How to DIY and Paint the Viral 6 Foot Walmart Nutcracker: Creative Holiday Decorating Ideas

If you’ve spotted the 6 Foot DIY Walmart Nutcracker, you already know it’s one of this year’s best Christmas décor finds. Standing tall at six feet, it makes an incredible holiday statement piece. But what makes it even better? It comes unfinished, so you can paint, design, and decorate it yourself to perfectly match your holiday theme. It also lights up and plays music! To purchase the nutcracker, click here.

In this blot post, I’ll share step-by-step tips, nutcracker painting ideas, creative design inspiration, and decorating hacks to transform your nutcracker into a show-stopping piece of Christmas magic.

Here is how my Nutcracker turned out! I just love him!

Why Choose the 6 Foot DIY Walmart Nutcracker?

Pre-decorated nutcrackers can cost hundreds of dollars. With Walmart’s DIY version at just $159, you get:

• A budget-friendly alternative to high-end holiday nutcrackers.
• A blank canvas that lets you customize the design.
• A family-friendly DIY project that can become a tradition.

Whether you want a classic Christmas look, a whimsical candy theme, or a modern glam nutcracker, this piece gives you endless possibilities.

How to Prep Your Nutcracker for Painting

Before diving into paints and embellishments, set yourself up for success with these prep steps:

1. Clean it – Wipe down with a dry cloth to remove any dust.
2. Prime the surface – Spray primer helps paint stick and ensures brighter colors, especially for whites and metallics.
3. Gather your supplies – Acrylic paint, spray paint, painter’s tape, fine brushes, metallic markers, hot glue, ribbon, faux fur, and embellishments.

DIY Walmart NutcrackerPainting Ideas

The beauty of this nutcracker is that you can tailor it to your holiday décor theme. Here are a few design inspirations:

1. Classic Christmas Nutcracker

• Colors: Red, green, black, and gold.
• Style Tips: A red jacket with gold trim, black boots, and a green hat.
• DIY Touch: Add rhinestone “buttons” and wrap the staff in festive ribbon.

2. Winter Wonderland Nutcracker

• Colors: White, silver, icy blue, and pastels.
• Style Tips: White coat, silver accents, and pale blue details for an icy effect.
• DIY Touch: Glitter, snowflake decals, or faux snow for shimmer.

3. Candyland Nutcracker

• Colors: Pink, mint green, red, and peppermint stripes.
• Style Tips: Candy cane leggings, bubblegum pink jacket, peppermint swirl hat.
• DIY Touch: Glue on candy ornaments or lollipop props.

4. Glam Metallic Nutcracker

• Colors: Gold, champagne, silver, and rose gold.
• Style Tips: Use metallic spray paint for a luxe, modern finish.
• DIY Touch: Sequins, rhinestones, or crystal embellishments.

5. Character-Inspired Nutcracker

• Santa Nutcracker – Red velvet paint with white fur trim.
• Grinch Nutcracker – Green face, mischievous expression, Santa outfit.
• Frozen-Inspired Nutcracker – Pale blues, silver snowflakes, shimmering coat.
• Sports Team Nutcracker – Team colors, logos, and themed accessories.

Tips for Painting a DIY Nutcracker

Painting a 6 foot figure might feel intimidating, but these tips make it manageable:

• Start with base layers – Paint the large areas (coat, pants, boots, hat) first.
• Use painter’s tape – For sharp edges and clean stripes.
• Highlight and shade – Add depth with metallic gold or silver dry brushing.
• Details matter – Use fine brushes or paint markers for the eyes, mustache, and buttons.
• Seal your work – A clear protective spray keeps paint fresh, especially outdoors.

Adding Embellishments to Your 6 Foot Nutcracker

Paint is just the start. The right details can take your nutcracker from fun DIY to professional-quality décor. Try these embellishments:

• Faux Fur – Add to hats, cuffs, or boots.
• Ribbons & Bows – Wrap around the staff, belt, or shoulders.
• Jewels & Rhinestones – Create sparkling buttons and accents.
• Fabric & Capes – Velvet sashes or festive scarves add texture.
• Props – Candy canes, lanterns, mini presents, or wreaths.

Where to Display Your Finished Nutcracker

Once your nutcracker is complete, it deserves the spotlight!

1. Front Porch – Flank your doorway with one or two for a regal entrance.
2. Christmas Tree Guard – Position beside the tree for a festive touch.
3. Fireplace Accent – Place near the hearth as a holiday guardian.
4. Photo Backdrop – Perfect for holiday parties and family pictures.

Trending DIY Nutcracker Styles

Looking for fresh inspiration? Here are some trending nutcracker designs people love:

• Pastel Nutcracker – Blush pinks, powder blues, gold trim.
• Farmhouse Nutcracker – Neutral tones, plaid accents, rustic details.
• Glam Nutcracker – Glitter, sequins, and rhinestones for sparkle.

Make It a Holiday Tradition

One of the best parts about the DIY Walmart Nutcracker is that it can evolve each year. You could:

• Repaint it annually to fit new décor themes.
• Involve kids in decorating (stickers, washable paints).
• Make a “Nutcracker reveal” part of your holiday traditions.

Other Posts You Might Like

Christmas Front Porch Decor Ideas // Christmas Staircase Decor // Traditional Christmas Decor

Pin This For Later

The 6 Foot DIY Walmart Nutcracker is more than just holiday décor—it’s a creative project that can reflect your personality and style. With paint, glitter, and a few embellishments, you can transform it into a one-of-a-kind Christmas showpiece. Shop the 6 Foot Nutcracker by clicking here.

Whether you stick to classic Christmas colors, go bold with candy stripes, or try a chic metallic design, your DIY nutcracker will be the centerpiece of your holiday décor for years to come.

So grab your paints and get creative! The magic of Christmas is waiting on your front porch, in the form of a 6 foot nutcracker!