There’s something so satisfying about taking the plainest little craft-store basics and turning them into something that looks straight out of a winter window display. This project starts with simple foam balls, glue, and a pantry-style staple, then builds into a finish that has that frosty, sparkling charm I always associate with snowy mornings on the farm when every fence post looked dusted in sugar.
I especially love this kind of make because it’s easy on the hands, easy on the budget, and still gives you a lovely full result when you make several at once. If you want a holiday craft that feels peaceful and polished without needing fancy supplies, this one is a good afternoon project.
Materials
6 white foam balls, 3 inches each
Instructions
1. Pour the Epsom salt into the shallow bowl and spread it into an even layer, then set a sheet of wax paper on the counter for drying.
2. Push one bamboo skewer about halfway into a foam ball to make a handle, which keeps your fingers clean and helps you coat the ball evenly.
3. Brush a medium, even coat of school glue over the entire foam ball, leaving no dry patches but not letting the glue drip or puddle.
4. Hold the ball over the bowl and sprinkle or gently roll it in Epsom salt until the glue is completely covered with a thick, snowy crust.
5. Stand the skewer upright by resting it in a cup or laying the ball carefully on the wax paper, then repeat with the remaining five foam balls.
6. Let all six coated balls dry for 1 hour, then check for bare spots and dab on a little more glue and salt anywhere the foam still shows through.
7. Remove each skewer gently once the coating is set enough to handle, twisting slowly so you don’t crack the crusted finish.
8. Fold one ribbon length into a loop and overlap the ends by 1 inch, then press a straight pin through both ribbon ends.
9. Push the pinned ribbon ends into the skewer hole at the top of each ball so the loop sits neatly for hanging.
10. Let the ornaments dry another 2 to 3 hours before hanging so the coating feels firm and the ribbon stays secure.
Variations & Tips
For extra sparkle: Mix 2 tablespoons of fine white glitter into the Epsom salt before coating the balls. It catches the light beautifully, especially on a tree.
For fuller coverage: If you want a chunkier, more dramatic snowy look, brush on a second thin coat of glue after the first layer dries and add another dusting of salt.
Ribbon choice: Velvet, satin, or sheer ribbon all work nicely, but I find narrower ribbon, around 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide, keeps the ornaments looking tidy and classic.
Drying tip: If your glue goes on too thick, the salt can slide a bit. A medium coat works best, enough to grab the crystals without turning soupy.
Storage: Pack these in a shallow box lined with tissue paper and avoid crushing them together. The finish is sturdy once dry, but it will stay prettiest if it isn’t rubbed hard.
Display idea: These look lovely clustered together on a tree, tucked into a wreath, or piled in a wooden bowl with pine clippings for a simple winter centerpiece.