So… I made an Excel ornament. Yep, you read that right. Forget snowflakes and Santas — I stitched up the Microsoft Excel logo to hang on my Christmas tree. Because why not? Needlepoint people are always on the hunt for unique, funny projects, and honestly, this one was too good not to try.
The best part? It was ridiculously simple. Only two colours (green and white), and I used leftover Anchor thread I already had lying around. So if you’ve ever wondered what to do with all those odd scraps of embroidery floss — here’s your answer.
What I Used
- 18 count needlepoint fabric (you could definitely go bigger if you’re new to needlepoint stitches)
- Embroidery hoop (makes life easier, trust me)
- Green + white Anchor thread (leftover stash heroes!)
- Foam board (yes, the cheap crafty kind)
- Fabric scraps (for backing) I like this Liberty set
- Fabric clips (to lash everything in place)
- Twisted cord (for the hanging loop — though I skipped it around the edge)
👉 I’ve linked everything I used with affiliate links so you can grab the same supplies.
How I Made It (Quick + Easy)
- Stitch the chart
I followed a stitch chart I designed myself (you can grab it here — it’s an instant download). With only two colours, this one’s perfect if you’re just dipping your toe into needlepoint patterns. No complicated shading, no complicated shapes, no regrets. - Cut the shape
Once stitched, I cut a piece of foam board to size. Think of it like giving your ornament a backbone. - Wrap & clip
I wrapped fabric around one board piece, and my needlepoint sheet around the other. Then I used fabric clips and long threads criss-crossed over the back to hold it tight. Very DIY, very not fancy. - Glue & close
I glued the two sides together, stitched the edges closed — and here’s where I surprised myself. I was going to add twisted cord around the outside, but once I saw the neat stitched edge, I actually liked it better without. Minimalist chic, by accident. - Add a loop
I still used the twisted cord for a loop at the top. Because ornaments do need to hang, after all.
Why You Should Make One
- It’s funny and quirky. Who else has an Excel ornament on their tree? Exactly.
- It’s easy. Two colours, a free evening or two, and you’re done.
- It’s a great stash-buster. Perfect way to use leftover thread.
- It’s versatile. Sure, it’s an ornament… but it could also be a luggage tag, a handbag charm, even a glasses case if you adapt the shape.
- It’s the ultimate DIY Christmas gift. Imagine giving this as a Secret Santa present at the office. Legendary.
Where to Get the Chart
I’m selling the exact Excel ornament stitch chart I used — you can grab it instantly here. Think of it as a no-brainer: low effort, high laughs, and a guaranteed conversation starter.
Related Needlepoint Ideas
If you’re into quirky projects like this, you’ll love my post on how to make your own custom needlepoint stocking. That one includes a free Christmas stocking pattern download (because stockings are a bit bigger of a commitment than ornaments, but just as fun). Perfect if you want to try bigger Christmas sewing projects after this little warm-up.
Phoebe Does everything 
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