Christmas in July: Holiday Ornaments with Heart
July 7, 2025
It may be summer, but at Soldiers’ Angels, our hearts are already full of holiday spirit. That’s because Christmas in July marks the launch of our annual Handmade Holiday Ornaments Program. Each year, we send thousands of holiday stockings to Service Members and Veterans. One of the most treasured items in those packages? A handmade holiday ornament, a small symbol of warmth, hope, and love from home.
Why Handmade Ornaments Matter
Every ornament we receive is either packed into stockings for deployed troops or handed out in stockings to Veterans. It’s a small gesture with a big impact.
These handmade gifts remind our heroes they are remembered, appreciated, and never alone, especially during what can be a lonely season. Every stitch, every brushstroke, every bead says, “We see you. We thank you. You matter.”
A Project for Everyone
This summer, we invite everyone to join our efforts. Whether you’re looking for a meaningful family activity or planning a group service project, this is a beautiful way to give back.
Summer Craft for Kids
Looking for a screen-free summer activity? Many Amazon kits are perfect for kids, easy to use, and filled with holiday cheer. Host a craft day at home or with friends and let kids express their creativity while doing good.
Corporate Team-Building
Bring your team together with purpose! Ornament-making is a great way to boost morale and foster connection. Set up a lunchtime craft session, a holiday workshop, or a friendly team challenge. Employees will enjoy the break and feel good knowing they’re giving back.
Community & Volunteer Groups
Perfect for volunteer groups, churches, youth clubs, and civic organizations. Whether you make five or fifty, every handmade ornament helps light up a Veteran’s holiday. It’s a simple yet powerful way to give back together.
Ornament Ideas for Every Skill Level
Whether you’re crafting with kids or using specialized tools, there’s a way to join in.
For beginners or groups:
- Foam or felt craft kits
- Paintable wooden shapes
- Stick-on decorations
- No-sew fabric ornaments
You can find all of these on Amazon.
For those who love a challenge or experienced crafters:
- Hand-knit or crocheted pieces
- Wood-burning or engraving
- Beaded or embroidered decorations
- Hand-painted wooden discs or clear ornaments
All ornaments should be lightweight, sturdy, and free of glitter to ensure they ship safely. (Please NO Glitter!)
Get Started Today!
While we’re starting now with Christmas in July, we’ll collect ornaments all the way through Thanksgiving. That gives everyone plenty of time to create, collect, and send in their heartfelt ornaments.
Visit our Holiday Ornaments page to get all the details, including:
- Volunteer guidelines
- Shipping info
- Links to kid-friendly kits
Help us bring comfort, cheer, and the spirit of the season to those who serve. A little ornament can hold a whole lot of love.
About the Author
Dallas Green served in the U.S. Air Force for 5 years. She began her journey with Soldiers’ Angels as a SkillBridge Marketing Intern and now continues to support their mission as a Veteran Intern while pursuing her bachelor’s degree through Arizona State University.
