Thumbprint Ornaments

I am all about quick, easy, cute crafts, so today I want to show you how to make Thumbprint Ornaments:

First, grab some clay that can be baked hard – like Sculpty or a version of it.  Just check the pack to make sure it can be baked.  Each small clay package (about $1 or so) should make up to 6 ornamanets, so it’s a thrifty project.  Roll and soften the clay with your hands until it is pliable.  Break it into chunks of clay approximately the size of quarters:

Roll the chunk into a ball and press it onto a smooth surface, like a table.  Then FLIP IT OVER – the smooth side from the surface should now be on top.  Have a child press their thumb into the clay – they may need help pressing hard enough: 

 Using a toothpick, write their names and the year on the edge.  It’s easiest to use a poking motion instead of trying to drag the toothpick.  After that, find a spot to push the toothpick completely through the clay to create a hole (you’ll use this to string the ornament):

Thread the twine through the hole and then tie a knot.  This will prevent the bells from sliding too low and covering up the ornament:

Then slide on a few bells.  Tie another knot near the top of the strings to create a loop, as shown:

 Voila!!  That’s it!  Hang on your tree and enjoy!!

 My kids’ favorite ornaments are the ones they can reminisce about, like the ones with baby pictures on them.  I know they’ll love comparing their thumbprints as they grow and remembering how small they used to be.