A Complete Guide to Memorial Ornaments
Hanging ornaments for Christmas is often a treasured moment for many families. However, if you’ve lost someone who you wish could be there, this time of the year can be especially hard. This article covers memorial ornaments for Christmas, where you can purchase them, and how to DIY memorial ornaments if you’d prefer to make one of these on your own.
What are personalized memorial Christmas Ornaments?
A memorial ornament is a decorative item that serves as a symbolic and sentimental remembrance of a loved one who has passed away. These ornaments are often designed to commemorate the life, personality and cherished memories of the individual being honored. Memorial ornaments are typically displayed, especially during special occasions or holidays, to keep the memory of the departed alive and provide a tangible way for family and friends to reflect on the person's life.
Key features of memorial ornaments can include:
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Personalization: Many memorial ornaments can be personalized with the name, birthdate, and date of passing of the individual. Memorial ornaments can be personalized with pictures, special messages, quotes, or colors as well.
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Symbolic Elements: Memorial ornaments often incorporate symbols or imagery that holds significance to the person being remembered. This could include symbols representing hobbies, interests, or aspects of the person's life.
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Materials: Memorial ornaments can be made from various materials, including glass, metal, wood, or even fabric. The choice of material often reflects the desired aesthetic and the personal preferences of those creating or purchasing the ornament.
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Display Options: These ornaments may be designed for hanging on a Christmas tree, placing on a memorial display, or even serving as part of a larger memorial arrangement, such as a wreath or centerpiece.
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Themes: Memorial ornaments may follow specific themes, such as angels, religious symbols, nature, or custom designs that resonate with the individual's life.
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Incorporation of Photos: Some memorial ornaments feature small photo frames or spaces for inserting photographs of the person being remembered, adding a visual element to the memorialization.
Memorial ornaments are often used as a way to bring comfort and solace to those who are grieving. They offer a tangible and tangible means of connecting with the memories of a loved one, particularly during special times of the year or significant anniversaries. Additionally, these ornaments can be passed down through generations, becoming cherished family heirlooms that continue to honor the legacy of those who have passed away.
Example memorial ornaments for Christmas
These are some examples of memorial ornaments that span different types of categories.Whether you’re searching for memorial ornaments for mom, dad, a beloved sibling or even a beloved pet – these examples should help.
Pet memorial ornaments

You can customize this ornament with different breeds and types of pets, according to your liking.
Angel memorial ornaments
Angel memorial ornaments are also customizable and a unique way to memorialize your loved one during Christmas. An "In Loving Memory" ornament is a beautiful addition to any Christmas tree, especially if you’re missing a loved one during the holidays.
How to make memorial Christmas ornaments
Whether you’re trying to make personalized memorial Christmas ornaments to hang on a tree or display in another way around the home, this guide can help you get started. Creating a personalized memorial ornament can be a touching and meaningful way to honor and remember a loved one. Here's a general guide on how you can make your own personalized memorial ornament:
Materials You'll Need
- Blank ornament (wood, glass, or other material)
- Acrylic paint, paint pens, or markers
- Small paint brushes or fine-tip markers
- Ribbon or string for hanging
- Clear sealant (optional)
- Photos, if applicable
- Glue or adhesive (if adding photos)
- Stencils or templates (optional)
Steps
- Choose the Ornament:
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Select the type of ornament you want to use. This could be a plain wood ornament, a glass ball, or any other blank canvas that you can easily personalize.
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Prepare the Surface:
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If you're using a wooden ornament, you may want to sand it lightly to create a smooth surface. Clean the surface to ensure it's free from dust or debris.
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Select a Design:
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Decide on the design and theme for your memorial ornament. Consider incorporating symbols, colors, and elements that are meaningful to the person you are remembering.
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Paint or Decorate:
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Use acrylic paint, paint pens, or markers to decorate the ornament. Add the name, dates, and any other personalized details. You can freehand the design or use stencils/templates for more intricate patterns.
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Add Photos (Optional):
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If you have small photos of your loved one, consider adding them to the ornament. Resize and print the photos to fit the ornament. Glue the photos in place, making sure they are securely attached.
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Seal the Design (Optional):
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To protect the painted or decorated surface, you can apply a clear sealant. This step is optional but can help preserve the ornament over time.
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Attach a Hanging String or Ribbon:
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Attach a string or ribbon to the ornament so that it can be easily hung on a Christmas tree or displayed in another meaningful location.
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Personalize Further (Optional):
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You can further personalize the ornament by adding special touches, such as charms, small trinkets, or additional decorations that hold significance.
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Let It Dry:
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Allow the ornament to dry completely before handling or hanging it.
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Display or Gift:
- Once your personalized memorial ornament is complete, you can choose to display it in your home, gift it to family members, or use it during the holiday season as a special remembrance.
Remember that the most important aspect of creating a personalized memorial ornament is the thought and love you put into the process. Customize it in a way that feels meaningful and resonates with the memories of your loved one.
Memorial ornaments are a beautiful way to memorialize the life of a loved one and keep their memory strong throughout the holidays. If you’re looking for other ways to memorialize someone who has passed, consider starting a memorial website with Ever Loved. Ever Loved’s memorial websites are free, simple, and quick to set up, making it easy to share with your loved ones.