The holiday season has a way of making us slow down and savor the little things—the twinkle of lights, the scent of cinnamon, and the joy of giving something made with love. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to create heartfelt gifts without breaking the bank, penny wreath ornaments are a charming and unexpected option. These DIY treasures combine nostalgia with creativity, turning everyday copper coins into keepsakes that feel both personal and festive.
Whether you’re crafting for family, friends, or a holiday market, penny wreath ornaments offer endless possibilities. They’re budget-friendly, customizable, and surprisingly simple to make with a few basic supplies. From rustic farmhouse styles to glittering glam designs, each piece can reflect the recipient’s personality or your own artistic touch. Best of all, they’re a wonderful way to repurpose pennies that might otherwise sit forgotten in a jar.
Below, you’ll find 10 unique penny wreath ornament ideas that are perfect for gifting. Each one brings its own flair, whether you prefer minimalist elegance or whimsical charm. Grab your pennies, a little patience, and let’s turn spare change into something extraordinary.
Looking for handmade gift ideas that feel special without the high cost? These 10 penny wreath ornament ideas are the perfect solution. Each design transforms ordinary pennies into stunning, personalized decorations that make heartfelt presents for holidays, birthdays, or just because. With simple materials like wire, ribbon, and a bit of creativity, you can craft ornaments that look store-bought but carry the warmth of a DIY touch. Whether you prefer rustic, vintage, or modern styles, there’s a penny wreath idea here to suit every taste.
1. Classic Copper Penny Wreath with Burlap Bow
A timeless choice, this ornament captures the warmth of copper with a rustic touch. The natural shine of pennies pairs beautifully with burlap, creating a cozy, farmhouse-inspired look that works for any season. It’s an ideal project for beginners, as it requires minimal supplies and leaves room for personalization.
Materials: 20–30 pennies (cleaned with vinegar and salt for extra shine), 18-gauge copper or green floral wire, wire cutters, burlap ribbon, hot glue gun, small wreath form (or a circular base like a foam ring or even a bent coat hanger).
Instructions: Start by shaping your wreath form into a circle. If using a foam ring, wrap it in burlap for a textured base. Cut small pieces of wire (about 3–4 inches each) and attach pennies to the form by threading the wire through the wreath and around the edge of a penny, twisting to secure. Overlap pennies slightly for full coverage. Once all pennies are in place, tie a burlap bow at the top or bottom and secure with hot glue. For extra charm, add a loop of twine for hanging.
Time: 1–2 hours | Difficulty: Easy
Customization: Swap burlap for lace or plaid ribbon for a different vibe. For a vintage look, use older pennies with a darker patina.
💡 Pro Tip: To clean pennies quickly, soak them in a mixture of white vinegar and salt for 5–10 minutes, then scrub with a toothbrush. Dry thoroughly before crafting to prevent tarnishing.