These paper cacao pod ornaments are a fun and bright addition to any holiday decor. Hang them on your Christmas tree or along your mantle. Bundle a few together in a bunch to hang in a archway. They are simple and easy to make, let the kids help!
Materials Needed:
- Printable sheet for template
- Paper (cardstock suggested) or chocolate bar wrappers
- Scissors
- Glue (double-sided tape runner, white glue, glue gun)
- String/thread

1
Download this template. You can print it onto cardstock of the colour of your choice, or you can print it on regular paper, cut one out and trace it onto material of your choice.

2
Cut out pod shapes. Trace the pod shape onto a chocolate bar wrapper that is beautiful and colourful, or use the yellow templates. You will need 4 cutouts for each ornament.



3
Fold pods in half. Be sure to fold all pods the same way so that they line up. Tip – if you have a thicker cardstock use a ruler and an awl to gently score it to make folding in a straight line easier.


4
Line up one folded pod with another and glue the side that touches.


5
Continue glueing all sides together. Add a string before glueing the last two sides together. This is for hanging the pod on the tree. (You can also use a hole punch and punch a hole and tie a string in it if you prefer, though it is difficult to punch between several layers.) Trim edges of pod if there is any overlap or other colour showing.

6
Hang your cacao pod ornament on the tree and make a few more if you like.



Have fun with it!
Decorate your pod. Colour it with crayons to get the look of real pods. You can make it look more realistic by adding layers of colour.



Make a garland with the pods – 3D or flat – attach them to a string and hang somewhere special year round.
You can also put 6 of the pods together instead of 4 for a sturdier pod that looks a bit fuller.


Add one to a gift to make it a little bit extra special. Have fun making these. Tag me on Insta if you make them as I’d love to see! You can also freehand your own design, just be sure your pod is the same on both sides.
You can also find last years DIY holiday decorations here in this blog post.
Happy creating!