How to Make Minimalist Papier-Mâché Christmas Ornaments with Moulds and Cookie Cutters

I’ve always loved simple, handmade Christmas décor — pieces that feel personal, crafted, and a little imperfect in the best way. Papier-mâché is one of those timeless materials that turns everyday scraps into beautiful decorations.

This year, I’ve been experimenting with moulds and cookie cutters to create minimalist ornaments that suit Botanical Blueprint’s natural, understated aesthetic.

How to Make Minimalist Papier-Mâché Christmas Ornaments with Moulds and Cookie Cutters

They’re sustainable, low-cost, and perfect for anyone who prefers a handmade touch over glitter and plastic. If you'd like to know how to make minimalist papier-mâché Christmas ornaments, continue reading!

Why Papier-Mâché Works for Minimalist Christmas Décor

Papier-mâché is wonderfully versatile — and more sustainable than most materials used in festive crafts.

• Eco-friendly: made from recycled paper, flour paste, and water.

• Lightweight: ideal for hanging on branches or trees.

• Customisable: shape, size and colour can be easily adjusted.

• Natural finish: the matte surface pairs beautifully with raw materials such as concrete, wood, and linen.

When shaped with moulds or cookie cutters, you can achieve crisp, consistent forms — stars, hearts, leaves or even small trees — while maintaining that handcrafted texture.

How to Make Minimalist Papier-Mâché Christmas Ornaments: Tools needed

What You’ll Need

To make your own moulded papier-mâché ornaments, gather:

• Recycled paper (old newspapers, kraft paper, or packaging scraps)

• Warm water and a mixing bowl

• Flour or cornstarch (for the natural paste)

• Cookie cutters or silicone moulds (stars, hearts, trees, leaves)

• Rolling pin or spatula

• Twine, jute or thin ribbon for hanging

• Paint (chalk, natural pigments or acrylics in off-white, sage, or clay tones)

• Baking sheet or silicone mat for drying

Step-by-Step: How to Make Papier-Mâché Ornaments Using Moulds

1. Tear and soak your paper.

   Rip paper into small pieces and soak overnight in warm water until soft.

2. Blend into pulp.

   Drain excess water and blend into a smooth, thick pulp.

3. Prepare your natural paste.

   Mix 1 part flour with 2 parts water, stirring until smooth. Add to the pulp to create a mouldable consistency.

4. Press into moulds or cookie cutters.

   Place your cookie cutter or mould on a non-stick surface. Press the pulp firmly into place, smoothing the surface with a spatula or a damp finger. If using a silicone mould, press gently to capture details.

5. Release and refine.

   Carefully remove the ornament from the mould (or lift the cutter). Use a knife or your finger to neaten edges. Poke a small hole for hanging.

6. Dry completely.

   Let the ornaments air dry for 24–48 hours. Avoid heat sources that may warp the shape.

7. Paint and finish.

   Once dry, apply a light coat of chalk or mineral paint for a soft, matte look. Thread with twine or ribbon and hang.

Papier-Mâché Christmas Stars

Styling Ideas

• Hang on a minimalist branch display or a natural pine tree.

• Use smaller shapes (stars or hearts) to decorate gifts.

• Combine with concrete pieces — for example, display a few ornaments on one of your handmade trays for a clean, modern look.

• Pair with neutral fabrics and dried botanicals for a serene, natural Christmas theme.

Eco-Friendly Craft Tips

• Reuse the packaging paper from parcels instead of buying new.

• Mix leftover white paint with a touch of clay pigment for a warm neutral tone.

• Store your ornaments in fabric pouches for reuse year after year.

• Avoid glitter — use crushed mica or softly brushed metallic paint instead.

How to Make Your Papier-Mâché Ornaments Waterproof

If you want your handmade ornaments to last year after year — especially in damp conditions or near a window — it’s worth sealing them properly.

Eco-friendly waterproofing options:

1. Mod Podge (Water-Based Sealer):

   • Choose Mod Podge Matte or Satin for a natural look.

   • Brush on two thin coats, allowing each to dry fully.

   • It creates a clear protective layer that repels light moisture while keeping the soft, handmade texture.

   • You can also use Mod Podge Outdoor if you need extra protection (for ornaments on porch trees, for example).

2. Beeswax Polish:

   • Warm slightly and buff on with a soft cloth for a subtle, velvety finish.

3. Clear Water-Based Varnish:

   • Offers stronger waterproofing but may create a glossier look — ideal for statement pieces.

Tip: Always test your sealant on a small area first, as some finishes can slightly deepen the colour of your paint or paper.

Conclusion

Papier-mâché ornaments made with moulds or cookie cutters are a lovely way to slow down and enjoy the season — turning simple materials into thoughtful, handcrafted décor. They capture the essence of a sustainable Christmas: natural textures, minimalist design, and creative reuse.

If you enjoyed this project, you might also like my post on Eco-Friendly Christmas Table Décor: Upcycled Jar Centrepieces.

How to Make Minimalist Papier-Mâché Christmas Ornaments: Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use any type of mould?

Yes — silicone moulds, metal cookie cutters or even small bowls can work. The key is to use a non-stick surface or line a baking tray with baking paper.

2. How do I stop the paper sticking to the mould?

Lightly oil the mould, or dust it with cornstarch, before pressing in the pulp.

3. How long does papier-mâché take to dry?

Around 24–48 hours, depending on thickness and humidity. Ensure it’s fully dry before painting.

4. Can I colour the pulp instead of painting?

Yes — add natural pigment powders or water-based dyes to the paste for subtle, earthy tones.

5. Are they durable?

They last for years when stored properly. Keep them dry and out of direct sunlight when not in use.