Lent Centerpiece

As I sat down to eat my oatmeal this morning I knew something had to change...

 

I needed a new centerpiece.  My Valentine's Day arrangement had expired!

So, inspired by the Lenten season, here's what I came up with. 

 

And here's how to make your own...

  

You will need a wooden base, a dow rod (about 1/4 in diameter), wire, (one gauge that fits through beads, one a bit heavier to fix dow rods together)  wire cutter, and a collection of random beads.   

  

Cut your dow into two pieces, one slightly longer than the other, so that it will make a nice cross.  Next, drill a hole in the center of the wooden base so that the longest dow rod fits into it very snuggly.  

 

To create the cross fix the two dows together by tightly twisting a wire and wrapping it around as shown above.  

   

O.K. Moving on.  Fix the thinner wire to the base of the cross by twisting it tightly, using a jewelry crimp bead, or a simple square knot like I did.  Then, begin stringing.  I have a massive collection of mismatched beads from old projects and broken jewelry.  If you aren't a borderline hoarder like I am, I  think you can buy big bags of random beads at Hobby Lobby.   

  

Once you have a nice long strand, begin winding it around the dow.  The best part about this step is that you can't mess it up.    Every once in awhile twist the wire around or underneath itself to help secure the beads.   So, let's review... Strand, wind, twist, and repeat.  Work your way up the cross and across the arms.

 

As you work your way to the end of the dow rod, there will come a point where you can't wrap it without the beads slipping off the end.  Once this happens just start winding back the other way.  To cover the exposed ends apply hot glue and top with plastic or wooden beads.  (Hot glue doesn't work so super well on glass beads.)

  

And that's that!

  

Kinda looks like jelly beans, doesn't it?

  

I added this grass for a springy feel. You can find it in a 12x12 sheet at, where else but Hobby Lobby.

  

 

Now when I sit down for breakfast I'll be reminded of the Easter miracle!   

Jesus saves!

Thanks for stopping by!