10. Themed Penny Wreath Ornaments (Holiday, Seasonal, or Personalized)
Take your penny wreath to the next level by tailoring it to a specific theme. Whether it’s Christmas, Halloween, a favorite hobby, or a monogram, themed ornaments add a personal touch that makes them extra special. These are perfect for gifting to friends and family who love personalized decor.
Materials: 15–30 pennies (depending on size), wreath form, hot glue gun, themed embellishments (e.g., mini pumpkins for Halloween, holly berries for Christmas, tiny sports equipment for a hobby theme, letter charms for monograms), ribbon or twine.
Instructions: Start with a base of pennies on your wreath form, gluing them down as usual. Then, add themed elements to create a cohesive design. For example:
Christmas: Add red and green ribbon, faux holly leaves, and berries.
Halloween: Use black and orange ribbon, mini plastic spiders, or small faux pumpkins.
Hobby-Themed: For a music lover, add tiny musical notes or mini instruments. For a sports fan, include small balls or jerseys.
Monogram: Spell out a name or initial with small letter charms glued between the pennies.
Finish with a themed ribbon or twine for hanging.
Time: 2–3 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
Helpful Tip: For holiday themes, shop the dollar store for inexpensive seasonal decorations to use as embellishments.
What’s the best way to clean pennies for crafting?
Soak pennies in a mixture of white vinegar and salt (about 1/4 cup vinegar and 1 teaspoon salt per cup of pennies) for 5–10 minutes. Scrub with a toothbrush, rinse with water, and dry thoroughly. For extra shine, you can also use lemon juice and baking soda, but vinegar and salt are the most effective for removing tarnish. Always dry pennies completely before crafting to prevent further tarnishing or glue issues.
Can I use pennies from other countries for these ornaments?
Absolutely! Pennies or small coins from other countries can add a unique, international flair to your wreath ornaments. Just ensure the coins are clean and dry before using them. Keep in mind that the size and thickness of foreign coins may vary, so you might need to adjust your wreath form or spacing accordingly.
How do I keep my penny wreath ornaments from tarnishing over time?
To prevent tarnishing, apply a clear sealant spray (like Mod Podge or a lacquer spray) to the finished ornament. This creates a protective barrier that slows down oxidation. Store ornaments in a dry, cool place when not in use, and avoid exposing them to moisture or humidity. If tarnish does appear over time, you can gently clean the ornament with a soft cloth and a bit of vinegar or lemon juice.
What’s the easiest penny wreath ornament for beginners?
The Classic Copper Penny Wreath with Burlap Bow (Idea 1) is the easiest for beginners. It requires minimal supplies—just pennies, wire, and burlap—and the technique is straightforward. The Mini Penny Wreath Christmas Tree Ornament (Idea 3) is also beginner-friendly due to its small size and simplicity. Both projects allow room for imperfections, so don’t stress about making it perfect!
Can I make these ornaments without a wreath form?
Yes! If you don’t have a wreath form, you can create a circular base using a bent coat hanger, a wire circle, or even a foam ring cut from a pool noodle. For mini wreaths, a simple loop of thick wire (like 18-gauge) works well. The key is to have a sturdy, circular foundation to attach your pennies to.
Are penny wreath ornaments heavy?
Most penny wreath ornaments are surprisingly lightweight, especially smaller designs or those made with a foam or wire base. However, if you’re using a lot of pennies or adding heavy embellishments (like large beads or pinecones), the ornament may become heavier. For hanging, use a sturdy ribbon, twine, or wire loop to ensure it stays secure. If gifting, consider including a decorative hook or stand for display.
How can I personalize a penny wreath ornament for a specific person?
Personalization is what makes these ornaments so special! Start by choosing a theme that reflects the recipient’s interests, such as a hobby, favorite color, or holiday. Add their initial or name using small letter charms or beads. You can also incorporate meaningful trinkets, like a tiny charm that represents their profession, a favorite animal, or a symbol of their heritage. Another idea is to use pennies from a significant year (e.g., their birth year or graduation year) for an extra sentimental touch.
There’s something magical about turning everyday objects into treasures, and these 10 penny wreath ornament ideas prove that creativity doesn’t have to be expensive. Whether you’re drawn to the rustic charm of twine and wood or the glamorous sparkle of crystals and pearls, each design offers a chance to infuse your personality into a handmade gift. The best part? No two wreaths will ever look the same, and that’s the beauty of DIY.
So, dig out that jar of pennies, gather a few supplies, and let your imagination run wild. Whether you craft one or all ten, these ornaments are sure to bring joy—to you as the maker, and to whoever is lucky enough to receive them. Happy crafting!