Frame Abstract Ornaments. Create one of a kind abstract tree ornaments that will add charm to your Christmas decorating this year and many years to come. This is a simple ornament craft that you can personalize to match whatever color scheme you have in your home.
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July is usually the month that I pick for make ahead Christmas ornaments, but this year I’m running sightly behind. Luckily I have time to squeeze this one in before fall activities take over my calendar. I hope you will make time for this simple slow craft, and enjoy the painting process.
Frame Abstract Ornaments
For these ornaments I’m using mini 2″x3″ double glass gold frames. Instead of making individual abstract art pieces for each frame, I’m make one large sheet that can be cut into sections.
Why abstract artwork? For me experimenting with different types of art including abstracts, inspires me to try a variety of color combinations and brush strokes. The free flowing shapes, lines, and colors are really fun practice too. I’m also thinking of more ways that I can add color and patterns to our tree this year.
Supplies And shopping links
- frames 2″x3″ double glass
- watercolor paper or mixed media paper
- watercolor paint set
- paint brushes in various sizes
- acrylic paint pens
- paper cutter
- scissors
- ribbon
Abstract Painting
For this artwork I’m using watercolor paper that measures 9″ x 12″. However you can create your abstract art on any size paper you want, depending on how many ornaments you are making.
Start by loading up your largest paint brush with your choice of watercolor paint to make broad strokes or swishes. Keep in mind you are going to cut your paper into small sections, so you can repeat those strokes and swishes across your paper. Be sure to let your paint dry between layers, if you want to avoid the colors bleeding into each other.
Then add one color at a time using different brushes scattering dots, splotches, lines, squares, or small swishes all over the paper. Fill in with squiggles and paint splatters too. The acrylic paint pens are good for larger doodles or swirls. I also like how well the acrylic paint layers on top of the watercolors.
The frames have two sides so you can fill each side with abstract art or create something that will coordinate. Just for fun I’m making a plaid pattern for the back side of the ornaments, with many of the same colors that are in the abstract art. This is all freehand using a skinny brush and watercolor paints, so the lines are no where near being straight. I’m going for that imperfect handmade look, instead of something that appears to be generated on a computer. 😉
Cutting out Sections For Framing
If needed, use a paper cutter to trim the boarders, then you can cut your artwork into sections. The frames measure 2″x3″, however you will want to cut your sections slightly smaller to fit inside the frames. I suggest creating a pattern out of scrap paper to use as a cutting guide.
Once you have all your abstract art sections cut out, choose the best ones to use in you frames. The same goes for plaid pattern sections.
Another option for the back of the frame is to use craft paper in a solid coordinating color. You can also customize it with a holiday wish, date, name or monogram. Think how wonderful these would be as holiday gifts.
Assembling The Ornaments
Place your artwork sections inside the double glass frame, and use the slide latch to lock closed. Many of these types of frames come with a chain for hanging, but I really love the ribbon. I’m using a gauze gold ribbon, although satin or velvet ribbons in holiday colors would be so pretty.
For more make ahead ornament projects check out these posts. The first post on the list features the same frames as in this project.
- DIY Silhouette Keepsake Ornaments
- Embroidery Hoop Ornaments From Sweaters
- Wooden Mushroom Ornaments
- Felt Woodland Animal Ornaments
- Copper Leaf And Metallic Ornaments
Be sure to follow Thistle Key Lane on Pinterest, where the boards are up to date with seasonal inspiration you can use right now!
Thank you for popping in today to see this project. I hope you are inspired to make these abstract frame ornaments for yourself or make some as a special personalized gift.
Cheers!
© 2026 Frame Abstract Ornaments post first appeared on Thistle Key Lane.














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