My Stackable Snowman

About 15 years ago, I noticed nesting paper mache boxes showing up in craft stores.  I bought out all they had and made snowmen for practically everyone I knew.  I kept one for myself:

Even all these years later, it is still one of my all-time favorite Christmas decorations.  I smile every time I see it on our mantel.  And it is even more wonderful when I see them on display at the homes of my friends and family. 

I've made a few more over the years, for my inlaws and close friends I've met recently.  I can't tell you how many people have been shocked to learn my stacking snowmen are handmade.  They're really very easy to make.

You need: three round paper mache boxes with lids (different sizes so that they nest), black and white paint, orange Model Magic or Sculpey, ribbon, holly berries and leaves, buttons, and a q-tip.

Step 1: Form a nose from the Model Magic or Sculpey, following manufacturer's instructions about drying time.  Make sure the nose is small enough that when it is attached to the medium box, that box will still nest in the largest box.  

Step 2: Paint the largest box and its lid white.  Paint the medium sized box white.  Set aside to dry.  Paint the lid of the medium box black.  Paint the smallest box and its lid black.  Set aside to dry.

Step 3: Wrap a piece of ribbon around the base of the smallest box and secure.  Decorate with holly.  This completes the hat. 

Step 4: Dip the q-tip in black paint to make the eyes and smile of the snowman on the medium sized box.  Glue the nose in place.  This completes the face.

Step 5: Wrap a ribbon around the rim of the largest lid and secure.  Add a bow.  Glue buttons to the front of the largest box.  This completes the body.

Here is a view of how it looks for storage.  As you can see, there is a small amount of clearance between the holly and the nose and the next largest box.

To make this an even more special gift, consider adding a small gift inside the hat.  Your recipient will love it!