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Quick & Easy Yarn-Ball Ornament (Kid + Maker-Approved!)

If you’ve got a maker friend who squeals over squishy yarn, or kids who want just one more craft before bedtime, this is the perfect DIY holiday ornament. It’s quick, inexpensive, forgiving, and adorable, basically everything a December craft should be.


This little yarn ball ornament looks like it came straight out of a maker’s project bag. Complete with tiny faux knitting needles. It’s the kind of ornament that makes every yarn-lover’s tree feel just a little more… homey. (And yes, it’s also a great excuse to finally use up those mystery scraps you’ve been saving because “they’re too nice to toss.” I see you.)


Let’s make some magic.


Materials You'll Need

Most of this can be pulled from your current craft stash, but if you don't have something, I had tremendous success at the dollar store. (We have Dollarama - but I'm sure any dollar store will have these items).


  • Scrap yarn (any weight. Thicker = faster)

  • Plastic ornament (plain ball ornaments work best)

  • Toothpicks

  • Tiny pom-pom balls (for the ends of the “knitting needles”)

  • Twine, ribbon, or ornament string for hanging

  • Hot glue gun (low temp for kid helpers or adults - maybe you handle this part)

  • Scissors


Optional (or substitutions):

  • A foam brush + tacky glue if you don’t want kids handling hot glue

  • Double-sided tape as a no-glue alternative for wrapping

  • Paint (if you want to color the toothpicks before assembly)


Step-by-Step: How to Make a Yarn-Ball Ornament


1. Prep Your Ornament Base

Start with a plastic ball ornament... ideally one that already has a hanging top. Add a dab of hot glue (or tacky glue for littles) to one side and press the end of your yarn onto it.


2. Wrap, Wrap, Wrap!

Now for the fun part - just keep wrapping!

  • Rotate the ornament as you go so the yarn crosses in different directions.

  • Add a glue dot every few rotations for security. (I find this step crucial!)

  • Keep wrapping until it looks like a plump little yarn ball.

This part is wonderfully kid-friendly. It doesn’t need to be perfect to turn out cute.



3. Secure the Final End

When you're happy with the fullness, apply a final dot of glue and press the tail end of the yarn into place. Trim neatly if needed.


4. Make the Tiny Knitting Needles

These are ridiculously cute and so simple:

  • Stick two toothpicks into the yarn ball at a slight angle so they cross like real needles.

  • Hot glue (or tacky glue) a small pom-pom to the blunt end of each toothpick.

  • Hold for a few seconds to secure.

Optional: Paint the toothpicks first for a wooden-needle or candy-cane look.



5. Add Your Hanging Loop

If your plastic ornament already has a hanger - great! If not:

  • Tie a loop of ribbon, baker’s twine, or string and attach it to the top of the ornament.

  • If your ornament doesn’t have a hanger cap, simply glue the loop directly to the top instead, then cover the glued spot with a small piece of ribbon or yarn for a neat finish.


Extra Tips & Variations

  • Color-coordinate with your tree theme (Neutrals? Neons? Full out Christmas Red and Green?).

  • Use chunky yarn for the fastest, fluffiest results.

  • For a class project or group craft, pre-glue the yarn starter pieces.

  • Swap toothpicks for wooden skewers cut down for a sturdier “needle.”



And You’re Done!

A cozy, handmade ornament that celebrates yarn, creativity, and the joy of making—plus it keeps the kids busy long enough for you to sip your coffee (or wine!) while the hot glue cools.


Crafting through chaos,

Stacie



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