Holiday Gift Ideas with a Scroll Saw

Ornaments and Small Decor Why It’s Great: Ornaments are quick, affordable, and endlessly customizable. How To Do It: Choose seasonal shapes like snowflakes, stars, or holiday animals. Trace your design onto a thin piece of wood (such as 1/4-inch birch plywood) and cut along the lines with your scroll saw. For an added touch, paint the pieces in festive colors or leave them natural for a rustic look. Gift Idea: Package a small set of three ornaments in a small box with ribbon for a thoughtful, handmade present. 2. Personalized Name Plaques These add a personal touch and can fit any holiday decor style. How To Do It: Use simple lettering to cut out names or words like “Joy,” “Peace,” or “Noel.” Start with a flat wood piece, draw the letters, and carefully cut around them. Consider using slightly thicker wood (around 1/2-inch) for stability.

Gift Idea: Personalize each plaque with the recipient’s name and holiday colors. Displayed on a shelf or mantel, this gift will bring joy year after year. Holiday Trivets or Coasters Trivets and coasters are useful and decorative—perfect for holiday parties. How To Do It: Cut holiday designs (like a Christmas tree or snowflake) into pieces of hardwood, making sure they’re durable for hot dishes or drinks. Sand each piece smoothly to avoid rough edges and add a food-safe finish for extra protection. Gift Idea: Bundle a set of four with a festive ribbon for a lovely hostess or family gift. 4. Mini Wooden Christmas Trees or Reindeer These look adorable on a table centerpiece or as standalone decor. How To Do It: Use a scroll saw to cut out shapes of trees or reindeer from sturdy wood. Stack two or three different-sized tree cutouts together for a three-dimensional effect, or paint a simple reindeer silhouette. Gift Idea: Arrange a small grouping of trees and reindeer on a wood base, and gift them as a decorative holiday set.