DIY Paper Mâché Christmas Decorations: Natural, Sustainable & Beautiful

If you’re like me and love trying new things, this is a great project for you. Making your own DIY Paper Mâché Christmas decorations is simple, creative, and surprisingly satisfying. They create lovely, handmade gifts that add a warm, natural touch to your festive décor. All you need are a few basic materials: paper, flour paste, and some natural pigments to create ornaments, stars, or small bowls that feel beautifully rustic and completely your own.

There’s something special about slowing down during the festive season to make things by hand. These decorations are not only affordable but also kind to the planet, using recycled materials and natural colourants for a sustainable Christmas look that never goes out of style.

DIY Paper Mâché Christmas Decorations: Natural, Sustainable & Beautiful

What You’ll Need

• Old newspaper, packaging paper, or cardboard

• Plain flour (or PVA glue)

• Water

• Mixing bowl and spoon

• String or jute twine (for hanging)

• Natural pigments or paints (turmeric, beetroot, coffee, spinach)

• Cookie cutters, moulds, or small bowls

• Eco varnish or beeswax polish (optional)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Paper Mâché Christmas Decorations

Step 1: Make Your Paste

Mix 1 part flour with 2 parts water until a smooth mixture is formed. You can add a teaspoon of salt to prevent mould if storing decorations long-term.

Step 2: Create the Base

Tear your paper into strips or blend it into pulp for thicker ornaments. Dip each strip into the paste, remove excess, and press into your chosen mould: cookie cutters, star shapes, or small bowls all work beautifully.

Step 3: Shape and Smooth

Smooth the surface with your fingers or a spatula. For hanging ornaments, pierce a small hole at the top before drying.

Step 4: Dry Thoroughly

Leave your creations to dry completely: 24 hours or more, depending on size and thickness.

Step 5: Decorate Naturally

Once dry, use natural pigments to colour your ornaments:

• Turmeric – soft golden tones like candlelight

• Beetroot – warm berry pink

• Coffee – rustic brown

• Spinach – subtle festive green

Mix each pigment with a small amount of water or flour paste and brush it on for a natural, slightly textured finish. You can also layer tones for a soft, aged look. Finish with jute twine, a touch of beeswax, or a sprig of dried herbs for a botanical touch.

Eco-Friendly Ideas to Try

• Create a matching garland by threading stars or hearts onto twine.

• Make mini bowls for gifting — perfect for holding handmade soaps, tealights, or dried orange slices.

• Use papier-mache to form personalised gift tags — simply stamp or handwrite names once dry.

Eco-Friendly Ideas to Try: Use Papier-Mache Gift Tags 

Finishing Touches

Seal your decorations with natural beeswax polish or an eco varnish for durability. If you’d like a gentle shimmer, dust with a little mica powder or fine salt before sealing — it catches the light beautifully but still feels natural and understated.

Eco Tip

These decorations are completely compostable. When the season ends, simply recycle or compost them — a small step towards a greener Christmas that still feels warm, cosy, and full of character.

DIY Paper Mâché Christmas Decorations FAQs

1. Can I use cardboard for thicker ornaments?

Yes: soak, blend, and mix with flour paste for a firm clay-like texture.

2. How long will they last?

If kept dry, they’ll last for several seasons. Store in an airtight box between uses.

3. Can I paint them with normal paint?

Acrylic paint works well, but natural pigments provide a softer, more rustic appearance.

4. How do I hang them?

Use jute twine, raffia, or thin cotton ribbon, all biodegradable options.

5. Are they suitable for kids? Yes, this is a safe and fun craft for all ages, perfect for family afternoons.

Meta Description

Make your own eco-friendly Christmas decorations with paper mâché. Create stars, hearts, and festive ornaments using natural pigments and sustainable materials — perfect handmade gifts for the season.