Transforming your outdoor space into a festive wonderland often starts with the largest visual elements, and DIY large Christmas ornaments for outside are the perfect way to achieve this. These substantial decorations act as beacons of holiday cheer, visible from the street and creating an instant festive atmosphere. Unlike their smaller counterparts, oversized versions require a different approach to construction and materials, ensuring they can withstand the elements while maintaining their visual impact. This guide explores how to create stunning, large-scale decorations that will become the centerpiece of your holiday display.
Planning Your Large-Scale Ornaments
The foundation of a successful large ornament is thoughtful planning. Before cutting a single piece of material, consider the scale relative to your yard and the viewing distance. A globe that is too small will get lost, while one that is too large can overwhelm the space or block windows. Common shapes for large external ornaments include classic balls, stars, moons, and even custom figures like animals or trees. You also need to decide on the construction method, which will dictate the materials needed. Two primary techniques are foam carving for a solid structure or creating a frame with chicken wire for a lightweight, fillable approach.
Material Selection for Durability
Choosing the right materials is critical for ornaments that will face rain, wind, and freezing temperatures. For the frame method, heavy-duty chicken wire or hardware cloth provides the necessary structure. To fill the volume, materials like bubble wrap, plastic tablecloths, or insulated foam board are excellent for creating volume and texture without adding excessive weight. For carved pieces, high-density foam insulation is the industry standard; it is easy to shape with a hot knife or saw and holds up surprisingly well outdoors when sealed properly. Regardless of the internal structure, the outer surface will likely be plastic sheeting or fabric, secured with a water-based adhesive.
Step-by-Step Construction
The process of building these decorations is hands-on and rewarding, turning your garage into a workshop for holiday magic. The following steps outline the general process for creating a large hollow ornament using the wire frame method, which is versatile for many shapes.
Tools and Supplies Needed
| Heavy-Duty Chicken Wire |
| Wire Cutters and Pliers |
| Zip Ties or Floral Wire |
| Insulating Foam Board |
| Exterior Grade Plastic Sheeting |
| Waterproof Wood Glue or Spray Adhesive |
| LED String Lights (Optional) |
Assembly Process
Begin by bending the chicken wire into a circular or oblong shape, ensuring the seam is tightly secured with zip ties. Once the basic ring or dome is formed, you can attach foam insulation pieces to create the desired profile, filling the center if needed for stability. The critical step is wrapping the entire structure in plastic sheeting; this acts as a waterproof barrier. Cut the plastic to size and apply it smoothly, overlapping the edges and securing them with the same adhesive. This creates a skin that protects the internal structure and allows for painting.
Finishing and Painting Techniques
The final look is where your craftsmanship shines, and proper surface preparation is essential for a professional result. After the structure is fully assembled and wrapped, apply a base coat of exterior-grade paint. We recommend using a primer specifically designed for plastic to ensure the color adheres evenly and lasts through the seasons. When it comes to patterns, the possibilities are endless. You can opt for a classic red and white scheme, a sophisticated metallic gold, or create intricate designs like snowflakes or constellations using stencils. The key is to use high-quality outdoor paint that resists fading and chipping under UV exposure.
Adding Illumination
Lighting transforms a static decoration into a nighttime spectacle. For the largest impact, incorporate LED string lights into the design. You can weave strands through the internal structure before adding the plastic skin, creating a uniform glow from within. Alternatively, you can attach battery-operated fairy lights to the interior surface, ensuring the cords are secured neatly to avoid sagging. When planning the electrical aspect, always use outdoor-rated lights and extension cords to guarantee safety. The right lighting can make your ornament glow like a lantern, visible and stunning against the dark winter sky.
Strategic Placement and Maintenance
Even the most expertly crafted ornament needs a prominent location to maximize its effect. Mount large ornaments on tall poles driven into the ground, or suspend them from sturdy tree branches using thick cable or ratchet straps. Ensure the location receives adequate sunlight during the day, as this helps prevent moisture buildup that could lead to mold. For maintenance, inspect the decorations periodically throughout the season. Check for tears in the plastic skin and repair them with patch kits or repositioned adhesive promptly. With proper care, these DIY masterpieces can be stored in a dry garage or shed and reused for many holidays, making them a worthwhile investment in your seasonal décor.
