Learn how to make a DIY gnome in one afternoon. These cute Scandinavian gnomes are made with a pair of socks, nylon stockings, wool roving and plaid fabric. It's a super easy craft for the holiday season and you can change the gnome's clothing and accessories to make him fit any season or holiday. Adults and kids of all ages will love to make a DIY gnome this winter. Its the perfect craft project for a cold winter day spent indoors.
DIY Gnome
Hey Gnomies,
As I'm sure you've noticed, I love gnomes. I have a special place in my heart for garden gnomes, but I don't discriminate. Every home needs a happy gnome! These gnomes are super cute and make great gifts for the holidays. Make sure you save one for yourself to display in your own home for good luck.
Scandinavian Gnome Folklore
These Scandinavian gnomes are based on Nordic folklore and the legends of the Tomte and Nisse. A nisse (usually Norwegian) and a tomte (usually Swedish) are similar characters. They are both solitary, mischievous domestic sprites responsible for the protection and welfare of the farmstead and its buildings.
Tomte literally means “homestead man” and is derived from the word tomt which means homestead or building lot. Nisse is derived from the name Nils which is the Scandinavian form of Nicholas.
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Customizing your DIY Gnome
These gnomes are perfect to display during the holiday season but feel free to keep them up all year long. The full instructions can be found at the bottom of this post. You can use an array of fabrics and adorn your gnomes with different accessories depending on the season. Dress him in green and give him an orange beard for St. Patrick's Day, or use autumn colors if you are making one in the fall.
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Supplies for DIY Gnome
- Wool socks
- Nylon stockings
- Polyester fiber fill stuffing
- Sand
- Wool roving
- Plaid fabric
- Craft wire
- Christmas ball ornament
Where to buy supplies
Almost all the supplies can be purchased at the dollar store. I bought the polyester stuffing from a second hand store but they sell it at Michaels or Joanne craft stores. I almost always see an unopened bag of it every time I am at the thrift store so be sure to be on the lookout next time you're there.
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The wool roving I used was actually gifted to me by my friend. It is used to make needle felted crafts but it worked perfectly for the gnome's beard. You can find it at some craft stores or you can buy it from Amazon via the link below.
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Hi I’m Adrienne Carrie Hubbard. I believe a rich life comes not from the things you have, but the things you do; the experiences you create and the people you meet along the way. Thanks for hanging out!
natasha says
These are so cute! I love that they're made with socks. My mom's cat steals socks so we frequently end up with single socks. This would be a great way to put them back to use!
adrienne says
Thanks Natasha! Good idea for socks that get lost in the laundry too!