No-Sew Star Fabric Ornaments: Easy DIY Scandinavian Charm

IMAGINE A COZY SCANDINAVIAN WINTER SCENE: SNOW-COVERED LANDSCAPES, WARM CANDLELIGHT, AND CHARMING HANDCRAFTED ORNAMENTS ADORNING THE TREE. ADD YOUR OWN TOUCH OF THAT NORDIC CHARM TO YOUR OWN HOLIDAY DÉCOR WITH DIY NO-SEW FABRIC STAR ORNAMENTS!

Over the years, I’ve seen so many tutorials for these fun and easy star fabric ornaments.  In this post, I’ll show you how I created these fun little decorative pieces, perfect for adding a handmade, rustic elegance to your Christmas tree or gifting to loved ones.

With just a few simple materials and a touch of creativity, you can craft your own Scandinavian-style magic this holiday season.

Materials for Star Fabric Ornaments

As always, before you dive into making, you need to gather up your supplies.  For this easy DIY, you’ll need the following:

• Fabric – each star requires four pieces of fabric measuring 4″ x 14″.  You can choose 1, 2, 3 or 4 fabrics to make these stars.  Any of these Fat Quarter bundles from the Fat Quarter Shop would work beautifully for this project, but you can use yardage or scraps as well.
• Rotary cutter and mat – You can absolutely use a good pair of scissors, but I do find that you get the most accurate cuts using a rotary cutter.
• Quilting Ruler
• Iron and ironing board or pressing mat
• Spray starch – A quick note about using spray starch.  I did find after making a few of these stars that using starch really helped me get nicer folds and points.  Be sure to starch your fabric before you start, just in case there is any shrinkage!
• Thread – yes, this is still a no-sew ornament!  The thread is to create a loop for hanging your star fabric ornament.

Optional Supplies:

• Fabric Glue
• Embellishments

Choosing your fabric is the first step in achieving the authentic Scandinavian look. Opt for traditional Nordic colours like red, white, and shades of blue to capture that rustic charm.

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Prepare your fabric 

Your first step in preparing your fabric is to decide how many stars you want to make.  You can cut five pieces from one Fat Quarter, provided it measures 18″ x 21″ or slightly more.  This means that you can get five ornaments from only two Fat Quarters, if you choose to use two fabrics in your stars!

Iron and starch your fabrics following the directions of the brand of starch you choose.  I use Mary Ellen’s Best Press, which I LOVE by the way, so I simply spray it on the fabric, press until the fabric is dry and I’m good.  You can absolutely starch both sides of the fabric using Best Press if you choose.

Next, cut your strips.  I would recommend cutting four vertical strips and one horizontal strip.  You can see how I cut my fat quarters in my YouTube video below.   As I mentioned above and in my video, I am using strips that are 4″ x 14″.  Three other sizes that worked well are:

• 3″ x 10.5″ 
• 5″ x 17.5″
• 6″ x 21″

These sizes all allow you to use fat quarters but keep in mind that as the strips get larger, you will get less and less out of each fat quarter.  You can get the following from one fat quarter:

• 3″ x 10.5″ – 12 strips (if the fabric measures a true 18″ x 21″ or slightly larger)
• 4″ x 14″ – 5 strips
• 5″ x 17.5″ – 4 strips
• 6″ x 21″ – 3 strips

The final step before we get to weaving our star fabric ornaments is pressing our strips.  Start by pressing each strip in half with wrong sides together.  Allow each piece to cool completely before moving to the next step.  This helps the fold to set in really well.

For each strip, you’ll now fold each long edge into the centre, leaving a small gap between the edges at the centre.  You can see this in the images below.

Leaving the small gap allows your centre fold to be crisp and not bulky.  Press all your strips and allow them to cool completely.

Now that your fabric pieces are ready, you’re one step closer to weaving your stars.

Now is a good time to watch my YouTube video showing you the weaving process!  And be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel and turn on your notifications so that you never miss a project!

Weaving your Star Fabric Ornament

The steps are relatively simple, once you get the hang of them.  Be sure to refer to the pictures or video as you are working.

Step 1: Place your four strips in a square on your work surface.  If you are using two fabrics, be sure to alternate them:

Step 2:  Fold each piece almost in half, leaving a “tail” of approximately 1 ½”.

Step 3: Create the weave of the centre of the star by tucking the tail end of one piece into the fold of the next piece:

Step 4:  Tighten the centre by working the pieces into each other, forming a tighter square:

Step 5:  Flip your fabric over so that the long tails are on top.  You will now fold each of these long tails across the centre weave:

Step 6:  It’s now time to create your star points.  Be sure to refer back to the video if these instructions aren’t fully clear to you!  Starting on the lower strip on the right (in the image below, it’s the red strip).  Fold the strip on the diagonal so that it lays next to the white strips on the bottom.  Finger press this fold.  Flip the star over and turn the point towards you.  Again on the diagonal, finger press the same strip upwards so that you make a point.  Next, fold the strip in half to create the star point.  You will then tuck the end under the woven piece in the centre.  Trim the ends of the strip if necessary.  

Continue this pattern of folding for all the strips around your star!

Once you have finished all your folds, you can add a drop of fabric glue at the points where the pieces overlap for extra security if you want. Allow it to dry completely.  Don’t use your glue until you have finished all the folding, just in case you need to adjust your fabrics at all.

Personalizing your Fabric Ornaments

To really add some personality to your fabric ornaments, consider these optional finishing touches:

1. Attach a ribbon loop to the top of your star, allowing you to hang it on your tree.
2. Sew or glue on buttons, sequins, or other embellishments for a touch of sparkle and texture.
3. Experiment with different colour schemes to match your overall holiday décor or personal style.

These subtle details will make your fabric star ornaments truly unique and showcase your creative flair.

Displaying your Stars

Now that you’ve crafted your no-sew fabric star ornaments, it’s time to find the perfect spot to showcase them. Here are some ideas:

1. Hang them on your Christmas tree, mixing them with other ornaments for a harmonious look.
2. Use them as elegant gift toppers, adding a personalized touch to your presents.
3. Create a stunning centrepiece by arranging them in a decorative bowl or on a tray.
4. Attach them to a garland draped over your mantle or staircase.

Caring for Your Fabric Ornaments

To ensure your fabric star ornaments last for seasons to come, follow these care tips:

• Store them in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from moisture.
• If they get dusty, gently shake them or use a soft brush to clean them.
• Avoid washing; spot clean any stains if necessary.

With these simple care practices, your handmade fabric ornaments will continue to bring joy and warmth to your holiday celebrations.

Crafting Scandinavian-inspired no-sew fabric star ornaments is a delightful way to infuse your holiday décor with charm and personality. These DIY creations capture the essence of Nordic design and allow you to express your creativity. Whether you’re hanging them on the Christmas tree, using them as gift toppers, or adorning your home year-round, these fabric ornaments will add a touch of handmade magic to your surroundings. Embrace the joy of crafting and share the warmth of the season with your own handmade creations.

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