Creative Woodworks & crafts-103-2004-Holiday, страница 53

SUPPLIES

Tools: scroll saw with assorted blades; drill with bits Temporary-bond spray adhesive Sandpaper, assorted grits Finish of choice

A Few Tips from Dirk

Scroll sawn ornaments are among the most popular projects being produced today. We give them special attention at Christmas time; however, they can be displayed and enjoyed all year long!

Making ornaments is a terrific opportunity to experiment and be creative. They can be made from most any thickness and species of solid woods, or even from plywoods, Plexiglass®, thin metals, and any other material that can be cut on a scroll saw. It is great fun to experiment by making an ornament from a few different types of materials and then seeing the finished results! This is the way we all learn what looks and works the best.

Wooden ornaments that are to be hung on the Christmas tree will show up best when made from light colored woods such as birch, poplar, maple, or oak. Of course, ornaments can also be painted or stained, and glitter or other material can be added to make them

sparkle, shimmer, and shine! We usually choose 1/8"- to l/4"-thick wood for most ornaments that will hang on the tree because anything thicker gets too heavy and causes the branches to droop. Occasionally we use 1/16" material for small ornaments, but 1/8" to 3/16" thicknesses are our favorite.

Ornaments that are made for display in other areas (such as hanging from fireplace mantles, book shelves, ceiling hooks, or the wall) can be made from thicker materials if desired. The patterns can be enlarged to create a more dramatic, decorative piece for display, which is also a perfect opportunity to use gorgeous hardwoods like walnut, cherry, or purpleheart.

Keep in mind that traditional wire hangers will work just fine for hanging your ornaments, but you can really make them dazzle by hanging them from festive colored ribbons, gold cord, brass wire, and other materials adorned with beads or flowers and such.

Have fun... and be creative!

Creative Woodworks & Craftn Holiday 2004 • 53