Creating your own leather poinsettia ornaments is a delightful way to add a handcrafted touch to your holiday decor. These versatile pieces can be used as tree ornaments, festive centerpieces, or even scaled down for wearable accessories like brooches or earrings. With a mix of creativity and some simple tools, this project is perfect for crafters of all skill levels. Let’s dive into the steps to make your own stunning poinsettia ornament.
Materials Needed:
- Poinsettia Ornament Templates
- Lightweight Veg-Tan Cowhide or Goatskin Leather (1-3 oz)
- Scissors or Cutting Blade
- T1101-00 Stylus Tool
- Misting Spray Bottle
- T3220 Leather Hole Punch
- F2601 or F2604 Acrylic Paint (Red and Dark Green)
- Paint Brushes
- 6 inches of Leather Lace or Cord
- Beads or Embellishments for the Flower Center
- Glue (Fiebings Leather Cement, hot glue, etc.)
- Needle and Sturdy Thread (or thin wire)
Step 1: Prepare the Leather Pieces
Cut out the three pattern pieces from your leather. For precision, use a hole punch for the teardrop shapes in piece A. The dots in the centers of pieces A and B mark where embellishments can be stitched or glued. (Fig. 1)
NOTE: The holes in piece C are there to hold the hanging loop. The dots in the centers of pieces A and B are there if you prefer to stitch the embellishments in the center instead of just gluing them.
Step 2: Dampen the Leather
Lightly mist the grain side (smooth side) of the leather pieces with water. Allow the leather to dry slightly until it begins to lighten in color, which should take a few minutes.
Step 3: Trace the Design
Use the stylus to trace veins and leaf lines onto the leather pieces. You can do this freehand or place the pattern over the leather and trace through it. Press firmly to leave clear, visible marks. (Fig. 2)
Step 4: Rehydrate the Leather
Spray both sides of the leather pieces lightly with water and let them dry again with the grain side up until the color begins to lighten. This ensures the leather is pliable for shaping.
NOTE: Try to spray the pieces evenly without getting them too wet. Depending on how wet the leather is this may take anywhere from 20 min to over an hour.
Step 5: Test and Mold
Check if the leather is ready for molding by gently pinching the edges. If it molds easily and holds its shape, you’re ready to proceed. If not, adjust the moisture level as needed.
NOTE: If the leather molds easily and keeps its shape it is ready. If the leather will not mold it may be too dry, and if the leather molds but it does not keep the shape it may be too wet.
Step 6: Fold the Petals
Fold each petal along its center vein, with the grain side (smooth side) inside, creating a natural book-like fold. (Fig. 3)
Step 7: Shape the Edges
Roll the edges of each petal under using your thumbs. The slight ripples from your fingers add realistic texture. (Fig. 4)
Step 8: Curve the Tips
Pull the tip of each petal back into a gentle curve, flattening the edges slightly. Let the pieces dry completely, stacking them on a 3-inch jar or cup to maintain their shape. (Fig. 5 and 6)
Step 9: Paint the Pieces
Once dry, paint pieces A and B with red diluted acrylic paint and piece C with dark green diluted acrylic paint. Apply multiple thin coats for a smooth finish, allowing each layer to dry fully.
Step 10: Add the Hanging Loop
Thread a small piece of leather lace or cord through the holes in piece C, tying the ends at the back to form a hanging loop.
Step 11: Assemble and Embellish
Attach the pieces together with glue, ensuring the petals are offset for a layered look. Add beads, rhinestones, or bells to the center for decoration. If you prefer sewing, use a needle or awl to poke holes, then secure the embellishments with sturdy thread or wire before gluing the assembly onto piece C.
With your beautiful leather poinsettia ornament complete, you’ll have a unique addition to your holiday decor or a thoughtful handmade gift. This project allows endless customization, from paint colors to embellishments, making each piece truly one of a kind. Enjoy the creative process, and let these poinsettias bring festive cheer to your home or tree this season. Happy crafting!
