Beach Stone Snowman Ornaments

 We've had gale warnings along the Lake Michigan shore these past few days and with really big, tall trees surrounding our house, I decided to hang out in the lower level workshop!

This week's project was making snowman ornaments.

I collect these round, white stones on Lake Michigan beaches in northern Michigan. I also use rough cut or repurposed boards because I like the more primitive look. 

The first thing I did was lay out all of my stones, arrange them by size and start assembling my snowmen. I glued on the eyes, nose and buttons.

The fun really begins when you start designing the composition of your snowmen. Each has an 'assignment' whether it be juggling, ringing a bell, exchanging gifts, stringing lights, etc. The props you select and the way you position your snowmen give them each a personality!

Here are some instructions if you'd like to make some snowman ornaments. Have fun!

How to make a beach stone snowman ornament

What you’ll need:

3 flat, round, stones of graduating size

Tiny stones for eyes, nose, buttons

¼” board, roughly 3”x5” (depending on size of your stones) with drilled holes in the top for a jute hanger

10” piece of jute

Stick pieces for arms

Glue (I prefer Elmer’s because it dries clear and matt)

Tiny pieces of wood, felt or other materials for a hat

Props if desired, i.e. bells, stars, mini gifts, etc.

  1.       Prep your board. Cut to size and sand any rough edges. Drill holes about ½” from top and side. Insert jute and tie a knot so it won’t slip through. I use rough sawn or distressed wood pieces because I like the primitive look. You may also use smooth wood and paint it any color for a different look.

 2.       Glue eyes, nose and buttons onto your snowman.

 3.       Place the snowman on your board and begin designing the composition of your snowman ornament. This is the fun part!  Depending on what you select as your props, your snowman will come alive. Is your snowman giving a gift, ringing a bell, juggling snowballs, etc.  Play around with the position of the head so that it’s looking up or down or straight ahead, depending on what your snowman is doing, this will give your snowman some personality. See the images for idea starters. 

4.       Add the little stick arms.

5.       Once you’ve settled on your composition, begin gluing everything to your piece of board starting with the stones and working your way out. I find using a pair of tweezers for the small items helps a lot.

6.       Set aside to let glue dry completely.

7.       Hang somewhere you can admire your creativity!