What are some easy holiday crafts using pine cones?

Make holiday ornaments by spraying the pine cones white or gold and attaching ribbon to the top. Another easy option is to purchase a clear plastic snap sphere from a craft store. Place a pine cone and other natural elements, such as needles and acorns, inside to create a see-through ornament. For simple place card holders, dip only the bottom halves of the pine cones in paint. Position the pinecones sideways, and sit the cards between their scales.

Create a flower bloom from pine cone scales that you can use as a decorative ornament on napkin holders, candle votives, stockings and cards. Using fresh or craft scales, glue a layer of pine cones pieces around the edge of a small circle backing, such as cardboard or card stock. Continue layering upward and inward with smaller scales until the bloom is complete at the center.

Pinecones make a versatile base for animal figures that are useful for decoration or place cards. Create a bird by using large craft scales for the wings and tail, an acorn for the head and craft wire for the legs and feet. Paint the pieces red for a holiday-themed cardinal or finch. Create a turkey using craft feathers for a tail and a pipe cleaner for the head. Position the pine cone upright with an acorn head and paint the fronts of both pieces white to create a frosty penguin. Use large scales for the wings and feet.