If you’re walking around Copenhagen in December, you might notice something charming: red and white woven hearts hanging in windows, on doors, or tucked into Christmas trees. These are known as Danish woven Christmas hearts – or julehjerter.
In Denmark, these paper hearts are a cherished part of the holiday season. Families make them together, children learn to weave them in school, and they’re filled with that special Scandinavian hygge – warmth, creativity, and togetherness.
But outside of Denmark, these woven hearts are often seen as romantic. Visitors sometimes think they’re for weddings or Valentine’s Day – and they’re not wrong. In many cultures, hearts mean love. So while Danes associate them with Christmas, the rest of the world sees romance in the folds.
So what do these woven hearts from Denmark really mean?
They are both: a symbol of cozy Christmas traditions – and a beautiful, timeless symbol of love.
If you’d like to learn how to weave one yourself, I invite you to join my workshop in Copenhagen. You’ll take home not just a souvenir, but a story – one that connects you to something uniquely Danish.
❤️
– Rikke V. Stoltz, Danish entrepreneur & your paper heart guide
FAQ – Woven Hearts in Denmark
What are Danish woven hearts made of?
Traditionally, Danish woven hearts (julehjerter) are made of glossy red and white paper. The design forms a small basket, and they are often filled with sweets or hung on the Christmas tree.
Are woven hearts only for Christmas in Denmark?
In Denmark, yes – they are mostly part of Christmas traditions. But many visitors from abroad see them as romantic symbols, perfect for weddings, anniversaries or Valentine’s Day.
Can I learn to make a Danish paper heart while visiting Copenhagen?
Yes! You can join a cozy heart-weaving workshop in a real Danish home. It’s a fun, cultural experience – and you’ll take home your own handmade heart. Book your workshop here →
Rikke V. Stoltz is the founder of Ugly Duckli, where she has spent more than 25 years sharing the Danish tradition of woven Christmas hearts, creativity and cultural heritage.
She hosts private paper heart workshops in Copenhagen, delivers keynote talks and creates products that connect Danish traditions, storytelling and meaningful experiences.
As an international keynote speaker and licensed TEDx Curator, Rikke draws on more than 30 years of international business experience. She speaks about leadership, entrepreneurship, fundraising, artificial intelligence, shipping and the green transition, always combining practical experience with inspiration and leaving audiences with fresh perspectives and ideas they can put into practice.
Alongside Ugly Duckli, Rikke also serves as a professional board member and strategic advisor through stoltz.dk.