This pallet ornament captures the wonder of Christmas in a rustic yet elegant way.
Its soft curves, glittering bow, and tiny bells make it feel like a keepsake you’ll bring out year after year.
While it’s simple to create, it carries an air of handmade warmth that store-bought décor can never match.
Every brushstroke and detail adds your personal touch, turning leftover wood into a festive centerpiece filled with holiday spirit.
Materials Needed
- Pallet wood slats (6-7 pieces, cut to 18” wide × 2.5” tall × 0.5” thick)
- Backing board (plywood, approx. 18” × 18” for support)
- 1 small scrap of thin wood or cardboard (to form ornament “cap”)
- White acrylic or chalk paint (1 pint)
- Paintbrushes (flat 2” brush + detail brush)
- Decorative ribbon (2–3” wide, 30” length)
- 2 small red jingle bells (1.5” each)
- Hot glue gun + sticks
- Wood glue + small nails
- Jigsaw or hand saw for shaping
- Sandpaper (120 grit)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut pallet wood into equal-length slats and attach them side by side onto the plywood backing with wood glue and nails.
Step 2: Draw a large ornament circle (approx. 18”) on the slats. Then use a jigsaw to cut out the round ornament shape.
Step 3: Sand the edges smooth to remove splinters.
Step 4: Paint the ornament white (or any festive color of your choice). You can apply 2 coats for even coverage.
Step 5: Cut and attach a small cap at the top using thin wood or sturdy cardboard. Also, paint it silver or gold.
Step 6: Hot glue a bow at the top and add dangling jingle bells for extra charm.
Step 7: Hang it on your wall, porch, or entryway to greet guests with Christmas cheer.
Notes:
If you prefer a rustic look, skip the full paint and just whitewash the pallet wood so the grain shows through.
You can also add stenciled snowflakes or family initials for personalization.