How to Paint a Simple Ornament

Watercolor Wednesday #1

Dec 11, 2024

Published December 11, 2024

This week, we’re diving into a simple, festive art project—because let’s face it, we all need a moment to slow down and create something beautiful during the holidays. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just picking up a brush for the first time, this one’s for you.

If you’re curious about the Watercolor Wednesday Lineup, I’ve created a Table of Contents so you know what’s coming up.

Photo by DV+Co

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It All Started with an Ornament

OMG, you know those moments when the chaos of Christmas makes you wonder why you even started decorating in the first place?

That was me last week, up to my elbows in ornaments and tangled lights.

But then, I unwrapped the sweetest floral bauble, and it reminded me why I love this season so much: it’s about capturing those small, magical moments.

Inspired by that ornament, I thought, Why not turn it into a tutorial? Let’s create something timeless together.

If you’re over it and don’t want to *make* an ornament, you can buy some beautiful hand-painted fine art ornaments over in my shop. Just click here and you can browse some pieces you’re going to love.

What You’ll Need

Ornament: Ceramic works best!
Brushes: An assortment of acrylic brushes (I’m doing this project with my kids, so we have CHEAP brushes that can get ruined and I don’t mind.)
Paint Colors: Reds, greens, blues, and gold (or any color scheme that speaks to you) — Right now before I paint, I’m thinking I’ll probably do some sort of pink.
Extras: A pencil, eraser, water jar, paper towel, and optional gold foil or metallic paint or white paint pen for finishing touches.

Step-by-Step: Let’s Paint!

Step 1: Sketch Your Ornament

Start with a light pencil sketch:

Draw a circle for the ornament.
Add a small rectangle on top to represent the cap.
Draw the design you want to see on your ornament.

Step 2: Lay Down the Base Layer

Paint the entire ornament with your first layer of paint. I like to do a limewash style when painting the base layer.
Cover the entire ornament — you may have to work in layers to cover the whole thing.
Let the paint flow naturally, leaving some lighter areas for highlights.

Pro tip: Don’t overwork the paint—let it do its thing.

Step 3: Add Details

Once the base is dry, it’s time for the fun part!

Use your smaller brush to add patterns like stripes, polka dots, or tiny florals. I also love to add lemons, tangerines, or grapefruits. Pomagranate feels like Christmas to me and so does citrus — probably all the pomander balls I made with my grandmother as a child…
Metallic paints or gold leaf? Yes, please! They add the perfect holiday sparkle.

Pro tip: If you’re nervous about detail work, practice on a scrap piece of paper firstPro tip: If you’re nervous about detail work, practice on a scrap piece of paper first

Step 4: Final Touches

My favorite part is adding a BOW to the top. I’m a millenial, after all.
I love to add some sort of painted details to the bow.
Sign your ornament and write the year with your paint pen.

Why It Matters

As I painted this ornament, I thought about how small moments like these are what make the holidays meaningful. Each brushstroke felt like a little time capsule—a way to pause the hustle and savor the beauty of this season.

This isn’t just about making art; it’s about creating something that tells a story. And who knows? Maybe this little ornament will inspire you to hang it, gift it, or tuck it into your holiday decor for years to come.

Bonus Challenge

Feeling ambitious? Try painting a whole set of ornaments in different colors and patterns. These could make beautiful handmade gifts themselves or can even be attached to gifts as name tags.

If you’re using it as a gift, grab this acrylic box and some fancy wrap and ribbon.

What’s Next?

Share your creations with me! Post your ornament on Instagram and tag me @courtneykibbydesigns—I’d love to see your work and hear your holiday stories.

Next week on Watercolor Wednesday: How to Paint a Christmas Wreath —perfect for those winter vibes.