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Seasonal

Christmas Salt Dough Decorations

Handmade Christmas tree decorations using the classic salt dough recipe. Roll out, cut shapes, add hanging holes, bake, and paint. These last for years and make beautiful gifts.

Seasonal Ages 4–1190 minsEasyIndividual
Watch on YouTube Search: "salt dough Christmas decorations kids tutorial ornaments recipe" — video tutorials from popular craft channels

What you'll need

  • 2 cups flour, 1 cup salt, 3/4 cup water
  • Christmas cookie cutters (star, tree, bauble, bell)
  • Rolling pin
  • Toothpick or straw for holes
  • Poster paint or acrylic: gold, silver, red, green, white
  • Varnish
  • Ribbon for hanging

How to do it

  1. Mix flour, salt, and water to a smooth dough. Knead 5 minutes.
  2. Roll to 1cm thickness on a floured surface.
  3. Cut shapes with Christmas cookie cutters.
  4. Make a hole near the top of each shape for hanging.
  5. Place on a baking tray and bake at 120°C for 2-3 hours until completely hard.
  6. Cool completely. Paint with 2 coats of acrylic — metallics look especially festive.
  7. When dry, apply varnish. Thread ribbon through hole for hanging.
💡 Tips Make these in late November so they're fully dry and decorated by the last week of term to take home. Pre-cut names or motifs pressed into the dough before baking add a personal touch.