Ultimate Ornaments

Figure A--These handmade ornaments are easy to make and add a touch of personality that can't be achieved with commercial ornaments.

Figure B--Simply create unique designs on clear glass ornament balls with paint. Add about a teaspoon of each desired color to a ball, and slowly turn to mix the colors. Turn upside down and place on a piece of newspaper to drain and dry.

Figure C--Garnish by gluing decorative cording to the ornament.

Figure E--Lightly brush one small section of the ball with household glue and roll in a potpourri mixture. Continue until the ball is covered. Garnish the ornament by gluing on a small dried rosebud and a ribbon. Substitute sheet moss for the potpourri for a different look.

Figures F and G--Make unique, interesting ornaments with different types of metals. Take a length of small-gauge wire and string it with tiny colorful beads. Cut and tie each end of the wire to hold the beads on, and twist the wire to form a holiday sentiment such as "Joy" or into a holiday shape like a Christmas tree.

Another glittery ornament can be made from a fine mesh metal screen and a holiday craft stamp. Stamp the mesh with a winter pattern such as a snowflake, and use tiny scissors to cut the pattern out. Use a hole punch to make holes in each tip of the snowflake.

Glue the edges together, and use clothespins to hold the cone together while it dries. Garnish by gluing a decorative ball on the small end of the cone, and fill the large opening with fresh greenery or herbs.