Hardware Snow Globe Ornament with Hex Nut Snowman

DIY Hardware Snow Globe Ornament

Create a magical winter scene inside a clear ornament! This charming project combines a hex nut snowman with twinkling snow and a wing nut star for a unique take on the traditional snow globe.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Time Required: 45 minutes (plus drying time)
Cost: Under $15
Age: 10+ with adult supervision
Watch How It's Made

Materials Needed

Hardware:

  • 1 - 1/4-20 Aluminum Hex Nut (snowman head)
  • 1 - 5/16-18 Aluminum Hex Nut (snowman middle)
  • 2 - 3/8-16 Aluminum Hex Nuts (snowman bottom & base)
  • 2 - 6/32 Brass Wing Nuts (for star)

Ornament & Decorative Items:

  • Clear plastic DIY ornament with 1" opening
  • Fake snow
  • Blue glitter
  • Gold ribbon (for scarf)
  • White ribbon (3/16" for star)
  • Additional ribbon for hanging

Tools & Supplies:

  • White acrylic paint
  • Paintbrush
  • E6000 glue
  • Long tweezers

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Create the Snowman

Stack and glue hex nuts in size order (1/4-20, 5/16-18, 3/8-16) to form your snowman. Let dry completely.

Pro Tip: Align the flat sides of the hex nuts for a more uniform look.
Step 2: Add the Base

Glue the second 3/8-16 hex nut under the snowman as a base. This elevates the snowman inside the globe.

Step 3: Paint

Paint the entire snowman assembly white. Apply multiple thin coats for best coverage.

Step 4: Add the Scarf

Once paint is dry, tie the gold ribbon around the snowman's "neck" to create a festive scarf.

Step 5: Create the Star
  • Cut a 6-inch piece of white ribbon
  • Thread ribbon through both wing nuts, facing opposite directions
  • Tie a knot at the bottom to secure wing nuts
  • Add small amount of glue between wing nuts
  • Let dry completely
Step 6: Assemble the Globe
  • Apply glue to bottom of base nut
  • Using tweezers, carefully place snowman in center of ornament
  • Thread star's ribbon through ornament top
  • Position star above snowman
  • Secure with knot
Step 7: Add Snow Effects

Add fake snow and blue glitter around the snowman. Secure ornament top.

Step 8: Finishing Touch

Add hanging ribbon to ornament top.

Creative Variations

  • Snow Globe Effects:
    • Mix different types of glitter for depth
    • Add tiny silver stars
    • Use iridescent snow for extra sparkle
    • Try colored snow for unique effects
  • Snowman Accessories:
    • Add tiny painted details
    • Try different ribbon colors for scarf
    • Create a metallic finish snowman
    • Add glitter to the white paint
  • Star Variations:
    • Paint the wing nuts gold
    • Add glitter to the star
    • Use metallic ribbon
    • Create multiple smaller stars
Pro Tips:
  • Test ornament closure before adding snow and glitter
  • Use minimal glue to avoid visible residue
  • Keep snow and glitter away from glue areas
  • Practice snowman placement before applying glue
  • Create assembly line if making multiple globes

Ready to Create Your Snow Globe?

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