I was lucky enough to be part of an ornament exchange with friends I met while planning my December wedding in 2007. While I don’t get to chat with many of them anymore (beside through blogs), it’s still a connection we’ll always have.
I had the opportunity to give an ornament to my friend, Stephanie . I wanted to make an ornament to get the most for my money. It had to be under $10. Since I know photographs mean a lot to Stephanie, I wanted to incorporate her own photos (which I snagged from her blog and Facebook by being a little stalker-ish).
I decided to choose photos from what I identified as important parts of she and her husband’s life and make a little series of “collectors ornaments” for them.
I chose a photo from their engagement, wedding, their honeymoon, her husband’s return from deployment, and two more recent photos from their new home in Guam.
You can probably figure this out yourself, but here are the simple steps.
1. Purchase simple, circle cardboard ornaments from Michael’s
2. Add coordinating blue scrapbook papers as a base on each side with Modge Podge.
3. Add circle-shaped photos to one side of each ornament.
4. Modge-podge several layers for a glossy finish.
5. Add a ribbon around the edges to cover the remaining cardboard.
6. Add a small eye-hook from a hardware store to the top to add a hook or ribbon to hang.
I hope she enjoyed her gift, I know I enjoyed making them and loved the final result.
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Anonymous says
Your blog keeps getting better and better! Your older articles are not as good as newer ones you have a lot more creativity and originality now keep it up!
Kristen @ Miss Prissy Paige says
So sorry I missed this challenge. I was in NYC and totally missed it. I love everyone’s idea’s though!
Holly says
What a great gift. She is going to love it. It is so great that with a little stalking you can make such a sweet and memorable gift w/o anyone knowing.
Holly @ 504 Main
Stephanie says
Dear Teacher,
I am sorry my project is late; My husband and I have had the flu. I will be posting it today and linking to your site anyway 🙂
Stephanie
Shannon says
I’m a terrible party guest, I can’t even show up when invited. Sorry, things got a little busy round here this week but I’ll be there next week. Early even. Like the annoying girl who shows up at your party while you’re still drying your hair. Just put me to work. I can slice a block of cheese or something.
Centsational Girl says
Gaaaah. What happened to MckLinky ? Is it closed ? Wanted to link up to your party too. *Pout* Next week for sure !!!
Centsational Girl says
You are the most thoughtful gal ! Even if you are a bit stalker-ish… honestly though that was a pretty clever way to snag some photos ! I’m sure she will treasure your marvelous creation.
Thanks for linking up !
Kate
jenjen says
SO so cute. What a fun party! Hmmm, maybe I can join in your next one!
XOOX
Jen
carrie says
Love the ornaments! I’m sure Steph LOVED them too.
Abbey @ Practically Perfect says
I just couldn’t get my act together this weekend to participate in this but I can’t wait to see everyone else’s gifts!
Jennifer says
Those ornaments are adorable Kim!! You know I love ornaments!! : D
Emily says
Your craftiness kills me, love the photo ornaments, they are fabulous!
Stephanie says
I absolutely LOVED the ornaments!! You know me so well, indeed I DO love pictures and these were the most momentous occasions in the last 3 years of “us” – thanks so much for making it so personal! you are awesome.
Sherri @ Design2Shine says
Loving the party! Thanks for stopping by. The lotion smells like shea and cocoa butter, since I used that one. Not loud though. I don’t see why you couldn’t add a couple of drops of oil to it?! I scraped the bowl, spoon and used it on my legs today. HEAVENLY! I will be making myself a huge batch after the holidays. Can’t beat the price.
Wendy says
Kim…Thank you again for hosting a fun party 🙂
I am having fun going through all the great ideas!
I love your idea! That would be so much fun to do with our xmas pictures every year and create a little memory chain!
Love the idea! Thanks again
Wendy
Erin @Domestic Adventure.com says
What a sweet gift! I have to admit, my favorite thing about this post is how you photographed the ornaments! You are so creative!
Mod Podge Amy says
Hi there! Love your projects, and I want you to know you are doubly awesome for having two pugs – black and fawn – I have the same combo!
Take a peek at my girls, Roxie (fawn) and Nellie (black):
http://www.flickr.com/photos/amybluestar/2600004131/