Craft Test Dummies

Craft Your Own Hostess Gifts- Crystal Snowflake Ornaments

Posted on 17. Dec, 2009 by Jenny in Beads & Jewelry

30 Minute gift, using a wire form and Swarovski crystal beads

‘Tis the season to go to parties! And it’s a big no-no to go empty handed. What better way to show your host/hostess some LOVE than to make your own seasonal Snowflake Ornaments? They can be hung on a tree or in window to add some seasonal sparkle and shine.

I made mine using Swarovski Crystal beads, because, let’s face it- they offer the most amazing sparkle, and I’m willing to spend a little coin on my benevolent hosts. However, you can use any beads in any combo you like. The only rule is to pick a pattern on the first arm of the form, and then repeat it exactly for each of the subsequent ones. It’s the symmetry of the pattern that makes it all snow-flaky!

For my version, you’ll need:

• a blank snowflake form. (I get mine from ConsumerCrafts, only $1.20 for 7 of ‘em.)
• 66 4MM clear bi-cone Swarovski crystals (hitherto known as “swars”)
• 12 6MM capri blue bi-cone swars
• 6  6MM blue topaz cube swarz
• 6 8MM clear round swarz
• a wire cutter and some round-nose pliers

Pattern: On each arm, string:

1. 2 4MM clear bicones
2. 1 6MM capri blue bicone
3. 3 4MM clear bicones
4. 1 6MM blue topaz cube
5. 3 4MM clear bicones
6. 1 6MM capri blue bicone
7. 3 4MM clear bicones
8. and 1 big, honkin’ 8MM clear round!

Finish off the arm by bending the remaining wire at a 90-degree angle. Eyeball about 1/4 inch, then use your wire cutters to cut off the excess. Using your round-nose pliers, make a loop with remaining wire. Repeat for all 6 arms.

There you go! Appropriate for ANY winter holiday, you’ll be the hit of the party! Long after the other guests’ wine has been drunk up and nuts have been nibbled, this handcrafted gem will provide a lasting reminder of your friendship and craftiness! Now go make a bunch….

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