This DIY Santa Cam Ornament is a simple, charming way to remind kids that Santa is watching to decide who is naughty and who is nice. It uses just a few common craft supplies and makes a fun addition to any Christmas tree or holiday gift.
My kids still believe in Santa, and every year they start trying a little harder to be on their best behavior once the holiday season approaches. As they’ve gotten older they began asking how Santa keeps an eye on them, so I made these Santa Cam ornaments to answer that question in a playful way. You can also make the same idea as an “Elf Cam” for a mischievous twist.
DIY Santa Cam Ornament
Supplies Needed:
- Chalkboard ornament (round or flat surface)
- Chalk marker (white or metallic shows up well)
- Small ornament “lens” or decorative camera embellishment
- Christmas ribbon or twine for a bow
- Hot glue gun (and glue sticks)
Tip: These items are commonly available at craft stores and many general retailers. Choose an ornament with a smooth surface so the marker writes clearly.
How to Make It
Step One: Position the decorative lens or camera embellishment in the center of the ornament and secure it with a small dot of hot glue. Try to center it so there is space above and below for writing.
Step Two: Tie a neat bow with your ribbon or twine and attach it at the top of the ornament. Adding the ribbon before writing helps protect your lettering from smudging and gives a finished look.
Step Three: Use the chalk marker to write “Santa Cam” on the ornament. You can write it above, below, or around the lens depending on the ornament shape. Allow the marker to dry completely before handling.
Step Four: Hang your ornament on the tree, in a hallway, or near the children’s bedrooms where they’ll notice it. Let the kids know this special ornament is one of Santa’s little helpers—watching to see who’s been nice.
That’s it—easy, fast, and delightful. These ornaments work well as a family project you can make together, or you can create several to give as stocking stuffers or small teacher gifts. Consider attaching a short, rhyming tag like “Santa’s watching—be kind and bright” for a personal touch.
Project Details
- Author: Brittanie
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Materials: Chalkboard ornament, chalk marker, ornament lens, ribbon, hot glue gun
Variations and Tips
- If you don’t have a chalkboard ornament, paint a plain ornament with chalkboard paint and let it dry before decorating.
- Use metallic or glitter markers for a festive look, but test one mark on the back to ensure it adheres well.
- Make an “Elf Cam” version by swapping the label or adding a tiny elf hat to the ornament lens.
- For younger children, keep hot glue work to an adult. Use craft glue or adhesive dots for a lower-heat option, though they may not be as secure.
- Create a mini set of ornaments with different sayings like “Santa’s Helper,” “Naughty/Nice Tracker,” or personalized names.
Apart from decorating your own tree, these make quick handmade gifts and are simple enough to produce in batches. They’re a small, playful reminder that encourages good behavior while adding a special, homemade touch to holiday decor.
Want more fun Christmas Crafts? Check out:
- Elf Isolation House (craft idea)
- Grinch Toilet Paper Roll (simple kids’ craft)
- DIY Grinch Ornament (holiday ornament idea)