Crystal Snowflake ❄️
Transform a simple 8x8 wooden canvas into a sparkling crystal snowflake with this simple winter art project. Using layers of blended acrylic paint, clear glass strips, iridescent beads, seed beads, and a glossy resin finish, you'll create a stunning piece that captures the magic of snow!
For this project, I’m using an 8x8 wooden canvas, which is perfect for holding the glass elements that will form our crystal snowflake. To prepare the board, I painted it with a coat of black acrylic paint and let it dry completely. Then, I lightly sanded the surface to smooth it out.
Next, I added black acrylic paint around the edges of the canvas in a circular motion. I blended Payne’s Grey towards the center, creating a gradient effect. Finally, I added white acrylic paint in the middle and blended it outward for a soft, seamless transition.
Now, let's start building our snowflake using clear glass strips. To cut your clear glass strips, you can use a glass scoring tool to make a notch in the glass and break it by pushing away from the score. Use a honing stone to dull the sharp points and edges.
Begin by applying tacky glue to the first clear glass strip and securing it upright in the center of the canvas. Next, position two smaller glass strips on either side of the first strip to form a plus sign. Finally, add four more smaller strips diagonally to complete an X shape, creating the foundation of your snowflake.
Next, I’ll attach 1.5-inch clear glass strips to the ends of each snowflake arm, extending its design. To complete the look, I’ll use 1-inch clear glass strips to fill in the gaps at the center of the snowflake.
Next, I'll use tacky glue to attach clear iridescent string beads here and there throughout the snowflake. I'll also add a cluster of beads to the middle of the snowflake.
We're going to elevate our canvas using blocks. Put on rubber gloves. Mix 1 oz total of ArtResin and stir gently for three minutes. Pour the resin onto your glass and canvas and use your gloved fingers or brush to spread it over the entire piece.
Use a heat gun to pop your bubbles. Keep your heat moving at all times!
Finally, sprinkle White Luster seed beads and Crystal Luster seed beads onto your canvas.
If you don’t want to miss my Facebook LIVE art instruction, make sure you are on my texting list. I always text 10 minutes before I’m going to go LIVE, so you won’t ever miss it. You can text “Hey Cindy” to 901-519-2923.
*Supply lists and tracers are only available to members of The Shattered Circle. If you'd like to learn more about member benefits or get on the waitlist, click here.
Want more inspiration and artwork?
- My website artshattered.com with resources, shop, and more!
- My creative membership The Shattered Circle, where you can explore the world of glass art with online workshops, a supportive community, and more!
- My mini creative membership Just A ‘Lil Bit Monthly Glass Art Club, where you’ll get a new quick and easy online tutorial for just a lil' bit of sparkle in your life!
- My Facebook page where I go LIVE every Wednesday night at 6:00 PM PST.
- My YouTube channel which has tons of free art lessons right at your fingertips.
