How to make glass globes fascinate with wintry tale

Glass Globes: PART 2

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! go the words to an old, beloved Christmas song. And just like the song, it’s probably the nostalgic factor that makes this glass globes craft all the rage. That’s my take on it anyway. You probably remember the one you had as a little kid. The simple delight of turning the little globe upside down for a few seconds, and then watch the ‘snow’ float down over the little scene on the inside.

Now, you can make your own holiday globe decoration!

This article is a follow-up to the first one I did on making the ‘fish bowl’ Snowman Globes. People were asking questions like “where do you get the stuff?” and even more significantly, “how do you know what to look for?”

Refining your glass globes craft

This article is written as a companion to the first. For those who want to make them to sell at craft shows or on their Etsy shop. Primarily, though, it’s for someone like you and me. We’ve made the snowman globes before and had so much fun, we want to make more. Only do it a little better the second time around. In a nutshell, it’s just all about the little details.

You can increase the charm factor quite easily in the details of the scene you create on the inside. With thrift store finds, you’ll ensure your craft is original and won’t look like everyone else’s. And even more so with a warm, wintry tale!

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Full Snowman Globe Tutorial click HERE

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Choosing your materials

First and foremost, get your glass globe pieces first before you start collecting figurines. If you find your globes at a thrift store, then you’ve got them on hand while you shop for things to put on the inside. This way, you know how much room you’ll have to work with. It’s a bummer to spend so much time shopping only to get home and find out they won’t fit.

However, it’s not even necessary to use the ‘fish bowls’. You’ve probably seen other creative things used such as a lantern, an upside-down wineglass or a clear vase. Any object with clear glass will do. What matters most is that your figurines, snowflakes and little pine trees are the right size.

Themes for heart-warming glass globes

The fascination with this craft, as you might well know, revolves around the scene. Therefore, to improve upon your craft means getting a little more particular about the materials. All the while thinking about the little story that goes along with it.

That story instantly makes your snow globe a conversation starter at your holiday party. So select figurines that convey something happy. Or silly. Or magical!

But it doesn’t have to involve those expensive little miniatures from the craft store in order to have a nostalgic or vintage Holiday appeal. By getting as much as possible at the thrift store, you can save money on this craft. Also, your little scene doesn’t have to be a vintage one at all!

The thrift store has been collecting Christmas stuff all year, and believe me, they get tons of it. That means incredible variety and “surprise” finds! Many things you’ll find on the shelf—while not quite “vintage” are old enough to evoke a trip down memory lane.

Really good snow globes bring a sense of wonder and imagination. That’s why putting a little bit of thought into it makes all the difference! Yes, it requires patience. This isn’t necessarily a quick throw-it=together craft. But you’ll see it’s worth it if you want to create something super special that will be adored year after year.

Creating your wintry tale

Snow globes are like snowflakes, no two are the same!

So, choose figurines, nik naks and accent pieces that have something in common.

• Are your figurines/nik naks “vintage” or more modern Christmas?
• Is the setting indoors or outdoors?
• Is it whimsical, or silly or solemn?
• What activity is the character doing—whether human or animal?
• What’s the expression on the face or the posture of the figurine?
• Is the nik nak or figurine a well-known character?
• What drew your attention to it? Why did it captivate or inspire you?
• Which things could you put with it inside the globe that would tell a great story?

That “story” can be completely made up! Something straight out of your imagination. But it still has to be believable about the way you’ve set the characters and the scene on the inside.

It could also be a personal or family-oriented story. You might even have something laying around the house, maybe in a junk drawer…that would bring something meaningful to your glass globe decoration. Something that would cause a smile, or a chuckle or recall a happy memory. (note: Don’t use anything with significant value, though)

A Romantic Story: Couple’s First Christmas

This adorable couple is a salt & pepper shaker! I knew immediately they would be perfect for my snowman globe. But I really had to squish them together as the two hats side by side barely fit the diameter of the vase. I had to turn them a bit at an angle.

But then I noticed something else, too! Unfortunately, it’s hidden behind the sign. But in turning the snowman couple at an angle, the snowman’s mitten is almost touching the shoulder of his girl. See how she looks at him. It’s a tender gesture as the two pose for a photo celebrating their first Christmas together.

At the craft shows, I always pointed that out as I explained the story of why these two look so much in love. Because the person who bought it will, in turn, share that lovely detail with others. It makes it all the more precious!

A Hallmark Story: Faithfulness of a friend

Here’s a snowman fellow on a mission. He’s dressed warmly for the weather. In his right arm, he clutches a doll and some small gift boxes. In his left hand, some sleigh bells. His dog and trusty companion follows him as he trudges thru the snow. Where is he going?

In this wintry tale, I decided that Mr. Snowman is on his way through the woods to deliver holiday cheer to a dear friend. Maybe the friend is sick, or going through a rough time. The snow and cold weather doesn’t intimidate this fellow in the least, because he loves his friend. His faithful dog provides companionship along the way.

So why the bells? At first, I thought the bells were to scare away bears! Nope. Bears hibernate in the winter. It’s because the bells can be heard from a distance. They alert his friend that he is close by and will arriving very soon. I like that thought better, don’t you?

Story: ice skating couple

My most recent globe ornament revolves around a figurine of an ice skating couple. The arm-in-arm posture made me think of an older couple who’ve been married many years. Winter ice skating is an activity they enjoy doing every year. Perhaps it was how they first met?

The ice skating theme is currently popular in vintage decor. The activity the characters are engaged in really resonates with people. It evokes an emotional response on many levels. But again the happy faces on the couple…suggesting their love and devotion to each other is what makes this glass globes craft so utterly charming. What do you think?

I used the head piece of this $5 dollar cookie jar to complete the snowman globe. It was a surprise fit.

Some final thoughts

I hope you’re convinced to take a little more time to develop your snowman glass globe craft. These are the things that will bump it up a notch. Creating your own original story using finds from the thrift store means your globe won’t look like everyone elses’.

Thinking out your scene and its characters enhances the charm factor you’re after. With an imaginative wintry tale, your hard work pays off when your snowman turns into a conversation piece. And some little detail that will delight and fascinate!

I really hope this article has been helpful and that you’ll be able to make even better glass globes for yourself or for Holiday gifts. Merry Christmas my friend!

Kristen specializes in up-cycled crafts. She has a reputation for quality and attention to detail, and her artworks show it. She takes such joy in making things “extra special”, especially during the holidays. Her craft posts may entail a bit more description geared to those who don’t make crafts on a regular basis. Even if you do, you’ll appreciate the thoughtful insights so your projects turn out beautiful!

More winter crafts you may enjoy

Golf Ball Christmas Tree Ornament

Easiest Snowman Pallet Craft