Handcrafted Snowflake Ornaments

Description: How to make a variety of easy snowflake ornaments and decorations.

Do you dream of a white Christmas but live in a warm climate? If so, you might think that the only snowflakes you will see on Christmas will be while your eyes are closed.

That does not have to be true! Make your own snowflake Christmas ornaments and bring the snow to you.

Using bits of twigs found about the yard, or bits of longer sticks cut into smaller pieces, you can make your own snowflakes. First, use spray paint to coat each twig until it is white. Cross two longer sticks to form an “X.” Then use small pieces to span the distance from one post of the “X” to the one right next to it, or center them on the posts to mimic crystals of snow. Secure each twig with hot glue. (Wood glue simply takes too long and requires clamping each piece individually.)

Make paper snowflakes for adding to garlands, hanging on lightless trees, or taping to the front door. For hanging or stringing, use tissue paper or copy paper. For door or window clings, you paper with adhesive backing. Fold a square or rectangular piece of paper twice, so that there are four layers of paper.

Use the folded corner as the center of your snowflake and do not cut it. Cut notches in the sides of the paper adjacent to the folded corners. Also cut the outside of your snowflakes opposite from the folded corner. Unfold the four layers gently to discover symmetrical “snowflakes.”

Crochet or purchased white crocheted snowflakes to add texture and dimension to your holiday tree.

Here’s a way to make window clings that is so easy, even a child can do it: Using white school glue, draw a snowflake of your own design on the waxed side of wax paper. Add glitter to the snowflake if you want. Allow it to dry for 72 hours, then very carefully remove the snowflake from the wax paper and affix it to a (shaded) window. When the season is over, wash the window cling away with dish soap and a warm rag.

Purchase plain white or white and glittery pipe cleaners from the crafts section of a department store or from a crafts store. Pipe cleaners can be bent in every direction for any shape of snowflake you desire, and connected to each other by twisting.

Buy a package of white paper doilies and cut wedges out of the edges at various intervals to create an intricate snowflake design. A paper snowflake doily could also be used as a pattern for sponge-painting snowflakes or as a pattern for sprinkling powdered sugar on the top of a dark-colored cake.

Enjoy creating your own wintry scene right in your home. Remember not to shoot for perfection. Snowflakes are, after all, one-of-a-kind – just like your holiday home will be.

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