New Year's Eve DIY Cake Topper Tutorial
This blog was updated in January 2025.
Hello, hello my festive friends! Lauren here and today we are talking about how to add a little something special to your New Year’s celebration this year. Whether you are having some friends over, a big blog out bash, or just you and the significant other, little details and special touches totally make the occasion something to remember.
To be honest, I am not a big DIY-er, but I can’t resist decorating the top of a cake. Between the sprinkles, frosting, and little do-dads to put on top, I have a bit of a field day. My husband and I got married on New Year’s Eve, so this year, I wanted to class my DIY skills up a bit and decided to make these adorable cake toppers.
Why Cake Toppers Are the Perfect Final Touch for Any Celebration
Cake toppers are the secret ingredient that can transform any cake into the star of your celebration. Whether you’re throwing a New Year’s Eve bash, celebrating a birthday, or hosting a cozy holiday gathering, a personalized topper adds a fun and memorable touch to any dessert. It’s the perfect way to reflect the theme of your event and show off your creative side, without needing to be a pro baker.
Wildly easy to make & super fun to customize, this New Year's Eve Cake Topper DIY is perfect for almost every occasion! Grab a glass of wine (I feel like K-J Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay is perfect for those fun, spur of the moment crafty feelings), some wooden skewers, a little glitter & let’s get started!
Materials Needed:
- Wooden skewers
- Cardboard
- Glue
- Glitter
- Fun paper
- Modge Podge (or basic craft glue)
- Paintbrush
- Tape
Instructions:
Step 1: Grab a glass of Kendall-Jackson wines and let’s get started!
Step 2: Clear off a nice flat surface (dining room table is perfect) and lay your sheet of cardboard down. Stencil or write big block letters to cut out for your topper. We cut out N, Y, & E for an “NYE” topper, but “HOORAY” is great as well.
Step 3: Grab a nice pair of sharp scissors & cut your letters out.
Step 4: Pour a small amount of modge podge (or craft glue) into a bowl and paint one side of your letter with a thin layer of glue. Once covered, sprinkle glitter to cover. Tap off the extra and repeat until fully covered. Set letters aside to dry.
Step 5: While your letters are drying, grab your fun paper and cut out shapes. We cut out large rectangles, but feel free to cut out circles, squares, or mix & match.
Step 6: Once letters are dry, place tape on the non-glittered side of the letter and tape to the front of the paper. Flip paper over and glue/tape your wooden skewer.
Step 7: Stick in your cake, baked good, or festive arrangement & voila!
So, what do you think? Easy & super fun right?! I am telling you, throw on a good record, sip some delicious K-J wines, and get your craft on.
Suggested Wines from Kendall-Jackson for Your New Year’s Eve Celebration
What’s a celebration without a little wine to set the mood? Whether you’re crafting cake toppers or ringing in the New Year with friends, a good bottle of wine can really make the night pop. Here are some of our favorites:
1. Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Sauvignon Blanc
For a refreshing start to your celebration, Vintner’s Reserve Sauvignon Blanc is a must. With vibrant citrus notes and a touch of tropical fruit, it’s perfect for light appetizers or sipping while you prep your cake. Its crisp, lively character makes it a great choice for toasting to the new year.
2. Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay
If you’re looking for a classic white with a little more richness, Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay has you covered. Its smooth, creamy texture with notes of ripe fruit and vanilla pairs beautifully with everything from savory hors d'oeuvres to your New Year’s Eve cake. It’s the perfect wine to sip while celebrating and catching up with friends.
3. Kendall-Jackson Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
For a luxurious wine to pair with your decadent desserts, reach for Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Its rich flavors of blackberry and plum are ideal for complementing chocolate cakes or any hearty, flavorful dish. This bold Cabernet will elevate your evening, whether you’re enjoying a post-celebration moment or winding down after a big toast.
Feel free to play around with your words. Depending on the size of your cake (or baked good), you can play with “HOORAY,“CELEBRATE,” “CHEERS” – you name it! The list (clearly) goes on & on.
Enjoy & happy hosting!
LK