Can the texture of plaster ornaments be beaten? I honestly don’t know.
Plaster ornaments — two simple ways. I made these back in 2021 and photographed the process, but it was so close to the holidays that I never posted a tutorial. When I unpacked them a year later to hang on the tree, they felt a bit plain, so I spent an afternoon painting a few with colors I already had. The result felt painterly and playful — a cross between a paint palette and tiny abstract paintings.
Not sure which version I like better, but here’s how I made plaster ornaments in two ways.
Materials for Plaster Ornaments
You only need a few materials to make these ornaments:
- paper-mâché or craft ornaments (as the base)
- plaster or pre-mixed joint compound
- small putty knife (optional)
- paint and brushes (optional)
Note: You can mix your own plaster from Plaster of Paris and water if you prefer. That may be slightly cheaper, but for a fast, easy route I recommend using a ready-made joint compound or plaster from a home-improvement or craft store.
How to Make Plaster Ornaments
Technique 1: Apply compound to ornaments
Work one ornament at a time. Start by spreading the joint compound or plaster over the surface. I initially used a small putty knife, but quickly found it faster and easier to use my hands to press and shape the compound. If you choose this method, wear gloves — working with plaster by hand is messy. If you plan to use gloves, you can skip adding the putty knife to your supply list.
Technique 2: Let dry and add paint (optional)
Allow the plaster to dry completely (I left mine overnight). If you like the plain white, textured look, you can hang them as-is once dry. To add more personality, paint on colors and brushstrokes. I experimented with a few different stroke patterns while keeping a limited color palette so the set remained cohesive. Painting is a particularly fun step to include kids in.
If you want extra protection, seal the ornaments with a matte or satin sealer. I left mine unsealed for a fully matte, natural plaster appearance.
The finished plaster ornaments are tactile, colorful, and ready for the tree. They also work well as a holiday garland or as unique gift toppers.
More ideas and variations
Instead of starting with pre-made craft ornaments, try cutting shapes from cardboard and coating them with plaster or joint compound. That approach allows you to make custom silhouettes and results in a very unique, handmade look once textured and painted.
Quick Recipe: How to Make Plaster Ornaments
Equipment:
- paper-mâché ornaments
- plaster or joint compound
- small putty knife (optional)
- paint and paintbrush (optional)
Instructions:
- Add compound to ornaments. Apply joint compound to each ornament, using a putty knife or your hands. Hands are faster but messy — gloves are recommended if you don’t want plaster on your skin.
- Wait for it to dry and paint if desired. Let the plaster dry fully (overnight works well). Leave them plain or add painted brushstroke details in a limited palette for a cohesive look. Seal if you want added protection, or leave unsealed for a matte finish.
Did you make these? Share your version by tagging @paperandstitch or using #paperandstitch if you post your photos.
More DIY Ornament Ideas
If you want to try other holiday ornament projects, consider these handmade options: clay mushroom ornaments, terracotta-style ornaments, painted 3D paper-ball ornaments, sewn fabric stars and moons, or simple beaded stars. Each of these projects offers a different texture and aesthetic and pairs nicely with a handmade plaster set on a natural, modern tree.