The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to add a festive touch to your home than with candy cane decorations? These iconic red and white striped treats are not just for eating; they can be transformed into charming and creative decorations that will delight both young and old. In this article, we’ll explore 20 of the best candy cane decoration ideas that will surely make your home merry and bright.
From simple DIY projects to elaborate displays, these ideas will inspire you to incorporate candy canes into your holiday decor in ways you’ve never imagined. So, grab a hot cocoa, put on some festive tunes, and let’s dive into the world of candy cane decorations!
1. Candy Cane Wreath
Nothing says “welcome” quite like a festive wreath on your front door. Create a stunning candy cane wreath using miniature candy canes arranged in a circular pattern. Secure them with a hot glue gun and add a bright red bow for a pop of colour.
This eye-catching decoration will greet your guests with holiday cheer before they even step inside. For added durability, consider using plastic candy canes that can withstand outdoor conditions.
“A wreath on the door is worth two in the store.” – Unknown
Pro Tip: Spray your candy cane wreath with a clear sealant to protect it from moisture and extend its life for future holiday seasons.
2. Candy Cane Candle Holders
Transform plain glass candle holders into festive centrepieces by adhering candy canes around the exterior. Use a hot glue gun to attach the candy canes vertically around the holder, leaving small gaps between each one.
Place a white or red candle inside, and watch as the warm glow creates a magical atmosphere. These charming candle holders are perfect for mantels, dining tables, or as part of a larger holiday display.
3. Candy Cane Christmas Tree
Create a whimsical miniature Christmas tree using nothing but candy canes and a foam cone. Arrange the candy canes in a spiral pattern around the cone, securing them with hot glue. Add a star-shaped candy or a small ornament on top for the perfect finishing touch.
This unique candy cane tree makes for a delightful decoration on side tables, office desks, or as part of a holiday village display. It’s a sweet twist on the traditional Christmas tree that’s sure to spark conversation.
4. Candy Cane Picture Frame
Give your favourite holiday photos a festive makeover by creating a candy cane picture frame. Simply glue miniature candy canes around a plain wooden frame, overlapping them slightly at the corners for a polished look.
This personalized decoration is not only charming but also makes for a thoughtful homemade gift. Display your candy cane frames on mantels, or shelves, or hang them on the wall for a gallery of sweet memories.
Pro Tip: Use white ribbon to create a hanging loop for your candy cane frame, allowing you to easily display it on your Christmas tree or elsewhere in your home.
5. Candy Cane Vase
Add a festive touch to your floral arrangements by creating a candy cane vase. Take a plain glass vase and adhere regular-sized candy canes vertically around its exterior. Tie a red ribbon around the middle for an extra pop of colour.
Fill the vase with white flowers like carnations or roses for a striking contrast against the red and white stripes. This charming centrepiece will bring holiday cheer to any table or countertop.
6. Candy Cane Door Hanger
Welcome visitors with a cheerful candy cane door hanger. Create an oversized candy cane shape using red and white fabric or felt, stuff it for dimension, and add a loop for hanging. Embellish with smaller real candy canes, bells, or festive ornaments.
This soft and inviting decoration is perfect for indoor use and adds a playful touch to bedroom or closet doors. It’s also a great project to involve children in holiday crafting.
7. Candy Cane Pathway Lights
Guide Santa to your doorstep with candy cane pathway lights. Purchase large plastic candy canes or create your own using PVC pipes painted with red and white stripes. Insert solar-powered stake lights into the ground next to each candy cane.
At night, these illuminated candy canes will create a magical walkway that’s both festive and functional. It’s a delightful way to light up your yard and spread holiday cheer throughout the neighbourhood.
“Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.” – Norman Vincent Peale
8. Candy Cane Garland
String together a sweet garland using real or artificial candy canes. Thread a ribbon through the hooks of the candy canes, alternating their directions for visual interest. Add small jingle bells or miniature ornaments between each candy cane for extra flair.
This versatile decoration can be draped along mantels, staircases, or windows. It’s an easy way to add a touch of holiday spirit to any room in your home.
9. Candy Cane Centerpiece
Create a stunning table centrepiece using a variety of candy canes. Fill a clear glass bowl or vase with an assortment of red, white, and peppermint-swirled candy canes. Add some artificial snow or silver tinsel for a wintry effect.
Surround the bowl with pine branches, pinecones, and battery-operated fairy lights to complete the festive look. This eye-catching centrepiece will be the talk of your holiday gatherings.
10. Candy Cane Reindeer Ornaments
Craft adorable reindeer ornaments using candy canes as the body. Attach googly eyes, a red pom-pom nose, and pipe cleaner antlers to transform the candy canes into Rudolph and his friends.
These cute ornaments are perfect for decorating your Christmas tree or attaching to gifts as an extra sweet touch. They’re also a fun and easy craft project for children during the holiday season.
Pro Tip: Create a whole herd of candy cane reindeer by varying the sizes of candy canes and embellishments. Use different coloured pom-poms for noses to distinguish between Rudolph and the other reindeer.
11. Candy Cane Heart Wreath
Fashion a romantic holiday wreath by arranging candy canes in a heart shape. Use a heart-shaped wireframe as a base and attach the candy canes with floral wire or hot glue. Fill in any gaps with small ornaments, pine sprigs, or ribbon bows.
This unique take on the traditional wreath is perfect for spreading love and holiday cheer. Hang it on your front door, above the fireplace, or in a bedroom for a sweet touch of romance during the festive season.
12. Candy Cane Napkin Rings
Elevate your holiday table setting with DIY candy cane napkin rings. Simply glue three mini candy canes together to form a triangle, then slide your napkin through the centre. Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or a small ornament for an extra festive touch.
These charming napkin rings are not only decorative but also serve as a sweet treat for your guests after the meal. It’s a simple way to add a pop of holiday cheer to your dining table.
Here’s a quick guide to creating your candy cane napkin rings:
| Materials Needed | Steps |
|---|---|
| Mini candy canes | 1. Arrange 3 candy canes in a triangle |
| Hot glue gun | 2. Glue the points where they touch |
| Ribbon (optional) | 3. Tie a small bow around the joint |
| Embellishments | 4. Add a sprig of greenery or ornament |
13. Candy Cane Kissing Ball
Create a festive twist on the traditional mistletoe with a candy cane kissing ball. Start with a foam ball and insert miniature candy canes all over its surface. Fill any gaps with small ornaments, artificial berries, or sprigs of greenery.
Hang your candy cane kissing ball in doorways or archways using a pretty ribbon. It’s a sweet way to encourage holiday romance and add a pop of colour to your decor.
14. Candy Cane Serving Dishes
Transform plain white serving dishes into festive platters by lining the edges with miniature candy canes. Use food-safe adhesive to secure the candy canes around the rim of the dish, creating a charming border.
These candy cane-adorned dishes are perfect for serving holiday treats, cookies, or even savoury appetizers. They add a whimsical touch to your buffet table and are sure to delight guests of all ages.
“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” – Buddy the Elf
15. Candy Cane Peppermint Soap
Create beautiful and fragrant peppermint soaps shaped like candy canes. Use a clear glycerin soap base, red soap colourant, and peppermint essential oil to craft these delightful soaps. Pour the soap into candy cane-shaped moulds for the perfect holiday shape.
These homemade soaps make excellent gifts and can also be used to decorate your bathroom for the holiday season. Place them in a decorative dish by the sink for a festive and functional touch.
Pro Tip: Wrap your candy cane soap in cellophane and tie it with a ribbon for an easy and attractive homemade gift idea.
16. Candy Cane Topiary
Create an elegant candy cane topiary to add height and interest to your holiday decor. Start with a tall, cone-shaped foam form and cover it entirely with miniature candy canes, pointing downward. Top the topiary with a large bow or a star ornament.
Place your candy cane topiary in a decorative urn or pot filled with faux snow for a complete look. These eye-catching decorations are perfect for entryways, mantels, or as part of a larger holiday display.
17. Candy Cane Chandelier
Add a touch of whimsy to your dining room or entryway with a candy cane chandelier. Suspend candy canes of various sizes from ribbons attached to an embroidery hoop or a wire wreath form. Add battery-operated LED lights for a magical glow.
This unique decoration creates a festive focal point and is sure to be a conversation starter at your holiday gatherings. It’s a creative way to bring the spirit of the season to unexpected places in your home.
18. Candy Cane Window Clings
Decorate your windows with charming candy cane-themed window clings. Use puffy paint to create candy cane shapes and designs on wax paper. Once dry, peel off the wax paper and stick them to your windows for a frosted, festive look.
These homemade window clings are a fun craft project for kids and add a playful touch to your holiday decor. They’re easy to remove and store for future use, making them a practical decoration option.
19. Candy Cane Luminary
Create magical outdoor lighting with candy cane luminaries. Use large glass jars or vases and adhere candy canes vertically around the exterior. Place battery-operated candles inside for a safe and enchanting glow.
Line your walkway or porch with these sweet luminaries to guide guests to your door. They create a warm and inviting atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the holiday season.
20. Candy Cane Advent Calendar
Craft a unique advent calendar using candy canes as the daily treats. Create a board with 24 hooks or pockets, each holding a candy cane. Decorate the board with holiday-themed scrapbook paper, ribbons, and embellishments.
This interactive decoration not only counts down the days to Christmas but also provides a sweet treat each day. It’s a fun way to build anticipation for the big day and add a touch of excitement to your holiday decor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, candy canes are versatile decorations that can add a sweet touch to your holiday decor in countless ways. From simple DIY projects to more elaborate displays, these 20 ideas offer something for every skill level and decorating style. Remember, the key to successful holiday decorating is to have fun and let your creativity shine. So grab some candy canes and start crafting your way to a festive and delightful home this holiday season!
Pro Tip: When working with real candy canes, handle them gently to avoid breakage. If you plan to reuse your decorations year after year, consider using plastic candy canes for increased durability.