Nature Memory Ornaments

Obtain a sheet of bark from a fallen birch tree. (Do not harvest from a live tree, as this can cause permanent damage to the organism.) Cut out any shape that represents a person, event or funny moment at the cabin! Fish, hearts, houses, leaves, boats and birds are great starter shapes. Carve or write a name or date on the birch bark with a craft knife.

 

See also Cabin Scrapbooking

Add some fun personalized embellishments, such as photos, bird feathers, acorns, twigs, mini pinecones and other found objects that will stand the test of time. Make a hole in the top of the shape with a single-hole punch, and string some twine through it. Voilà! You’re ready to hang your ornament.

 

See also Gather Round the Fire Pit

• Flatten any pieces of curly bark with steam from an iron, and sandwich pieces between heavy books for an hour or longer, depending on thickness.
• If the ornament is flimsy after cutting, replicate the shape on another piece of bark, and then again on a piece of thin cardboard. Glue the cardboard piece in between the two birch pieces before decorating.
• To protect the art or images used on the back, spray with a UV-resistant, clear, acrylic coating prior to stringing the ornament.