How to Make a Unique Snowman

Just about anyone can make a snowman. It is pretty simple. Stack three progressively smaller mounds of snow and smooth out. From there, a top hot, scarf, carrot stick, buttons and twigs will finish out the typical snowman. A very average, typical snowman. Sometimes, average is just fine and sometimes average is just the starting point. This year, consider building a unique snowman that the neighbors will fawn over. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Usual snowman trappings
• Spray bottles
• Food coloring
• Yarn
• Oranges and cloves
• Old or thrift store clothing

1. Make a basic snowman. Pack the snow into dense mounds and smooth the edges. Take a few steps back to check on the size and shape of the snowman. Make adjustments as necessary until the base snowman is perfect.

2. Set the spray bottles to mist and test with plain water. Fill them with high concentrations of food coloring. Three bottles, each with a primary color is sufficient. Once the bottle is filled with color, testing should be done outside where staining is less likely.

3. Mist the snowman randomly, alternating colors to create a unique, tie-dye façade. The mist should freeze into a thin outer layer of ice on the snow. Alternately, choose a single, solid color or make stripes or polka dots on the snowman.

4. Give the snowman character to make her unique. Try turning oranges into big, buggy eyes, using cloves for the pupils. Use extra cloves for eyelashes. Glue thick clumps (should be visible from the street) of loose or braided yarn into a hat for hair. Mist bright red spots on the head for cheeks. Use a ruler or stick to give the snowman a mono-brow.

5. Dress the snowman. Use an old jacket destined for the trash or an inexpensive thrift store find. Pack the sleeves with snow to give the appearance of arms. Stuff mittens with snow and attach to the ends of the sleeves for hands. For unique shoes, place a pair of fruity shoes at the base of the snowman. It may take 2 or 3 pieces of fruit to make each shoe.

Tips & Warnings

• Concentrated liquid or powdered watercolor pigment makes a great substitute for food coloring. Powdered drink mix can also be substituted. Be sure to heavily concentrate the color within the bottles.
• Remember to dress appropriately for outdoor activity. If it is cold enough outside to sustain a snowman, it is cold enough to cause weather related illness. Bundle up well enough to cover skin and stay warm. Waterproof clothing is ideal for snow play.