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I love collecting ornaments when we travel. It helps us remember and reminisce about the trips we’ve taken each year as we decorate the tree. I’m notorious for forgetting to buy an ornament when we’re out though, or there are a few states that we just never happened across one. These DIY wood slice travel ornaments are perfect to remember where you’ve traveled and when you visited. Not only that, they’re super easy to make!
I love these types of ornaments as gifts + they make great present toppers!
DIY Wood Slice Travel Ornaments
To start I decided to make one for each state we’ve been to and add the year(s) we traveled to the state on the back. Then, if we visit again, I can add the new years or dates to the back. You could also add a photo to the back instead (cover with a coat or several of mod podge).
Making them couldn’t be easier. You’ll need:
- pre-sliced and drilled wood slices
- white paint
- cutting machine
- vinyl (see additional notes below if you don’t have a cutting machine)
- string or bakers twine
To make cut your states & years out of permanent vinyl on your machine. I like these free svg files & just added a line + the name in Cricut Design Space. You could also look at the design space files as they have several state options there.
Next, you’ll paint a circle of white on each side of the ornament and allow to dry. One completely dry simply add your vinyl, tie on a string, and hang!
If you don’t have a cutting machine you could:
- add state stickers
- use stamps
- write with a permanent marker
- glue a photo or a map onto one side
- add a piece of a plane ticket
The options really are endless! I love wood slice ornaments because they’re easy to store too.
Are you all decorated and ready for Christmas?!
7 Comments
Wow, everything looks beautiful!!! I love the tree, it fits the area perfectly! 🙂
Hi,
I love the state ornaments. Would it be possible to get your file for the state images?
Unfortunately, they aren’t available where I originally got them. Looking for a similar replacement (or may need to make my own). In the meantime, there are lots of great state designs in the Cricut store to choose from!
Would help a ton if you shared the source for the state decals.. I’ve looked everywhere!!
Unfortunately, they aren’t available where I originally got them. Looking for a similar replacement (or may need to make my own). In the meantime, there are lots of great state designs in the Cricut store to choose from!
Wow! tree looks gorgeous.
My favorite handmade ornament is the Star of David “stained glass” paper ornament my daughter made in preschool. After years of buying tree-toppers that wouldn’t stand upright no matter what I did, I gave up and hung the Star at the top of the tree. Problem solved and a recognition of the holiday traditions of others all rolled into one!