Extol December 2018-January 2019 | Page 44

Made by Morgan Creatively inspired by Ben Franklin Crafts in New Albany Made by Morgan Inspired by Ben Franklin Craft Supplies By Morgan Sprigler LET IT SNOW Snow Frames are a special way to save your memories he most wonderful time of the year is here, and do you know what that means? An endless array of crafting possibilities! When I was strolling through Ben Franklin Crafts & Frame Shop in New Albany last week, I came across the cutest shadow boxes. I stood there staring at them for the longest time, trying to think of what I could use them for and a lightbulb went off: a Snow Frame, which I’ve decided is the sister to a snow globe. I hope that you all have fun creating your own version of this little winter wonderland. T STEP ONE Using a butcher’s knife, slice a small piece of floral Styrofoam to fit at the base of your frame. You want to slice a piece small enough so that when you add your snow, it will fall in the front, back and sides of the Styrofoam. Once you are happy with the size, place inside your frame. (Hint: Using a butcher’s knife will create much less of a mess than using scissors.) SUPPLIES: • Miniature shadow box/frame • Floral Styrofoam • Faux snow • Mini snow balls • Floral picks (or miniature trees) • Ribbon • Hot glue gun • Scissors STEP TWO Add your snow. Using your butcher’s knife, or some other utensil, direct the snow to fall around your Styrofoam in order to conceal it. You only want a light dusting, as you will add more snow in another step. 42 EXTOL : DECEMBER 2018/JANUARY 2019 STEP THREE Decorate. I took photos of my girls throwing leaves, had them developed and then cut around the perimeter of their bodies. By gluing a snowball in their hands, I created a snow ball fight. So cute! You can use any photo you would like to create your scene. Once you have your photo cut out, glue a toothpick to the back and insert into the Styrofoam. If you do not want to use a photograph, Ben Franklin has tons of mini Christmas themed items, including miniature nativity sets, reindeer, snowflakes, Christmas lights, drums, Christmas trees and more. I used a floral pick for the background of my snow frame. I brought in some color by gluing berries onto the pick. How fun would it be to decorate a mini Christmas tree for your background?! You could even use a light dusting of white spray paint to frost your glass. I mean, go crazy with this, guys! STEP FOUR Find a place to display your creation. Mine has found a home as a centerpiece on my girls’ arts and crafts table. I think this makes the perfect centerpiece when added on a tray, especially when surrounded by greenery and some battery- operated Christmas lights.