Makers at Work: The Evolution of Our DIY Christmas Ornament
Have you ever had one of those moments with your best friend where ideas just bounce back and forth like a ping-pong ball? It’s basically the improv game “yes, and then” but sometimes with way more sawdust and hot glue. One person says, “You know what would be so cool…” and the other jumps in with, “Yes, and then add THIS to make it even better!” Before you know it, you’ve gone from a simple thought to a full-blown project worthy of a woodworking magazine spread.
Jason and I do this a lot. Case in point: our legendary Elf Repair Kit. Since our very first Christmas together, we’ve exchanged ornaments—usually handmade, because DIY Christmas ornaments are kind of our love language. Sure, sometimes Hallmark wins us over (those ornaments are dangerously cute), but most years we lean into the makers’ spirit and craft something ourselves.
Back in 2015, Jason had a stroke of genius. He made me an ornament that doubled as a solution to the age-old Christmas morning crisis: “Where’s the screwdriver?!” His invention was a wood cookie (yes, actual woodworking involved here) with “Elf Repair Kit” written on it, the date, and a strong magnet to hold a mini screwdriver. I thought it was brilliant. And guess what? We still use it every single year. Dead batteries in toys? Decorations that need a quick fix? Boom—the Elf Repair Kit saves Christmas, front and center on our tree.
Of course, makers never stop tinkering. When Jason got me a 3D printer for my birthday one year, I immediately said, “You know what would make the Elf Repair Kit even better? A 3D printed clip for the screwdriver!” That worked… until the clip broke. Then Jason suggested a hoop design. Then I hopped onto Tinkercad (yes, I still use Tinkercad—Fusion 360 is on my to do list, but let’s be honest, Tinkercad does everything I need). After some trial and error, I designed a sturdier platform-style holder. And just like that, Elf Repair Kit Version 3 was born. *Shamless plug* Available now in our store!
What I love most about this ornament isn’t just its practicality—it’s the spirit of creativity behind it. Woodworking, DIY projects, and handmade gifts all teach you to keep experimenting, keep improving, and keep laughing when things don’t go perfectly. Every version of the Elf Repair Kit has been a reminder that makers thrive on feedback, iteration, and a little bit of holiday magic.
How to Make Your Own Elf Repair Kit Ornament 🎄🔧
Want to join the DIY Christmas ornament fun? Here’s a simple guide:
- Step 1: Grab a wood slice. You can buy pre-cut “wood cookies” at craft stores or slice your own if you’re handy with woodworking tools.
- Step 2: Add some personality. Use paint, a wood burner, or even a Sharpie to write “Elf Repair Kit” and the year. Bonus points if your handwriting looks like Santa’s.
- Step 3: Attach a magnet. A strong magnet is key—it needs to hold a mini screwdriver without dropping it mid-Christmas chaos.
- Step 4: Add the screwdriver. Pick a small one that fits most toy screws. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later. You can use the mini Milwuakee multi-head screwdriver, or even the Teeny Turner (I found this at Canadian tire).
- Step 5: Hang it up. Drill a tiny hole or glue on a hook so it can hang proudly on your tree.
Optional upgrades: If you’re a maker with a 3D printer, design a custom clip or holder. If not, keep it simple—the classic magnet version works like a charm.
And there you have it: a DIY Christmas ornament that’s both festive and functional. It’s proof that woodworking and creativity can save the day… and the batteries.
