A Happy Hoarder: Heidi Sonboul DIY CHRISMTAS Challenge! My Instant Heirloom Porcelain Santa Repaint

Heirloom Santa Claus Transformation from Cheap Tree Topper to Adorable OOAK with Candlestick Stand

I had this cheaply made tree topper Santa Claus with a porcelain head and hands and a plastic cone that was crushed.






I purchased him secondhand (in this condition) because I liked his porcelain head & hands, plus his coat and garland. I felt I could give him a few touch ups to make him more adorable!

First, I removed the entire broken cone and foam. Then I found a dowel that is approximately the same size as a taper candle and glued it inside the hole in the neck of the porcelain head.

I tried several of my candlesticks out for size (I collect wooden candlesticks) and I tried him out on some brass ones as well (but I really like those for displaying my glass tree toppers and ornaments) and I thought the proportion of the one I ended up with was the best for this Santa. Since the dowel sticks down in the candlestick like a taper candle, the Santa can easily be removed and the candlestick can be enjoyed all year!

Next, that ridiculous beard HAD TO GO!

I thought about keeping it without an additional beard, but I had just disassembled another Santa and I tried his beard made from a lamb pelt on for size. PERFECT!

Usually, I paint their faces, but I was working on several projects at the time I made him so I decided to leave his face in its original cuteness. However, I recommend adding that personal touch to your own Santas!

So...if you have some cheesy or damaged cone Santas who could use some dressing up...I recommend you try out this technique!

365 Days of Santa Claus

I am so happy to have added many followers to my blog this holiday season with my 31 Days of Santa Claus and my Countdown to Christmas themed posts.


It is always good to meet other Santa Claus collectors, artisans, and crafters, as well as those who truly enjoy the holiday season!

I have started a new blog, 365 Days of Santa Claus where I will continue to post blogs about Santa Claus collecting and crafting.

Please join my email list and share my post with other Santa enthusiasts.