Wrinkle-Free Holiday Magic: DIY Rustic Ornament Tutorial

Want to know the secret to wrinkle-free napkin decoupage? This rustic Christmas tree ornament project might just become your favorite holiday craft! With a few simple techniques, you’ll turn plain wood cutouts into shimmering keepsakes for your tree.

Our creative friend Donna from Mason Creations etc. walks us through this festive tutorial using products you’ll find right here at DecoupageNapkins.com.

Watch the video below to see each step in action.

Start at 0:03

Step 1 – Prep Your Tree Base

Donna begins with two MDF tree cutouts, painting the larger with Pentart Compact Powder and the smaller with Dixie Belle Cotton Chalk Paint to create a bright base for decoupage.

Step 2 – Wrinkle-Free Napkin Decoupage

On the smaller tree, she uses a holiday napkin. After separating the plies, she places the napkin on a piece of plastic, spritzes it with water, and smooths it gently. Using Polyvine Decorators Varnish as adhesive, she applies the napkin perfectly flat—no wrinkles in sight!

Step 3 – Sand and Seal

Once dry, the excess napkin is sanded away with downward strokes. A coat of Polyvine Heavy Duty Wood Varnish adds protection and a subtle shine.

Step 4 – Add Shimmer with Foil

For the larger tree, Donna applies Decofoil Transfer Gel through a stencil, lets it dry clear, then presses on shimmering green foil. The result is a dazzling leafy pattern that sparkles under holiday lights. 

Step 5 – Depth and Detailing

To give the trees dimension, Donna mixes Pentart Light Brown Paint with water and sponges it around the edges. She finishes by adding Redesign Decor Wax Rub in Eternal Gold, creating a warm metallic glow along the sides.

Step 6 – Embellishments and Final Touches

Using her Bowdabra tool, Donna crafts layered bows accented with gold berries, greenery, and tiny holiday stickers. A twine hanger ties everything together, turning the project into a rustic, handmade ornament ready for the Christmas tree.

With just a napkin, a bit of foil, and some festive details, this simple MDF cutout becomes a holiday treasure.

✨ A heartfelt thank-you to Donna at Mason Creations etc. for sharing her expertise and joy of crafting with us.

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