden)
- Floral wire (thin, green or natural color)
Nice to have:
- Jute twine
- Ribbon (for hanging)
Probably already at home:
- Scissors or pruning shears
- Fresh rosemary from your garden (if you have it!)
Estimated Cost: $5-8 (for 10-15 wreaths)
What I love about this:
"Real vintage flocked ornaments can be pricey and hard to find, but this DIY gives you that gorgeous velvety texture for a fraction of the cost! The soft, matte finish looks so luxurious and authentic – you'd never guess it's made with household ingredients like flour or baking soda. Create them in any color to match your vintage aesthetic!"Perfect for: Beginner-Intermediate | 1-2 hours (plus drying time) | Vintage velvet-look tree ornaments
Supplies you'll need
You'll need to get:
- Clear glass ornaments
- Acrylic Paint (in your chosen color)
Nice to have:
- Primer spray paint (white or gray)
- Vintage-style ornament caps (hint)
Probably already at home:
- Flour or baking soda (for flocking texture)
- Fine mesh strainer
- Paintbrush or foam brush
Estimated Cost: $12-18
What I love about this:
"These clay bells have such an authentic hammered metal look – it's hard to believe they're not actual vintage bells! The technique is surprisingly simple: you wrap air-dry clay around a tin can, which means you can easily adjust the size based on what cans you have on hand. The finishing touches with gold paint and walnut stain give them that aged, patina-rich look that makes them feel like treasured antiques."Perfect for: Intermediate | 2-3 hours (plus drying time) | hang on your tree or create a cluster for a mantel display
Supplies you'll need
You'll need to get:
- Air-dry clay (about 2 kg for 7 bells)
- Black Acrylic Paint
- Gold Acrylic Paint (for antiquing)
- Walnut Stain (for aged patina)
Probably already at home:
- Cleaned tin cans (various sizes)
- Rolling pin
- Hammer and nail (to make hole in can top)
- Small wood scraps or twigs (for clappers)
Estimated Cost: $15-20 (for clay and paints)
What I love about this:
"The soft fabric texture on these ornaments gives them such a cozy, vintage feel! What makes this project so fun is how customizable it is: choose vintage floral prints, classic plaids, or soft linen fabrics to match your tree's style. It's a great way to upcycle thrifted ornaments or give plain ones a completely new personality, and there's no sewing required – just fabric, glue, and a little patience."Perfect for: Beginner | 15-20 minutes per ornament | Vintage fabric tree ornaments
Supplies you'll need
You'll need to get:
- Clear glass ornaments (or thrifted ones to upcycle)
- (Christmas) Fabric (vintage prints, florals, plaids, or linen)
- Mod Podge (matte or glossy finish)
Nice to have:
- Fabric Scissors (for clean cuts)
- Velvet Ribbon
Probably already at home:
- Foam brush or paintbrush (for Mod Podge)
- Fabric scraps
- Old ornaments to upcycle
Estimated Cost: $10-15 (or $5-8 if using fabric scraps!)
What I love about this:
"I've already made a batch of these and they're so charming! The little resin frames have such an authentic vintage look with the gold patina finish. What makes them extra special is how versatile they are – fill them with vintage painting prints for a classic ornament, or use photos of you and your friend to create the most thoughtful personalized gift tags."Perfect for: Beginner-Intermediate | 1-2 hours (plus resin curing time) | Tree ornaments or personalized gift tags
Supplies you'll need
You'll need to get:
- Resin Kit (epoxy resin)
- Silicone Mold Frames
- Black Acrylic Paint
- Metallic wax (gold or antique gold)
Nice to have:
- Vintage art prints (or photos)
Probably already at home:
- Scissors (to cut images to size)
- Printer (for photos or art prints)
- Mixing cups and stir sticks (for resin)
- Gloves
Estimated Cost: $20-30 (resin kit is main investment, then you can make many!)
What I love about this:
"These pleated paper ornaments have such a delicate, vintage charm – the accordion-folded texture looks so intricate and time-consuming, but they're actually surprisingly easy to make! What I also love is how customizable they are: choose any shape and color to match your style. The dimensional pleated look gives them that handcrafted heirloom quality that feels special and nostalgic."Perfect for: Beginner | 30-45 minutes per ornament | Vintage pleated tree ornaments
Supplies you'll need
You'll need to get:
- Cards stock (hint)
- Craft glue (hint)
Nice to have:
- Free printable templates (hint)
Probably already at home:
- Scissors
- Yarn or twine (for hanging loop)
Estimated Cost: $5-10 (for a whole bunch)
What I love about this:
"This clever upcycling project transforms tomato paste tubes (yes, really!) into a stunning vintage gold garland that looks like precious heirloom ornaments. I love that it gives new life to something that would otherwise be trash, and the metallic gold finish has such an authentic vintage vibe. You can cut any shapes you like – stars, hearts, circles, wreaths – and keep adding to your collection year after year."Perfect for: Beginner | 2-3 hours | Vintage gold garland or ornaments
Supplies you'll need
You'll need to get:
- Tomato paste tubes (Save from cooking!)
- Jute twine (for stringing)
Nice to have:
- Metallic wax (if you want extra shine)
Probably already at home:
- Scissors (sharp, for cutting metal)
- Smooth-edged kitchen utensil (spoon handle works!)
- Pen or pencil (for tracing shapes)
- Needle or awl (for poking hanging holes)
Estimated Cost: $0-5 (essentially free!)
What I love about this:
”A cozy Christmas feeling isn't just about what you see – scent is such a huge part of creating that nostalgic holiday atmosphere! Making your own candles lets you customize the fragrance to match your perfect Christmas memory. And the handmade candles make beautiful gifts too."Perfect for: Beginner-Intermediate | 1-2 hours | Scented home decor or gifts
Supplies you'll need
You'll need to get:
- Glass Jars (heat-resistance)
- Soy wax flakes
- Cotton candle wicks
- Essential Oils
Nice to have:
- Printable vinyl sticker paper (for custom vintage labels)
Probably already at home:
- Double boiler or heat-safe bowl + pot
- Wooden stir stick or spoon
- Clothespins or pencils (to hold wicks centered)
Estimated Cost: $20-30 (makes 4-6 candles)
Felt Embroidery Letter Ornaments
By: camomille_creations | View Tutorial Video by: camomille_creations
What I love about this:
"These embroidered felt letters are absolutely adorable – they have such a sweet, handcrafted charm! I love the idea of having all family members' initials to hang on your tree or string together in a garland. The delicate floral embroidery details give them that vintage, handmade-with-love feel, and they're the kind of ornaments that become treasured keepsakes."Perfect for: Intermediate | 1-2 hours per letter | Personalized tree ornaments or garland
Supplies you'll need
You'll need to get:
- Fell sheets (cream, red, or your choice of colors)
- Embroidery Thread (coordinating colors)
- Embroidery needles
- Fiberfill or batting (for stuffing)
Nice to have:
- Letter pattern templates (supports the creator!)
- Embroidery hoop
Probably already at home:
- Scissors
- Ribbon or twine (for hanging loop)
- Pencil or fabric pen (for tracing)
Estimated Cost: $10-15 (or $18-20 with pattern purchase)
What I love about this:
"This velvet bow garland creates such a big visual impact with minimal effort! The soft, luxurious texture of velvet ribbon gives it that romantic vintage feel – perfect draped across a mantel, along a staircase, or woven through your tree. Choose classic deep reds and greens, or go with softer dusty pinks and creams for a more subtle vintage look."Perfect for: Beginner | 1-2 hours | Mantel, staircase, or tree garland
Supplies you'll need
You'll need to get:
- Velvet Ribbon (1.5-2 inch width)
- Jute twine (for stringing bows)
Nice to have:
- Hot glue gun + glue sticks (alternative to tying onto twine)
Probably already at home:
- Scissors
- Ruler or measuring tape
Estimated Cost: $15-25 (depending on garland length)
Tutorial "Vintage Christmas Prints for Frames (+ Samsung Frame TV)" not found
What I love about this:
”Dried orange slices bring such a beautiful natural, vintage element to your Christmas tree – they have that nostalgic, old-world charm that feels timeless. They're simple to make (just slice and dry!), smell wonderful, and add that perfect pop of warm color against evergreen branches."Perfect for: Beginner | A few hours (mostly passive oven time) | Vintage ornaments to hang EVERYWHERE (yes I am obsessed!)
Supplies you'll need
You'll need to get:
- Oranges (organic) (3-4 for a dozen ornaments)
- Velvet Ribbon (for hanging)
Nice to have:
- Cinnamon Sticks (beautiful mixed into garland)
- Food dehydrator (faster and more even drying)
Probably already at home:
- Sharp knife (for slicing)
- Oven & Parchment paper
Estimated Cost: $5-8
What I love about this:
"These delicate doily snowflakes look incredibly intricate, but take only minutes to fold and glue! The lacy texture adds such beautiful dimension to your decor – try clustering some of different sizes together. Leave them up all winter long for those cozy, snowy-day vibes. They catch the light so beautifully in a window!"Perfect for: Beginner | 10 min each | All winter long
Supplies you'll need
You'll need to get:
- Paper doilies (variety pack with different sizes)
- Craft glue
Probably already at home:
- Yarn or fishing line (for hanging)
Estimated Cost: $5-8
What I love about this:
"Paper chains are pure nostalgic magic – they instantly bring back those cozy childhood memories of making decorations together! It's the ultimate mindless craft to do while watching a Christmas movie, and there's something so satisfying about watching the chain grow longer and longer."Perfect for: Beginner | 1-3 hours (depending on length) | The kind of project you can do curled up on the couch
Supplies you'll need
You'll need to get:
- Scrapbook paper (vintage prints, solids, or festive patterns)
- Craft glue
Nice to have:
- Paper trimmer (for perfectly even strips)
Probably already at home:
- Scissors and Ruler
- Pencil (for marking strips)
Estimated Cost: $8-15
Gift Ideas Using These Projects
These vintage DIY projects make thoughtful handmade gifts:
- Tinted glass ornaments – Package 3-4 in a vintage box for a cohesive set
- Resin frame ornaments – Add a photo for personalized gift tags
- Scented candles – Pair with a book of matches in a gift bag
- Felt letter ornaments – Spell out recipient's name or initials
- Velvet bow garland – Perfect for a housewarming gift
- Paper chain garland – Make with kids, gift to grandparents
Presentation tip: Wrap in kraft paper with a sprig of greenery and a handwritten tag explaining the handmade touch!
Tips for Creating Vintage Christmas Decor
- Stick to muted, aged or jewel tones: dusty rose, dark green, cream, amber, gold - Avoid bright, neon colors!
- Embrace imperfections – vintage is about character, not perfection
- Look for textures: pleated, flocked, embroidered, natural elements
Creating vintage Christmas decorations is about more than just saving money or having something to do on a cozy evening – it's about crafting a holiday atmosphere that feels warm, nostalgic, and authentically yours. Each ornament you make carries a little piece of your creativity and care, and that's what makes handmade vintage decor so special.
These 15 projects prove you don't need to scour antique shops or spend a fortune to achieve that coveted vintage aesthetic. With simple materials, a little time, and these wonderful tutorials from talented creators, you can transform your entire Christmas into a celebration of timeless, handcrafted beauty.
Which vintage DIY are you most excited to try? Save this collection on Pinterest so you can come back when you're ready to start crafting, and tag me if you make any of these – I'd love to see your vintage creations come to life!
All Creators Featured
This collection features work from the following amazing creators:
- The Rural Legend
- CameronSadie
- Tina Le
- Lonefox
- bymichellelei
- Finca Home
- Tina's Cucina
- Camomille Creations
- Amelia Lawrence
- The Modern Day Cottage
- Emily Welch Style
- The Kwendyhome
- Floral Flair Studio
- Woodlark
Please visit their sites for full tutorials and support their amazing work!
Shop Most-used Supplies
Essential Craft Supplies:
- Natural wooden beads
- Air-dry clay
- Mod Podge
- Hot glue gun + glue sticks
- Ribbon
- Fell sheets
- Embroidery Thread
- Acrylic Paint
For Special Projects:
- Resin Kit
- Metallic wax
- Cupcake liners
- Essential Oils
- Food coloring
Tools & Basics:
- Paper trimmer
- Fabric Scissors
- Rolling Pin
- Fine detail paint brushes
Note: You likely have many of these supplies at home already! Check your craft stash before purchasing.
Disclaimers
Affiliate Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I believe in! Thank you for supporting Sunday Sofa. 💛
Content Credit: Many projects featured in this collection are created by the talented individuals linked above. I do not claim ownership of their work – I'm simply sharing what inspires me! Please visit the original creators for full tutorials and support their amazing content.
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