Looking for a creative and easy activity to do with your little ones? Making apple ornaments is a fun project that combines a bit of nature, a dash of creativity, and a whole lot of fun! Perfect for adding a touch of rustic charm to your home, these ornaments are simple to make and can be hung anywhere, from doorknobs to your car. Plus, it’s a great way to spend quality time with your preschooler while teaching them about the natural world.
WHAT YOU NEED:
- Apple
- Knife (for adult use only)
- Check out these KID FRIENDLY KNIVES
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- String
WHAT TO DO:
Step 1:
Grab the apple you want to use.
Step 2:
ADULTS ONLY: Slice the Apple.
Use a knife to carefully cut the apple in half horizontally. When you slice it this way, you’ll reveal a beautiful star shape in the center—this will be the focal point of your ornament.
Next, take one of the apple halves and cut it into 1/4-inch thick slices. Each slice should be a circle with the star in the middle.
Step 3:
Place your apple slices directly on the oven rack. To catch any drips, place a baking sheet on a lower rack. This setup allows the slices to dry evenly.
Preheat your oven to the lowest temperature setting, usually around 150 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the apple slices dry in the oven for several hours. You’ll know they’re ready when they are dry to the touch but still slightly pliable, not brittle.
Step 4:
Once the slices are dried, turn off the oven and leave the apple slices inside until they cool down to room temperature. This helps them retain their shape and ensures they are completely dry.
Step 5:
After the apple slices have cooled, use a small skewer or the tip of a knife to poke a hole near the edge of each slice. Thread a piece of string through the hole and tie it into a loop.
Step 6:
Display your creations!
Your apple ornaments are now ready to hang! They make lovely natural decorations for doorknobs, windows, or even as a car freshener.
To turn the dried apple ornament into an air freshener.
WHAT YOU NEED:
- Dried apple ornament (from the previous activity)
- Essential oils (such as cinnamon, clove, or orange)
- Optional: spices
- Small brush or cotton ball
WHAT TO DO:
Place a few drops of your chosen essential oil onto a small brush or cotton ball. Gently dab the oil onto the surface of the dried apple slices. You can apply the oil to both sides for a stronger scent.
Apply Spices (Optional): For an extra boost of fragrance and a more festive look, sprinkle a little ground cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg onto the apple slices. Lightly brush the spices over the apple to ensure even coverage.
Over time, the scent may fade. You can easily reapply the fragrance by adding a few more drops of essential oil or brushing on more spices.
Tips:
- Experiment with Scents: Try different essential oil combinations, like cinnamon and orange, for a warm, cozy aroma.
- Use as a Car Freshener: The small size and light scent of these apple ornaments make them perfect for hanging in your car.
- Gift Idea: These fragrant ornaments make lovely handmade gifts during the holiday season.
These charming apple ornaments are a wonderful way to bring a touch of nature indoors. They are not only fun to make but also a great way to introduce your preschooler to simple crafting. Plus, they can be a lovely reminder of the time spent together. Happy crafting!
Xx Jeni
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