Remember when we excitedly announced that we’d been invited to write a regular column for Richmond’s R. Home magazine? Our first piece has now been published, and we’re thrilled to share simple, stylish holiday decorating ideas that use ornaments in fresh, unexpected ways. Below you’ll find our tips, behind-the-scenes notes, and step-by-step instructions for two easy projects that add seasonal charm without breaking the bank.
Before the projects, a quick note about the process of becoming regular contributors. For each issue we’re asked to create three small DIY features, and for the Christmas edition we brainstormed a range of ornament-based concepts. There were a few practical challenges: the assignment came in early September, so seasonal supplies and holiday cards were scarce, and we had to style and shoot everything in our own home. Even so, adapting as we went made the shoot fun, creative, and ultimately very satisfying. Now, on to the DIY ideas.
Idea #1: Seasonal Place Cards
A simple way to elevate your holiday table is to convert glass ornaments into place cards. Use a fine-tip paint pen to write each guest’s name directly on a smooth ornament, then display them at each setting. The result is festive, personal, and easy to reuse year after year.
Practical tips: choose ornaments with a glossy surface for cleaner lettering, and practice on a spare ornament before committing to names. If you prefer a more uniform look, use the same pen color and handwriting style for every ornament. We found that shorter names were easier to photograph for the magazine spread, but in practice longer names are just as doable with a steady hand and a little patience—no need to worry about inviting relatives with long names.
Presentation ideas: package several personalized ornaments as a thoughtful hostess gift. Wrap them in tissue inside a small box or tuck them into a stocking for a charming, low-cost present. Recipients can hang the ornaments on their tree, arrange them in a decorative bowl, or use them on a mantel as part of their seasonal display.
Idea #2: Ornament Magnets
Turn small, lightweight ornaments into festive magnets to display holiday cards, notes, or children’s artwork on the fridge. This keeps cards visible and secure without crowding tabletops or leaving them at risk from drafts or curious pets.
How to assemble: attach small, strong magnets to the back of lightweight ornaments using a heavy-duty adhesive. In our tests, craft glues took too long to set and didn’t hold reliably, so we used a construction adhesive for a faster, stronger bond. Press and let dry fully according to the glue manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the magnet stays secure.
Behind the scenes: since it was early in the season, we didn’t have a stack of current holiday cards on hand for the shoot, so we dug into keepsakes and made a few mock cards with colored paper and stickers. This is a good reminder that you can display past favorites or handmade cards with your ornament magnets for a personal touch.
Gift idea: bundle a set of ornament magnets in a small box or glass dish and tie with ribbon for an inexpensive yet distinctive present. They’re great for friends who appreciate practical, decorative touches that brighten everyday surfaces.
Both of these projects are affordable, quick to assemble, and flexible enough to adapt to your existing decor. For additional ornament ideas and variations, check the image of our magazine spread to see more examples and styling options. We can’t wait to share the next column with more DIY art and decorating inspiration—stay tuned for ideas that are simple, creative, and easy to recreate at home.
Update: We’ve also compiled a list of favorite holiday decor finds, many of which are budget-friendly and versatile for seasonal decorating.