Join the 2026 Handmade Holiday Ornament Exchange

One of my favorite parts of the holiday season has always been the handmade touches that make Christmas feel personal. A hand-stitched ornament, a carefully crafted decoration, or a simple gift made by someone else’s hands carries a warmth that cannot be purchased from a store shelf.

This year, I am delighted to host the 2026 Handmade Holiday Ornament Exchange here at The 1764 Shepherdess, and I would love for you to join us.

Whether you enjoy sewing, knitting, crocheting, embroidery, tatting, stitching, quilting, rug hooking, or any other creative pursuit, this exchange is an opportunity to share a small piece of your handiwork with another maker while receiving something handmade in return.

The goal is simple: create one handmade ornament, send it to your assigned recipient, and help spread a little holiday cheer across our community of makers.

In a world where so much of our communication happens through screens, there is something wonderful about opening the mailbox and finding a package created by another person who spent time, care, and creativity making something just for you.

Why an Ornament Exchange?

Unlike larger gift exchanges, ornaments are manageable projects that fit easily into busy schedules. They can often be made from materials already in your making supplies, and they become treasured keepsakes that return to the Christmas tree year after year.

I know many of us enjoy trying new techniques, using treasured scraps, or finding ways to create beauty from materials we already have on hand. This exchange provides the perfect excuse to experiment with a new pattern, revisit a favorite craft, or finally use those special scraps you’ve been saving.

Most importantly, it is an opportunity to connect with fellow makers who appreciate the value of handmade work.

How the Exchange Works

After sign-ups close, participants will be matched with another member of the exchange. You will receive your recipient’s information by email, and then the fun begins.

Create a handmade ornament, package it carefully, include a greeting card, and mail it by the deadline. Once your ornament is on its way, simply send your tracking number to The 1764 Shepherdess so I can help ensure everything arrives safely.

To keep the exchange fair and simple for everyone, we ask participants to mail only the ornament and a greeting card. No additional gifts or extras are necessary.

The focus of this exchange is celebrating craftsmanship, creativity, and the joy of giving something handmade.

Important Dates

Sign-Ups Close: September 1, 2026

Exchange Details Emailed: September 2–5, 2026

Mailing Deadline: November 14, 2026

By mailing in mid-November, ornaments should have plenty of time to arrive before holiday decorating begins.

Exchange Guidelines

• This handmade ornament exchange is hosted by The 1764 Shepherdess.
• Participation is limited to U.S. domestic shipping addresses due to shipping costs.
• Every participant must create and send a handmade ornament.
• Please include only the ornament and a greeting card in your package.
• Once your package has been mailed, email your tracking number to The 1764 Shepherdess.
• Participant information will only be shared with your direct ornament sender to facilitate the exchange.

Your Privacy Matters

I know that sharing mailing information requires trust, and I take that responsibility seriously.

Your name and address will only be shared with the individual assigned to send you an ornament. Your information will never be sold, distributed, or shared beyond what is necessary to make the exchange possible.

Protecting your privacy is a top priority.

Come Craft With Us

The holiday season often arrives faster than we expect, and beginning early allows us to enjoy the process rather than rush through it.

If you’ve been looking for a reason to start a new ornament project, pull out your favorite fabrics, threads, yarns, ribbons, or crafting supplies and join us.

I cannot wait to see the creativity that emerges from this community. From traditional designs to whimsical creations, every ornament will carry the story of the hands that made it.

So pour a cup of tea, gather your supplies, and sign up for the 2026 Handmade Holiday Ornament Exchange here.

Let’s celebrate the season one handmade ornament at a time.