Fastener Christmas Tree Ornament on Holiday Tree

DIY Fastener Christmas Tree Ornament

Create a whimsical Christmas tree ornament using an assortment of fasteners! This clever design uses graduated washers to form the perfect tree shape, complete with a decorative topper. It's the perfect blend of industrial charm and holiday spirit!

Difficulty Level: Easy
Time Required: 30 minutes (plus drying time)
Cost: Under $15
Age: 10+ with adult supervision
Watch How It's Made

Materials Needed

Hardware:

  • 1 - 1/4-20 x 2-1/2" Hex Bolt Fully Threaded Aluminum (ACF SKU 1000-114-0072)
  • 7 - 1/4-20 Zinc Hex Jam Nuts (ACF SKU 1102-126-0002)
  • Fender Washers:
    • 1 - 1/4" x 1-1/2" Zinc (ACF SKU 1102-002-0122)
    • 1 - 1/4" x 1-3/8" Zinc (ACF SKU 1102-002-0112)
    • 1 - 1/4" x 1-1/4" Zinc (ACF SKU 1102-002-0102)
    • 1 - 1/4" x 1" Zinc (ACF SKU 1102-002-0092)
  • 1 - 5/16" Stainless Steel Flat Washer (ACF SKU 1000-105152)
  • 1 - 1/4" Stainless Steel Flat Washer (ACF SKU 1000-105142)
  • For Topper (choose one):
    • 2 - 1/4"-20 Wing Nuts Zinc (ACF SKU 1102-088-0042)
    • OR 1 - 1/4"-20 Cap Acorn Nut Brass (ACF SKU 200002)

Paint & Supplies:

  • Green acrylic paint
  • Gold acrylic paint
  • Brown acrylic paint
  • Green ribbon
  • E6000 glue
  • Paint brush

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Paint Preparation
  • Paint wing nuts/acorn nut gold
  • Paint hex jam nuts brown or green (your choice)
  • Paint all washers green
  • Paint bolt head and bottom 1" brown
  • Let all parts dry completely
Pro Tip: Do not paint the threaded portion of the bolt where parts will be assembled.
Step 2: Base Assembly

With bolt head at bottom, thread first jam nut approximately 1" from head

Step 3: Build the Tree

Working from bottom up, alternate washers and nuts:

  1. 1-1/2" fender washer followed by jam nut
  2. 1-3/8" fender washer followed by jam nut
  3. 1-1/4" fender washer followed by jam nut
  4. 1" fender washer followed by jam nut
  5. 5/16" flat washer followed by jam nut
  6. 1/4" flat washer followed by final jam nut
Step 4: Add the Topper
  • Thread one wing nut facing down
  • Add ribbon through center hole
  • Thread second wing nut facing up
  • Secure with glue
Step 5: Final Touches
  • Touch up any paint if needed
  • Let dry completely
  • Add hanging ribbon if desired

Creative Variations

  • Color Options:
    • Traditional: Green tree with brown trunk
    • Modern: All silver with gold topper
    • Festive: White tree with red topper
    • Metallic: Gold tree with silver accents
  • Topper Variations:
    • Double wing nuts for angel effect
    • Brass acorn nut for classic look
    • Add small gems for sparkle
  • Ribbon Options:
    • Traditional red and green
    • Metallic for extra shine
    • Plaid for rustic look
    • Multiple thin ribbons twisted together
Pro Tips:
  • Use painter's tape to protect threads while painting
  • Tighten nuts firmly but don't over-tighten
  • Create sets using different sizes of hardware
  • Add clear coat for extra protection and shine

Ready to Create Your Tree?

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