3 DIY Woodland Gnome Christmas Ornaments That’ll Make Your Tree the Coziest on the Block
Hey friends! Can we talk about how basic store-bought ornaments just don’t hit the same anymore? I was staring at my Christmas tree last year thinking it needed that warm, cottagecore magic—you know, the kind that makes you want to curl up with hot cocoa and never leave. So I created these three adorable woodland gnome ornaments, and honestly, they transformed my entire tree into a cozy forest wonderland. Today I’m sharing exactly how you can make these cuties yourself, and trust me, they’re easier than you think!
1. Classic Red-Capped Forest Gnome
The Cozy Details
This is THE gnome that started my obsession! Picture a plump little body made from cream or oatmeal-colored felt (about 3 inches tall), topped with the most gorgeous rich burgundy or cranberry red hat. The proportions are key here—I make the hat about 4 inches tall so it dramatically flops over, giving that authentic Scandinavian vibe. For the beard, I use ivory or natural white faux fur (the fluffy kind, not the flat stuff), cut into a rounded shape about 2 inches wide. Add a tiny wooden bead nose peeking through, and you’ve got instant woodland charm. The texture contrast between the soft felt body, fuzzy fur beard, and that perfectly pointed hat is chef’s kiss.
Shop the Look
- felt fabric sheets assorted colors
- white faux fur fabric craft
- wooden beads small natural
- jute twine ornament hanger
Do’s & Don’ts
✓ DO stuff your gnome body firmly so it holds its shape when hanging ✓ DO use hot glue for the fur beard—it dries fast and holds permanently ✗ DON’T make the body too tall or it’ll look lanky instead of cute and plump ✗ DON’T skip pre-cutting your hat pattern—eyeballing it leads to wonky cones
2. Rustic Plaid Gnome with Pinecone Accent
The Cozy Details
This one screams cabin-in-the-woods vibes! Instead of solid felt, I use buffalo check plaid fabric in red and black or green and cream for the hat (same 4-inch tall cone shape). The body is burlap or natural linen—that rough texture is everything and gives such an organic feel. Keep it around 2.5 inches tall for a slightly more compact look. The beard here is cream-colored yarn that I fray and fluff into a wispy, textured cloud (about 1.5 inches of fluffed yarn). Hot glue a mini pinecone right to the tip of the hat, and maybe add a tiny sprig of faux greenery. The mix of rustic plaid, raw burlap, and natural pinecone creates this gorgeous woodland aesthetic that’s totally Pinterest-worthy.
Shop the Look
- buffalo plaid fabric Christmas
- burlap fabric sheets crafts
- natural mini pinecones craft
- chunky yarn cream white
Do’s & Don’ts
✓ DO seal burlap edges with fabric glue to prevent excessive fraying ✓ DO attach pinecones while hat is flat—easier than wrestling with a cone ✗ DON’T use heavy pinecones that’ll weigh down your ornament awkwardly ✗ DON’T forget to fluff and separate yarn fibers for that fluffy beard look
3. Snowy White Gnome with Faux Greenery
The Cozy Details
This is my elegant, winter-wonderland gnome! The entire vibe is soft and dreamy. Use pale gray or dove gray felt for the body (3 inches tall), and here’s where it gets magical—the hat is cream or winter white felt with the floppy 4-inch height we love. I actually dust the tip of the hat with a tiny bit of white glitter or add a small white pom-pom for that snowy effect. The beard is long and luxurious, made from white or silver-gray faux fur, cut fuller and rounder (about 2.5 inches) than the classic version. Tuck a small sprig of artificial eucalyptus or frosted pine into the base where the hat meets the body. The monochromatic palette with touches of green feels so fresh and modern while still being totally cozy.
Shop the Look
Do’s & Don’ts
✓ DO trim greenery stems short so they don’t overwhelm your tiny gnome ✓ DO use a white or clear ornament string to keep the monochrome vibe ✗ DON’T go overboard with glitter—a light dusting is all you need ✗ DON’T use dark thread for sewing—it’ll show through light fabrics
Quick Tips for All Three Gnomes
No matter which style you choose, here are my tried-and-true tips: Cut your hat pattern from a quarter-circle of fabric (the radius determines hat height). Always attach your hanging loop before gluing on the hat. For noses, wooden beads in 8-10mm size are perfect. And please, use a low-temp glue gun if you’re crafting with kiddos—those burns are no joke!
These little woodland gnomes have become my favorite handmade ornaments, and I make them as gifts every year now. There’s something so special about decorating your tree with something you made with your own hands. Plus, they look absolutely adorable clustered together on a branch!
Happy crafting, and let me know which gnome you’re making first! 🎄✨
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