Have you ever looked at your pile of cookie cutters and thought they could do more than just shape dough?
Christmas is the perfect time to turn those charming molds into cheerful decorations and handmade gifts.
Whether you’re crafting with kids, making ornaments for your tree, or whipping up last-minute gifts, cookie cutter crafts offer endless inspiration.
Plus, these projects are as fun to make as they are to give. So grab your stash of cutters and let’s create a little magic together.
#1. Rustic Burlap Cookie Cutter Decor
How about giving your old cookie cutters a farmhouse twist with this cozy burlap-wrapped design?
Each metal cutter is completely covered in twine or jute, softening the edges and turning it into a warm, earthy accent.
Whether you use them as tree ornaments, gift toppers, or just charming shelf sitters, they blend beautifully into rustic or country-style holiday decor.
Materials Needed
- Metal cookie cutters (any festive shapes)
- Jute twine
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Mini faux greenery sprigs
- Red berry picks
- Small decorative ribbon (gingham or plaid)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Begin wrapping your cookie cutter tightly with jute or twine, securing every few inches with hot glue.
Step 2: Once fully covered, glue a small bunch of faux greenery and berries to the front or corner.
Step 3: Finish with a simple bow and adjust placement to create balance in the design.
#2. Cookie Cutter Tree Block Display
Wow, this charming display takes a nostalgic twist with alphabet blocks spelling out “TREES” and vintage tree-shaped cookie cutters standing tall above each one.
The retro vibe of the cookie cutters pairs beautifully with the weathered, classic look of wooden blocks.
You can place it on a mantel, windowsill, or sideboard to add a rustic storybook feel to your seasonal decor.
Materials Needed
- 5 vintage tree-shaped cookie cutters (approx. 3-4” tall)
- 5 wooden alphabet blocks, preferably 1.5” per side
- Thin metal wire (5-6” long)
- Drill with a small bit
- Optional greenery
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Drill small holes in the center top of each block or use hot glue if you prefer no drilling.
Step 2: Insert a wire into each block hole and attach the cookie cutter securely at the top.
Step 3: Arrange the blocks to spell out “TREES,” ensuring the wire heights vary slightly for a playful look.
Step 4: Add pine sprigs or holiday berries around the base for a cozy finishing touch.
#3. Colorful Cookie Cutter Christmas Wreath
This wreath turns a humble collection of cookie cutters into something magical.
The cookie cutters are backed with holiday-themed scrapbook paper or fabric, each one a tiny frame for cheerful patterns.
With a mix of stars, stockings, trees, and gingerbread men, the whole piece feels like a storybook exploded into your kitchen.
Materials Needed
- Assorted Christmas cookie cutters (15-20)
- Holiday-themed paper or fabric scraps
- Cardboard ring base or metal wreath form (12-14” diameter)
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Decorative ribbons and bow
- Scissors and tape
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Trace each cookie cutter onto festive paper or fabric and cut out the shapes.
Step 2: Tape or glue the patterned cutouts inside the backs of the cookie cutters.
Step 3: Arrange the cookie cutters around your wreath base in a circular pattern.
Step 4: Secure each cookie cutter to the wreath form with hot glue.
Step 5: Finish with a layered bow at the bottom and hang proudly.
#4. Vintage Angel Cookie Cutter Diorama
This charming little shadowbox starts with a humble star-shaped cookie cutter and blossoms into a nostalgic holiday vignette.
Inside, a cherubic angel greets you with golden curls and a tiny trumpet, surrounded by sparkling baubles, a frosty bottlebrush tree, and a background of vintage sheet music.
The silver glitter edges shimmer like fresh snow under candlelight, while the jingle bell and sheer ribbon above lend an extra sprinkle of whimsy.
Materials Needed
- 1 star-shaped metal cookie cutter (3″-5″)
- Scrap of vintage sheet music or book page
- Miniature plastic angel figure
- Small bottlebrush tree (approx. 2″)
- Mini glass or plastic ornaments
- Silver glitter and glue
- Hot glue gun
- Ribbon and mini bell for hanging
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Trace and cut your sheet music to fit the back of the cookie cutter. Next, glue in place with hot glue or craft adhesive.
Step 2: Carefully glue the angel, tree, and mini ornaments inside the cutter to form your scene.
Step 3: Apply glue along the edge of the cutter and sprinkle with silver glitter. Then shake off excess.
Step 4: Tie a small ribbon through the top of the cutter, add a jingle bell, and form a hanging loop.
Step 5: Let everything dry completely before hanging on your tree or gifting it to someone special.
#5. Mini Bundt Pan Ornaments
These delightful ornaments transform vintage mini bundt pans into rustic holiday charms.
A touch of faux greenery, ribbon, and a dainty button or jingle bell gives each one a personality of its own.
The swirling pattern on the pans adds texture and vintage charm, while the mix of ribbons brings a festive, homespun feel.
Materials Needed
- Mini bundt or jelly mold pans (approx. 2.5-3 inches wide)
- Faux greenery sprigs or pine picks
- Assorted ribbon scraps (green, red, gold)
- Mini bells, buttons, or wooden beads
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Twine or ornament hooks
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Clean and dry the mini pans. Then arrange your materials before assembling.
Step 2: Glue a loop of ribbon or twine to the back or top center of the pan for hanging.
Step 3: Attach greenery just above the pan’s edge and embellish with a small button or jingle bell.
Step 4: Let all glue dry completely before hanging them on the tree.
#6. Framed Vintage Cookie Cutter Display
This project gives old-fashioned metal cookie cutters a second life as charming wall art.
Mounted backward on a festive red snowflake fabric and placed inside a sleek black frame, each shape becomes a mini sculpture.
You can still see the handles, a subtle nod to their baking past.
Bonus, display it in the kitchen, dining room, or above the mantle for a minimalist yet meaningful Christmas vibe.
Materials Needed
- 8-10 vintage metal cookie cutters (various holiday shapes)
- 2 picture frames (11″×14″ or similar)
- Red patterned fabric (snowflake or plaid)
- Hot glue gun or E6000 adhesive
- Scissors
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Remove the backing and glass from the frames. Cut your fabric to fit and glue or tape it to the back insert.
Step 2: Arrange the cookie cutters face-down in a pleasing layout, making sure spacing is balanced.
Step 3: Use glue to firmly attach each cutter to the fabric background. Let dry completely.
Step 4: Reassemble the frame without the glass, securing everything tightly.
#7. Cookie Cutter Candy Gift Tray
This festive idea turns metal cookie cutters into charming compartments for sweet holiday treats.
Nestled in a gift box lined with parchment paper, each cutter holds a different kind of candy sorted by shape and color.
It’s an easy, eye-catching way to gift candies without any plastic packaging, and the cutters become a bonus gift themselves.
You can mix textures and colors to match your theme, and it’s great for neighbor gifts, party favors, or stocking stuffers.
Materials Needed
- Assorted metal cookie cutters (stars, trees, bells, etc.)
- Holiday candies (peppermints, chocolate balls, jelly beans, etc.)
- Gift box or shallow tray
- Parchment or wax paper
- Ribbon or twine (optional for decor)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Line your gift box with parchment paper and arrange the cookie cutters inside like compartments.
Step 2: Fill each cutter with a different candy, making sure to pack them snugly.
Step 3: Add a ribbon or small tag, then close the box or wrap it in clear cellophane for gifting.
Tip: Choose candies that contrast nicely for a visually festive effect and avoid sticky sweets that might cling to the cutters.
#8. Rustic Cookie Cutter Christmas Tree
This layered Christmas tree brings a touch of whimsy and vintage charm to any holiday vignette.
Made by stacking fluted tart molds atop wooden beads or knobs, this tree stands proud on a reclaimed metal base.
Each tier resembles a ruffled skirt, giving the piece a playful, sculptural look.
Materials Needed
- 3-4 vintage tart molds in varying sizes
- Wooden knobs or round finials (approx. 1-2” each)
- Strong glue or wooden dowel for stacking
- Rustic base or old drawer pull for stand
- Glitter snowflake or small ornament for topper
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Arrange the tart molds from largest to smallest and place a wooden knob between each for spacing.
Step 2: Use strong glue or insert a wooden dowel through the center to keep all parts aligned and sturdy.
Step 3: Attach the finished tree to your chosen base using hot glue or screws if needed.
Step 4: Add a festive topper like a sparkly snowflake or tiny star for the final flourish.
#9. Christmas Tree Baking Scene Ornament
This whimsical tree-shaped ornament captures the soul of a cozy holiday kitchen in miniature form.
Nestled inside are tiny treasures: a red polka-dot stand mixer, a frosted gingerbread man, peppermint sticks, books, and even a pine tree decked in gold bells.
Also, the tiny shelves inside add a lovely layered effect, turning a cookie cutter into a festive shadow box.
Materials Needed
- Tree-shaped metal cookie cutter (approx. 4-6″)
- Miniature holiday kitchen items (mixer, rolling pin, mug, books)
- Background image of winter scene
- Small faux tree and candy cane embellishments
- Red ribbon for hanging
- Glue gun and cardstock (for interior shelf)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut and glue a wintery paper background to the back of your cookie cutter.
Step 2: Create a small horizontal shelf with cardstock to divide the space and support the upper miniatures.
Step 3: Hot glue your mini items in place, start with the bottom shelf to avoid crowding.
Step 4: Attach a ribbon loop to the top for hanging, and admire your cozy kitchen corner!
#10. Rustic Cookie Cutter Ornaments
There’s something charming about keeping decorations simple and handmade.
These rustic cookie cutter ornaments capture that quiet Christmas spirit using just a few materials.
The industrial touch of galvanized metal meets the softness of cotton twine and wood beads, creating a look that feels both vintage and warm.
You can hang them on your tree, use them as gift toppers, or even tie them to a wreath for extra flair.
Materials Needed
- Metal cookie cutters (star, tree, heart shapes)
- Cotton twine or jute string (10″ per ornament)
- Wooden beads (2-3 per ornament)
- Glue or metal adhesive (optional, for bead reinforcement)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut a length of string and loop it through the top of each cookie cutter.
Step 2: Thread on one or two wooden beads and knot securely above the cutter.
Step 3: Make a final knot at the end of the loop to create a hanger for your tree branch or hook.
Step 4: Optional: Use a dab of glue inside the bead for extra hold.
#11. Elegant Sheet Music Cookie Cutter Ornaments
By combining vintage sheet music with cookie cutter shapes like snowflakes, snowmen, and gingerbread people, you create a sweet blend of melody and memory.
The shimmering rhinestone brooches in the center add a surprising elegance like a touch of snow caught in moonlight.
You don’t need much to make these shine. Just a few thoughtful details and a gentle hand will turn basic materials into keepsakes.
Materials Needed
- Metal cookie cutters (snowman, snowflake, gingerbread shapes)
- Vintage sheet music or old hymnal pages
- Old brooches or rhinestone buttons
- Glitter or silver paint for edging
- Glue gun
- Ribbon for hanging
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Trace and cut music sheets to fit each cutter and glue them snugly inside.
Step 2: Add a vintage brooch or rhinestone to the center for a sparkling focal point.
Step 3: Outline the edge of each cutter with glitter or metallic paint for extra shimmer.
Step 4: Attach a ribbon loop to the top with hot glue for easy hanging.
#12. Cookie Cutter Candle Holders
This design turns humble cookie cutters into cozy holiday candle holders.
Nestled with soft moss and anchored with slices of wood, the candles rise like little beacons of winter warmth.
The metallic cookie cutter edges reflect the candlelight, adding a shimmering glow to your tablescape or mantel.
What makes this special is the mix of organic and polished textures—it’s like walking into a woodland Christmas scene.
Materials Needed
- Metal cookie cutters (3-4” wide)
- White taper candles
- Fresh or preserved moss
- Wood slices or thick cork pieces (1″-2″ diameter)
- Hot glue gun
- Metal tray (optional for grouping)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Place a dab of hot glue in the center of each cookie cutter and press in a wood slice base.
Step 2: Glue a taper candle upright onto each slice, holding until secure.
Step 3: Tuck moss around the candle base, gently pressing it in place.
Step 4: Arrange your finished holders on a tray or scatter them along your table for a soft, natural glow.
#13. Festive Cookie Cutter Diorama Collection
Each of these tiny scenes tells its own cheerful story like a vintage Christmas fair frozen in time.
You can turn metal cookie cutters and tart tins into magical shadowboxes with miniature Santas, playful elves, tiny gifts, and glimmering tinsel.
Nestle in ornaments, candy canes, and bottlebrush trees to create a wonderland that fits in the palm of your hand.
They’re perfect for hanging on the tree or displaying on the wall in a playful cluster.
Materials Needed
- Metal cookie cutters or tart tins (star or round)
- Miniature holiday figurines (Santas, elves, reindeer, etc.)
- Assorted small ornaments and gift boxes
- Bottlebrush trees, glitter, and tinsel
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Pipe cleaners or ribbon for hanging
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Choose a theme for each cutter or tin, like Santa’s gift drop or an elf workshop. Paint or line the back if desired.
Step 2: Glue your central figure in first, then build out the scene with smaller items such as trees, boxes, tinsel, and baubles.
Step 3: Add sparkle with glitter or metallic garland. Let dry completely before handling.
Step 4: Create a hanging loop using pipe cleaner or festive ribbon, gluing it securely to the back or edge.
#14. Vintage Sheet Music Cookie Cutter Ornaments
These handmade gems blend old-world charm with delicate detail.
By layering vintage sheet music inside cookie cutters shaped like bells, trees, angels, and stars, you create something both nostalgic and classy.
You’ll love how easy it is to personalize them: add a little tinsel, a vintage brooch, or a mini embellishment to reflect your own holiday memories.
These are especially lovely if you’re going for a Victorian or rustic Christmas vibe this year.
Materials Needed
- Metal cookie cutters (bells, stars, candy canes, etc.)
- Old sheet music or hymn pages
- Mini ornaments, faux pearls, lace, holly sprigs
- Hot glue gun
- Twine or ribbon for hanging
- Optional: vintage buttons or costume jewelry
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Trace and cut sheet music to fit the back of each cookie cutter, then glue in place.
Step 2: Decorate with tiny ornaments, glitter, pearls, or bits of lace, layer your details thoughtfully to create depth.
Step 3: Attach a twine or ribbon loop to the back or sides for easy hanging.
Step 4: Let everything dry thoroughly before moving or gifting.
Tip: For an antique finish, lightly ink the edges of the sheet music or use tea-stained paper for added warmth.
#15. Tart Tin Flower Ornaments
Who knew old baking tins could bloom into sparkling metal flowers?
These charming ornaments use fluted tart molds as petals and vintage buttons or rhinestone brooches for dazzling centers.
The result is a rustic-meets-glam decoration that catches the light beautifully on your Christmas tree or garland
. I love how each one looks slightly different, giving off a handmade, heirloom vibe that feels cozy and collected.
Materials Needed
- Mini fluted tart tins (approx. 2-3 inches wide)
- Vintage buttons or rhinestone jewelry pieces
- Strong adhesive or epoxy glue
- Ornament hooks or thin wire
- Optional: spray sealer to reduce rust
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Clean and dry your tart tins thoroughly, removing any loose rust or debris.
Step 2: Glue a vintage button, gem, or brooch to the center of each tin and allow it to dry completely.
Step 3: Attach an ornament hook or twist wire through a small hole punched at the top of the tin.
Step 4: If desired, seal the surface with clear spray to preserve the aged patina and prevent future rusting.
#16. Vintage Tart Pan Jingle Bells
These charming bell ornaments look like they’ve been plucked from an old-fashioned Christmas movie.
Created by stacking small tart pans with fluted edges, they perfectly mimic the shape of classic jingle bells.
With a glossy red bell nestled underneath and a wooden bead on top, they strike a lovely balance between farmhouse and festive.
Materials Needed
- Mini fluted tart pans (2 sizes per bell)
- Red jingle bells (1 inch)
- Wooden craft beads (red/green, ½ inch)
- Ribbon or twine for hanging
- Pipe cleaners or wire
- Hot glue gun or drill (optional for holes)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Stack one small tart pan inside a larger one, fluted sides down, to form a bell shape.
Step 2: Secure the pans together with glue or a pipe cleaner loop threaded through the center.
Step 3: Attach a jingle bell underneath and a wooden bead on top.
Step 4: Tie a ribbon through the loop for hanging and adjust the shape if needed.
#17. Sparkling Sheet Music Cookie Cutter Ornaments
These dazzling little ornaments combine music, glitter, and festive cheer in the most heartwarming way.
Classic metal cookie cutters are turned into framed keepsakes, filled with silver sparkle and layered with tiny vintage-style music sheets.
These feel like they belong in a cozy, candlelit cottage filled with carols and laughter.
Materials Needed
- Metal cookie cutters (star, angel, tree shapes)
- Fine silver glitter or silver cardstock
- Vintage music sheet strips with printed words
- Mini faux candy canes
- Turquoise ribbon and small red beads
- Hot glue gun
- Craft wire or hooks for hanging
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut silver cardstock or coat the inside of cookie cutters with glitter and glue for a sparkly base.
Step 2: Glue the music paper strip diagonally across the shape and layer a mini candy cane on top.
Step 3: Add a bow and bead at the top, then attach a hanging wire or hook.
Step 4: Let everything dry completely before displaying or gifting.
#18. Cookie Cutter Candle Chandelier
This creative chandelier transforms vintage baking tools into a rustic holiday centerpiece that feels both industrial and nostalgic. A
round metal tart pan serves as the base, supporting tall taper candles and dangling cookie cutters like gingerbread men, stars, and trees.
Suspended with simple chains, the piece glows warmly and creates soft shadows that dance around the room.
Materials Needed
- Large fluted tart pan (about 12″ diameter)
- Assorted metal cookie cutters
- Chain or sturdy wire (approx. 3-4 ft)
- Metal hooks or connectors
- Taper candles and secure candle clips
- Drill or awl (for holes)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Drill or punch three evenly spaced holes near the edge of the tart pan and attach chains to form a hanging triangle.
Step 2: Clip or affix taper candles securely around the top ring.
Step 3: Hook cookie cutters around the bottom using metal rings or wire loops.
Step 4: Hang the chandelier from a ceiling hook and light candles carefully for a cozy effect.
#19. Snowman Face Tart Tin Ornaments
Why not turn plain tart tins into the jolliest little snowmen with just a bit of paint and imagination?
These cheerful faces are hand-painted onto the fluted base of old baking molds, each one featuring a classic carrot nose, rosy cheeks, and snowy speckles of glitter.
They bring a sweet, homemade charm that makes you smile the second you see them.
Materials Needed
- Small tart tins or mini pie molds
- White and black acrylic paint
- Orange paint or paint pen (for carrot noses)
- Pink chalk or blush for cheeks
- Glitter and mod podge or clear glue
- Twine or baker’s string
- Drill or nail for hanging holes
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Clean and dry your tart tins, then drill a small hole near the edge for hanging.
Step 2: Paint the inner base white and let dry. Then add simple snowman faces with black and orange paint.
Step 3: Use blush or soft pink paint for the cheeks, then dust glitter along the rim using mod podge.
Step 4: Thread a piece of baker’s twine through the hole for hanging.
Tip: You can personalize each face with different expressions or add a name on the back for gifting.
#20. Melted Bead Cookie Cutter Ornaments
This project turns colorful pony beads and metal cookie cutters into vibrant stained-glass-style ornaments.
You simply fill your favorite holiday-shaped cutters like snowflakes, snowmen, or trees with beads and pop them in the oven until the plastic melts into a solid piece.
Once cooled, they hold their shape beautifully and catch the light like candy-colored gems.
They’re especially lovely hung in windows or strung across a garland. It’s a fun and easy craft for kids and adults alike.
Materials Needed
- Metal cookie cutters
- Pony beads (variety of colors)
- Baking sheet with parchment paper
- Oven (preheated to 400°F / 200°C)
- Drill (for adding a hanging hole if desired)
- String or ribbon for hanging
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Place cookie cutters on a parchment-lined baking tray and fill them with a layer of pony beads.
Step 2: Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes or until the beads melt completely flat.
Step 3: Let cool fully, then gently pop the ornament out of the cutter and drill a hole for stringing if needed.
