Create Cozy DIY Baking Soda Ornaments for a Wonderful Christmas

Are you looking for a cheap, easy holiday craft that smells as good as it looks? These baking soda ornaments are my favorite December tradition — simple kitchen ingredients turn into beautiful keepsakes, and as they dry, the charming scents of cinnamon or vanilla fill the whole house. My kids roll, cut, and decorate for hours, and we hang a fresh batch every year.

Baking soda ornaments add a personal touch to your holiday decorations and offer a fun, hands-on crafting experience for families, friends, or solo crafters. The recipe uses simple ingredients you may already have in your kitchen — budget-friendly holiday fun you can tailor to your unique style.

Materials

1 cup baking soda
1/2 cup white vinegar
3 cups cornstarch
Cookie cutter shapes (holiday-themed)
Rolling pin
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Straws (for making holes)
Optional: food coloring, essential oils, or spices (like cinnamon)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a medium saucepan, mix 1 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Cook on medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and resembles a dough. Gradually mix in 3 cups of cornstarch until fully incorporated.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Allow the dough to cool slightly until it’s manageable. Lightly sprinkle cornstarch on your counter, then use a rolling pin to flatten the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.

Step 3: Cut Out Shapes

Use cookie cutters to cut out various shapes from the rolled dough. Use a straw to make holes at the top of each ornament for hanging.

Step 4: Bake and Dry

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and transfer the cut shapes onto it. Bake in a preheated oven at 175°F (80°C) for about 1–2 hours, or until they are hard.

Step 5: Decorate

Allow the ornaments to cool completely before decorating. Paint with acrylics, sprinkle with glitter, or add essential oils for a festive touch!

Tips & Variations

Customize colors: mix a few drops of food coloring into the dough for colored ornaments.
Add textures: use stamps or textured rolling pins for interesting designs.
Keep it natural: experiment with natural dyes like beet juice or turmeric.
Create gift tags: use the same method to make gift tags for presents!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store my baking soda ornaments?
Store in a cool, dry place — wrap them in tissue paper to avoid scratches.

Can I use other flours instead of cornstarch?
Cornstarch gives the best texture; other flours may alter the consistency.

How long do these ornaments last?
Stored properly, they can last for many years — wonderful keepsakes!

Can I hang them outdoors?
Not recommended — moisture may damage them. Keep them indoors.

Make Them Special

Write names or dates on ornaments as keepsakes.
Pair them with homemade gifts for a beautiful presentation.
Use them as napkin ring holders for holiday dinners.

Crafting baking soda ornaments can become a cherished holiday tradition in your home — decorations and lasting memories in one. Happy crafting!