I saw a really cool crystal tree topper online the other day, and I thought, “I can totally make that!” So, I decided to give it a shot and document the whole process. Here’s how it went down:
Gathering Supplies
First things first, I needed to get my hands on the materials. I made a quick list:
- Clear crystal beads (various sizes, to make it look more natural)
- Some sturdy wire (for the main structure)
- Thinner wire (for attaching the beads)
- Wire cutters (essential!)
- Pliers (for bending and shaping)
- A cone-shaped base (I just used some cardboard and rolled it into shape)
- Hot glue gun and the glue sticks, ofcourse!
I hit up my local craft store and a hardware shop, and also added some of the old beads from my collection, to give a little touch up. Once got everything, I am ready to roll.
Building the Frame
I started by creating the main frame of the tree topper. I took the sturdy wire and cut a few long pieces. Then, I twisted them together at the bottom to form a trunk-like shape. I used the pliers to make sure everything was nice and secure.
Next, I bent the wire pieces outwards to create the branches. I tried to make them look somewhat organic, not too perfect, you know? I kept checking how it looked on the cardboard cone to get the size and shape right.
Adding the Crystals
This was the fun part! I took the thinner wire and started attaching the crystal beads to the branches. I’d thread a bead onto the wire, wrap the wire around a branch, and then twist it tight with the pliers. I repeated this process, like, a million times. Varying the size and spacing of the beads to achieve that magical, sparkly effect.
Securing and Finishing Touches
Once I was happy with the crystal placement, I used the hot glue gun to add extra security. I put a tiny dab of glue at each point where the wire met the beads. Just to make sure everything stayed put and didn’t go sliding off. Better safe than sorry, right?
Finally, I secured the wireframe to the cardboard cone. I poked the bottom ends of the wire into the cone and secured everything with, yes a plenty of hot glue.
The Big Reveal!
And there you have it! My very own DIY crystal tree topper. It turned out even better than I imagined! It catches the light beautifully and adds a touch of elegance to my little space. It wasn’t too difficult, took some time for sure, but it was totally worth it.
I’m pretty proud of how it turned out, and it’s way more special than anything I could have bought in a store, because it’s completely crafted by me, and i have already decided next year i will upgrade it with lights.
