A Slice of Christmas: Dried Orange Ornaments for a Low-Waste Holiday
When it comes to holiday decorating, there’s something special about adding a personal touch. This year, at Brigantine Living, we embraced a homemade and low-waste approach with dried orange ornaments. They’re simple, beautiful, and perfect for bringing natural charm to your Christmas tree. Plus, they tie perfectly into the relaxed, coastal vibes of island living.
Here’s everything you need to know to create your own dried orange decorations.
Why Choose Dried Orange Ornaments?
Eco-Friendly: Reduce waste with natural, compostable materials.
Affordable: A bag of oranges is budget-friendly and easy to find.
Timeless Aesthetic: Their rustic look complements any holiday style.
Delightful Scent: Adds a subtle citrus fragrance to your home.
How to Make Dried Orange Ornaments
Materials Needed:
One bag of oranges
Sharp knife
Baking sheet
Parchment paper (optional)
Embroidery floss or twine for hanging
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Slice the Oranges: Thinly slice your oranges, about ¼ inch thick. Ensure the slices are even to dry evenly.
Prep for Baking: Arrange the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (optional for easy cleanup).
Bake: Preheat your oven to 200°F. Bake the oranges for 2 hours, flipping them halfway through.
Lower the Heat: Reduce the oven temperature to 130°F (or the lowest setting) and flip the slices every hour for about 3 more hours.
Cool Overnight: Turn off the oven and leave the slices inside to cool and fully dry overnight.
Thread and Decorate: Use embroidery floss or twine to string your dried oranges and hang them on your tree!
Pro Tips for Perfect Ornaments
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon before baking for extra holiday fragrance.
Pair the dried oranges with other natural decorations like pinecones or dried flowers.
Use leftover oranges for garlands or gift wrapping embellishments.
Bringing Coastal Charm to Your Holidays
Living on an island inspires us to embrace nature’s beauty in all we do—even during the holidays. Dried orange ornaments are a simple way to connect with the season while keeping waste to a minimum.
We’d love to hear from you! How do you decorate your tree? Share your ideas in the comments below and let’s inspire each other this holiday season.
Tag us on Instagram @BrigantineLiving if you try this DIY project. We’d love to feature your festive creations!
