I have some catching up to do! My day job got away with me this week (finals week for an English instructor produces many stacks of essays to grade). But never fear, Dwell Well readers, I would often much rather create craft projects than grade research papers.

One of the best ways to create sustainable décor and crafts is to make something new out of something old and forgotten. Our next few days of crafts do just that. Today’s craft uses old glass bead garlands that I have found in any number of thrift, antique, and junk shops. They tend to be inexpensive, abundant, and colorful.

You will need:
glass bead garlands in one or two colors (I used fairly small beads for this)
10” of 16-gauge wire for each candy cane
pliers

1. Create a small loop or fold in one end of the wire with pliers to secure the beads.
   
2. Bend the wire into a simple, loose candy cane shape. (It doesn’t have to be perfect).
3. Start stringing the beads on the wire (I found it easier to begin at the curved end). I alternated two red beads with one silver bead. You could use red and green, gold and silver, or any combination. I love some of the funky pink and blue garlands you can find. Even solid color canes would be fun.
   
4. When you have about an inch of wire left, twist another small loop to keep the beads in place and trim off the excess wire.
   

I love the simplicity of the candy cane ornament. It reflects the lights on the tree and looks perfectly festive. I have also used them as a decoration on gifts tied with ribbon. Perfect!

p.s. It was wonderful to see a few readers at Winterfest on Friday. Thank you for visiting!

 

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