Crafty Candy Cane Ideas: 25 festive DIY projects

Scott Jul 20, 2026
35+ Creative Ways to Use Leftover Candy Canes
35+ Creative Ways to Use Leftover Candy Canes

Candy canes are a beloved holiday treat that can be used in a variety of creative ways beyond just eating them. One of the most popular uses for candy canes is in craft projects, which can be made for decoration, gifts, or even as a fun activity for kids.

35+ Creative Ways to Use Leftover Candy Canes
35+ Creative Ways to Use Leftover Candy Canes

From wreaths and garlands to ornaments and centerpieces, candy canes can be used to add a festive touch to any room. They can also be used to create unique and personalized gifts, such as photo frames and candles.

Candy Cane Bows
Candy Cane Bows

Candy Cane Craft Ideas

Decorative Wreaths and Garlands

How To Craft Peppermint Scented Clay Candy Canes
How To Craft Peppermint Scented Clay Candy Canes

One of the simplest and most effective ways to use candy canes in a craft project is to create a decorative wreath or garland. To make a candy cane wreath, simply thread the candy canes onto a wire or string, leaving a small space between each one. You can then hang the wreath on a door or wall, or use it as a centerpiece for a holiday table.

For a garland, you can use a similar technique, but with a few additional steps. You can add some greenery, such as eucalyptus or ferns, to give the garland some depth and texture. You can also use different types of candy canes, such as striped or peppermint, to create a more varied and interesting look.

199K views 路 970 reactions | 馃槺 Dollar tree fuzzy Candy cane DIY 馃槺 Y鈥檃ll this is too cute and so, so easy! Forget mopping, let鈥檚 craft with them 馃ぃ  What do ya think? 鉂わ笍 | Wilshire Collections
199K views 路 970 reactions | 馃槺 Dollar tree fuzzy Candy cane DIY 馃槺 Y鈥檃ll this is too cute and so, so easy! Forget mopping, let鈥檚 craft with them 馃ぃ What do ya think? 鉂わ笍 | Wilshire Collections

Candy Cane Ornaments

Candy canes can also be used to create unique and personalized ornaments for your holiday tree. To make a candy cane ornament, simply thread a few candy canes onto a string or twine, leaving a small space between each one. You can then tie the ends together and hang the ornament on the tree.

For a more elaborate ornament, you can use a few different types of candy canes, such as striped and peppermint, to create a more varied and interesting look. You can also add some glitter or other embellishments to give the ornament some extra sparkle.

some candy canes are sitting on a table with pins in the shape of letters
some candy canes are sitting on a table with pins in the shape of letters

Gift Ideas

Candy Cane Photo Frames

One of the most popular uses for candy canes in a craft project is to create a unique and personalized photo frame. To make a candy cane photo frame, simply glue the candy canes onto a frame or a piece of cardboard, leaving a small space between each one. You can then add a photo or other decorative element to complete the frame.

31 Beautiful Things to Make With Candy Canes - Earning and Saving with Sarah
31 Beautiful Things to Make With Candy Canes - Earning and Saving with Sarah

For a more elaborate frame, you can use different types of candy canes, such as striped and peppermint, to create a more varied and interesting look. You can also add some glitter or other embellishments to give the frame some extra sparkle.

Candy Cane Candles

How to Make Candy Cane Reindeer
How to Make Candy Cane Reindeer
Candy Cane Christmas Tree DIY
Candy Cane Christmas Tree DIY
Candy Cane Hearts
Candy Cane Hearts
DIY Chunky Tattered Candy Canes
DIY Chunky Tattered Candy Canes
15+ Creative Elf Candy Cane Ideas for Festive Fun
15+ Creative Elf Candy Cane Ideas for Festive Fun
DIY Rustic Candy Cane Christmas Ornaments 路
DIY Rustic Candy Cane Christmas Ornaments 路
480K views 路 2.6K reactions | Dollar Tree hair rollers become the most adorable candy canes! | The Celebration Co.
480K views 路 2.6K reactions | Dollar Tree hair rollers become the most adorable candy canes! | The Celebration Co.
three christmas candy canes are hanging from red and green ribbons on a white surface
three christmas candy canes are hanging from red and green ribbons on a white surface
DIY Dollar Store Candy Cane Wreath - Meghan on the Move
DIY Dollar Store Candy Cane Wreath - Meghan on the Move

Candy canes can also be used to create unique and personalized candles. To make a candy cane candle, simply glue the candy canes onto a candle or a piece of cardboard, leaving a small space between each one. You can then add a wick or other decorative element to complete the candle.

For a more elaborate candle, you can use different types of candy canes, such as striped and peppermint, to create a more varied and interesting look. You can also add some glitter or other embellishments to give the candle some extra sparkle.

With a little creativity and some basic crafting skills, you can turn candy canes into a variety of fun and festive holiday crafts. Whether you're making decorations, gifts, or just having fun with the kids, candy canes are a versatile and versatile material that can add a touch of holiday magic to any project.