Christmas Crafting Basics: Clear Ornament Balls With Unlimited Design Possibilities

If you are someone that likes to make their own ornaments then these clear balls are an excellent investment. They come in a couple of different sizes so there are options when picking them out. One thing you need to keep in mind is that the dimensions on them are the circumference so when you see something that is five or six inches that is the total length around the ball not the split / open measurement. The balls that I normally get to make "stuffed ornaments" with are seven inches so there is enough room inside it to put small diorama pieces, foam cut outs, photos and other seasonal items. One of the sweetest (no pun intended) things to do is to stuff them with mini candies and use them as a colorful decoration on a treat or cookie tray.

The plastic balls crack open in to half circles; they do retain their snap quality for a long time so you won't have to worry about them opening accidentally. If you do get one that refuses to stay closed you can use a piece of tape to secure it shut or a few small pieces of poster putty along the lip. The plastic is thick and sturdy but not so thick that you can not see clearly into the ball when it is assembled. There is no distortion or warping of whatever you put inside it either so it is a nice pick for making photo ornament balls. There is a small built-in loop at the top that you can use for hanging or to add a nice piece of silk ribbon to. Since this has a round shape to it, it is something that looks like an ornament to start with so anything that you add to it is just going to make it look nicer.

You can get these at most craft stores; since they are a basic shape they are a little more "politically correct" and widely sold. The cost per dozen in is in the five to six dollar range which isn't bad when you consider they sell for about .99 cents individually. These clear balls make for a great kids craft too. They can make their own ornaments to give as gifts or to create a special, one of a kind memento that you hang on the tree each year. You can also start a tradition of them making a new one each year and adding their school photo to the back or middle of the inside of the ornament.