Easy DIY Photo Ornaments in Under 10 Minutes

There’s something extra special about decorating the tree with ornaments that tell your family’s story. These easy DIY photo ornaments made from napkin rings are the perfect blend of sentimental and simple — they take less than ten minutes to make and bring a warm, personal touch to your Christmas decor.

Finished easy DIY photo ornament hanging on a Christmas tree with lights.

If you love handmade photo keepsakes, don’t miss my other favorite projects:

What You’ll Need

Napkin rings (woven, grapevine, pearl, or mini wreath style)
Printed family photos (matte or semi-gloss)
Scissors
Pencil or marker
Hot glue gun and glue sticks
Twine or thin ribbon for hanging
Small decorative bow or embellishment

My Favorite Napkin Rings for This Project

I used the IKEA VARGFISK Napkin Rings — handmade from natural rattan with a soft, Scandinavian feel that fits both rustic and modern Christmas trees.

If you can’t make it to IKEA, try these beautiful alternatives:

Grapevine Napkin Rings – perfect for a cozy, natural look
Pearl Napkin Rings – great for elegant or vintage-style trees
Eucalyptus Napkin Rings – adds a fresh, organic touch
Mini Wreath Rings – a festive option ready for embellishment

How to Make Easy DIY Photo Ornaments

Step 1: Trace Your Photo

Use your napkin ring (or a mason jar lid) to trace a perfect circle over your printed photo, centering it around your subject.

Tracing a family photo to make an easy DIY photo ornament.

Step 2: Cut the Circle

Cut carefully along the traced line for a clean, polished edge.

Cutting a circular photo for a handmade napkin ring ornament.

Step 3: Add the Twine

Cut a short piece of twine, loop it through the top of your napkin ring, and tie a secure knot to create a hanger.

Tying twine to a woven napkin ring to create a photo ornament hanger.

Step 4: Glue the Photo

Add a small bead of hot glue to the back of the napkin ring, then press your photo in place. Hold for a few seconds to set.

Applying hot glue to attach a photo to a napkin ring.

Step 5: Add a Ribbon or Bow

Finish your ornament with a simple ribbon or bow at the bottom — it’s an easy way to tie your color scheme together.

Adding a blue ribbon bow to a DIY photo ornament.

Step 6: Hang and Enjoy

Once the glue dries, your easy DIY photo ornaments are ready to hang! They look charming on a Christmas tree, garland, or even as gift toppers.

Finished easy DIY photo ornament made out of napkin rings

Designer Tip

Coordinate your ribbons with your tree’s color palette for a designer touch. I used soft blues to complement my Blue and Gold Christmas Tree Decor, but these ornaments look equally beautiful with blush, champagne, or classic red tones.

How to Print Small Photos at Home or in Store

Getting the right size image is key for this project. Here’s how to print smaller photos:

Home Printer: In your print settings, reduce the scale percentage until your image fits inside a 2–2.5” circle.
Kodak Photo Kiosk: Choose Mini Prints from the “Prints” menu — you can print 2–4 small photos on one 4×6 sheet, depending on the scale of your image.
Pro Tip: A matte finish looks best under twinkle lights, as they reduce glare and maintain a soft finish.

Creative Ways to Use Your Easy DIY Photo Ornaments

These ornaments are full of personality — and they don’t just belong on the tree! Try them in these creative ways:

Gift Toppers: Personalize wrapped presents with a photo ornament tied to the top.
Timeline Tree: Create a “through-the-years” tree showcasing family photos from every Christmas.
Table Markers: Use them as festive place settings that double as take-home gifts.
✝Sunday School Crafts: A simple, meaningful project for kids that celebrates family.
Girls’ Craft Night: A quick, heartwarming craft perfect for a cozy get-together.

Why You’ll Love This Craft

Done in under 10 minutes
Perfect for all ages and skill levels
Uses inexpensive materials you already have
Makes your tree, table, or gifts more personal

FAQs

Can I use plastic or metal napkin rings?

Yes — just ensure they have a flat back so the glue sticks well.

What’s the best way to protect the photo?

THis step is not neccessary, but if you feel like you must, brush a thin coat of Mod Podge over the surface to prevent curling or fading.

Do I need a photo printer?

No — most photo kiosks let you scale images directly from your phone.

How should I store these ornaments?

Wrap each one in tissue and store flat to keep them safe year after year.

Get Creative

If you loved this easy DIY photo ornament idea, try pairing it with other handmade holiday projects like my Air Dry Clay Christmas Ornaments, Printable Cardboard Christmas Houses, or Handmade Bottle Brush Trees. Together, they’ll make your Christmas tree feel layered, collected, and full of heartwarming handmade charm.

I’d love to see your creations! Tag me on Instagram @vfynes or leave a comment below — are you making these as gifts, keepsakes, or a fun craft-night project?