DIY: Apple Cinnamon Ornaments

A couple of weeks ago a friend at work told me about Apple Cinnamon Ornaments and I decided to give them a try!

First of all...they smell incredible!...and they are so easy to make!
{a little messy and a little time consuming...but super easy!}

What you'll need:
1 cup applesauce {I used cinnamon apple}
1 cup ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon glue {optional...but great for added strength!}
glitter {I used gold...but any color will do}
large to medium size bowl and spoon
wax paper {for easy clean up}
cookie cutters
a straw {or other instrument to poke a hole in ornaments}
sandpaper
ribbon
scissors

First, place applesauce in bowl.

Then add cinnamon.  {I added a dash of cloves too...for good measure}

Mix together. You should end up with a thick, rich brown dough.
{it'll be a little sticky}

If you're a glitter fan like me...this is the time to add some sparkle!
If you're feeling a little more natural...no worries...just skip this step.

Mix glitter into dough until even. Then, line a cookie sheet with wax paper. Roll dough out to about 1/4" thickness. {you can either use a rolling pin or you can just use your hands like I do}

Once your dough is rolled out to 1/4" thickness, you're ready to use your favorite cookie cutter. I went with a small star. {it's about 2" x 2"} You can make these as large or as small as you choose to.

After you have cut out all of your ornaments, sprinkle them with glitter.

Then, carefully poke a hole into the shape so that your ornaments can be hung when they dry. {you can use a straw, a pen cap, or anything that fits the size of opening that you're going for. I ended using a cap from a tube of wood fill...and it worked like a charm.}

Now comes the waiting game. Let your cute little ornaments cure for 2 to 3 days. {or until they are as hard as a rock!} You'll be able to tell when they're ready by picking them up and feeling the back of them. If there seems to be a little bit of moisture...give them another day or two. Once they are completely dry, feel free to hit any rough edges with a little low grit sandpaper until you're happy with the way they look. Cut lengths of ribbon to your desired length and loop through opening. Double knot to close the loop and finish off with a bow.

Last step...hang them on your tree and enjoy your festive handy work!

This is a really fun project for the holidays. It's fun, festive, easy...and even kid friendly! So...if you're looking for a fun craft to do with friends, family or the little ones in your life...try it out! I enjoyed making these so much that I'm actually thinking about making another batch in the next couple of days. Have fun! and Have a great night!