Over $135.3 million USD sent to artisans so far!

Artisan Subscription Box

Eco Friendly Holiday Decor Gifts

67 items

The Village Council

Your answers straight from the village experts

+ - Do you have any eco-friendly stocking decorations?

Novica artisans always strive to craft high-quality, environmentally-conscious pieces. They look for ways to reuse and repurpose materials, and have discovered creative methods of sculpting ornaments out of recycled cardboard and paper. Leftover materials from past projects, such as albesia wood, felt, and even cement, all find new life in eco-friendly ornaments. Each artist lists their materials under product details. You will find complete transparency in those descriptions and discover a large selection of eco-friendly Christmas decorations.

+ - What materials are most commonly used to make ornaments (ceramic, brass, wood, etc)?

The most commonly used materials for handmade ornaments depends on resources available to the craftsman. Balinese artisans incorporate hand-painted wood and iron. Artisans in India, Central America, and Mexico work in clay, ceramics, and natural fibers. But even when regions utilize the same materials, their unique craftsmanship shines through in style and design. In India, the ancient technique of zardozi embroidery uses thin copper wires to make beautiful, sparkling Christmas ornaments. Artists are able to take common, everyday elements and turn them into extraordinary, one-of-a-kind pieces.

+ - What whimsical holiday ornaments make the best gifts?

We love giving ornaments as gifts because they are creative, unique, and meaningful during the holiday season. Whether youre looking for hand-painted works, beaded wonders, or woven treasures, each one is a piece of culture and history. Look for whimsical ornaments from Thailand designed with images of elephants and bells. Search for matte chiseled pumpkins and owls by Peruvian artisans. Central American ornaments delight with hand-painted perfection. Whether you choose a decorative stocking from West Africa or a hand-blown glass masterpiece from the Andes, decorations are a wonderful way to spread some holiday cheer!

+ - What are the most common designs for hand painted ornaments?

Hand painted ornaments differ significantly from region to region. Each depicts specific themes and images important to the culture. In the Andes, ornaments often feature owls, costumed characters, and angels. Bali expresses its festivities with design focused around stars, snowflakes, and traditional Christmas figures. Thailand, Mexico and India have popularized designs surrounding animals and intricate depictions of nature. Handmade ornaments are festive works that highlight the unique skills and cultures of artisans from around the world.

+ - How should I care for my decorative ornaments?

Excellent question! Decorations should definitely be handled with care. Store them in clean, safe spaces with minimal exposure to harsh particles. For extra precaution, pack each ornament separately so as to avoid breakage. Most ornaments do not require extensive cleaning, but if it should become necessary, always use soaps and detergents free from harsh chemicals. Mostly, a simple wipe should be enough to remove dust and tree debris.

+ - What is the best way to set up a nativity scene?

From table tops to floor set-ups beneath the Christmas tree, nativity scenes are a traditional holiday centerpiece in homes around the world. Often entire families come together to partake in the experience. While there is no single right way to set up a nativity scene, certain details tend to cross regional and cultural divides. Biblical characters, animals and religious props often form the foundation of the nativity scene, while customizable pieces add extra flare. Hanging stars showcase the night sky. Decorated motifs, backdrops, ornaments, and figurines may be used to embellish a simple scene.

+ - Are beaded ornaments made by hand?

Absolutely! Artisans that create beaded ornaments use skills passed down for generations. Whether beads are hand-sewn onto fabric, as is the case with many of our Indian ornaments, or strung onto nylon twine, as with many West African ornaments, each piece is made with careful attention to detail.

+ - What are the most popular types of Christmas tree ornaments?

Different cultures and regions celebrate the holidays in their own unique ways, emphasizing various decor, art, and symbolism. In the Andes, for example, Christmas ornaments consist of clay pendants in the shapes of fruit, animals, and multicolored, knitted fabrics. Bali utilizes wood, iron and even recycled paper to craft ornaments, which are often in the shape of stars, Santa Claus figurines, snowflakes, and reindeer. In the regions of Brazil and Thailand, artisans utilize hand-painted ceramics, wood, and natural fibers, while Mexico is famous for their pottery and clay. India specializes in pieces made out of decorative embroidery. Each region crafts celebratory ornaments that highlight the unique customs and art forms within their communities.

Featured Reviews

Product picture

Papier mache ornaments, 'Chirping Sparrows' (set of 4)

Barbara B.

Mar 27, 2022

Beautifully Made

Product picture

I plan to use these as gifts, and they're just perfect! 4 beautiful bird ornaments that I know people will really enjoy. Thank you!

Bird Christmas Ornaments

Colorful Christmas Ornaments

Delicate Hand Painted Ornaments

Papier Mache Holiday Decor & Ornaments

Hand Painted Holiday Decor & Ornaments

Animal Themed Holiday Decor & Ornaments

Christmas Holiday Decor & Ornaments

Holiday Decor & Ornaments

Product picture

Recycled paper ornaments, 'Bells of Hope and Joy' (set of 4)

Judy

May 17, 2019

One for me and three for gifts

Product picture

I am sure there is also a testimonial for these.... I purchased them several years ago. I love buying ornaments from Novica. I keep one and give the rest away as gifts. One friend collects bell ornaments and she was thrilled to get one of the "Bells of Hope and Joy".

Guatemalan Christmas Ornaments

Paper Holiday Decor & Ornaments

Christmas Holiday Decor & Ornaments

Holiday Decor & Ornaments

Product picture

Natural fiber nativity sculpture, 'Dream of Love'

Patti

Jan 9, 2025

Dream of Love

Product picture

I started collecting Nativities from around the world through a few years ago and have never been disappointed. 'Dream of Love' is adorable, exactly as I expected. Arrived perfectly packaged with a sweet note from the artist. I am very happy.

El Salvador Indigo

Jesus Ornaments!!

Natural Fiber Holiday Decor & Ornaments

Wood Holiday Decor & Ornaments

Religious Holiday Decor & Ornaments

Christian Holiday Decor & Ornaments

Nativity Holiday Decor & Ornaments

Christmas Holiday Decor & Ornaments

Nativity Scenes

Featured Artist

Komang Sri Hand-carved wood and coconut shell ornaments and decor accents

(59)

"Every effort leads to a result, every problem must be faced with peace...."

"I was born in Ubud in 1977. I love my hometown! It's an ideal place for anyone seeking serenity and finding ideas. This Balinese town has... read more

The Holiday Catalog

Discover our unique collection of beautiful, handmade objects from around the world, inspired by more than a century of exploration.

SHOP THE CATALOG

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Cover Image