
Nutcracker Trio Heirloom Ornaments
There is nothing that brings magic to the winter holiday like a nutcracker. This Nutcracker Trio class includes the instructions and patterns to make three different nutcracker designs: dog, cat or classic. Choose your favorite or come back later and make the others. Each one stands about 10 inches tall. They are embellished with hand embroidery stitches and sparkling sequins so they have rich and detailed texture that makes them a true heirloom decoration.
Don’t let all the sparkle fool you. This project is built from simple felt pieces and beginner-friendly embroidery stitches. We’ll take it one step at a time, and before you know it you’ll have a nutcracker that looks much more complicated than it actually is.
Stitches in this project will include: back stitch, pistil stitch, threaded coral stitch, wheat ear stitch, cross stitch and stitching with beads & sequins. Nutcrackers are made from wool/rayon blend felt, cotton embroidery threads, sequins & glass beads. You’ll learn each stitch and technique, then repeat them throughout the project. It’s a relaxing stitch-as-you-go project where you’ll build confidence stitch by stitch.
Complete instructions are included so you can make your nutcracker free-standing so you could use it to decorate a table, mantle or shelf, or you can stitch d-rings to be able to attach your nutcracker to a wreath, use as a tree topper or hang it on your wall. The hidden support is made from everyday craft materials (a popsicle stick and tongue depressor) that are easy to assemble and give your nutcracker its sturdy shape.
These are the kinds of decorations people notice. They’re whimsical, full of personality, and become the first thing friends ask about when they visit during the holidays. Handmade ornaments have a way of becoming part of family traditions. These nutcrackers are designed to come out of the box year after year.

What’s included in this class:
- 20 video lessons
- Complete instructions, patterns, and diagrams for three different versions of the Nutcracker Trio (dog, cat, classic)
- Step by step demos from start to finish
- Large photos with close up views of the stitches & pieces
- Lessons are accessible via your web browser on any device
- Links to materials & resources
- Picture-in-picture video so you can see both the instructor and close up views of the lessons
- Free sample lesson about materials so you know exactly what to collect before you sign up
What do students say about this class?
“This class was super fun and the pattern was very simple to follow. Highly recommend this one if you are into nutcrackers or General Christmas decorations.” — Cindy B.

photo by student of her finished nutcrackers

Materials you’ll need
A complete materials list is included as a free sample lesson. Just click on “Register Now” below to see the lessons.
In general you’ll need an assortment of felt fabrics with matching embroidery threads, scissors, needle, glue stick, a wooden popsicle stick and tongue depressor, beads & sequins. To help you source materials, I have added resources to the free lesson with links to curated felt palettes with matching thread and notions kits that you can purchase.
You’ll also need access to a printer to be able to print the pattern pieces.

This class works on your schedule.
In this on-demand version you work at your own pace, completing the lessons on your schedule whenever you want to stitch. There’s a comments section in every lesson to ask questions if you need help.
Want to watch a sample lesson? You can watch the “Materials & Tools” lesson for free by clicking on the “Enroll in this class” button below.
I love beginners.
You do not need embroidery experience for this class. Beginners are welcome! If you’ve done a little embroidery before, great! There’s a LOT of sewing in this project, but it just means you need some patience and you’ll totally be able to do it. I believe in you.



