| If you're anything like my decorating partner, Matt Fox, and me, you'll be attending quite a few parties this holiday season. Wouldn't it be fun to give a hostess gift with the same glittery beauty as the season itself? What hostess wouldn't be thrilled to receive such a beautiful serving set? It not only looks great, it's quite practical, too. In fact, it's a gift that can be used year round. If you'd like to make this project, you can find the glass plate, bowl and serving spoon at your local discount store. You might be surprised, however, to find that most of the other supplies are available at your local hardware store. Curious? This is what you'll need: To begin this project, carefully wash the glass pieces, being sure to remove any dirt or grease. After washing the pieces, wipe them down with mineral spirits and allow the pieces to completely dry. This will help ensure proper bonding between the metal and glass pieces. Use the wire snips to cut an 8-inch length of solder. Using the round needle nosed pliers, create a coil on each end, bending the remainder of the solder into an attractive curved pattern. Place the solder design against the bowl, shaping it to the curve of the bowl. Following the manufacturer's directions, place glue on the coils and adhere to the bowl. Use two clothespins to hold the design in place until the glue sets and dries. Repeat this process to create additional solder designs on the bowl and dinner plate. Allow the glue to dry completely before removing the clothespins. Choose the color of floral marbles for your design. Using a small amount of glue, glue the floral marbles in place on the coiled solder design. After the piece has dried completely, remove any excess glue with mineral spirits. To make the beaded serving spoon, first arrange the beads in a pleasing pattern along the handle. Be sure not to extend the beading too far down the handle (cleaning dips or food particles from the beaded area may be difficult). Once you are satisfied with the pattern, cut a 12-inch leng ... read the whole article |