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8 Bookish Ornaments for a Literary Christmas Tree

As a digital nomad, I sadly don’t have a Christmas tree. But that doesn’t mean a girl can’t dream! Because if I did, it would be filled with bookish ornaments and little travel tokens.

And I’ve seen so many cute Christmas book ornaments this year, that I had to share.

So, whether you’re decorating a Christmas tree, a bookshelf, or just looking to add literary flair to your home, here are some bookish ornament ideas to discover.

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1. Miniature Book Ornaments

One of the most popular styles of bookish ornaments is miniature books.

Whether you’re a fan of Pride and Prejudice or Harry Potter, there’s likely a tiny version of your favourite book available.

Image Credit: PapuanLass via Etsy

These tiny book replicas can be hung on a tree or even displayed on a small shelf as part of a literary nook.

You can also find DIY kits that allow you to make your own miniature books, which is a fun and creative way to personalise your ornaments.


2. Book Stack Ornaments

For those who can’t pick just one favourite, book stack ornaments are a great option.

These ornaments typically feature a stack of books, with the spines showing off the titles.

Image Credit: Keyarika via Etsy

Some are customisable, allowing you to choose which titles appear.

This makes them a wonderful gift to celebrate a favourite genre, author, or series, or even as a book club gift.


3. Quotes and Literary Characters

You can also find ornaments featuring bookish sayings or famous literary quotes.

Whether it’s a inspiring line from a book like The Alchemist or a quote from a Christmassy book like A Christmas Carol, these ornaments are personal and can also be easily customised.

Image Credit: Hyturtle via Etsy

4. Library and Bookshop-Inspired Ornaments

Another unique idea is ornaments designed to look like quaint libraries or bookstores.

Image Credit: Tumblerlyllc via Etsy

Whether it’s a tiny building with shelves lined with books or a festive-shaped library card, these pieces are seriously cute.


5. Vintage and Antique-Inspired Ornaments

For fans of vintage and antique Christmas aesthetics, there are ornament options that have a weathered, old-world charm.

Image Credit: SevenTDesigns via Etsy

These pieces feel timeless and traditional


6. DIY Book Page Ornaments

For a crafty touch, consider making your own ornaments from old book pages.

Image Credit: CourtStreetJournals via Etsy

Whether you create paper stars, wreaths, or baubles from the pages of a well-loved (or well-worn) book, these ornaments can be a great way to upcycle books that are too damaged to read.

Image Credit: BookologyCo via Etsy

Simply roll, fold, or cut the pages into desired shapes and hang them with ribbon for a handmade touch.

Image Credit: EleyasDesigns via Etsy

7. Personalised Book Ornaments

If you want to take things a step further, personalised bookish ornaments are a great option.

Many online shops and artisans offer custom-made ornaments where you can have your name, your favourite book title, or even your favourite literary quote engraved or printed.

Image Credit: VNloves via Etsy

These personal touches make ornaments feel even more special, whether for your tree or as a thoughtful gift.

Image Credit: YOUNIBoutique via Etsy

8. Year in Books Ornaments

Finally, I’m seeing a really cool humble-brag trend in bookish ornaments, which is the Year in Books ornament.

These personalised ornaments celebrate all the books you’ve read this year.

Image Credit: TinkBlossom via Etsy

If you start a tradition of creating one of these ornaments every year, you’ll soon fill up your tree with all the amazing books you’ve read over the years. Such a cool idea!

Image Credit: GraceandGrainDesCo via Etsy

Where to Find Bookish Ornaments

  • Etsy: This marketplace is a haven for book lovers looking for unique, handmade ornaments. You can find everything from personalized book stacks to intricate miniature book replicas.
  • Bookstores: Many independent and larger bookstores carry a selection of literary-themed ornaments, especially during the holiday season.
  • DIY Projects: For those who enjoy crafting, DIY bookish ornaments are a fun project that allows for endless creativity.
Image Credit: ChristineIre via Etsy

More Bookish Christmas Decorations

Whether you’re decking the halls for the holidays or simply adding some literary flair to your everyday decor, these ornaments are a cool way to show off your passion for books.

They also make wonderful gifts for anyone who loves the magic of reading.


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Amy Poulton

I’m Amy, an explorer of real and fictional worlds. A word huntress. An escape artist. A page traveller.

I started this blog in 2015 when I was living as an expat in Hong Kong, as a way to keep in touch with friends and family back home. Later, I wrote about my backpacking adventures in Southeast Asia and Mexico, as well as my other experiences living overseas in Italy and Thailand.
Two years ago, I started my next chapter as a digital nomad and travelling cat mom. And of course, I’ve been journeying through books all that time, too.
Now I host Nomad Book Club and literary reading retreats, and offer trip planning services.
Learn more about me and the Page Traveller blog here.

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