Cinnamon & Applesauce Christmas Ornaments

I love making handmade gifts but never seem to have the time lately.  When I spotted these the other day, via Coulson Macleod's Facebook page, I had to give them a go.  Not only are they really easy to make but they also make your house smell of cinnamon! Bonus! 

If you haven't heard of Coulson Macleod pop over to their page.  They always share the best craft ideas and blogs as well as they're own original artwork.  This particular recipe is from Katy Elliot's blog.  Here's the link if you want to check her out.

Here's How It's Done..

Add the cinnamon and applesauce into a bowl and get mixing. It's best to use your hands and besides it's more fun that way, especially if you've got kids! The mixture needs to be dry enough that it can be rolled out without sticking to your rolling pin but moist enough that it sticks together.  If the mixture's too moist add more cinnamon.  If the mixture's too dry then add more applesauce.  Keep doing this until you've got a dough like mixture.

Roll the dough out as you would pastry.  Don't make your dough too thick else it might not dry likewise if you make it too thin your ornaments will become quite delicate and could break.  I used a pound coin as a guide for the right depth.

Use any shape cutter you want and cut out your pieces.  I only had stars available but I did shape a heart by hand which looks quite rustic.

Remember to make a hole where you want to thread the string through.  I used a chopstick. Turn the shape over and check the hole is just as wide on the back.

Lay your shapes onto greaseproof paper in a tray and then bake on a low temperature in the oven.  I baked them on 50 degrees for over an hour and then let them air dry for 24 hours just to be on the safe side.

Once your shapes are dry, thread your choice of string or ribbon through the hole in your shape and there you have it! A scented Christmas ornament which you can hang on your tree. They also make interesting gift tags or why not turn them into a garland!

Do you like making things like this? Do you know of any good craft blogs? Let me know, I'd love to read them.