Gum Nut Ornaments

The family Christmas tree is always in need of more adornments, and what better way to trim the tree than with gorgeous home made pieces to spark conversation, and build memories to be cherished for years to come?

 

Materials

  • Gum nuts
  • Brightly coloured paint (we used Jo Sonja Acrylics, but you can use any craft paint you have available)
  • Glitter (optional)
  • Cord/string (for hanging ornaments)

Method

Step 1: If you’re lucky enough to have gum trees in your yard, you’ll have all the gum nuts you’ll need.  If not, make friends with a neighbour (or property owner) with gum trees to collect your supplies.


Step 2: Choose your colours, and paint the gum nuts, using the stem as a handle.  With these ones, we decided to paint the tips and part way up the nut, leaving the tops their natural colour.  You can either paint them with a paintbrush, or dip them in pots of paint to get the effect you prefer.  We then sprinkled glitter over the wet paint to add a little bling, but we think they also look lovely with just a spot of paint.


Step 3: Attach string to each to make individual ornaments, or string a selection of them along a small branch for a larger hanging piece.  We used bamboo cord for our ornaments, as it grips well when knotted, so won’t slip when tying.

Be sure to share your nature-based Christmas crafts with us by tagging us in your social media – #natureplaywa and #natureplaywachristmas !

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