The beaded snowflake is a popular winter beading pattern. It uses circular netting stitch and is not difficult to make. You can experiment with different numbers and sizes of beads and with adding additional decorative rounds to make your snowflake larger or more elaborate.
Here's a list of our free videos that walk you through the process of making a simple snowflake ornament. To be notified of new tutorials, subscribe to our free weekly newsletter.
1. Make the Base Circle and Picots
Video 1: Making the initial ring of beads and the first picots.
Learn how to make the initial base ring of beads for your snowflake and add the first round of beaded picots. The pattern uses size 8/0 seed beads, a beading needle, and beading thread.
- Learn more about these and other essential beadweaving supplies.
2. Add the First Row of Beaded Netting
Video 2: Add the first round of beading netting
Next, make a round of circular beaded netting that includes sparkling 6mm bicone crystal beads. This video includes instructions for "stepping up" at the end of each round.
3. Add Another Round of Netting
The second round of netting.
Make the next round of netting, using seed beads and more 6mm bicone crystals.
4. Add the Last Round and Make the Ornament Hanger
In this video, learn how to complete your beadwork and add a hanger loop for your ornament. It includes instructions for making half-hitch knots to secure the thread.
5. Stiffen the Snowflake - Plus Tips
Spraying the snowflake with clear Krylon spray.
This last video in our snowflake series covers some bonus tips for successful beaded snowflakes, as well as instructions for stiffening your snowflake using clear acrylic spray. To be notified when the video is available, subscribe to our free weekly newsletter.
Stiffening With Acrylic Spray:
Lie your snowflake flat on a sheet of waxed paper, outdoors or in another area with very good ventilation. Shake a can of clear acrylic spray, such as Krylon, and spray it lightly across the entire surface of the snowflake. Allow the snowflake to dry, turn it over, and repeat this process on the other side. If your ornament needs further stiffening, feel free to add additional thin coats of Krylon.