how to put a photo in an ornament

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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29-01-2025

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Meta Description: Preserve cherished memories by learning how to put a photo in an ornament! This guide provides easy-to-follow steps, tips, and tricks for creating personalized Christmas ornaments or year-round keepsakes. Discover different methods for various ornament types and achieve professional-looking results.

Introduction: Making Personalized Ornaments with Photos

Adding a special photo to an ornament is a beautiful way to personalize your holiday decor or create a unique keepsake. This simple craft project allows you to transform ordinary ornaments into cherished mementos, preserving precious memories year after year. Whether it's a family photo for Christmas, a picture of a beloved pet, or a snapshot from a special vacation, this guide will walk you through the process.

Choosing Your Ornament and Photo

Selecting the Right Ornament

The type of ornament you choose will influence the method you use to insert your photo. Consider these factors:

• Clear glass or plastic balls: These are ideal because they allow the photo to be clearly visible.
• Ornaments with removable tops: These offer easy access for inserting your photo.
• Ornaments with flat surfaces: These are perfect for adhering photos directly to the surface.

Preparing Your Photo

The success of your project depends heavily on the quality of your photo. Here's how to prep it:

• Image Selection: Choose a high-resolution image with good contrast. Avoid blurry or washed-out photos.
• Size and Shape: Resize your photo to fit comfortably inside your chosen ornament. Consider using a photo editing program to crop and adjust the image to the proper dimensions. For round ornaments, a square or circular photo works best.
• Printing: Use high-quality photo paper for the best results. Consider a matte finish to reduce glare.

Method 1: Using a Photo Insert for Clear Ornaments

This method is ideal for clear glass or plastic ornaments with removable tops.

Materials:

• Clear glass or plastic ornament
• High-quality printed photo
• Small, flat object (like a ruler or spatula)
• Optional: Glue stick or double-sided tape (for added security)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Photo: Carefully cut your photo to fit inside the ornament. Make it slightly smaller than the inside diameter to avoid wrinkles.
2. Insert the Photo: Gently roll the photo into a cylinder. Using the small flat object, carefully slide the photo into the ornament.
3. Position the Photo: Once inside, use the flat object to carefully maneuver the photo into the desired position.
4. Secure (Optional): If desired, add a small dot of glue or double-sided tape to secure the photo to the inside of the ornament. This prevents it from shifting.
5. Reassemble: Carefully replace the ornament's top.

Method 2: Adhering Photos to Flat-Surfaced Ornaments

This method is best for ornaments with flat surfaces, such as wooden or ceramic ones.

Materials:

• Flat-surfaced ornament
• High-quality printed photo
• Mod Podge or other decoupage medium
• Small paintbrush
• Optional: sealant spray

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ornament: Clean the surface of your ornament thoroughly.
2. Apply Mod Podge: Brush a thin layer of Mod Podge onto the area where you'll place the photo.
3. Attach the Photo: Carefully position your photo onto the Mod Podge. Smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles.
4. Seal (Optional): Once dry, apply a thin layer of Mod Podge over the top of the photo to seal and protect it. Allow to dry completely. Apply a sealant spray for extra protection.

Method 3: Using Shrink Plastic for Miniature Photos

This technique produces a more durable, miniaturized photo inside the ornament.

Materials:

• Clear glass or plastic ornament
• High-quality printed photo
• Shrink plastic sheets
• Scissors
• Oven

Instructions:

1. Print and Cut: Print your photo onto the shrink plastic using an inkjet printer. Cut the photo to the desired size, slightly smaller than your ornament's interior.
2. Bake: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for baking the shrink plastic. The photo will shrink significantly.
3. Insert: Once cooled, carefully insert the miniature photo into your ornament.

Tips for Success

• Use High-Quality Materials: The quality of your photo and materials directly impacts the final product's appearance.
• Be Patient: Take your time and work carefully, especially when inserting photos into ornaments.
• Experiment: Try different methods and materials to find what works best for you.
• Consider the Ornament's Theme: Choose a photo that complements the ornament's overall design.

Conclusion: Preserving Memories One Ornament at a Time

Creating personalized photo ornaments is a rewarding way to preserve cherished memories and add a unique touch to your holiday decorations or year-round displays. By following these simple steps and choosing the right method for your ornament, you can create beautiful, meaningful keepsakes that you'll treasure for years to come. Remember to experiment and have fun with the process!