Behind the Scenes: The Craft of Creating Handmade Felt Ornaments

Ever wonder what goes into making a handmade felt ornament? These charming decorations, small though they may be, are the result of time-honored techniques, careful planning, and a lot of heart. Let’s explore the journey from felt sheet to finished keepsake.

The process begins with inspiration. Many artists draw from nature, animals, folklore, or personal memories. Birds, in particular, are a favorite motif, given their universal symbolism and visual diversity. Once an idea is chosen, the design is sketched and turned into paper templates.

Felt sheets—usually made from 100% wool or a wool blend—are selected in colors that suit the chosen design. These sheets are cut into layers that will make up the body, wings, tail, and other features. The precision in cutting is essential, as even a slight mismatch can affect the final shape.

The stitching process is where the real magic happens. Artisans use embroidery floss to outline features, add feather details, and create texture. Some stitch in floral or starry motifs for seasonal flair. French knots, blanket stitches, and backstitches are commonly used techniques.

Once both sides of the ornament are complete, the pieces are sewn together—often by hand. Before the final seam is closed, the ornament is filled with soft polyfill or other natural stuffing to give it shape. A loop of string or ribbon is attached so it can hang easily on a tree, hook, or wall.

What makes each ornament special is the artist’s signature touch. Slight variations in stitching, shape, or expression give each piece personality. For example, one cardinal may appear slightly perkier than another, or a snowy owl might have subtly different wing stitching. These differences aren’t flaws—they’re the hallmark of true craftsmanship.

The finished ornament is then checked for quality, gently cleaned of any lint or stray threads, and prepared for packaging. Many sellers wrap them in tissue or place them in small gift boxes to ensure safe delivery.

For many artisans, this work is more than a job—it’s a passion rooted in tradition. Felt ornament making connects them to a lineage of textile art, to a love of storytelling through materials, and to customers who value handmade over mass-produced.

So the next time you hang a little felt robin on your tree or gift a friend a cheery chickadee ornament, remember the hands that made it—and the beauty of keeping traditions alive, one stitch at a time.