Candy canes are more than just a sweet holiday treat—they’re an iconic symbol of Christmas cheer! With their red-and-white stripes and classic peppermint scent, candy canes instantly add festive charm to any space.
If you’re looking for easy candy cane craft ideas you can make at home, we’ve got you covered. From ornaments to centerpieces and simple DIY decorations, here are some fun and festive ways to use candy canes for holiday crafts.
1. Candy Cane Card Holder
Place cards are a wonderful way to make your Christmas dinner elegant and fun. Your guests will love the personalized touch and festive candy canes make this project a cinch.
Supplies
- 3 regular candy canes
- ribbon
- glue dots
- scissors
- cardstock
- marker
Directions:
- Place one glue dot along the side of one candy cane. Press the second candy cane against the first, forming a “V”.
- Place another glue dot onto the third candy cane and press it onto the back of the first two. This will create a mini tripod so that the candy canes can stand on their own.
- Cut a length of ribbon and tie a little bow around the three candy canes.
- Use cardstock and markers to make place cards for each of your guests.
- Place finished cards in the candy cane place card holders
2. Candy Cane Vase
A Christmas arrangement will look even better in a candy cane vase. This craft comes together quickly and will add a gorgeous touch to your holiday decor. Make an extra one or two – they make great hostess gifts.
Supplies
- *24-36 regular candy canes
- Pint-size glass jar
- double-sided tape
- rubber band
- ribbon
*The amount of candy canes you will need depends on the size of your vase.
Directions
- Wrap double-sided tape around the middle of the vase.
- Slide a rubber band up around the vase. Insert candy canes between the rubber band and the vase.
- Continue until there is a ring of candy canes around the entire vase. Make sure they are close together so that there is no empty space between them.
- Tie a ribbon around the candy canes. Make sure the ribbon covers the rubber band.
- Fill the vase with your favorite holiday flowers.
3. Candy Cane Reindeer Ornament
These adorable little reindeer will love to hang on your tree. Use them as present toppers and stocking stuffers too. This is a fun and easy candy cane craft to make with the kids.
Supplies
- 2 regular candy canes
- 2 inch wide tan or brown ribbon
- ½ inch red ribbon
- 1 small red pom pom or small paper circle
- 2 googly eyes
- glue dots
Directions
- Place the candy canes side by side so that the hooks are facing out. Place a glue dot between the candy canes and press them together to secure them in place.
- Cut about a 2-inch length of the wide ribbon. Wrap it around the two candy canes and secure the ribbon in place with glue dots.
- With the seam side facing down, use the glue dots to secure the googly eyes and pompom/paper nose onto the ribbon to create the reindeer’s face.
- Cut a 6-inch length of the ½ inch red ribbon and tie the ends together to form a loop. Slip the ribbon loop over the hook and hang.
4. Decorative Candy Cane Hanger
Create a festive hanging decoration that spreads holiday cheer. This simple candy cane craft comes together in minutes and adds a charming, handmade touch to your home.
Supplies
- 2 candy canes
- Hot glue gun or strong craft glue
- Artificial greenery or pine sprigs
- Ribbon or bow
- Small ornaments or bells (optional)
- Twine or string for hanging
Directions
- Arrange two candy canes back-to-back so the hooks face outward, forming a heart shape.
- Apply a thin line of hot glue where the candy canes meet and press them together firmly until secure.
- Add sprigs of artificial greenery or pine in the center of the heart and secure them with glue.
- Tie a festive ribbon or bow at the top of the heart for decoration.
- If desired, glue on small ornaments or bells for extra sparkle.
- Attach a loop of twine or string to the back for hanging, then display your candy cane hanger on a door, wall, or window.
5. Candy Cane Sleigh
These adorable candy cane sleighs are a classic Christmas craft that kids and adults alike will love making. They double as festive décor and sweet little gifts—perfect for teachers, coworkers, or party favors. With just a few simple supplies, you can create these mini sleighs in no time.
Supplies
- 2 regular-size candy canes
- 1 full-size chocolate bar (or rectangular box candy)
- Mini chocolate bars
- Glue dots
- Ribbon or curling ribbon
- Scissors
- Optional: small bow, name tag, or sticker for decoration
Directions
- Place the two candy canes on a flat surface with the hooks curving upward and facing the same direction. These will form the sleigh’s runners.
- Place several glue dots along the top of each candy cane. Gently press the large chocolate bar across the tops so it sits evenly on both canes.
- Once the base is secure, stack mini chocolate bars on top like presents—gluing one or two at a time to keep the layers stable.
- Cut a piece of ribbon long enough to wrap around the candy stack. Tie it into a bow on top or use curling ribbon for a fun, festive look.
- (Optional) Add a mini gift tag, sticker, or small bow to the top to personalize your sleigh.
Display these candy cane sleighs as part of your holiday centerpiece, give them as small gifts, or use them as place settings at your Christmas dinner. They’re easy, inexpensive, and guaranteed to bring smiles!
6. Candy Cane Tree Picks
Add a whimsical touch to your Christmas tree, wreath, or holiday centerpiece with these candy cane picks. They’re simple to make and can be customized with ribbons, greenery, or ornaments.
Supplies
- 2–3 mini candy canes
- Floral wire
- Hot glue gun or strong craft glue
- Artificial greenery, berries, or mini ornaments
- Ribbon
Directions
- Arrange the candy canes in a small bundle with the hooks facing outward.
- Wrap the bundle tightly with floral wire, securing the candy canes together.
- Add small sprigs of greenery or berries, and secure them with glue or wire.
- Tie a festive ribbon around the center of the bundle.
- Insert the finished pick into your tree, wreath, or floral arrangement for a pop of holiday cheer.