These two turtle dove felt Christmas ornaments are easy to make and full of charm. A quick, handmade project that adds warmth to your tree.
I had big plans to make a stuffed 3D bird, but let's be honest, sometimes you just have to know your limits.
Instead of going full plushie mode, I found a way to keep things simple while still using fabric.
These felt Christmas ornaments feature sweet little tiryle doves with ruffled fabric wings that add just the right amount of texture and charm.
They're fun to make, beginner-friendly, and a lovely handmade addition to your holiday decor.
Skill Level: Beginner
Total Time: 30 minutes
Supply List
- White Felt
- Fusible Interfacing
- Scraps of Christmas Fabric
- Scissors
- Hot Glue Gun
- Elastic Thread and Sewing Machine (optional)
Bird Shape
To start, iron the fusible interfacing onto the white felt.
The interfacing keeps the birds stiff, so they sit in the tree a bit better.
Hand-draw bird shapes onto the interfacing side and cut them out using scissors.
I don't have the best drawing skills, but the shape doesn't need to be fancy.
If you would prefer a template to freehand, I do have a bird-shaped SVG.
Fabric Wings
The width of jelly roll strips is 2.5 inches. Cut a section about 1.5 inches of different coordinating fabrics.
If you're using a sewing machine, load elastic thread in the bobbin, and sew along the edge to ruffle.
You can also hand-stitch them with a basting stitch and pull the thread to create the ruffle.
Ruffle 4 strips for each bird.
Assembly
Arrange the ruffled strips on the bird until they are arranged how you like.
Then adhere the ruffles with Hot glue. I found it easiest to start at the bottom and work my way up.
Cut out a tiny circle and triangle for the eye and beak, and hot glue them into place.
I decided not to add a ribbon hanger to the back because I like how they look sitting on the branches, but you could easily glue one on if you'd rather.
Now you have two turtle doves with fun, ruffled-feathered fabric! They are so cute!!!
More Handmade Christmas Ornaments
Making Christmas ornaments is my favorite part of the holiday! Here are a few more fun ideas.
Hi, I'm Katie!
I'm so glad you're here. Want to make something fabulous? I'm here to help!
Leslie @ Violet Imperfection
These are so cute! I may have to make some for myself.
Meeha Meeha
I love this project inspired by a song, it's so beautiful!
Bonnie and Trish @ Uncommon
Those are simply precious! I just love fabric and what a fantastic way to use it! 😉 Bonnie
Melissa
Such a cute idea! Love the ruffles!
Maria @ Inspiration Affirmation
These are so adorable! I just love their ruffly multi-colored feathers. 🙂 You did a beautiful job -- can't wait to see what's next!
eva scott
so pretty and unique!!
crystal
These are the cutest bird ornaments I've ever seen! I love the ruffles. 🙂
Carol ( Answer Is Chocolate)
These are so adorable. Perfect for the theme of this series.
malia
what a darling pair of turtle doves! So sweet!
johnnie
Simple and sweet as can be. I can't wait to see the rest of the days!
Erin @ DIY On the Cheap
These are adorable! Great job.
Heather
Adorable!!
Kelly @ Eclectically Vintage
Love the 12 days of Christmas - what a fun idea
Kelly
Kelly @ Eclectically Vintage
Love the 12 days of Christmas - what a fun idea
Kelly