top of page

5 Creative Things To Do with Oranges for Christmas: Simple, Scented and Sustainable Ideas

When winter arrives, I always find myself drawn to the smell of citrus. There’s something about oranges—bright, warm and naturally fragrant—that instantly lifts my home and brings a little festive calm. And the best part? Oranges are incredibly versatile.


With just a handful of peels and slices, you can create beautiful decorations, thoughtful gifts and natural home fragrance for the entire season.


In this post, I’m sharing seven of my favourite Christmas orange ideas. They’re simple, sustainable, and perfect if you love a handmade, nature-inspired festive style.


1. Orange Peel Scented Drawer Sachets

If you want to add a gentle, wintry fragrance to drawers or linen cupboards, orange peel sachets are a lovely option.

A minimal, softly lit flat-lay on a neutral linen surface. Several small muslin drawstring bags filled with dried orange peel, cloves and cinnamon, arranged neatly with a subtle handcrafted feel. A few pieces of dried peel, whole cloves and cinnamon sticks were scattered naturally around the bags. Unwaxed oranges and a small wooden bowl.
Orange Peel Scented Drawer Sachets

How to make them

  1. Dry your orange peels (cut into thin strips or small pieces).

  2. Mix the dried peel with whole cloves and a pinch of cinnamon.

  3. Fill small muslin bags and tie securely.

The result is a soft, warming fragrance that feels cosy but not overpowering. These also make thoughtful little stocking fillers.


2. Decorative Orange Star Shapes

This is one of the prettiest ways to reuse peel, and children love helping with it.

ree

How to make them

  1. Cut the peel into flat sections.

  2. Use a small cookie cutter (stars, hearts, mini trees) to punch out shapes.

  3. Leave them to dry thoroughly or place them in an oven on low heat.


You can scatter them on the Christmas table, layer them on gift wrap, or use them as natural confetti around candles and centrepieces. They smell incredible as they dry.


3. Orange Peel Kindling Twists

A brilliant idea if you enjoy winter evenings by the fire.

A clean, modern Scandi-inspired flat-lay on a cool white or light grey textured surface. Long spirals of orange peel twisted and dried, arranged neatly in a minimal composition. A small matte ceramic bowl filled with additional twists sits beside them.
Orange Peel Kindling Twists

How to make them

  1. Peel oranges in long spirals.

  2. Twist into curls and leave to dry completely.

  3. Store in a jar or basket.


Orange peel contains natural oils that ignite easily, so once dried, these twists make beautiful natural fire starters. Plus, they give off a soft citrus aroma as they burn.


4. Orange-Infused Sugar for Gifting

This is one of my favourite edible gifts to make during December. It feels special but takes less than ten minutes.


How to make it

  1. Dry thin strips of orange peel until crisp.

  2. Blitz into a powder using a blender or spice grinder.

  3. Mix into caster or granulated sugar.

  4. Spoon into small jars, then add a ribbon or a handwritten label.


Orange-infused sugar is delicious in tea, sprinkled on porridge, used for baking, mixed into hot chocolate bars or added to festive cocktails.


5. Citrus-Wax Fire Starters

These are perfect for hampers, for guests staying over Christmas, or simply for making your home feel a little cosier.

Several homemade wax fire starters arranged neatly: dried orange slices pressed into soy wax poured over pinecones or set in small paper cups.
Citrus-Wax Fire Starters

How to make them

  1. Place dried orange slices into silicone moulds, paper cups or over pinecones.

  2. Pour melted wax (soy or beeswax) over the top.

  3. Add a wick or leave wick-free for use as fire starters.

  4. Let them set fully.


They look beautiful, smell subtly citrusy, and add a handmade touch to any winter gift.


Why These Orange Crafts Are Perfect for Christmas

All of these ideas are:

  • Eco-friendly

  • Affordable

  • Fragrant without artificial scents

  • Beautifully rustic and timeless

  • Easy to make with items you already have at home


They’re also a fantastic way to slow down, enjoy simple seasonal rituals, and bring more natural warmth into your décor—especially if you prefer a calm, minimal, handcrafted Christmas aesthetic.


5 Creative Things To Do with Oranges for Christmas: Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need unwaxed oranges for these ideas?

Yes, especially for crafts where the peel is dried and used directly. If you only have waxed oranges, rinse them with freshly boiled water and scrub to remove the coating.


2. How long do dried orange crafts last?

Most dried orange decorations last for several months when stored in a dry place.


3. Can I mix oranges with other citrus fruits?

Absolutely—lemon, lime and grapefruit work beautifully for garlands, peel shapes or infused sugar.


4. How long does orange-infused sugar keep?

If stored in an airtight jar, it keeps for at least three months.


5. Do the scented sachets lose their fragrance?

The fragrance is strongest for the first few weeks and can be refreshed by adding a drop of orange or clove essential oil.


Comments

bottom of page