Crafting Timeless Applesauce And Cinnamon Ornaments: A Beginner's Guide

Applesauce and cinnamon ornaments are a delightful blend of tradition, creativity, and nostalgia. These fragrant ornaments not only fill your home with the warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon but also serve as a charming, rustic addition to your holiday décor. Made from simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, these handmade treasures are easy to create and can last for years with proper care.

Whether you're looking for a fun family activity or a new way to personalize your holiday decorations, applesauce and cinnamon ornaments offer a perfect solution. The process of making them is as enjoyable as the finished product, involving mixing, shaping, and baking (or air-drying) the dough. Plus, they make excellent gifts for friends and loved ones, adding a personal touch to your holiday giving.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive into everything you need to know about crafting applesauce and cinnamon ornaments. From their history and significance to step-by-step instructions, maintenance tips, and creative ideas for customization, this article will equip you with all the knowledge and inspiration you need to create your own timeless ornaments. So, grab your mixing bowl and let's get started!

Table of Contents

• What Are Applesauce and Cinnamon Ornaments?
• History and Origin
• Why Make Applesauce and Cinnamon Ornaments?
• Essential Ingredients and Tools
• Step-by-Step Guide to Making Applesauce and Cinnamon Ornaments
• How Long Do Applesauce and Cinnamon Ornaments Last?
• Creative Ways to Customize Your Ornaments
• Can You Make These Ornaments with Kids?
• Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
• Storing and Preserving Your Ornaments
• Can These Ornaments Be Used as Gifts?
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

What Are Applesauce and Cinnamon Ornaments?

Applesauce and cinnamon ornaments are a type of handmade decoration made primarily from two ingredients: applesauce and ground cinnamon. These ornaments are known for their delightful scent, which can last for years, and their rustic, earthy appearance. They’re especially popular during the holiday season as they evoke a warm, festive atmosphere.

Unlike traditional ornaments, these are not made of glass, metal, or plastic. Instead, they are crafted from a dough-like mixture that hardens over time. The result is a lightweight yet durable decoration that can be shaped into various designs, from stars and hearts to gingerbread men and snowflakes.

Not only are they easy to make, but they are also non-toxic, making them safe for families with children and pets. However, they are not edible due to the high concentration of cinnamon and the drying process involved. They are perfect for hanging on Christmas trees, garlands, or even as embellishments for gift wrapping.

History and Origin

The tradition of making applesauce and cinnamon ornaments can be traced back to the early 20th century, when families sought simple and natural ways to decorate their homes during the holidays. The use of cinnamon, a spice with ancient roots, adds a cultural and historical dimension to these ornaments. Cinnamon was once considered a precious commodity and was often used in religious ceremonies and as a symbol of prosperity.

Homemade decorations became a staple during times of economic hardship, such as the Great Depression, when store-bought ornaments were a luxury. Families turned to accessible and affordable materials like flour, salt, applesauce, and spices to create their own festive décor. Over time, cinnamon ornaments gained popularity for their unique combination of practicality, aesthetics, and aroma.

Today, applesauce and cinnamon ornaments are celebrated as a timeless craft, blending old-world charm with modern creativity. Their enduring appeal lies in their simplicity and the nostalgia they evoke, making them a cherished part of holiday traditions around the world.

Why Make Applesauce and Cinnamon Ornaments?

What makes these ornaments special?

There are several reasons why applesauce and cinnamon ornaments hold a special place in holiday traditions:

• Fragrance: The combination of applesauce and cinnamon creates a warm, inviting aroma that fills your home with festive cheer.
• Creativity: Crafting these ornaments allows you to express your creativity, whether you prefer classic shapes or intricate designs.
• Eco-Friendly: Made from natural ingredients, these ornaments are a sustainable alternative to plastic decorations.
• Cost-Effective: With minimal ingredients and tools required, this craft is budget-friendly and accessible to all.
• Memories: Creating these ornaments is a fun and meaningful activity that can be enjoyed with family and friends, creating lasting memories.

Are they difficult to make?

Not at all! One of the best things about applesauce and cinnamon ornaments is how easy they are to make. The process involves just a few steps, from mixing the dough to cutting out shapes and allowing them to dry. With a little patience and some basic tools, anyone can create these delightful decorations. Plus, there’s plenty of room for personalization, so you can make them as simple or as elaborate as you like.

Essential Ingredients and Tools

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients and tools:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup of applesauce
  • 1 ½ cups of ground cinnamon
  • Optional: White glue (for added durability)
• Tools:
  • Mixing bowl
  • Rolling pin
  • Cookie cutters (various shapes)
  • Straws or skewers (for making holes)
  • Baking sheet (if baking) or flat surface (for air drying)
  • Parchment paper

Once you have everything ready, you’re all set to start crafting!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Applesauce and Cinnamon Ornaments

Follow these steps to create your own applesauce and cinnamon ornaments:

1. Mix the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of applesauce with 1 ½ cups of ground cinnamon. Mix until a dough-like consistency forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more cinnamon; if it’s too dry, add a bit more applesauce.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it out to about ¼-inch thickness.
3. Cut Out Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes. Remove the excess dough and re-roll it to make more ornaments.
4. Make Holes: Use a straw or skewer to create small holes at the top of each ornament for hanging.
5. Dry the Ornaments: You can either bake the ornaments at 200°F (93°C) for 2-3 hours or let them air dry for 24-48 hours. Flip them occasionally to ensure even drying.
6. Decorate (Optional): Once dry, you can decorate your ornaments with paint, glitter, or ribbons.

And voilà! Your applesauce and cinnamon ornaments are ready to be displayed or gifted.

How Long Do Applesauce and Cinnamon Ornaments Last?

With proper care, applesauce and cinnamon ornaments can last for several years. Their longevity depends on factors such as storage conditions, humidity, and how often they’re handled. To ensure they stay in good condition:

• Store them in an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption.
• Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Avoid exposing them to high humidity, as this can cause them to soften or break down.

Over time, the scent of cinnamon may fade, but you can refresh it by lightly sanding the surface of the ornament or adding a drop of cinnamon essential oil.

Creative Ways to Customize Your Ornaments

Let your imagination run wild with these customization ideas:

• Paint your ornaments with acrylic paint to add color and detail.
• Sprinkle glitter on the ornaments while the dough is still wet for a sparkling effect.
• Use stamps or embossing tools to create intricate patterns.
• Attach ribbons, beads, or small charms for added flair.
• Write names or messages on the ornaments to personalize them.

Customization adds a unique touch to your ornaments, making them even more special and meaningful.

Can You Make These Ornaments with Kids?

Absolutely! Making applesauce and cinnamon ornaments is a fantastic activity for kids. It’s safe, fun, and allows them to explore their creativity. Here are some tips for involving children in the process:

• Let them mix the dough and choose their favorite cookie cutter shapes.
• Provide child-friendly tools like plastic cookie cutters and rolling pins.
• Encourage them to decorate their ornaments with paint, glitter, or stickers once they’re dry.

Just be sure to supervise young children, especially when using tools like skewers or handling the oven.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for and how to avoid them:

• Dough too sticky: Add more cinnamon gradually until the dough is manageable.
• Ornaments cracking: Ensure the dough is rolled evenly and not too thin.
• Holes closing during drying: Make the holes slightly larger to account for shrinkage.
• Uneven drying: Flip the ornaments periodically during the drying process.

Storing and Preserving Your Ornaments

Proper storage is key to preserving your applesauce and cinnamon ornaments for years to come. Follow these tips:

• Place ornaments in an airtight container with layers of tissue paper or bubble wrap to prevent breakage.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures.
• Avoid stacking heavy items on top of the container to prevent crushing.

Can These Ornaments Be Used as Gifts?

Yes, applesauce and cinnamon ornaments make wonderful gifts! They’re handmade, thoughtful, and customizable, making them perfect for spreading holiday cheer. Consider these ideas for gifting:

• Tie a ribbon around the ornament and attach a name tag for a personalized touch.
• Include them as part of a gift basket with other holiday treats.
• Use them as unique gift toppers to decorate wrapped presents.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other spices besides cinnamon?

While cinnamon is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cloves for a different aroma. However, cinnamon provides the strongest scent and binding properties.

2. Do I need to seal the ornaments?

Sealing is optional. If you want to protect your ornaments from moisture, you can use a clear spray sealant. Keep in mind that sealing may reduce the intensity of the cinnamon scent.

3. Can I bake the ornaments instead of air drying them?

Yes, baking is a quicker option. Use a low temperature (around 200°F or 93°C) and check frequently to prevent over-drying or cracking.

4. Are these ornaments safe for pets?

While they’re non-toxic, the high concentration of cinnamon may not be suitable for pets. Keep the ornaments out of reach of curious animals.

5. Can I make a large batch of ornaments at once?

Absolutely! Simply scale up the ingredients while maintaining the 2:3 ratio of applesauce to cinnamon.

6. How can I refresh the scent of old ornaments?

You can lightly sand the surface of the ornament or add a drop of cinnamon essential oil to revive the aroma.

Conclusion

Crafting applesauce and cinnamon ornaments is a rewarding experience that combines creativity, tradition, and practicality. These charming decorations bring warmth and nostalgia to your home while offering endless opportunities for personalization. Whether you’re making them for yourself or as gifts, their delightful aroma and rustic appeal are sure to brighten the holiday season.

So why not gather your ingredients and give this timeless craft a try? With a little effort and a lot of heart, you’ll create ornaments that will be cherished for years to come. Happy crafting!

For more tips on holiday crafts and decorations, check out Better Homes & Gardens.