How to Make a Hymnal Angel
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You’ve got the instructions — now get the beautiful, high-quality E-Book version of the Hymnal Angel craft.
This downloadable guide includes:
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Clean, easy-to-follow instructions (no scrolling, no ads)
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A printable supply list
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The best glue recommendations (for a perfect angel)
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Ready-to-print gift tags for giving
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A professional Craft Card for group events — perfect for churches or craft nights
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A printable story page to include with your angel
All beautifully designed, clean, and easy to use.
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Grab your copy of the Hymnal Angel Craft Book, here.
This is the ultimate, elegant, simple Christmas Craft. These DIY Hymnal Angels are easy to make — just need a bit of patience — and the ability to count! As elegant as they look, you’ll be surprised at how easy they are to make. Made from old hymnals, these angels add nostalgia, and a nice way to upcycle — repurpose — old books.
If you’ve landed here from Pinterest, you’re not alone! Many crafters are eager to learn how to make these adorable Hymnal Angels, and one of the most common questions I get is, “Where can I find old hymnals?” Luckily, you can find them online – Amazon has a selection of hymnals right here. Grab your supplies and let’s get crafting!
Supplies You’ll Need to Make a Hymnal Angel
Before we dive into the instructions, make sure you have everything you need. The good news is that this craft requires just a few simple supplies, many of which you may already have on hand!
Materials:
- Old hymnal (around 100 pages)
- These wooden doll heads are perfect — and honestly, they do not need any eyes or glitter.
- Elmer’s glue is a great choice, as it dries clear and has a good hold.
Let’s go through the process step-by-step.
Step 1: Fold the Pages to Form the Angel’s Wings
Note: Make sure each fold is precise! If the folds are uneven, your angel might not stand properly when finished.
Why Accuracy is Important
Each fold will be visible in the final angel, so it’s essential to keep the folds consistent. Taking the time to make even folds will result in a professional-looking finished product.
Step 2: Fold the Remaining Pages to Form the Angel’s Skirt
Step 3: Attach the Wooden Doll Head
Tips for Personalizing Your Hymnal Angel
While the classic look of a hymnal angel is simple and beautiful, there are a few ways to personalize your angel to fit your holiday decor. Here are some ideas:
- Add a halo: You can make a small halo using gold or silver wire, or even a tiny bit of tinsel, and attach it to the back of the wooden head.
- Paint the head: If you prefer, you can paint the wooden doll head to give it a more finished look. A soft beige or even a metallic gold paint can add an elegant touch.
- Decorate with a bow: Tie a small ribbon around the neck of the angel for a touch of color. Burgundy, gold, or cream-colored ribbons work beautifully for a Christmas theme.
Frequently Asked Questions About Making Hymnal Angels
Where Can I Find Old Hymnals?
Old hymnals can be found on sites like Amazon, eBay, or even at local thrift stores and used bookstores. If you don’t have a hymnal on hand, consider looking for other vintage books with thick pages that can be folded in the same way.
What If I Make a Mistake with the Folds?
Don’t worry! Just unfold the page carefully and try again. The key to this project is patience, so take your time. If a page does tear, you can often glue it back down to the next page, and it won’t be very noticeable in the final result.
How Can I Make My Angel Stand Upright?
Accurate folding is crucial for stability, but if your angel still struggles to stand, you can place a small piece of cardboard or a thin wooden base underneath to give it additional support. Some crafters even glue a thin dowel rod to the back of the angel for extra stability.
These Hymnal Angels Also Make Great Christmas Gifts
Hymnal angels are not only beautiful, and are perfect for anyone who loves vintage, upcycled decorations.
Give them to friends, family, or church members as a handmade, heartfelt Christmas gift. They’re also wonderful decor for anyone who loves music or cherishes vintage holiday decorations.
Displaying Your Hymnal Angel
Once you’ve finished your hymnal angel, find the perfect spot to display it! Here are some ideas:
- On the Mantel:
- In the Entryway:
- As a Centerpiece:
Final Thoughts on Making a Hymnal Angel
Folding the paper is relaxing — and perfect for new DIY crafters — or seasoned ones. Make some hot chocolate, invite some friends over and fold! It’s a great way to spend a cozy winter afternoon – you’ll end up with a unique decoration that has a little piece of history and a lot of charm.
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11 Comments
hilberry1
I made something similar to this using a raffia bow rather than ribbon and excelsior (shredded Aspen wood fiber) for the hair. I omitted the doily. This gave the project a more primitive, simle look. Hope that helps!
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Scott
I am making these for gifts and wanted to know what type of glue you used or to use?
Leanne
Another variation is to replace the doilie with a bow made from wired ribbon, the woden head with a styrofoam ball covered with a page from another hymnal (no face) and hair with spanish moss.
DeAnna Garrett
I would like to purchase two of your stunningly beautiful angel hymnals. Do you take orders from out state buyers?
Sincerely, DeAnna Garrett
I may be reached at 775-232-0241
Phyllis Gertney
I am making these for table centerpieces for a Christmas breakfast for a senior citizens’ group.
How do you glue the heads on? There doesn’t seem to be enough space at the top of the pages and the spine is higher than the pages. Also the doily is between the pages and the flat part of the head.
We thought about using a dowel into the head and down through the spine, but that would break the glued spine.
They are wonderful and we want to make sure they turn our perfect.
Thank you for your response.
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Flo Feeler
I would like to purchase one of your songbook angels
Katherine
I love this idea. Remember Reader’s Digest Christmas trees? Where do you look for old hymnals?
Pirjo
I make a hymnal angel. Thank you this page.
Barb
How many pages does that hymnal have?